Mike Baker
Appearances
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah, we're hearing from firefighters that they felt they did everything they could with the resources they had.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
That cuts to her budget made last year definitely had some negative impacts for her crews.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
I mean, and this is something she had been talking about for months, even before the fires. Crowley had felt that her department did not have enough resources. She said cuts that were made last year to overtime created unprecedented operational challenges for the department. And, you know, has sort of repeated that now in the aftermath of the fire.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
You know, I think if you... The mayor is saying that those budget cuts didn't have an impact on the response to this event.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
I think from talking to people throughout Los Angeles this past week, there's a general sense that, of course, more resources would have been helpful. People would have been grateful for it. It probably could have saved homes. Maybe it could have even saved lives.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
But it also seems likely that given the scale of this disaster, a few million more dollars, some more firefighters, you know, it maybe only could have helped around the margins. It seems these fires were bound to overwhelm a system that wasn't designed to handle them.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah, so the day before the fire, we're starting to see forecasts from the National Weather Service of a particularly dangerous scenario, how the winds would be gusting up to potentially 100 miles an hour, where any spark could spread into a catastrophic fire. But it's also the sort of like classic fire danger scenario for Los Angeles. I mean, that... The city knows the situation.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
They know how to prepare for that kind of circumstance. And so they did. I mean, they started to refill water tanks all over the city, the sort of water tanks that are a supply for higher elevation neighborhoods. They start refilling pre-positioning trucks in vulnerable areas. They've got firefighters deploying. They've got extra engines coming in. They're calling up people who are off-duty.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
You know, the Forest Service is getting involved, and there's trucks and bulldozers and helicopters and airplanes all getting sort of ready in case something happens.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah, you know, the fire department's looking at past wind events, where fires, you know, normally take place, and they're looking at the forecast for the day and sort of making their own educated guess about where the best spot will be for them to place their assets. But of note, none of the extra trucks went to Pacific Palisades.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
We don't. We've been spending some time the last few days up there examining satellite images, collecting images and videos from neighbors who saw the start. We have a pretty good idea exactly where it began, but even being up there, there's a lot of clues on the ground that could suggest a few different things that could have taken place.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
In that exact area, there was a fire about a week prior, started on New Year's Day, that had been put out. But there's lingering questions of whether maybe embers deep in the ground had sort of sustained and survived from that fire and then reemerged when the winds kicked up. There's remnants of power line materials up there that...
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
don't seem to be connected to any active power lines, but were there on the ground near the origin of the fire. And then it's along a trail that's a popular one for people to come climb and hike and be around. And there were people up there that day, that morning. And something they had done, purposefully or not, could have contributed to the fire starting.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
So it's around 10.30 a.m. that the first report of fire comes in, and it's in the Palisades. Residents start seeing, you know, flames emerging out in the dry brushland, and it immediately starts racing down the hillside toward the ocean. I mean, it's moving fast right from the beginning.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
We've listened to the dispatch audio from firefighters who are rushing to the scene that they can see that it's moving quickly and headed right toward the Palisades. You can hear one of them warning that, you know, it could be getting towards Holmes within minutes. And that it looks like it's going to have a good run ahead of it. And you can tell immediately this is a pretty dire situation.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
And at the same time, the conditions are getting worse. The wind is picking up. Smoke is choking the air. The fire is moving quickly. There's frantic evacuations that are blocking one road as the road gets clogged up. One fire captain says he can't see more than 10 feet in front of his own rig.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
And as these winds keep getting worse as the day progresses, the firefighters start losing one of their key tools. They're no longer able to use those aerial assets, the helicopters and the planes that pick up water and drop it on the fire and also spread fire retardant to prevent the fire from spreading further. Music And then we get the word that things are even worse.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
There's another fire 25 miles away threatening a different part of the Los Angeles area.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah. So the Eden Fire begins in the hills around the Altadena area, and immediately it's starting to threaten neighborhoods nearby. Firefighters are once again scrambling, trying to get assets there. One fire chief talks about driving there actually from the Palisades. He plugs it into his GPS. He's stuck in this bumper-to-bumper traffic.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
He watches as this new fire he's trying to get to starts filling the sky. That fire chief, he eventually calls the California Office of Emergency Services and says... Essentially, we are out of resources and need more help. He asked for 50 strike teams, a total of 250 more fire engines, and 1,000 more firefighters. And even as he's putting in this request, there's really more trouble brewing.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Soon we get word that there's a third fire up in the San Fernando Valley. They're really beyond their max capacity and it keeps getting worse. The fire in the Palisades is spreading ever further. More homes are going up into flames. And then late into the night, you know, this one fire captain talks about how, you know, their fire hoses start sputtering and then go dry.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
And they try a new hydrant. Still dry. Try another hydrant. Still no water. There's no water left for them to keep fighting the fire. We've been really spending a lot of time trying to understand exactly What went wrong here?
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
We talked a little earlier about the city had filled a bunch of storage tanks all around neighborhoods that are high up in these hillsides, and that included the Palisades, where there are three million gallon storage tanks designed to fill the system with water designed to support not only homes and their water lines, but also the fire hydrants below.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
And what we've learned is that the city could not fill them up to keep pace with how much water was being used.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
What the city has basically said, there's so much water being funneled out of this system. You have residents that are sort of spraying their own properties, trying to stop any embers from taking hold. You have the mega rich who are contracting their own private firefighters to protect their own properties. At the same time, you have all these firefighters tapping numerous hydrants all at once.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Frankly, this is not what the system is designed to handle. Municipal water systems like this are really designed for small fires, handling blazes that might consume a few homes, not one that is consuming a few hundred all at once.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah, it turns out one of the reservoirs, the one actually located in the Palisades, was down for maintenance. No water available at that point to feed the system and to also help push water up into the storage tanks that turned out to be depleted sort of within hours after the fire began.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Certainly to the firefighters that were there watching their hoses go dry, there was a lot of frustration, a feeling of desperation, a feeling of helplessness that they couldn't really do the work that they're in position to do. Certainly having those resources could have at least helped to some degree, but I think there's a lingering question about whether it could have
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
turned the tide of a fire that had already grown so large.
The Daily
Could the L.A. Fires Have Been Stopped Sooner?
Yeah, that's definitely one of the questions I've been asking. In some ways, it's offline for maintenance in the winter, and these things need repairs, and winter is normally a good time to make that happen. But I keep wondering, was there an opportunity here to bring it back online, especially when the weather forecast was predicting a scenario that could turn disastrous.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, yeah, you did. Yeah, that was Doge, you know, was digging... through the you know essentially the way that money is audited within the government and they look at the data sets and how things are divided and how you have to explain what's going on and The idea is that there's a lack of links to payments, outgoing payments, budget line items. So this payment goes out, what is it for, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, it would be the same thing if you had a, well, I do, I have a business. And in that business, you have to know what you're spending your money on, right? I mean, that's a logical thing. I'm not a rocket scientist. But what they're saying is that they've, well, there you go. Yeah, here it is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And with a small Arab army led by several sheikhs and Lawrence, they did this trek of about 1,100 kilometers. It took them several months because they had to stop along the way, plus they were fighting Turks along the way. So we took off in January, mid-January, five riders, 10 camels, and an incredible support team, an incredible support team. Can I just type you there?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It would be like if I got my monthly reports, my monthly numbers from our finance director, and I looked at it. There's the outgoing line, so I can see how much money is going out. But there's nothing that links it to where did it go. Did it go to pay a vendor? Did it go to pay rent? Did it go to pay staff? Who bought a jet? Who bought a jet?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
By the way, when a company buys a jet, that's a key fraud indicator.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
All companies? Not all companies. The UFC bought a jet. Not all companies. Let me just make a note of that. UFC, jet. What I mean is, obviously, it's not like if it's Nike or an established large business.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right. If you've got a business in a space and it's a growing business or it's a new business or a startup, whatever, a purchase of a jet usually is a fraud indicator on the list of all the fraud indicators.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
The regulations have not caught up yet. And you see that. Any new emerging business, industry, technology, I think there are people who look and go, oh. There's an opportunity here because regulatory policy hasn't caught up. Right. And so Bob's your uncle.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Is this your first time riding a camel? Well, we went out in December, spent about a week and a half. Howard lives out there, as do one of the other fellows, and- So you had to go through camel riding training? Camel riding training. That's exactly what we did. What is it like riding a camel? It is not comfortable in any fashion. It's not like a horse.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, and you're always comparing yourself to the guy who's got $3 billion. You've got $1 billion. How the fuck can you have that much money and not be happy? That's the part I don't understand. Well, that's what gets weird, but I get it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So does everybody else on the planet. He's still the richest guy, right? When you meet really, really rich people, you feel poor, even if you're really wealthy. Well, that's the funny thing with him.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I always think, like right now, the past couple of weeks in particular, it seems like people are just losing their shit and dropping onto the fainting couch over the idea that he's accessing your private information, right? What's he going to do? He's accessing your private information. And you think, okay, well, first of all, I don't think the guy is looking to scam you out of 500 bucks, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
That sounds a lot better than chasing government waste and fraud. Yeah. I think Jeff's got it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, my God. It is – I mean, part of me finds it very entertaining. Part of me just looks at it and goes, oh, you got to – I mean, I think what they're having a problem with is two things, is the messaging and the means of doing this, right? Everybody, you would think, would agree that, oh, you're going to go through government spending with a fine-tooth comb?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You're going to find the waste and abuse and fraud? Well, this is one of the things that Clinton ran on and implemented during his first term. Actually implemented. Very effectively, by the way, and it was a huge boon to our economy. But again, the messaging was different and the means were different.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Okay, no, that's great. All right. Yeah, they even explain the pronunciation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
A horse has, you can fall into sort of a rhythm, and a horse has a much smoother gait. So the camel, basically, all you're trying to do, there's the crew. Wonderful guys. Howard, James, myself, Tomo, there's Craig in the back. An amazing crew. I've rarely worked with guys that are just so impressive.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Everything I know about Khan I learned from Mulan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, that does sound great. Because again, I think when you consider how we're all apparently carrying some of his DNA around. Not us. Not us. Not us. Mostly Asians, right? Okay.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Christopher Walken. Christian Slater? No, not Christian Slater. Christopher Walken. Who was it with him? True Romance. There was a whole series of people. Bruce Dern. Right. Who's laying there? No, Dennis Hopper.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Is that who it was? Yeah, that's who it was. I remember they had a scene together that I remember. Fuck that movie's good. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But yeah, I think if they had come in, if the administration had come in and said, here's what we're going to do. We are going to root out waste and fraud. We're going to go after every dollar that's not spent on behalf of the American public and our national security. And advancing American interests. And we're going to do it in this efficient, you know, manner.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But, you know, and again, don't get me wrong. I think sometimes, you know, the disruption of fast action is extremely beneficial at times. And sometimes you can't see the benefit until other things happen outside the bubble that we may be looking in.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But I think that if they had messaged it a little bit differently, and then with the means, rather than taking a blowtorch to everything, because, and again, not saying that it can't be effective, but what I'm saying is that they're losing, I think, important opportunity from a goodwill perspective.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I know they probably don't give a fuck anymore, but all those people who voted for them this time around, gave them that chance that didn't the previous time. They said, oh, fuck it, I'm so done with the Biden administration and all this bullshit. They, you know, they need to see, I think, more stability, less chaos. And I think the Democrats are very good.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think we all thought perhaps that the progressives, the Democrats, were just going to go into a cave and hide. But they're regrouping, right? And they're starting to come back. They're growing beards.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, that's right. Suddenly the toxic male is very attractive. You know, shame they don't have any. But I think that if you give them ammunition, obviously they're going to take advantage of it. Yeah, for sure. And I think some of the approach to this, again, not saying it's wrong in the sense of let's find that waste and fraud, but they're giving them opportunities to start firing back.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And again, going with the support team, everybody that was on that group, a small group of eight or nine folks. Why does everybody ride with one leg to the side like that? It's essentially a comfort issue. And because you'll notice there's no, they're not really saddles, they're called shaddads that sit on top of the hump. That's a Saudi shaddad. The Omani shaddad is different.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, my God. Well, the five people that watch CNN still were probably. There's probably 20.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And how tough is it to just have a whatever, a unisex bathroom? Most places, a lot of places do, right? So you go, fine. As long as it's not a big bathroom.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It sits behind the hump and is even less comfortable. And now these things were probably designed some 2,000 years ago and they've never felt the need to improve them. They're basically just some wood, you know, tied together. And then you try to throw a couple of things on top of this piece of wood to make it comfortable.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Notice how I said they. That was very good, right? You danced the line. You're very sensitive. People always say that. Goddamn, Rogan is so sensitive. But I think if... Most folks, right, who are in alternative lifestyles, however you want to put it, I think, yeah, they just want to get on with it, right? They want to be accepted.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They don't want to make, you know, people make a fuss over it. They just want to move on. And then you've got a small minority that just can't seem to get enough attention. And when they can't get enough attention, then they do something even more wacky.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's not much of a gang, though, is it, really? But online, the words they use online, it's very attacking.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, I think they're angry because for a while, the mob rule was working. And everybody was being silenced from the bullying or the fear of being bullied. And it lasted for so long. It lasted for years, if you think about it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, look, Meta, Alphabet, they're all kind of rewriting, toning down their DEI policies, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
He's looking a lot more manly. He does. He looks a lot more manly.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I think all the Bedouins and others were laughing at us because we just kept piling blankets on to try to see if we couldn't. Yeah, it was tough. And so ass blisters are a real thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, also, you know, you're burning fuel, you're feeling better, you're focused on something other than your own inner angst, or how do you fit in with this? Again, look, everybody just should be able to live their life. Absolutely. That's what we all need to concentrate on.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No. And it's simple enough. Honestly, I don't care. Someone's got an alternative lifestyle. Now, I don't need to play along with the imaginary idea that a dude's going to have a baby or can –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I keep waiting for Jamie to throw one up on the screen. I'm like, oh, my God. There's no self-awareness or sense of irony.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, so anyway, that's what you see there. But there's no stirrups on these things. Like a horse, you know, you're riding on the saddle, you've got stirrups. And it takes the pressure off your legs. You're just hanging on. So you don't want to ride with one leg on either side because it's just not comfortable. So you hitch your leg over the front leg.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You're a prime case study for the impact and effects of, and sort of the... you know, the downside of AI, right? Oh, for sure with my voice. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, there's very few. We've talked about it before. There's very few because the idea was always sort of detection, right? Okay, we've got to create better systems to detect deep fakes. Right. But now I think the focus has rightly shifted from sort of the detection to more proactive protection of material, right? So get it at the moment of creation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Embed data. the ability within the video clip, the audio clip, whatever, to show that you've got proof of whatever you want to call it, reality, credibility, authenticity. And that's the way it's all going because you just can't keep up. If all you're doing is trying to create better systems to detect deepfakes, it's a losing game.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's like battling terrorists because you're coming up with an idea to prevent a terrorist attack based on the last terrorist attack. and they're on to something else. So it's an interesting world. There's not that many companies out there that are doing a great job of it, but there are some.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's pretty close. Most people aren't curious, right? Most people are, or they don't have time. or they're not cynical, right? And so most people are willing to look at something and go, yeah, you know, I mean, unless it's just clearly bullshit, but for the most part, if it's a half-decent fake, right, I think most people will accept it and move on.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And then you kind of put your leg or your foot behind the other leg.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, that is good. There's one where I haven't, I don't think I've seen the one with him playing the drums, but I've seen them where there's a whole series of world leaders, and they're in a ballad together. Yeah. It's fantastic.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, and it's interesting. I mean, again, talking about regulatory policy not catching up, I mean, what do you do, right? I mean, like if you were in Europe, right, you could be fined and jailed, right, in a case for like pushing something that's disinformation or whatever. Or you're just goofing, right? Yeah, you can't goof.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Or is it just a ball buster? I'll tell you, it's a ball buster, particularly if that Shaddad shifts and it starts to lean forward. And then suddenly, there's these large dowels in the front and large dowel in the back. They kind of basically look like big wooden dildos on this Shaddad. And so if that Shaddad shifts forward, as it did on occasion, your package is just jammed against that thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But you can't, you know, if it's an obvious, to your point, if it's an obvious goof, then okay, you can probably get away with it. Maybe not if you're in Germany or somewhere. Germany's going crazy. They are going crazy. Crazy. And they were happy with J.D. Vance's speech. I'll tell you that much. I wonder why. Nobody in the EU was happy.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
The head of the Munich Security Conference literally cried after the speech when they were addressing EU leaders following the speech, right, talking about, you know, the impact and what it might have meant for U.S.-EU relations and everything. Literally tears being shed over J.D. Vance's speech.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, I think what they were anticipating at the Munich Security Conference was he was going to come in and he was going to talk about, obviously, the number one topic on the table for them was Ukraine. And, you know, where are we going with that? Because obviously the EU leaders are now very concerned about U.S. commitment to NATO.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
What is the Trump administration planning on doing in terms of further support for Ukraine, really further support for NATO? They're looking to distance themselves. And Vance instead came in and didn't really focus on any of that shit. He turned it on to the European Union and to EU countries in the UK, the UK in particular, talking about how –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know, their biggest threat isn't necessarily Russia or China. Their biggest threat is what they're doing to themselves in terms of suppressing free speech from all the various groups out there, including conservative groups, far left, whatever, determining that, you know, this this type of speech is illegal. We're going to pursue you. We're going to find you. We're going to jail you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Armed raids against people that are pushing content online.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Anti-immigrant content. But to be fair, right? I mean, most of Europe at this point is pretty fed up with the immigration policies that their leaders have- Which is why they want to suppress the dissent online. Exactly.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. And they rightly should. Look, Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, he's not getting reelected. And their election is coming up here shortly.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. So if you talk about the immigration problem and you say, look, we've got to stop this. We've got to maybe secure borders. If you talk about the Ukraine war and say, I don't think we should be supporting dumping more resource into Ukraine. all those things, or reproductive rights, if you're on the wrong side of that from a European perspective. You know, they're coming after you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And so that's what J.D. Vance came after. He turned the tables on them and focused on that. And that was, A, it was completely unexpected, and B, I think, you know, the reality of it, the fact that it's truthful, I think, upset a lot of them. It's truthful, and it also appeals to their citizens.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. And I think it's funny because a lot of people on, you know, there's a lot of people on social media right now going, oh, my God, you don't realize how hated, you know, you are now as Americans and the U.S. is so hated. And I think, look, I spent most of my time overseas, right? And most people are going, yeah, it seems like it's common sense. You guys are finally coming around, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And you have to cover. These guys, look, I got injured. I had some soft muscle injury, and there's the crew walking through. And I tore some muscles in my rib cage. Just riding? No, it was a rather inelegant dismount from the camel. And so I twisted really badly and then went the other way. And the next thing you know, I had fucked up some muscles along my obliques and then rib cage area.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And so I don't think they're going to win the argument that somehow the U.S. is more hated. Look, we've been hated in a variety of locations.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, it is one of those moments where you think, okay, I understand. I get your point. You know, the talk about turning Canada into a 51st state.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know what I love is I was just out of the Middle East for some things, including the amazing trek with the guys from the SF Club. And it was right during the period of time when President Trump announced his idea during that press conference with Netanyahu about, look, we're going to own, the U.S. is going to own Gaza. Did you see the look on Netanyahu's face when he was saying that? Yes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And now you know what they're all doing? The Israeli cabinet is fully on board with the idea, in part because I think they understand that, okay, look, this is probably not going to happen, but if we take this position... It's going to create chaos. It's going to create some movement. And maybe that leads to something of interest.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I think being out in the Middle East when that idea came out and hearing some of the responses from people out there was amazing. But what I like about it. Look, you're not going to move 2.3 million Palestinians out of Gaza, right? Because none of the Arab states want them. The Egyptians have fought against this idea for years and years and years.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Pretty interesting. Yeah, thank you for that. Look, it all started with some colleagues of mine from the UK Special Forces Club. And these guys are tremendous, right? But Howard Ledham and some others who came up with an idea. They said, look, we have to do something to help the benevolent fund, which is for the U.K. Special Forces. It's like wounded warriors here in the States.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, from their perspective, look, it's a security issue. And there's a lot of Palestinian refugees in Jordan. So it's not like Jordan hasn't tried to do their part. But they also, what are they going to do, absorb another million, two million Palestinians? No. So the problem from an operational perspective is it's unlikely to happen. Right. And also, do you really want the U.S. ?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Buying and owning Gaza. Right. And then being out there, you think that you think that the cost of supporting Ukraine is high. Wait till you see what the cost of not only the reconstruction, but the security of the reconstruction. Right. What that's going to mean. You think you think there was a boon in private security contractors during the Iraq incursions?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Exactly. So the costs involved, the potential for just never-ending trouble. But what I do like about it is, look, now the... The Arab states are responding by having a summit, right? They're having a summit at the end of this month, and they've been having little mini discussions amongst themselves, but all the key players in the area are now meeting to discuss what's an alternative, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
What is the way to make this happen? And it's not going to be by the U.S. owning it and building the Riviera, right, or a series of casinos. But the Arab states are having to react. And so what that means is nothing's worked beforehand. Right. Nothing in terms of two state option, other security agreements, peace agreements that have held for some period of time and then fallen apart.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
None of that shit's worked. So I think the sort of the disruptive aspect of sometimes of what Trump does, even though you may look at the idea on the surface and go, it's not going to work. You have these other effects. So now you've got the Arab states having to respond, coming up with these ideas. They're already over the past couple of days saying, well, Hamas can't play a role.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
If you had said that a year ago. Egypt and Qatar and some of these other Arab states out there would have gotten on board with the idea that Hamas has got to go. That wouldn't have happened, right? I mean, before the 7 October attacks. Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And so I spent the next couple of days, we had a team medic, Jed, a wonderful guy, great sense of humor, as did they all. And he eventually got tired of me, like asking him for painkillers and anti-inflammatories. And so eventually I had to tap out, which was more painful probably than the actual injuries. And the guys just continued to grind it out.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right. That's because they know what the problem is. And they haven't been willing to admit it before. But because the Trump administration just thrown stuff at the wall, right, to see what sticks, they've got to respond. And so now they're coming up with these ideas. Look, Hamas, you know, they are a shell of what they were. Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But they're still supported by the Iranian regime, which is a big problem. And the Iranian regime, you know, do you think they don't want peace? They don't want stability, right? That's not in the books. One of the benefits from their perspective of the 7 October attacks was that it completely scuttled the normalization talks that were going on between Saudi and Israel and the U.S. at the time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They're going to continue to be a problem. But Hamas is now kind of on its back foot. The Palestinian Authority is saying, well, we'll come in and we'll govern Gaza. Well, the Israelis are saying, no, no, that's not going to happen either because you guys are peas in a pod. Right. And, you know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Palestinian Authority has a program where they actually pay the families of people who kill Israelis, right? It's called a pay to slay program. Really?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know what? I'm not sure what the going rate is now. But, you know, for out there, it's, you know, it's a payment, ongoing payments to families that who have family members who have attacked, wounded, or killed Israelis. And so, you know, that plus, you know, other ties between Hamas and the PA. And look, there's been animosity, obviously.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Hamas drove the Palestinian Authority out of Gaza years ago. But, you know, the Israelis see it as the same. And so, you know, my point being is the Arab states are now reacting and you could end up with something that actually works as opposed to all the bullshit in the past that never did work and always continued to provide nothing for the Palestinian people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And if, you know, if you say, look, all this is about is we want the Palestinians to live a better life. then you should want new ideas thrown at the wall, right? And you should want something that eventually is going to work. And from a U.S. perspective, you should want something where the Arab states actually take it on board themselves.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, and we can also agree that... It was not... Look, yeah, I agree. It was a very aggressive action. I would argue that the U.S. would engage in that same aggressive action if we had had a proportionate attack... From Mexico or something like that. Yeah, yeah. Or Canada.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Goddamn Canadians. They're plotting something. I just know it. So if... So that's true. But again, it was a war that Hamas started. I think you have to go back to the beginning of this one. And yes, there's fault on both sides, of course. But Hamas now at times has been acting like the aggrieved party.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
How far was left when you- Oh, I was in the first 25% of the journey. And then I went back for the end, for the arrival into Aqaba. There's the whole crew right there. I just can't say enough about these people. Again, 25, 26 days, longer than that, actually, a month. out in really bad conditions. People think, well, it's the deserts, right? Well, it's called the impassable deserts for a reason.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, which I get it. I mean from a real estate developer's perspective, I'm sure he's seen overhead imagery.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, when you're talking about moving out 2.3 million people to other areas. But look, I think, again, the answer is that the Arab states have to take this on. They finally have to address this issue. Some of them have used the Palestinian issue to their own devices. Here it is. Without doing anything to their benefit of the Palestinians.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Because it's like, yeah. Look, again, I think unless, I don't know who would be on board. Take it from beyond this sort of the initial sentence of the U.S. will take ownership. Oh, here we go.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I don't know if I. Is that Dean Cain on the right? No. No.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Sometimes I love these Piers Morgan panels. You never know who you're going to show up in one of those boxes. And it's a bizarre mix of people. Okay. It's just like the commentary for Wimbledon where we just don't say anything.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah. No, I mean, look, if you could do surgical strikes and do nothing but kill Hamas terrorists. Great. Yeah. But, you know, that's not the real world. You know, Dave's talking about a world that we don't exist in. But I would argue like and that's this is where we would differ. I like Dave Smith a lot and I think he's incredibly intelligent.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Massive sandstorms, freezing temperatures at night, bitter cold. And we were sleeping in one-man tents. And then you'd get up, you'd You'd get the camels ready.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But, you know, we fundamentally look at things sometimes differently. in a different worldview because of our experiences, right? And my experience has been dealing with a lot of hostile actors who, you know, you may look at and think, okay, well, can't we just... I don't say we'll get along, but they exist and we exist and do we really... That's not the world we work in, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And urban combat is really ugly. It's not dismissing, you know, the horrific nature of it and the fact that, yeah, sure, in a perfect world, it's morally repugnant. And it is, you know, but... It's the world that we live in, so I think, okay, on one hand, I get what he's saying, and I don't disagree on that moral side of things, but from my background, I don't tend to live in that world.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I tend to live in sort of the operational side of things, and sometimes you have to do things that are not good.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's like it's so extreme. Oh, I know. And I don't disagree. And they have – they went above and beyond. There's no doubt about it. But to my point and I think to kind of what he was saying, look, we – If we did after 9-11 and we we went above and beyond from a proportionate standpoint and we felt certainly justified in doing it. Right. We did. I mean, we did.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
America finally came together as a group. Right. As opposed to the partisan way that we live now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Well, I think Hamas also, you know, these are disjointed statements and I'm not really tying it all together very well at all. But, you know, there's also this element that Hamas doesn't give a shit about the Palestinian citizens, right? The civilians, I mean. And, you know, if they did, they wouldn't conduct their operations. Their methodology would be different.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They wouldn't bury themselves in their operations and their command centers and everything that they do. Their depots, their missile weapons supply centers within the public environment. They just wouldn't.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Land Rover did a wonderful job of helping to sponsor this. So they provided vehicles that the support team used to kind of trail and then get ahead and help to establish the next. Howard and Craig had done the recce, so we had the camps ready. mapped out, because this is a long trek, 1,100 kilometers. And so they were able to supply and do all the work that kept these guys moving forward.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, there's no way that the Iranian regime, I think, would have allowed them to do this if they anticipated they would get this sort of response. So I think you're right. And again, this is the problem. People only hear what they want to hear, right? So they hear me say from an operational perspective, I understand that they had an aggressive response, but then they stopped listening, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So what I'm saying is, was it over the top? Well, yes, it was over the top. And could they have been more surgical about this? Well, yes, they certainly could have. Could they have prevented some loss of civilian life? Well, yes. Would that have been difficult? Well, yes. Why? Because Hamas puts themselves in the center of civilian life there. They know this is what's going to happen.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
This is their currency. Dead Palestinians, that drives their narrative. And they always know it's going to turn against the Israelis as we're having these discussions. That's what happens. And they've got enough of a track record to know that's what's going to happen. So they use it to their advantage. You know, again, it doesn't excuse the killing. I keep coming back to that same thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You could have, you know, disparate multiple thoughts in your head at the same time. You can feel bad about that. And at the same time, you can go, yeah, it was fucked up what they did on 7 October. You're going to go after Hamas. And then what you're going to find is that urban combat is really, really fucked up. fucking ugly, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And you're going to have casualties that you really, really regret having. Were there more than needed? I would say yes. They didn't need the extent of their response, but I understand their mindset for why they went so hard after Hamas. This is decades and decades built up saying no more, right? We can't put up with this anymore. Now, again, the problem is
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know, the problem is not that it's not really Hamas. I keep coming back to the same thing. The problem is that the instigator of all this trouble, the instigator of the vast majority of chaos and instability and violence and death in that region is the Iranian regime. Most Arab states will agree to that. Maybe not the Yemenis. Right. You know, but you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Most of those Arab states are not going to be sad to see the Iranian regime fall for this very reason. Everybody wants a better life, however they perceive it. The Iranian regime, the mullahs and the IRGC, they've got a stated objective and they are pursuing that. As long as those people are in charge. Ultimately, we're not going to get a big sea change here.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We're not going to get a huge shift in the way things go. But if you want a better life, then you got to look to whatever you want to call it, the head of the snake or the top of the mountain. There they are, the Iranian regime driving a lot of this chaos. So anyway, I'm getting away from the point, but I don't disagree with Dave. I always like a lot of the things that he says.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I just think that we come at it sometimes from a much different perspective. I don't tend to believe that the world is full of... Of good actors who are just trying to create a community of nations. I don't think that's his perspective either. Well, yeah. I'm not putting it well, but I think what I mean is that there's... It's not...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I was having a conversation the other day, and it was about U.S. involvement in a variety of groups, activities, associations over the years, looking to topple governments, looking to change governments. the direction of a government, all the nefarious things that the CIA has been accused of over the years. And I was like, well, God damn, what did you expect?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Of course, that's what we're doing, right? Of course, we're trying to influence hearts and minds. Of course, we're infiltrating organizations to try to influence the direction of a government that, you know, you go all the way back to the Cold War, right? We were convinced the Russians or the Soviets were gonna blow us to hell, right? Of course, we're going to be doing a variety of things.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You want a government over there that's more friendly to you? Okay, how are we going to go about doing that? If that means VOA or Voice of America or that means infiltrating some organization that's going to try to win them. So is that morally repugnant? I don't know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. That's the problem. That's the problem is that we don't live in a world of benign nations who like if we're not the police, you know, at the top of the food chain, nobody needs to be there. Someone's going to fill that that gap. And you know what? Maybe I'm wrong, but I've been around a long time, and I've spent most of it overseas in unusual places. We make a lot of mistakes as a country.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's a human endeavor, but we do try to correct, and it can take time, right? It can take a lot of time. We make a lot of mistakes. Of course we do, but I've seen a lot of players out there, and I'd rather have us and our allies trying to direct traffic rather than some of the hostile actors that are out there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Imagine doing that without them. Oh, it wouldn't have been impossible, but they'd still be out there schlepping.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, sure. Yeah. And I think that it's, Yeah, you're talking about national self-interest. Right. I think in the world that we actually live in, every country is acting in its own self-interest.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Let me go back to the – I'll go to the Cold War because that's probably our best example of what happens when you – because you actually had – it wasn't just a unipolar world, right? You had the Soviets and you had the U.S. Yes. There was concern over life itself. There was this concern over mutual destruction. But there was concern over influence. So the Soviets were busy in a variety of places.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Let's pick Africa, right? So in the mid to late 50s, right, as Africa was moving, you know, clearly, strongly away from colonialism, right? And independent states started, you know, sprouting up. Then there was this concern over, well, okay, the old colonial era is gone, right? The Belgians aren't going to own the Congo, as an example. The Congo is rich in resources, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, there's a spring occasion. Yeah, you could you pass through a handful of areas near small. I mean, when I'm saying small, I mean like there's nothing there, little tiny village. Maybe there's a mosque and the mosque would have a water supply so you could stop and maybe refill, let the camels drink.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Uranium, cobalt, you know, diamonds, obviously, but let's take uranium. the Belgians were running Congo when we were developing the bomb. And almost all that uranium came from the Congo. So that's a good example of the U.S. looking and saying, okay, are the Belgians good stewards of the Congo? Well, no. They were enslaving people and having them work in the uranium mines.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And we were taking that uranium and using it to build the bomb, the Manhattan Project. Now, all those years later, I mean, the Congo, you know, realized its independence, you know, Patrice Lumombo and all the rest of that history. But now the Congo is wrapped up in conflict still. Why is it still in conflict? Because of its minerals. Cobalt now is the key, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, uranium you can get from a variety of places, Australia and elsewhere, Kazakhstan and a variety of other locations. 60%, don't quote me on that, but I think it's about that, of the world's cobalt supplies. What do you need cobalt for? Well, electric vehicles, batteries. So now the eastern Congo is still in conflict. That place is a mess.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
If it's not the poorest, it's like the second or third poorest country in the world. And isn't most of those mines, they're controlled by China? No. Well, a lot of them are controlled on the eastern side by militias. Congo has been a difficult place for everybody to try to wrap up licensing agreements. But you've got 100 plus militias out there vying for control because it's money.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And so I guess my point is, I mean, it's good you brought up China because, yes, they've been busy trying to lock up a variety of locations in terms of critical minerals. And they've got a monopoly on refining those minerals essentially at this point in time. But I just think it's Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Maybe what I'm surprised by, because I'm so fucking cynical, is the idea when you say it's corporate interests, it's government interests, it's self-interest of a nation to pursue and do these things. I'll be honest with you. I look at it and go, well, yeah, of course it is. I don't know any other world, right? I don't know that we're not going to walk that dog back over a couple thousand years.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
People have been doing the same fucking thing all human existence, I would argue. So I just kind of look at it, and maybe because I'm not wired that way, I don't sit around and go, that's fucking wrong. We have to rail against this. I'm a very simple person, so I look at it and go, yeah. That's how it works. And goddamn right, I'd rather be on the top of the heap than, you know, not.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And, you know, as long as we're... So this is like a pragmatic perspective. I guess.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They're getting it from a well, yeah, from a well. Oh, okay. So they have, I mean, because, you know, talking thousands of years, they've figured out where the wells are. And part of this, you know, from 1917, look, the Turks never expected these guys to come from this direction, because who's going to do that? Right. And they did it. These guys all did it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
What are we gonna do? I mean, you know hold hands and say okay. Everybody's gonna live as a collective, right? Right, you know So I you know, I know that that I I'm sure there's all sorts of flaws in the way that I'm thinking, but I'm a very civil person. When I was in operations, you tell me what to do, I'll do it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I never sat around and got angsty about anything because I just didn't see any point in it. Again, pragmatic. Yeah, or just being a douchebag.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I just, you know, and look, I'll tell you something. Look, there are people over the years, I think, you know, the CIA leadership at times over the years, I'm talking, you know, you know, all the way back to World War II and, you know, beyond, certainly during the Cold War.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Alan Dulles is a good example of that, where, you know, they legitimately would sit around and say, well, I, you know, as far as I know, we're not in the business of overthrowing countries, you know? And you think, like, well, that's bullshit. Of course... Of course, that's what, you know, we're trying to do. We're trying to influence countries because we want them on our side.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We want to create friendly governments that, yes, will be beneficial to our national security, our economic interests, all those things. So I've always been puzzled also by people who try to minimize that in a sense, right? I mean, you know, if you're doing something, then, goddammit, maybe own up to it. It's like John Brennan, who was a director at the agency, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
He's a relatively well-known former CIA official for... a handful of reasons. He was very tight in the Obama administration. But he said one time, I forget what year it was, but anyway, he talked about the business of the CIA. He says, we don't steal secrets. God damn it, of course we steal secrets. That's the point of the exercise, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You think the FSB or the Chinese intel apparatus isn't stealing secrets? What the fuck? Why was he saying that? Oh, you know, it's a kinder, gentler nation, right? He's trying to, like, sugarcoat, you know, that was a laughable statement, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I was just honored to be a part of it, even though I had to tap out, which was, god damn, that was frustrating.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, I mean, because, again— Or objectively false, I should say. Maybe it's the world you want to live in, you know, instead of the one that we actually do have.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, or you're trying to convince yourself—who knows? I don't understand the thinking. I just know what he said, but I think— It's an interesting comment from, you know, the director of an intelligence organization, you know, that is in the business of stealing secrets.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, yeah, look, I mean, USAID traditionally, I mean, they were set up, what, during the Kennedy administration as a, you know, as an independent organization, right? Because at the time, I think that the thinking was, and they're not the only one that's set up as an independent agency, but, you know, at the time, the thinking was we don't want it to be seen as like the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
administration is picking and choosing and driving sort of where the money's going, which, again... You know, it's kind of a strange way of doing things, right? It's coming from the fucking U.S. government, right? So people aren't going to parse words or discern somehow that, okay, well, it's an independent agency. So I guess it's not really what the administration wants.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's what the USAID wants. So, you know, is it – you know, were dollars going into programs that the idea was can we – Can we turn this country around? Can we change? You know, who is in charge? Is it Lumumba? Is it Sukarno? Is it, you know, God, pick any number of folks during that period of time and create a government that's more friendly to our interests?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Again, I look at that and go, well, yeah. Is USAID also projecting whatever they call it, soft power, diplomatic power? Well, sure. And that's another way of phrasing it, I suppose.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Were they also doing things like feeding the poor, providing medicines out there, doing actually legitimate things that I think sometimes people in a righteous world are like, well, that's exactly what they should be doing. Well, yeah, they should be doing that. The USAID has got a lot of important programs that they run that actually help people around the world who don't have many options.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, they're going to slim it down. They've already started. It'll be run through the State Department. Great idea. Take off that veil. Don't pretend. I mean, it's a U.S. government agency that people are going to assume. Some people will assume the worst no matter what. But, yeah, fine. Again, under the same theory, what you do is you go in and you say, we're going to go through every program.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We're going to keep the ones that are important. And I would argue that's food aid, health aid, whatever it may be. And, you know, shit can all those others that are, you know, being really helpful.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Is that helpful or not? I don't know. Well, they have to figure out how to do those operations. Yeah. No, I think, yeah. So is there a waste in there? Of course there's waste. And are there programs in there that were designed to- So it's the baby with the bathwater? Is that what it is? Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
That's the point is I think going in there and calling it all waste and fraud and a criminal organization I think is not the right messaging. I think that the American public would be fully on board if you simply said, again, we're going through, we're going to find the waste, we're going to focus on those programs that help people around the world legitimately.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Again, and that is the messaging that's going out. You can see them coalesce around it. I think the first weeks after the election, there was confusion and they were going through that grief cycle on the left. But now I think you're seeing that they are coming together on that messaging. I think now they're starting to get more focused. They probably understand.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They'll probably take the House in two years. So they're getting their shit together again. But I think that, you know, and on the right side, I think, you know, you'd like to think that, you know, the gloating is a bit unnecessary, right? You, one, focus on getting shit done now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
creating a more efficient government would be a uniting concept, right? And I think it could be, but I keep going back to that same thing. I've never been particularly impressed with the messaging, and I get it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
When I say that, people always, you know, on the right come after me and go, oh, God, well, that's what makes MAGA MAGA, you know, that's what makes, you know, Trump Trump is, you know, just... And I don't disagree with sort of, again, the benefits sometimes of being disruptive, but I do think that you can't just look at USAID and say it's a big old criminal organization.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You should be a little bit more ... I mean, Kevin O'Leary, you mentioned him earlier. For all that talk, I guarantee you if he had a large company, he wouldn't just shit can everything right off the bat.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But there would be a thoughtful initial review phase in a corporate environment, I think. I would argue that, that even he would do that. He's not just going to pull the pin and throw it in the room and say, okay, now let's see what we actually need.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But that's not the way it comes across because, in part, because the media is not, like you said, they're not going to give them a break, right? So even if they said that that's what we're doing and here's how we're doing it, here are the people on the transition team. I mean, who are the people on Elon's Doge team, right? I mean, can you name half a dozen of them? Big balls. Big balls. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I just think that – and again, you've got to go after the waste, the fraud. Is there bloat? Of course there's bloat in the government. Go after it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, that's said a lot better than I could say it. But yeah, that's what I'm saying on the international front. On the domestic front, I'm just saying, you know, go through all these organizations, right? But, you know, don't give the other side the ammunition to say, you guys are, you're firing useful people, right? I hear this all the time now in the past few weeks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's like, oh my God, they let this entire group of people who are going working on women's health issues and, you know, they're just, they're giving them ammunition that they don't need to by virtue of the way that they're going about it. And again, go about it, do it. So all I'm saying is it's the means of which they're doing it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You can accomplish the same task, and you can accomplish it quickly, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. I would want, look, if you're doing a corporate fraud investigation, you don't walk in and say, there's fraud everywhere here, right? Where everybody's going. No, you don't. You go in and you do your investigation because you don't know what the iceberg looks like. You don't know what's underneath the surface. So you want... to be able to go through it in a methodical way.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And, you know, if you walk into the World Bank and say, we think there's fraud here in this department over here, right? And the World Bank, just as an aside, they have to, if they think there's fraud somewhere, they have to notify the people that they suspect of fraud that they're going to initiate a fraud investigation before they do it, right? How fucked up is that? Pretty crazy.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's pretty crazy. So anyway, that's... That gives them a little time. Gives them a little time. So, you know, I don't know. Um... Again, I respect the fact that they're actually making the effort. I think that's great. I just – I'm not sure that it's – there's an immovable object in Washington, D.C. made up of lobbyists, defense contractors, self-interested politicians, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They're all like this, right? And Doge is obviously bumping up against them, particularly when they start now talking about Pentagon spending. So I guess my point is it's complex. I don't know that blowing it up and then saying we're going to rebuild it. It's like when Kash Patel or anyone else for an organization, they talk about the FBI. Let's raise it to the ground and start over. What?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I can say this because I'm a dual citizen with the U.K. The British don't tend to be very good at raising money. or asking for money for very important causes. So here in the U.S. where you've got 100,000 different groups that are advocating for veterans, over there it's not the case, right? But they have the same need, right? And they have all these wonderful people in their families.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You've got thousands and thousands of hardworking street agents out there doing very important work. You can't just say, okay, we're suspending 30% of them. You've got to go through and say, okay, well, where is the problem here?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, well, I think I would argue that they're going to find this is a years-long process anyway, no matter how much of a jump they get at the starting block. But I think that— Well, Mike Benz thinks it's going to take 50, 60 years. Yeah, I think he's right, right? I mean, well, okay, I don't think it's going to take that long.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think if you're persistent about it—and I think your timeline is that you mentioned the midterms— That would be my focus. Right. I want to get it well done before the midterm elections. Right. Because I'm be concerned about losing the House. So you've got that runway to work with. Then then go. But don't feel like you got to get it done in the first four weeks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Look, he's been in office for 23 days. Egg prices haven't come down. You guys were lied to.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Look for Al-Waj, Al-Waj, Saudi, on the coast, sort of northwest Saudi.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, no. Remember the old mad cow disease? years and years ago. Sure, England had a big problem with that. Yeah, beef prices.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Which is so crazy. Or sheep's brains. Yeah. Yeah. Somebody at some point thought, you know, what we could do with all these sheep parts is we could feed them to the cows.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Was it a nephew that got killed and eaten by the- Yeah, he went over there to live amongst them, I think.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I remember that story. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And there was debate over whether he was actually killed and eaten by the cannibals or not.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Who goes back a second time? You piss them off once and you get away. I don't think he thought he pissed them off. Oh, okay.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
This guy is crazy. Look at that. No, he's right there, right there at the top. So we started in Al Waj. And then, yeah, there you go. There you go. Now click out. And then you start heading north. You start heading northeast. You can see Jordan is up there above that area. You start heading sort of on a diagonal northeast. You pass through all. Just look at it. It's like, what the hell?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I'm here to help you. Confusing. You know, in my own way. Yeah. I'm going to bring enlightenment to you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Is he famous? No, I just added that because I thought he deserved it. Wow.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I love that. Go out and investigate. Ooh, this isn't the conclusion we wanted. Don't bother giving us a report. Keep that to yourself. There he is. Yeah, I remember this guy with the glasses.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah, they're going to eat you, bro. That is the we're about to cook you dance right there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You think about his family. Wouldn't his family have said, look, I've got to tell you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You're like, oh, fuck. You think they do like a movie that give you a 10-second head start into the jungle? Nope. And then track you down? I mean, honestly... When Nez Perce used to do that. If I was in the tribe, I would do that, right? Why wouldn't you? I mean, it's... It's entertaining.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And you keep going. You keep going. Eventually you get, if you zoom out a little bit so you'll see the border with Jordan. Okay, you go up, pass, and keep going in that direction.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, people were tougher back then, I would argue. They had to be. They had to be. Yeah. Wow.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Here's an interesting thought. If you're offshore from whatever, the lapping island of death, and your catamaran capsizes, and so it's still there, right? It's still floating. And you've got your shipmates, and they're there. And your decision, the way that you process this is to swim to the lapping island of death
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, why do they have skulls laying around? Yeah. You know what's going to solve this problem is going to be the newly formed U.S. government agency for the declassification of documents. That's going to solve this problem. Federal Secrets. Which one's that? Federal Secrets.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
There's not a lot there. And then you come up to where Jordan is. But anyway, at the end of the day, you see Aqaba. We came down through Jordan and into Aqaba, which is at the tip there, right there, yeah, which is where the fort was, which is where they routed the Turks, and then eventually that created all sorts of opportunities for the Arab states.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yep, Epstein Files, COVID. Are those hot ladies running it? Anna Polina Cruz. Why is she running it? Because she's hot. I don't know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They'll figure it out. They don't need you. I know. They've got this new committee, and COVID is also on the table. UFOs, now Michael Rockefeller, I would argue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Wouldn't that be good, though? I'm hoping that's what it is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Developing our own technology that we've kept secret. Yeah, I think that's what a lot of it is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, I think $4.7 trillion. Okay, when you think about that, it sounds like a lot. But in terms of government spending, we could blow through that pretty quick. So I'm thinking, yes, I do.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right. So, I mean, so say that, right? You know, roll that out rather than saying, you know, they've been funding, you know, because in a short burst, it sounds much worse, right? It's still, you still can argue, is this really necessary? Do you need to be doing this? Well, I don't know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, you're paying for a database for information that's going to hopefully inform better decision making.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, I'm sure. Yes, exactly. And that goes back to this whole thing that I've probably beat to a death is the messaging idea.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right. Right. They're just listed on the files. Right. And it doesn't mean money's going out to them. And so, yeah, again, from a messaging perspective, you know, does Elon need to, like, you know, screenshot that and then send it out as a tweet or whatever we call it nowadays? Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
When I say it's desolate and there's nothing, there's nothing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Although how cool would that be if vampires existed among us and we found out the 300-year-old people were making benefits? That would be crazy. How crazy.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But that 4.7, I'm sure we're going to find the trillion. Of course, some of that money goes out. And I think if you follow money in the government, it's always more effective and interesting than anything else, right? You always get to the bottom of things by following budgets, depending on how it's hidden, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And so a lot of that money is going to be, perhaps it's in black budgets for, who knows, for Defense Department activities. It's worth digging into because it's always fascinating.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
This is all Randall Carlson stuff, right? Yeah, and we went through the Royal Reserve. The Saudis were very good, and the Jordanians were amazing as well in supporting this. Jamie, what were you saying?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Exactly. But again, so so fine. I dig into it, find out. And you know what? If the end result is, you know, you don't have 150 old people getting benefits, but the end result is that you modernize the way that we store information. Right. Then great. There's there's a benefit to doge right there. Right. Yes. We've created a more efficient system for tracking and and paying out and good.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So, you know, everybody again, everybody should should. should not have a hard-on about an organization called the Department of Government Efficiency. And I think, ultimately, I think they're going to do a very good job.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. And then, but again, trackable information, you would think, right? So you can go in, if you're serious and persistent about it, you should be able to go in and identify, yes, we have the following.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, it totally looks like it washed. Yeah, you'll find like all these wadis that are in there that, you know, it's essentially there's a lot of dried up riverbeds. And, you know, the danger is, of course, they flash floods on occasion, not very often. But so this this this thing took place and they eventually the whole thing ended in Aqaba.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I think, again, fascinating if it's true. It's outrageous.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
If it's true, but you need corroboration on something like that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, that's just due diligence, right? Okay, who, you know, let's, so I think that's great. And the obligation then is to say, okay, well, who is she? Why does she have this knowledge? Is she credible? Can you corroborate it with other sources? And if you can, then yeah, you've got a serious problem. When she, at that moment where she said, you know, get them a U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And we'll regularly remind you who to vote for. Yes, we'll tell you. We'll send you newsletters. Yeah, I mean, that would be, and that is the theory, the narrative that, you know, says that's why, you know, the last four years we had essentially an open border policy was to bring in, you know, 10, 11, 12 million new voters, right? I mean, that's the way that that story unfolds.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Again, the Jordanians couldn't couldn't have been greater about supporting this. I think everybody I know the Bedouins when we got started, they were staring at us like, what the hell are you doing? They couldn't imagine that people would do this willingly.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
That's one version of it. That's one version. The other version is cheap labor, right? Cheap labor. Also, then there's the soft, well, it's the way the world should work. We need an open borders world. Yeah, I'm not buying that version. Yeah, I don't think that's- That version's horseshit. Most people don't follow along the lines of, I'm doing things for ideology.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, yes, and then you would do that through soft power and organizations that could influence hearts and minds.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right, right. No, it's not. No. Again, and that comes back around to, it'd be lovely if we were all working on the same team. That's not how I don't think human nature is. So, you know, I... Well, that's not the state of the world, right? It's not the state of the world.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And the last four years, and I would argue during the Obama administration, they oftentimes, from a national security perspective, seem to run it based on how they hoped the world would be, right? As opposed to how the world actually is, right? And so, like them or hate them, again, the current administration tends to, I think, look at things in a more pragmatic way.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, that's a good question. It's a complicated question, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Man, I tell you what, I know when I got injured, I know every single one of those damn son of a bitches were laughing. They were like, what the hell? And they were looking at our shaddads with all these blankets and furs on them, trying to make it somewhat comfortable.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think that's one of those things. Yeah, I don't think so. Turning Canada into the 51st state. But to the people on that side of the fence who say, no money spent overseas. Right. How are you going to justify that? Yeah, what are they going to do? Look at that and go, well, that's a fucked up idea, right? But it's still President Trump, so yay, we've got to support it. I don't know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Do they discern or, you know, do people on the base, do they just say, yeah, everything that comes out of the White House is a great idea? Because that certainly runs counter to the idea that we don't want to spend money overseas. What are you going to do? Substitute Ukraine now because we don't want to spend money in Ukraine? You're going to substitute it for Gaza? Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, that goes against the idea that we don't want to be involved in foreign wars, right? I mean, if President Trump doesn't want to be involved in foreign incursions and wars, he's picked a hell of a spot to not be involved. You're going to drop yourselves in Gaza? No, he's going to fix it. He's going to fix it. Well, I know. He's going to make it nice. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. So, I mean, but again, hey, look, I think it's great in the sense that I never thought I'd see the day where some of these Arab states would turn around and say, Hamas has got to go. I mentioned it before, but that's a sea change. That's a...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
big goddamn sea change and it's kind of like with ukraine right now right he comes out and he says you know okay we're going to start these they finished already earlier today they finished conversations in riyadh in saudi arabia between sergey lavrov and marco rubio and steve whitcoff on the u.s side and um to to start the discussions about peace in in the conflict right without
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Ukrainian representation or the Europeans there. NATO wasn't represented either.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
A lot of people asking that question. But now that they've done it, again, under this idea that, yeah, you can't, you have to bring them in. But the fact that you just... just jumped into the breach and got started, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I mean, you think about it, in the previous administration or in a normal administration, I'd argue, getting to the table where you'd sit down and talk, look, this is the first time we've talked to the Russians really in a serious way. since the invasion back in 2022.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So the fact that most administrations would have taken a year just to map out, okay, well, this is what the talks are going to look like. And this is what the conference table will look like. And this is where people are going to sit. And this is what we're going to be able to say. And it would take months and months and months to get that. These guys just said, fuck it, let's go over.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We're going to sit down. We're going to talk with them. Now that's forced That's forced the Europeans to say, okay, how do we get involved? We got to be relevant. And they do. But the European nations and European institutions have allocated more money to Ukraine than the U.S. has. I mean, they're up to, depending on numbers you look at, they're up to maybe $130 billion allocated in financial.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I think – or they just had them removed. I don't know how you do it because – and then you have to trot, right? You can't just walk. Walking was comfortable enough, but you have to cover the distance, right? And the trot on a camel is not comfortable, right? And so it was – anyway, I just can't say enough good things about these people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No. Well, when I say allocated, not all of it's been dispersed, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So now the U.S. is the leading military provider of military hardware gear. But if you combine humanitarian, financial, and military all together... EU institutions and EU countries have actually allocated more than the U.S. has. And that, you know, logic would say buys them a seat at the table for any peace talks. Aside from the fact that they're sitting right there, you know, close to Russia.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They've taken in a vast number of Ukrainian refugees. You've got Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania sitting right there on the border with Russia. They've got a real reason to want to be involved. But, again, Trump saying let's just start the conversation with Russia. It's forced the EU to say, okay, how do we get involved? How do we rethink? Much like the Arab states with the Gaza issue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So now they're saying, well, Keir Starmer over in the UK is saying, we'd be willing to put boots on the ground for some sort of peacekeeping force. And other nations, some are pushing back, Poland, Germany, they're, I don't know about deploying troops to Ukraine to enforce some sort of peace deal, but they're talking, right? And that accelerated the process.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So, you know, they'll have to be involved. And Ukraine will certainly have to be involved. What are you going to do? You got an invaded country. Right. And they're not going to be involved in the future of what happens to the invaded country. So they'll be involved. And Marco Rubio has said as much. But I think... So I think it's good.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think people are really up in arms over the idea that they've started the talk without the Ukrainians sitting at the table. But I don't think there's any intention in any plausible scenario where the U.S. doesn't get them involved here in the very near future because otherwise it's going nowhere.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, he's not going out on a limb there. I mean, look, Ukraine, one of their big problems over years and years has been corruption and fraud. And one of the reasons why there was pushback against this idea of NATO, even though back in...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
in 2008 or 9, 2008, you know, at a European summit, they actually said, during the NATO summit, they said, yes, at some point in the future, Ukraine and Georgia, you know, will become members of NATO. We're not going to give you a timetable, you know, we're not going to tell you what that's going to look like, but you can become members of NATO.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But one of the problems has been the level of corruption within Ukraine. So is some of that money, both from the U.S. and from the EU, gone missing and lining pockets? Oh, absolutely. There's no doubt about it. Look at Iraq, the money that we spent in Iraq and how much. I mean, just any time you've got government disbursement of that size, look at the fucking COVID fraud. Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But the cause, the UK Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund, if people want to go and read more about this, they can go to – What is it? W-W-W-S-F-C-B-F? That's how old you are.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Anytime you've got money going out in large buckets from the U.S. government, you're going to have some fraud. Absolutely. You're going to have people who are going to take advantage of it. So, yeah, that's that's that's not a surprise. You know, and Tucker's right for pointing it out. I'm just saying it's not rocket science. How much?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, that's again, you would like to think that Doge, one of their jobs would be to go, you know, and I think if there was more transparency in how the money is spent, as there should be. Right. I mean, then maybe the taxpayers would be a little bit more.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, my company was out in Iraq, you know, shortly after. Actually, a little bit before, but then following the 2003 entry of the U.S. into Iraq. And so we were there for a handful of years, providing security assistance to a variety of organizations. And
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know, you didn't have to look hard or far to see, you know, there'd be some group coming into town saying, hey, we just started up this company, you know, and it's an 8A company. Look, we're owned by Eskimos or, you know, handicapped women or whatever. They just set up some bullshit company to get government contracts. No experience, no – and yeah, so we watch that unfold.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Anytime you have an environment that's steeped in chaos, yeah, that's – fraud is definitely going to happen. So you have to be incredibly aggressive and willing. to hunt it down, right? But I think sometimes the problem is in government, there's like an accepted loss concept, like with credit cards or retail operators, right? We ain't got an accepted loss.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We know we're going to lose a certain amount each year to fraud. Columbia Record and Ticket Club. Yeah. Remember that? I do. I was a member. I was too.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So the idea was, what can we do? A big event, something massive that can really help to raise funds and awareness for the Special Forces Benevolent Fund. They came up with this crazy idea at the time, still crazy, to recreate...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I told that to my boys the other night. They put on Netflix, and I said, you know how this got started? And they were like, they couldn't believe it. I mean, they're still amazed when our postman walks by the house. They think it's incredibly quaint that some guy walks by and leaves you with some mail.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I still do because I think that's what you have to do. So it's sfcbf.org. You can go there. You check it out. And if you're so inclined, there's even a button you can click on to donate, even if it's a price of a cup of coffee. If you get enough people putting in a price of a cup of coffee, it makes a huge difference for these people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, no, no. No one had a cell phone. Your evenings were spent with a bowl of unshelled nuts, walnuts, and you'd crack them and that was your activity while you talked to your mom and dad or something.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You'd get a phone call. I remember some girl would call, and my privacy was only as long as the cord on the phone. Oh, yeah. Right, right. Because everybody was in. You'd have to go to the closet. Yeah, yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
If you were lucky. But we had the wall ones. And so they had the little curly cords. Oh, that was the worst. I could go around the corner and then, you know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
The cord gets dragged to the ground. Do you remember your landline phone number from when you were a kid? Yeah. Yeah, I do. Yeah, I do, too. It's the craziest thing. I can still I can't remember what I did two and three hours ago. And I could still you put a gun to my head and I could recite the phone number I had when I was eight years old.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No, I will say, and I know this because just a day and a half ago I was... I was doing something. I was filling out some application for one of my boys, the middle boy, a scooter. And it asked for his phone number. And I had to look it up. So I was thinking like, well, I don't know. I just pushed the button. I have to look up mine sometimes. Does that change it?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Here it comes. Do you want to invest? Fuck off. Yeah. I don't get the investments because nobody thinks I have money, but I'll get sort of a request for, how about a hookup with- you know, somebody in some part of the country or government. Oh, boy. And I'm like, I'm not going to put you in touch with anybody. I don't know. Yeah, those are the worst. Yeah, so it's interesting.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But it was one of those bucket list items that I just can't describe enough.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know what today is? You know what today is? What is today? Today is my 20th wedding anniversary. Congratulations. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. I was thinking about that. I know. It was funny because you proposed the 18th for us to get together, and immediately I thought, wow. Well, that's her anniversary. And then I thought, well, she loves Austin, so I could combine the two.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
There you go. And I don't know that I got credit for it. I'm not sure.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And here it is, yeah. 20 years and here you go. I don't know. Going to a nice restaurant? Yeah, yeah, we are. And we had a dinner in Boise with a bunch of folks on Saturday night that was really lovely. So we got everybody together.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, yeah. I saw you put something out about wolves near Aspen.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, no, the Repopulation Program, look, the way you feel about it is entirely jurisdiction-based. What I mean by that, if you live in New York City or Chicago, you love the World Repopulation Program. If you're a rancher or you live out in the Northwest or the West, You're like, what the fuck are we doing?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Kind of crazy. And it's true. And what you said is absolutely true here. Give it a short period of time, and they're going to start laying on wolf hunts, right? You're not going to find them.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right. As as as Wounded Warriors, as are all the other groups. It's a direct way to help people. Yeah. And it's not like they've got, you know, massive administrative costs. Right. Like like the government tends to. Right. And so, no, absolutely. Goddamn right. I just it seems to me. And so we you know, we were fortunate to have a lot of corporations that went in on it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. This is what he said. I don't know if that's true. I can. You can in Idaho.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
What a fucking type A predators, man. They're incredibly efficient. And they work together.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, their hierarchy is amazing. I did several days out in Yellowstone one time for a TV show, an episode, and following, or trying to anyway, the lives of a family out there. And it was amazing. It was amazing, right? Yeah, they're amazing animals. It's just incredible.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Well, it always is. And if you're a rancher, I mean, even in Idaho, right, and you're constantly fighting for just kind of common sense decision making. And, you know, luckily, you know, the statehouse is very, you know, favorable. You know, who knows? I mean, maybe that changes in 10 years. But for right now, you know, they understand, look, this is what's important to this state. Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And why it's such a great place to live. But, yeah, so I don't know. I saw that and, you know, it's front and center, but I know exactly who's voting in favor of it. Oh, yeah. Because, you know, I've talked to those people who don't understand at all, you know, how it operates.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You know, there were some that looked at it and goes, okay, so let me see. You're talking about five white guys on camels, you know, recreating what we think is a... It was still sort of the vestiges of that bullshit DEI thing, right? From a corporate perspective.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. No, that makes sense. And I'm glad to hear that she's, after all that experience, she's not in favor of a program. I mean, that shows a lot of common sense.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. I remember a park ranger out in Yellowstone told me one time, he said he was driving. He was out just sort of like checking things and came across a large... I forget what he called it. It was a van of some sort, but it was like a VW, you know, hippie van of some sort. And they were...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And four young folks, he said, early 20s, and they were trying to herd this little baby bison that had gotten separated from the herd, right, and was now all on its own. And they'd been driving along and they saw it off in the distance. in the fields, so they decided they were gonna rescue this thing. So they were out there trying to get this thing to come towards their van.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So we're like, no, goddammit. It's sporting, you know, veterans and their families. How tough is that to understand? But, you know, some... You're just taking a difficult trek. It doesn't mean you support colonialism. Yeah. No. Exactly. And by the way, the Arab sheikhs led the way. It was their effort.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I have no idea, he says, I don't know, what were they gonna do, put it in the van? He had no idea what they were trying to do, but he stopped and he said, what are you doing? He says, well, we got this baby thing, we're trying to save it. He said, what the fuck, get in your van and drive off. He said, this is how this works, right? And they go, but it's not gonna find its mother.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I love that when they're like this and it's right behind them and they're just trying to get that picture. And once that bison starts staring, right, once it starts staring at you, you've got problems.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We go up fishing in Alaska, and I'll tell you one thing we're not going to do. A bear comes out of the brush. We're not going to stop and take a selfie.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Most of those are black bears, right? Oh, that's only black bears.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, you always forget that New Jersey, A, how big it is, but also just how green it is. It's fucking rural. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, go to the deli. It's Newark. There's nothing green about Newark. Get a sandwich.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
You excited about the JFK Files release? We haven't even talked about that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's going to be the way it is, too. I mean, I think they'll actually kick out the door. This time around, I don't think they can hold any more documents. And they don't have that many left to hold, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They found 2,400 more. That is actually a good way. The FBI says, oh, look at this. What they did was they did a review. They started in 2020 and they said, okay, all our closed cases, we're going to start compiling all of them in one place. Why weren't they doing that 40 years ago, 50 years ago? How do you not do that? I have a central repository anyway.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So they said, but this is what we're going to do. So they did. And they said, we're updating the way that we digitize and hold on to all our records. And during the course of that, then when Trump issued his executive order about the release of the files and also for RFK and MLK,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Then the Bureau says, well, we were able to, because we'd done this digitizing and this way of tracking our records, we were able to find 2,400 documents that are related that we just didn't know about. So there's those, and then there's maybe 5,000 other documents left that haven't been released.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No, absolutely. And you also think that, honestly... It's just look at the cause. Look at the reason for it. Right. But I do think I think that I think we are on the on the on the downhill slope of DEI. Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
What can that mean? It's a really good question. Here's what I think. I think, and I don't, obviously, I don't know what's in those documents either. Wait a minute, you don't? Remember, I was a toddler. When he was shot. And although I would have, that would have been the perfect cover. Because nobody's fucking looking for a toddler to come behind that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think some of the documents, the redactions are really pedestrian. Like they've redacted in the old days, they redacted a person's name who was an investigator or a social security number of somebody who was interviewed. But there's whole pages that are redacted. Right. I mean, so there's, there's like, those are like weird. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
There's like, I think they held on to Biden administration held on to like 2000 some odd.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Right, and Epstein and all the rest. I think what we're going to find is... This is just me speculating, obviously. But I think what we're going to find with the released documents is... There's no smoking gun. It's not going to stop people from believing what they believe. It's not going to put anything to rest.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I think also there probably will be – one of the reasons I think some of these things were withheld was because it's embarrassing perhaps to the CIA and the FBI also in terms of their collaboration. Look, Lee Harvey Oswald was on their radar for good reasons, right, for counterintelligence reasons. He had lived over in Minsk. He defected to the Soviet Union.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
He'd lived over there for three years, came back. And so that alone puts him on the radar, right? Now, suddenly, he's a CIA concern. So the CIA is definitely monitoring him. And then he goes down to Mexico. He goes to the Cuban and Soviet embassies. He's desperate to get involved in the revolution even though he's – the Soviets by that time had decided he's a complete loser.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I think – Is that the narrative though? I mean do we know what they really decided? Well, I think, you know, I'm just speaking again from, you know, from experience in intelligence community. At a certain point, you look at somebody and go, there's nothing here. This person is more of a liability than an asset. Well, wouldn't that be the perfect person to make a patsy?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I think that I think the grifters who built up that cottage industry are going to have to be looking for new jobs because I think most companies are starting to think, you know what, let's get off of this thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, unless they decided the guy is just unstable. Look, I mean, reportedly, reportedly, he was finally granted permission to exist in the Soviet Union. After he tried to kill himself, when they said they were going to send him back, he couldn't stay there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No idea. I don't know that part of it. So my point is that I think he was on the radar. And I think what happened was, in the documents, we may find that the CIA at the time was not proactive enough. And they didn't work well with the FBI. There was real friction between those two.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I think that if they had, if they had brought in the FBI, informed them, said, look, we've got the Cuban embassy and the Soviet embassy down in Mexico under observation. We've had this guy on our radar for some time. He's now come back to Dallas and New Orleans. He's back in the States. We've got to keep an eye on him. I think if they had done that, maybe history changes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Under this scenario, yes. I'm not buying that at all. But I think that's what we're going to see in some of this documentation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I agree, because Trump has never been known to say anything hyperbolic. So, I mean, there's a chance that he was, you know...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, no, I know that, I mean, there's obviously, like, there's a strong belief that the CIA was involved, the mob was involved. And again, hey, I haven't seen all the documents like, you know, Trump has. So, you know, everything's on the table.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Everything's on the table. I don't know if he's seen everything either. What, has he gone through all the files?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Who knows? But I think, you know, and who else, who else said he's, Kash Patel said he's seen all the files. He said he's seen everything. Now, I'm not sure how, in what capacity. Was he part of a review committee, perhaps? I don't know. Interesting. We'll find out, right? Yeah, we'll find out.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah, I really do. I believe that. And I also, it's interesting that his family doesn't want this released. They don't want the remaining documents released. And I think the reason there is because, look, they, you know, Hoover and the federal and state law enforcement had a real hard-on for Martin Luther King, obviously, right? And they were covering him three ways to Sunday.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
So, including wiretaps, some that were signed off by RFK, right, by Robert Kennedy. So, as Attorney General. So, I think, you know, the family is like, look, do you really need to release these records? Because I think they're worried about, you know, embarrassing information about there, perhaps about his lifestyle.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, it's been talked about and everything. But I think if you dump it out there, you know, whereas with RFK's, or sorry, with JFK's documents, look, they've released some 5 million pages of his, right? I mean, estimates are like, oh, we've released like 99% of the documents. It's not that high a percentage with MLK. So I think there's a potential for embarrassment.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But I also, same thing, I don't think in those documents, I don't think anybody's going to, they're not going to self-incriminate you, right? And I do think that there was something going on. Look, James Earl Ray is a much more interesting case study, I think anyway, than Lee Harvey Oswald. James Earl Ray and his behavior leading up to the shooting at the Lorraine Motel.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Kind of going off the radar, disappearing. You know, the guy couldn't keep himself out of jail. He was a failed petty thief. Right. And he was just a fuck up. And then suddenly he disappears off the radar screen and he shows up and he looks like a college professor and he's kind of got his shit together. And, you know, then after shooting him, he ends up in Belgium. He got money and guns.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, he got money and guns. Suddenly he had a bag full of cash to go buy himself a Mustang, which he used to drive around the South and kind of be off the grid. I don't know. That one strikes me as – and then sort of the interplay with federal and state and local law enforcement. To me – but again, my point is they released the documents. What do you think?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
There's going to be some note in there saying must kill MLK. Somebody talked to Hoover.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, you would think. Kyle, we're going to need you to make a statement here about shooting. So I think that there's probably, I don't know why I picked the name Kyle. That seems odd. It's a good name for a shooter. Yeah, it was. It wasn't a popular name, I don't think, back then. So I think, look, release everything. If they don't release all the documents,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
At this stage, if they say we're going to hold on to or redact 1,000 pages, what the hell are they doing? Everyone's dead. It doesn't make any sense. It doesn't make any sense. It's 1963. Just put it to fucking rest. And if there's embarrassing things in there, then own it, right? Accept it and fucking move on. But again, it's not going to change the narratives that are out there, I don't think.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
A 1917 epic journey that Lawrence of Arabia did through what was considered the impassable deserts of Saudi and Jordan to go from essentially northwest Saudi through these impassable deserts and then into Jordan and then down to Aqaba to route the Turks, who at the time controlled the area.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. If there was actually a cadre of people that did that, it's not in the documents, right? Because those documents are like interviews of people on the grassy knoll, interviews of people who knew Jack Ruby in his life.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah, I mean, again, until everything's visible and out there, I think everything's on the table. Yeah. He's not wrong in the sense that they hated Kennedy. Right. But a lot of people hated Kennedy. The mob hated, you know, RFK immensely. Yeah. Oh, yeah. Because he wouldn't play ball.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. And then depending on who you talk to, Jack Ruby was either mobbed up or... Or he did it because he was Jewish and he didn't want the Jewish community to take that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
No, MKUltra, that is a dark history or chapter in the history of the agency. There's no doubt about it. And again, it's one of those cases where you can't – it's like we talked about with Alan Dulles saying, as far as I know, we've never overthrown a country. It would be like if I sat here and said, well, as far as I know, we never did anything. Of course it was.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
We've never done any mind control experiments. Why would we do that? Of course they did. Yeah. It was like the experimentation that went on and that was outsourced.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Oh, my God. How would I miss this? I was not on Kurt Metzer's email list. Actually, I just checked. It wasn't Kurt.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
This is crazy because what goes around comes around, right? Everything that's old is new again. Because when we talked about MKUltra, the whole reason behind MKUltra was fear that the Soviets were engaged in mind control. This is a different one.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And then eventually they start to eat their own. Yes. You can never be progressive enough. No, no, no. The mob's always going to turn on no matter who you are and how righteous you pretended to be. And I agree with it. Yeah, good people with good intentions mixed in. But I think a lot of people saw this as a terrific opportunity, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I saw this on South Park. It was the human caterpillar episode. Wow. Okay, so I don't understand, and Jamie, maybe you do, why burning through and donating, why putting all that money just to get it seen?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Well, but again, the amazing thing is that everything kind of repeats itself, I suppose. You could look at it that way. I'm not going to go into some grand thought, but... Look, I mean, you know, we're engaged in World War I-style warfare in Europe now, right, with trench warfare between Ukraine and Russia. This, we're talking about mind control from the Chinese regime, right?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
That was what started MKUltra was fear of the Soviets and the North Koreans at the time, getting engaged in mind control and the worry that we were, you know, somehow behind the curve and that they had this technology, the capability to control minds. And so next thing you know, you know, MK ultra is, is born.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And I also think that what it taught me was that, yes, I am racist. I hate elite progressive white people more than... I just can't stand them. It's the one group that I would say that I just can't stand because they're very – there's something about them. I feel sorry for them.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Well, that's it. If you throw shit out there and you couch it in a certain way and oftentimes you'll see some of this and I'm using big words and I'm talking about this. And, you know, it's like the fucking UFO hearings up on Capitol Hill, right? I don't know how many times I've had to sit and listen to, you know, I've seen some stuff. I can't tell you what the stuff is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. And I think there's something out there, right? I'm not, you know, again, I, you know, I agree with you in the sense that, you know, we... We're certainly not the only ones out here floating around, right? I don't know what it means. I don't know whether we've been visited or anything like that, but every time there's a UFO hearing, it's sort of that same thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's that tantalizing, like, oh, look, he's talking, he's talking, and then it's, ugh.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I agree. And I think that's worth pursuing in a big way. There needs to be more transparency about it. And it's also the same like with the COVID files, if there's such a thing as COVID files. But sure, go through and look. I mean, transparency, you know, to the degree that you can where, you know, you're not releasing national secrets that are going to get people killed. Great.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But the Epstein files, you know, so I think there's real value in saying we've got because the government always overclassifies, always overclassifies people. And it's unnecessary, and it creates this distrust, I think, half the time of the public.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, they're just like, what the fuck? We don't believe anything you're saying now. So release everything. Let the chips fall. Because I don't think, honestly, I don't think there's a lot of information there. But I do think with the UFOs, all the documentation and the investigations that took place of unknown sightings,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
But it's still going to not convince people that we're not holding on to crashed spaceships.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. OK. Well, then, you know, maybe explain yourself a little more. Right. Right. You've already come out. You kind of like opened your kimono a little bit. Let's, you know, fucking say what do you know and then put it to rest. Maybe you got an obligation to do that. Right. I mean, I think he wants to, according to him. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
He's already pushed that door open, right? I don't know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah, I know. How do I know that's not horseshit? I know. And that's the problem, and that's going to be the problem with the release of the files.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
They came over to New Jersey? Remember the drones over in New Jersey? Right.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
Yeah. Yeah, so why wouldn't the Biden administration say that? What the hell? I mean, what's the point? Maybe you should tell me. Well, I do know, but I'm not authorized to say.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
I can't think of a way I'd more rather spend my 20th wedding anniversary than right here. You want to go out to dinner?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
It's very easy to listen to, 20 minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon. We just cover the news. We don't tell you how to think about it. It's top stories happening around the globe. And I like the idea that it's not an opinion show. I mean, occasionally something sneaks in. But for the most part, we try to keep it based on the facts. And it's really simple.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2274 - Mike Baker
And you can find it, again, at President's Daily Brief on YouTube. What is the real need for something like that today? Well, you know, it's doing really well because I think people actually want that nowadays. And they also like the brevity of it, right? Nobody wants to listen to me for, well, I don't know, hours. But anyway. We just did. We just did. All right. Hey, thank you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This was a Trump ally, by the way, the P.I.S. party, which is another part of this. Ned is doing a boomerang attack by preventing P.I.S. 's popularity in Poland. They do a boomerang attack against the foreign policy international coalition that Trump has. So here are the cases. These include the 2015 appointment of judges to so going as arresting people for appointing judges.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Here's no one to arrange a supposedly unconstitutional presidential election by mail in voting during the pandemic. W2ETF, we hate mail. It was practically a crime to not support mail-in voting with the National Endowment for Democracy here, but over there. It's they're saying it's a crime to have done it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yes. And again, we can get all into this USAID, NED, rabbit's nest and all the domestic entanglements of all. And also the 2023 visa scandal. Oh yeah, this is the same thing they do. Have you ever seen Alejandro Mayorkas' visa scandal from when he was in the Obama DHS and he was the deputy there? You can pull this up on Google, I believe it's 2015.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
art the guy who was our head of dhs which is the domestic interplay with all these farm blob organizations was busted by his own inspector general in this in doing fast pass no look expedited veto visas for for uh... you know for obama political donors in not had putting it through the process you just it and the visa scandals are all over this you know it was john brennan as c i station chief by the way in in in saudi arabia
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
in the romp to 9-11, who together with the U.S. consulate issued the visas to 15 of the 19 9-11 hijackers. That was our visas. Now, look, there were only 11 of the 19 were Saudis. They were actually giving Saudi visas to non-Saudis. And 15 of the 19, you can read all about this in the guy who ran the visa desk for that U.S. consulate is J. Michael Springman.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
He wrote a book called Visas for Terrorists. Sure. um uh yeah where he goes over how the whole the whole thing was done but wait wait i'm not done there's there's one more there's can you on on that can you pull up the fourth the fourth the fourth thing because it's a doozy so go to go to the next one these are just illustrative tips cases and maybe just the tip of the iceberg
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
of who are CIA front group are USAID operations arm is saying must be done naturally the leader of the law and justice party himself the democratically elected president Hey, does what happened to Donald Trump now after the transitional justice that happened when Biden Justice Department took power start to make a little bit more sense now?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We used to militarily occupy the Philippines, for example, after we won the Spanish-American War. But that was banned under international law, territorial acquisition by military force in 1948.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Should be held responsible, but legally proving allegations against him will likely be difficult. Damn, the problem is we don't have a case. We want to arrest him, but we actually don't really have anything good to get him on. So let's get all his lieutenants. And again, the objective, pacification, stability. You don't need to worry about them winning the next election.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Populism as a political possibility in Poland will be stamped out because the intelligence networks and the money arm of USAID and the corrupted and warped prosecutors are all on the take.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
By the way, multiply this problem basically in every country on earth because we can get to a dozen of these. Can I do a fun exercise real quick? Sure. Go to Google.com and just, you know, I mentioned this exercise before and just literally we're just going to go maybe five, six pages and just read what pops up. And I haven't even fully done this exercise.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm just I'm so confident in what I'm about to say that we can do it live. Go to Google and type in USAID and then again, Boolean quotes the phrase, quote, judicial reform.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
and i can also show you if i've you showed something to get back so you know let's just go through a list of countries that we are whether we are seizing the judiciary we are influencing the judges the courts the legal system the criminal justice system the prosecutors okay let's just start up your work okay so uh... what what is that country click on that link for second and go back in the project in the republic what republic is that okay serbia what do you know we're back to do a leap up
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So we had to win elections and we had to influence the passage of laws in foreign countries by having an apparatus inside those countries that influenced the hearts and minds of people, which influenced who they voted for, which then determined the government. So you had to move towards political vassalage rather than military occupation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Can't stop now. All right. So that Atlantic Council Distinguished Leadership Award is starting to make a little bit more sense now. There's an in-process attempt to basically bribe and co-opt the very same criminal justice system that... Our state-sponsored musical performers, I shouldn't say sponsors, our state-awarded ones are calling to take action against.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Okay, for advancing EU integration, can we just see the country name in number two? OK, EU integration. That's like, for example, they want to, you know, fold these, you know, the Ukraine into the EU. Right. There's been a big, big thing about this. Join the market. You know, to also join NATO. That's that's what this is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
How do we get the criminal justice system on board, you know, with basically criminalizing opposition to it? Okay, and we can keep, wait, just keep scrolling down. We're just going to do this for like four or five pages. I just want to, you know, like literally every single one of these is a government program. Okay, so here, there, that one above was DRC, the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Okay, how we are taking over the court systems in Congo. All right, go on to the next page here. Okay, next page. Okay, so let's see here. Okay, more on Congo. Okay, Uzbekistan, we're doing this in Uzbekistan. Albania, we're doing it in Albania. Yeah, it keeps going down here. Let's see, El Salvador, we were doing it in El Salvador.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is one of the reasons you can imagine Bukele was the first one on X to say,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
my god there's no more rental rights in el salvador anymore and why was usaid so opposed to what we were doing getting rid of the drug networks okay here's here's for ukraine here's for uh uh uh central america here's uh more for serbia here's for georgia every this is stock standard doctrine it's the same usa truman show everywhere we go this thing has been dialed in for 60 years
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And that's why I say it's going to take 50 years to untangle this, because you're going to run to political headwinds the whole time. You don't think you're going to have money flowing back. By the way, they're going to go straight to their partners in Europe and around the world to do top up funding for what they lose from from from USAID.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
As people realize the reality that's been constructed around them is downstream of something that was started very long ago when American statecraft to manage the American empire for the benefit of the American people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
For example, they might go to the European Endowment for Democracy. They might go. The EU may have to start making funds to, you know, to these U.S. anti-Trump networks. Yeah. They may have to tap into their allies in China or their, you know, their allies in other Central American or South American governments.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But mark my words, that USAID Truman show that joint, you know, these censors in exile, these, you know, regime changers in exile right now are going to glob on to every international ally the humanly can. They will be, they will be
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
pressurizing the united nations they'll be pressurizing multilateral organizations like nato the eu uh and and you know even some of these economic development packs uh to use the critical components they have there and sometimes dominant spot they have there to weaponize those assets and that gets back to this sort of eu fight but i can pause i move to brazil pause fp okay when i come back rap music brazil yeah all right perfect all right we're back so first hip-hop yeah
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what the Smith-Munn Act did is simultaneous with the creation of this in 1948. Congress recognized the Frankensteinian monster they were creating by authorizing a covert permanent Department of Dirty Tricks. And this is their phrase, not mine.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I think it was the 2009 national, a national now for democracy, um, Cuba rap journal of democracy article that I believe was coauthored by Ned's founder, Carl Gershman. Um, you know, who openly said that Ned does what the CIA used to do, that they effectively took the baton from it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And again, the CIS CS copies, CIA has copies according to the Washington post in New York times of every grant Ned makes. Um,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
When you look at the analysis, the in-house analysis done by Ned there, that there was this dense interplay between the Afro-Cuban population and the drug networks in Cuba, and then you look at the role of hip-hop and drug culture in retailing what is wholesaled in, obviously, USAID, CIA,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
pentagon narco networks like for example we talked about the mujahideen narco network they even they even set up a cia bank right there to back it we did the same thing in 1960 you know usa set up in 1961 at the at the very moment two weeks before usa was created jfk awarded the green beret to the special forces just two weeks before that Then he creates U.S. That was October 1961.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
November 1961, he creates USAID. December 1961, one month after, he launches Operation Pincushion in Laos for the U.S. Special Forces to train and recruit hillside guerrillas in Laos who are primarily funded by the drug networks that they sit on in the Golden Triangle. They sat on the opium industry.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
of the of the golden triangle and the way they financed the their own guerrilla war ci ci backed war and this is all well known ving pao was the cia it was the commander there of the cia mercenary rebel forces there in in uh you know this is 1961 to 1967 in this period that i'm talking about special forces go over there to recruit these hillside guerrillas they form an army ving pao is is made the head of it this is going to connect to the rap thing in a second um
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Ving Pao was financing the CIA's mercenary army by retailing the opium from Laos into these networks in Southeast Asia, like the CIA proprietary banks, like everyone can look up Nugent Hand Bank or Castle Bank and Trust, these CIA banks that were set up to launder basically drug proceeds. And they all got in a lot of trouble for this a few decades ago.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
To do this cloak and dagger, to infiltrate and co-opt the universities, the unions, the media, the politicians, the judges, the whole swarm army, what I have been calling for a long time the USA Truman Show because these people in these foreign countries have no idea how many of the things they interact with that are effectively a movie set being constructed by the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, the problem was is they couldn't sell enough because they were a scrappy little upstart group of hillside gorillas. So what did USAID do in 1967? This is the 1960s, how long this has been going on. So they were recruited by the special forces. They were managed by the Central Intelligence Agency.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
USAID provided the financing, and this is all according to and in the Senate testimony of Professor Alfred McCoy. This is a book called The Politics of Heroin in Southeast Asia. He testified in front of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 1972. He detailed all this in his book.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
USAID financially provided the financial assistance for Ving Pao and his narco terrorist network to purchase two airplanes from two CIA proprietary companies. One of them was Air America. Another one was Continental Air Services. Both of these have been revealed in subsequent years to be CIA proprietary airlines.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the CIA commander, the commander of the CIA rebel army buys two planes from two CIA airlines and then uses them to traffic and retail the drugs by selling them to the market in Vietnam where we had special forces boots on the ground. So basically, it was wholesaled by the CIA in that case. And then it was the logistics for that network were provided by USAID.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And then it was retailed to poor, unsuspecting souls all over Southeast Asia. Play the same game in the Golden Crescent with Afghanistan. Play the same game with the cocaine trade in its route from Peru and Bolivia up into Colombia and then up into the distribution networks in Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, you name it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
when you start having organized crime and drug and drugs, um, as, as the, as the front end that, that retails the products and services that, that are wholesale, then part of a intelligence or military operation, you know, you can't sell those drugs by having someone with a, uh, department of defense ID badge on the street corner, uh, you know, on the, 187th and Broadway.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
There are retail networks for that. And that is the role of many of these drug mule and organized crime networks all over the world. And I have serious concerns about networks in Chicago. I mean, Gary Webb obviously wrote all about this in Dark Alliance and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
uh you know there's all sorts of fantastic books on all this if you want to read more like operation gladio by paul williams um and uh i mean there's there's there's so much in this field but the role of of narcotics is in uh in financing black budget military covert operations in every major place they spring um Is is a black box that is not my crusade.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I frankly, again, I wish we didn't we didn't even go here because but I do feel like you do need to have a side eye glimpse into some of these worlds to understand Internet censorship, because you are going to find USAID NGOs. If Bukele had not done the radical reforms that he had had.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The Internet would have been completely censored by USAID and the State Department in order to rig hearts and minds against against him because they would they would want to stop him from cleaning out these drug gangs. He was stopping cleaning up the crime. You're going to see the same thing about fact checkers in Pakistan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State Department and its sister influence orgs. But the point I'm getting at here is the Smith-Munn Act in 1948 said, okay, you guys can do this. State Department can do this. CIA can do this. USAID, when it came along 13 years later, could do this. But we... So there was a guy named Frank Wisner who was known as one of the godfather figures of the CIA.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And, you know, for example, according to the Gray's own report on on on on. USAID and NED in Bangladesh. And in fact, this is actually, I believe, on the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan's website, the Countering Misinformation Training Seminar they had with the guy who's now the top foreign advisor in Pakistan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And they brought in the executive director of PolitiFact, flew him all the way out to Pakistan. The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan to train journalists about how to counter misinformation. The same journalist training seminars we're seeing Internews do. We see SEPS do. We see the Atlantic Council do. But I come back to –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The US Institute for Peace, on a live URL as we speak, not even two years ago, made an impassioned plea to the Taliban to keep 95% of the world's heroin flowing. You have to explain that to the American people. That is the State Department's policy. If U.S. Institute of Peace is not going to go rogue against the State Department foreign policy there because they're funded by the State Department.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You see the same thing with these ISIS terrorist drug narco networks. Anyone remember the WikiLeaks email, Jake Sullivan to Hillary Clinton while Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State? ISIS is on our side in Syria.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, that means the more of those poppy crops that get retailed off to ISIS networks, the more powerful and well-financed they are, the more they can pay their soldiers or stop their soldiers from defecting, from being mercenaries. And lo and behold, that same network just toppled the Syrian government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I should note structuring through USAID is the sauce to this because there is a sitting tweet from the U.S. Embassy in Syria from 2017 when Trump was wiping out ISIS that put a $10 million bounty on the head of Mohammed al-Jalani, the commander of those forces, the current basically head of state in the interim government in Syria. There was a $10 million bounty on his head under Trump.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They made the argument that his HTS group was an Al Qaeda spinoff and no Al Qaeda allowed. Well... According to his own military generals, who said this openly in mainstream media after the fact, we were constantly playing shell games with the numbers to hide the troop activity and what we were doing on the ground in Syria and the broader region.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If you don't need a presidential finding to finance a terrorist group or a paramilitary group, it's too dirty for CIA. President won't approve. Run it through USAID.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well... you have these narco networks. Like, for example, like what I was saying about the USAID bought the airplanes for the wholesalers to move it to the retailers. And when you have this intersection between hip-hop and the drug economy, hip-hop popularizing it, you know, you have a lot of these rappers who've said, you know, we're told by our promoters or our managers to, you know,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You lean into that stuff. You have the whole organized crime gang. I'll give you an example. This is in Gary Webb's Dark Alliance, where he goes through this network from basically the CIA and the Defense Department playing a leading role in propping up these narcotics trades.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
He's known for creating what was called the Wisner's Wurlitzer, which was a it's like a church organ and that he would brag that he could play the international media like a symphony to make any media narrative possible. go viral in any country on earth because of the suite of CIA proprietary media functions and its distribution network, especially when the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
in South America because they were pumping up right-wing death squads and right-wing paramilitary narco gang networks that were violent and effectively shut down left-wing Marxist theology movements who were considered to be pro-Soviet. This is how you have a lot of this, for example, with Iran-Contra and the Reagan years. So he makes a very compelling case about the role of of the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
intelligence community and at the wholesale level in Peru and Bolivia and at the you know, and at the actual processing in Colombia. And then the movement and transport to the to the gangs in Los Angeles and Miami and Chicago and the like. And that wholesale movement effectively goes from, you know, Langley slash Crystal City in D.C., D.C., Virginia.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
To a sort of Hispanic population in in South America into, you know, into other into gangs that are retailing it, you know, in into these Compton gangs, into these, you know. These Chicago and Miami and New York ones, you have a culture of drug use that creates a market for selling the proceeds so that drugs can be turned into cash, which can then be used to purchase guns.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And when you see this just liquid seamlessness there, and then I don't want to tax Jamie too much, but this Grey Zone report in Bangladesh has specific language.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
With with the National Endowment for Democracy and one of its subarms making explicit grants to Bangladeshi rap groups for the explicit purpose of getting people to take to the streets in in street riots and protest movements and to undermine public faith and public confidence and favorable sentiment for the then in power Bangladeshi government in the art in.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They were targeting the youth movements. Remember when we pulled up the 22 hip hop artists on screen and the whole thing was about youth mobilization? These people formed the front end of the destabilization.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm not even going that far. What I'm saying is there's a useful role of music and other artistic and cultural ventures for creating a market for something that helps U.S. statecraft. For example, this is the major, major scandal
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The head of the Central Intelligence Agency, John Deutch, had to travel to Compton in 1997, I believe that was the year, in order to plead with the black population there that what had happened with the CIA's role in the drug trade was a sort of occasional one-off accident, wasn't authorized, wasn't supposed to happen. But the fact is those narco networks supported the Nicaraguan Contra movement.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
had first mover advantage in radio and print. It's basically the U.S. and U.K. were the only games in town, really, in having robust radio, film, TV, and print media. Smith said, OK, you can do that abroad. You can plant fake news stories in France. You can have propaganda blare into Africa or Western Europe or Central Asia, but that can't come home.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You needed a market to sell it. You know, and those were those were inner city urban populations in Los Angeles that were, you know, they weren't the ones growing the cocaine that was grown in Peru and Bolivia. And then it was processed in Colombia.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, there's been a million, and it's everywhere you look, and it's not just south. And again, I don't want to – this stuff is all, to me, just interesting. I don't have a hard opinion on it. I almost don't want to – And take away from so much of the important factual stuff where I have the receipts on screen.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But what I'm saying is you are going to see resistance from very strange pockets as you do this distinct entangling process. How many people knew that an arm of the State Department right next door to it that gets all of its money from the State Department who sets the foreign policy?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
He's telling the Taliban to keep the drug networks open or that same arm is going after Bukele when he tries when he tries to arrest the drug criminals in in in El Salvador, which, by the way, was the, you know, the most intense of these narco right wing death squads, you know, during the, you know, during the Cold War. Yeah. And we pump up every cultural vector we can.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Again, you know, watch Taking Down a Dictator, that documentary, and look at the role of music in the State Department's eyes in being able to galvanize street protest movements, gets everyone on the street united, gets everyone listening to the same thing. They're all sort of, you know, aligned like a magnet.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I mean, even look at places like the Azov Battalion and how they sort of grew out of this black metal rap, black metal music coalition with highly extremist lyrics and whatnot in Ukraine. The same sort of extremist lyrics you saw in the Bangladeshi rap songs or the call to take to the streets in the Cuban ones. And again, this has been going on a long time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Look at the look at the lyrics of a Pussy Riot song. And remember this, they literally are standing at the secretary of state's podium, you know, with arm in arm with the U.S. State Department. Well, you know, so and you never can look up, you know, you know, C.I. 's role in rock and whatnot. There's great Guardian articles about all this as well. But anyway.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's more to say, coming back to this USA Truman Show, that everything and anything can be an instrument of statecraft, whether that's the prosecutors, the universities, the unions, the media, the social media, arts, dance. This is where you get these transgender dance festivals and this demographic segmentation, you know, to see who hates the government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, if the government is cracking down on transgenderism or is not... Kind to it or they feel like you know, they want more rights That's a useful demographic as a cleavage point for the US State Department to capacity-build Fund flow money to so that they can be used as a battering ram and I'm not endorsing that but that is just why we were understand Okay, we're running out of time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. Okay. So, Jamie, I sent you a bunch of these screenshots that my foundation is going to be publishing in our final report. But I wanted to just go through these here because we've been talking about the role of the criminal justice system more than anything. You know, media is rigged. Okay. It's a headline. It's a reputational smudge. It can cost you your job.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
When the criminal justice system and the judges are rigged and the prosecutors are rigged, you don't even have a country anymore because they can arrest the president. They can arrest the politicians. And it's a shortcut to control over the whole site. And we went through examples with Ukraine, Burisma, Serbia. We went through that whole exercise. But
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Jamie, if you can pull on screen, you know, just we can just go through the text messages. This will be the last thing of USAID's role with the judiciary in Brazil. And specifically against Bolsonaro, who is targeted by these anti-misinformation actions. Populist president. Populist. Right-wing populist. They called him the Trump of the tropics. Same thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Part of that same international coalition. Let me know if you have any trouble. Okay. Yeah. Well, maybe if you start with the first one, actually.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. No. Okay. Maybe scroll down. Do you see the ones where you have the lead judge?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, yeah. Sure. Okay. So how about just the pictures with the pan? Okay. Here you go. So, yeah. We can start with that one right there. That image right there? Does that guy look familiar? This is the Lord... Actually, he actually looks kind of like a mixture of both of us, Joe. It's kind of funny. But this is the man that they call the Lord Voldemort Judge of Brazil.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You can't sign up our own people with your propaganda organ abroad because the point of authorizing this is that we get cheaper gas. We get import export markets. You know, we get a high standard of living because if a foreign government doesn't want to give up its resources or allow a U.S. military base.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is the head of the TSE, the censorship court, which is the subgroup of their Supreme Court. And here you see a seminar that he is being trained in. Where is... Does that name ring a bell? SEPS?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
uh... and that you have the hours of review and i know spent over the sex program the u s aid program that that explicitly said it's its job to get foreign countries in foreign courts to pass censorship laws this is u s aid funded and implemented by national for democracy this is steps dot or the recruited but the skips much of it if it if you go back to the the panel i'll wash a more on this
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
OK, here's another one. CEP's core partner, IFES, this is basically the election strengthening, teaming up directly with Brazil's TSE court. That is the censorship court that seized X's, that shut down X and that seized Starlink's assets and that effectively criminalized the speech of virtually any significant pro-Bolsonaro voice in Brazil.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is our USAID network doing the training, doing the networking. And if you go back, I'm just going to show a couple more of these. Okay, this is Internews. Internews, who we covered, $500 million from USAID every single year. In Brazil, doing training seminars for how to flag pro-Bolsonaro disinformation. I can go on and on.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I got layers of all these different judges and the pitches to the prosecutors to arrest it. The whole thing was a USA Truman show taking over the judiciary or at least substantially influencing and tilted to take out their political enemy, Bolsonaro, the whole way down.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Um, no, I believe X, uh, you know, uh, entered into compliance by, by taking certain actions.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. So I believe they, yes, there's, they're still subject to the, to the edicts of the court.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, right. Well, they wanted to they wanted to make sure that, you know, again, it's the same thing with Poland. They want to achieve stability, democratic stability so that he can't rise hugely popular right now. It was a razor close election. And remember, you know, we pull a lot of tricks in order around that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And you're going to find a lot more of that when you look into the role of unions like the National for Democracy Solidarity Center. and the whole suite there. Remember, we literally pulled favors with Taiwan, this is reported in the Financial Times, in order to get them the semiconductor chips to build the voting machines against Bolsonaro's wishes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
or allow joint partnerships or exports of goods or US multinational corporations to operate there, then the American people suffer economically. So it was always designed to say, listen, you can do this dirty stuff abroad, but it can't come home.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The head of the CIA went down and threatened him, Bill Burns did. The head of the Pentagon went down and you met with the army to tell them, you know, you have to trust the result of the election. This is Lloyd Austin, the head of the Pentagon.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, we're saying the head of the CIA, the head of the military, we're running semiconductor chips just so that they can make voting machines that the elected head of state doesn't want. And then, you know, we're we're we're funding their workers movements.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm not even weighing into the voting machine issue except to say that it's very strange that we would divert semiconductor supplies bound for the U.S. during a critical shortage and give them to a foreign government to put in voting machines that the elected head of state doesn't want. That's a very curious thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You can read about all the inside details of that published in the Financial Times and other places.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
No, I say I don't. But we have an opportunity. We've already done more than anyone has ever done. No foreign-facing government agent, no cog in the wheel of this dirty tricks apparatus has ever had 14,000, 99.8% of the workforce laid off, the name taken off the building from a month in terms of the lightning speed of it. But I feel a sense of hope and optimism and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
kind of spiritual fulfillment if that's too big a phrase to say but i don't you don't see me happy or doing cartwheels or it doesn't really show on my face because i know the the size the the the scale and the duration of this fight is going to continue for the the rest of my lifetime and so i don't consider this not sprint period we're running fast but it's a marathon the whole way
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And even that protection, which lasted for 70 years, and we only lost it a decade ago, we're up against a much actually deeper, darker problem with this USAID scandal. And as people will see increasingly, the scandals that will break open at the Pentagon and the State Department. which is that we have a Smithmont problem for funding and operations. It's not just propaganda.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Right. But every single one of those people need to understand the category. They talk about public health and all the lives and how many more people are going to have AIDS and HIV. In 2014, USAID was busted running a covert operation where, according to their own people who were involved in the operation, they set up an HIV prevention program.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
in foreign countries because it would be the perfect excuse because counterintelligence would never think that the HIV clinics were the place that they were using as key nodes in the regime change network. How many other facilities? They were caught there. How many others? But in every single one of those, it's dual purpose because the fundamental reason you do this out of U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
aid is to dupe people. And this puts our oversight bodies in a difficult spot. Let's just say we're funding transgender dance festivals in some country because it turns out they really dislike a government that we consider authoritarian.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so you could actually see a sort of – I don't know the situation in Venezuela, but let's just say that the Trump administration has been at war with Maduro and wants to pursue a policy of turning over that government. And it just so happens that – that government is persecuting the transgender population.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And the transgender population, if they could just be built up more, would be able to convert more hearts and minds to vote against Maduro. Well, you could see a sort of... If I may say... Again, I'm not saying this should be done.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm just saying you could see a sort of mega foreign policy explanation for funding transgender dance festivals in Venezuela if that's what the baseline assessment reveals. The problem is... American people are never going to be allowed to know about it because imagine the Senate Oversight Committee. Why are we funding these transgender dance festivals in Venezuela?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, actually, because we're running a lie there. By the way, everyone in Venezuela can watch this live hearing. The whole thing is actually a carefully constructed lie because we're cynically exploiting the transgender people to serve as battering rams against the head of state we want to overthrow, but we have not declared that publicly. I mean, we're back to plausible deniability. Jesus.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
began to warp and distort every institution in American life from the media to now the social media companies to the unions, to the universities and academics, to the NGOs and think tanks, to the prosecutors, to our conception of terrorism, to our conception of activity in the drug trade, to our...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Thank you. And again, I don't want to get you in trouble with this stuff. You know, some of the topics that we talked about, like the drug stuff and the rap stuff and the, you know, some of the terrorism stuff is not my primary focus. I'm not making hard facial claims there. I don't care about the Taylor Swift thing. It's frankly, it's just fascinating that you would see that on a native.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Like, this is... What I care about is what we talked about with its control over media, its control over prosecutors, its control over social media and pushing social media censorship and these sorts of things that, you know, that we have a once in a lifetime chance to reform.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I want to thank you and express my personal gratitude for having these difficult and I'm sure taxing conversations to crack it all open.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The blob, our foreign policy establishment, can fund groups that effectively work with prosecutors domestically or that or that work at media, you know, dual sort of dual use groups. We give them foreign grants to do media propaganda abroad, but they operate here. Or social media censorship to coerce foreign countries to pass foreign censorship laws that explicitly and are intended to attack U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
social media companies and in U.S. peer-to-peer speech. So we need that protection. If we're going to keep this function at all, we need a hard firewall and absolute grotesque penalties for anything.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, 100%. Well, I don't know if it's going to hold up. I think it's going to be a legal dogfight. This is, you know, it's funny because it's sort of a circular dragon eating its own tail because you're going after the primary soft power projection organ of the blob because it's been weaponized against Americans. But what is the blob authorized to do? What is USAID authorized to do under statute?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, something they call judicial reform, which is USAID. And poaching funding financially, the networks around judges, around around courts, around the legal system, around the governance structure of every country on planet Earth. I mean, Jamie, if you want to go through a fun exercise right now, you can put on screen just a simple Google search so people can see just how open source this is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I can walk through specific damning examples of this. But if you just type in on Google the word USAID and then in a Boolean quotes, judicial reform. And what you're going to see are. You know, basically 100 countries that USAID is going after the judges, going after the legal system in order to rig the scales of justice in favor of the foreign policy establishment's interest there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And this has fully come home. And I can go through some examples of this. For example, there's a group called the OCCRP, which you can think of as the Corruption Reporting Project. This is a group that half of its funding comes from USAID and the U.S. State Department. The USAID and the State Department have a veto right over the staff that it can hire.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is the largest consortium of investigative journalists on planet Earth. This is the group that broke the Panama Papers. You know, they got all these hacked documents. They got special access to it. I don't have any facts on this. I'm simply noting that it's an oddity that a group funded by a major CIA funding conduit, USAID,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
while the CIA has the ability to hack any target around the world that's authorized by the National Security Council. They're getting these special access documents that are reportedly either hacked or leaked, and they're being sponsored by... you know, the group that's connected to something with a hacking power. But I don't know that for a fact.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
What we're really doing with public health programs and the medical establishment and what drives that all the way into poverty relief and you name it. I mean, every institution is instrumentalized by this apparatus. supposedly to help us. But really starting, this has been done in U.S. history before.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm simply noting that for investigative purposes, for oversight bodies who may want to ask questions. But they, so they've won hundreds of awards. Their name has been, you know, so pristine for so long. They've been around for, you know, almost 20 years. And they were sponsored in order to do, they do investigative hit piece journalism about corruption.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what they do is they go after all of the State Department and USAID and DOD's opponents in the region. So, for example, Jamie, I texted you this beforehand, but if the first thing you want to put on screen are the first two images that I texted you, this is from the USAID.gov website. And I think this will shock people when they see this. with the USA.gov URL right there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so that you can see how, yeah, so if you go to the first page that I texted you, and then we'll get to this one. This is the first thing you sent me. Okay, I'm sorry, the second one then? Yeah. Okay. So here it is. This is USAID's Strengthening Transparency and Accountability through Investigative Reporting Program. Okay. What you'll see here is you'll see the life of activity.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This fund is, they are still being funded through this grant. And this is for Europe and Eurasia. And you'll see the countries, Eastern Partnership, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, and Western Balkans. If you scroll down, you'll see USAID spending. USAID funding is $20 million.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
$20 million that our taxpayers paid to... Listen, they don't report on kittens being saved from falling out of trees. Everything they do is a hit piece about an instance of corruption that can be used by prosecutors in the area to arrest the political opponents of the State Department. And what you'll see here is capacity. Now, this is the phrase everybody has to know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Capacity building is what this is all built under. That means pumping up the blob's assets. Whenever you see the word capacity or capacity building, it means this thing is useful to us. The more money we give it, the more powerful they are to protect our influence. And so if you scroll, if you go back to that page, which is page two of this USAID thing, Here's what you see.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So for $20 million of investment from USAID, here are the, and this is live on the website. You can find this in the Wayback Machine right now because the USAID website's down. This is USAID, the US government bragging about the achievements of what they achieved by spending $20 million. At least four point five billion in fines levied against targets of these hit pieces.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, by the way, I should note that the head of the OCCRP was busted in a major documentary that is very little distribution. But I encourage everyone to watch where he said because this was this was a this was a I think a year and a half ago or whatnot. But it was they're up to over 10 billion dollars now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's on the Wikileaks X page right now. It's by a group of German journalists who had one-on-one interviews with the head of this group, OCCRP, as well as the USAID grant coordinator and others. And so it's straight from the horse's mouth. And they they say he says in that interview, I believe his name is Drew Sullivan, that it's now over 10 billion dollars.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This happened against the left, against the Democrats in the 1960s and 70s when the CIA and, you know, to an extent, its sister orgs like USAID and whatnot were pumping money into domestic politics to stop the anti-Vietnam War movement and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And he brags that that is a I think he said it was a 20,000 percent return on investment because all these dollars were, quote, returned to government coffers. So for 20 million dollars of of mercenary media for the state, state sponsored hit pieces. The government's got $10 billion back. That's a 1995 Amazon level return on investment. But now let's get into the darker stuff. 548 policy changes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, we don't know if these policy changes are good or bad. Do you think USAID would list them as accomplishments if they were not in furtherance of USAID's or the State Department's foreign policy goals in the region? What they are saying and trying to sort of speak through their teeth, as they say it,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
is that they proudly sponsored hit piece journalism to ruin people's lives and go after political targets in order to change the policies of foreign governments from the inside. Now, it goes on to say 21 resignations and sackings, including of a president and prime minister.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, the head of OCCRP in this documentary openly says that their reporting caused, I think it was five or six different governments to topple and turn over and be transitioned. So this is state-sponsored media hit pieces so that prosecutors can arrest presidents and prime ministers to regime change their government and install a more pro-US political vassal figure in the region.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
and then the last one is 456 arrests and indictments and this again is listed as a usaid achievement we don't know what these people did we don't know you know whether they're whether they're guilty or innocent or whether or not these were political prosecutions like you see right now with the new york district attorney's offices which is a whole nother usaid connected can of worms but
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
These are state-sponsored hit pieces for hire in order to give the justice departments, the prosecutors in a region, the ammunition to arrest the enemies of the state. The prosecutors don't have the capacity to do a whole investigative journalism dig.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They might not have access to hacked documents that, for example, the CIA, the NSA, or deeply connected political insiders might be able to give to a group like OCCRP. Now, USAID gets a veto right over who they can hire. OCCRP has to submit an annual work plan to to to be submitted to and reviewed for approval by the State Department and USAID. And and here's the kicker of it all. USAID dug up.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This led to the reforms of the late 1970s, the Church Committee hearing, the Pike Committee hearing, the establishment of a Senate Intelligence Committee and House Intelligence Committee for oversight. But even that was a very small glimpse into the window.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm sorry. OCCRP paid for it by us U.S. taxpayers. Doug up dirt on Rudy Giuliani's work in Ukraine. This is because this was part of the 2019 impeachment and, you know, Rudy Giuliani and his work in Ukraine. So they went and dug up dirt on Rudy Giuliani, a domestic U.S. citizen and high profile political figure, actually attorney to the U.S. president.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And then that dirt came home and was used as part of the basis for the 2019 impeachment of the sitting president, Donald Trump. That would have never happened unless USAID sponsored that, that hit piece work.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And then they did the same thing with Paul Manafort because it's the same foreign policy blob that went after Trump in the first place because of his difference in foreign policy vision around Ukraine, Russia, and other major countries.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The analogy I give here is like the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, you know, the Chronicles of Narnia, where there's this whole cinematic universe. You're living in this house, and there's this closet in the back of a wardrobe, and If you never walk through it, you never see that whole world. You can live your whole life without seeing it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Right. This is a different case than that, because that this was related to the 2019 impeachment and all the Ukraine kerfuffle around the, you know, the quid pro quo call allegedly that President Trump made to President Zelensky, which, by the way, we should get to USAID's role in the process in the Joe Biden quid pro quo side of this in a second.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But that case, I believe, related to two workers in Georgia, and it was related to the whole investigation of election fraud there. And and whether or not there may have been fraud perpetrated in the in the in the Georgia election in I believe it was either 2021 or it may have been.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm sorry that in 2020 I'm not that that case I have not I'm not deep in the weeds on but I I have to say this as well. And Jamie, I don't know if the whole audience is familiar with this clip, but it's an incredible scandalous clip.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Do you remember when Joe Biden was at the Council on Foreign Relations and bragged that he got the top prosecutor in Ukraine fired by the Ukrainian government because he explicitly conditioned the firing of the prosecutor who was investigating Burisma He expressly conditioned their receipt of a billion dollars in U.S. financial assistance on the firing of Victor Shokin, the prosecutor.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know what that billion dollars in financial assistance was? It was a U.S. aid grant. Yeah, it's the carrots and sticks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And actually, before you play this, can I make one quick note for the audience that everyone can look up publicly? The Council of Armed Relations, I'm just about to text Jamie another thing related to this. I'm going to pull up the USAID grant so that everyone can see this billion dollar USAID grant that he's referring to here. and what's in the grant details.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But when Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State, running the State Department that USAID answers to, right? USAID is independent, but guided by the State Department, because it's a State Department function. It has to advance US interests.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But when you open that door and you step into it, you see there's an entire other universe here that's been right next to you this whole time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, when Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State, Council Foreign Relations had just opened up a DC office, they're New York based, and she went over to them and she made a speech and she said, thank you, Foreign Relations, for opening up your DC office. That way, I don't need to travel all the way to New York to be told what to do. I was the head of the State Department.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. Everyone can look this up. That might not be verbatim, but it was as explicit as that, effectively. But if you want to play this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, so there's two things to immediately follow up on that. So, Jamie, I just sent you two things over text here. The first one is the U.S. is that billion-dollar loan guarantee. And then I sent you another one about securing commitments. And then.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, okay. So this was a billion dollars. Okay. So this will actually go to the other one. Okay. We'll start with this. Okay. So here's from USAID. USAID announces, now this is, again, basically the final months of the Obama administration. This is right before the November 2016 election. USAID announces a billion-dollar loan guarantee. Remember, he referenced the loan guarantee.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, depends on if they play ball or not. This is another one of these things, right? If you're a good boy and you do what the blob tells you to do, maybe we can be flexible on loan forgiveness. Maybe we can allow you to punt the default. But you'll see it's... But these are the carrots and sticks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is why we infiltrate and co-opt these institutions and why you have a $44 billion annual slush fund around the world to do this. But you'll see it's the issuance of the billion-dollar loan guarantee to the government of Ukraine, and it's to support the implementation of governance reforms. So it's for the – we condition it on you changing the policies of your government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, definitely. I had already been working on this for many years.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
with your government, you know, that factors into what the U.S. ambassador in the region will tell their Ukrainian or other government counterparts, you know, loan guarantees and whatnot are conditioned on. But so if you go to the you'll notice that Biden there used a very specific phrase there about securing commitments. I don't know if everyone caught that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
around august 2016 uh i was i was deeply passionate about the internet censorship issue um and you know i had i had some weird experiences playing chess as a kid where you know i sort of came of age when gary kasparov lost a deep blue and ai took over uh you know
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I want to note the similarity of that to if you go to the other screenshot, Jamie, that text you hear. I'm sorry that my mug is on this. I just pulled this up.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, I know. We'd been talking right before we started filming about just throwing receipts up on screen. This is just a live stream series that I do on X. They caught you mid-words. I know. But this is $1.5 million.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So USAID has given $27 million in grants to the Tide Center, which is the 501c3 – is the fiscal sponsor that gives the 501c3 stats to the Black Lives Matter Global Network and to a group called Fair and Just Prosecution, which is – basically manages prosecutors who are simultaneously funded by the Open Society Foundation. They work with Alvin Bragg and Letitia James and all these other ones.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But you'll see here, and this is a $1.5 million grant, you'll see that exact phrase that Joe Biden used about securing commitments from governments To fight corruption. So sometimes this diplomatic statecraft, this strong arm pressure is done directly by the vice president. Sometimes it's done by interlocutors like our state sponsored NGO swarm who allow our ambassadors and allow the White House.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
to maintain a layer of plausible deniability, that it's an intermediary saying it, and they can say much harsher things than what can be conveyed and maybe used against you in a formal diplomatic channel. And I sent one more thing, Jamie, if you pull up, if you go to my X feed and you just type in the phrase USAID Burisma, because this is another element of this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Again, how is this all weaponized at home and whatnot? So Victor Shokin was investigating Burisma. Joe Biden personally weaponized USAID in order to force a foreign country's prosecutor to be fired in order to get that billion.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I believe it was a similar corruption probe, that there was misuse of funding. All this stuff is well-documented in Miranda Devine's book, The Big Guy. But So if you open those four screenshots, I don't know if you're able to center it or zoom out a little bit.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
USAID helped young Biden. This is in 2014. Hey, remember when Hunter Biden's permanent blanket pardon goes back to? It goes back to 2014. Right. And so so this directs USA to guarantee loans. So it's loan guarantees for every phase of development of oil and gas in Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. Now, if you go to go to the next screenshot in this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is a FOIA-ed or legally obtained internal document at the State Department, which says, despite his ruined name in Ukraine, Zelensky is actively campaigning. He's been sending letters to Ambassadors Yovanovitch and Pyatt. They note that Hunter Biden and Devin Archer are on the board, and they say even internally, At State, USA does have cooperation with Burisma.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It says pre-existing, small-scale, pre-existing cooperation. They're formally cooperating with Burisma in the region. They're noting that. And then if you go to the next screenshot. Now, now this again is is State Department email traffic that's been on Earth. OK, so they're talking about doing co-branding with USAID and Burisma and the public private partnership around USAID and Burisma.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
really took the spirit out of a lot of a lot of the chess world and it was apparent to me as a kid that these ai sensors that these ai chess engines were going to out compete humans but when i was young the sort of older people in the room were in denial about it and when i saw that same thing in 2016 with the the development of ai censorship super weapons you know i i
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But then noting, quote, the very sticky wicket of the Hunter Biden connection on Burisma's board. And then they go on to say that they want to create incentives for journalists to ensure responsible and unbiased coverage.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Right. What they're saying is it would be a major scandal if everyone knew the extent of it. They know it looks unseemly. They don't want the media to report on the massive conflict of interest of Joe Biden going in and kicking out that prosecutor and conditioning USAID money on it while USAID is directly working with Burisma.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so if they're funded by the State Department, guess what? There's a State Department grant coordinator. Guess what? If they want to keep getting their contributions, there's going to need to be review and approval by USAID and by state because often these are co-grants.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so they have the capacity to ensure that the incentives are aligned for the journalist to be responsible with the way they report on the USAID-Burisma connection while Joe Biden is weaponizing U.S. Well, Joe, I was weaponizing USAID to protect Burisma.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
By the way, I should note Hunter Biden's law firm actually pitched using Burisma as an instrument of statecraft to the State Department because the more you capacity build Burisma, the more endogenous gas Ukraine is able to supply. And so that's less gas being exported into Europe from Gazprom in Russia. So they blend this. It advances U.S. national interest.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But, hey, it makes us rich along the way. So, you know. It's the same reason Pfizer gets to keep all the profits, you know, for, you know, when when they have when there's a vaccine mandate, you know, they don't they say, well, we're just rewarding, you know, this is we're doing such good work.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, why aren't you if this is a charity, why aren't you giving the money back to the American people, you know, of what should we put some cap on this? Oh, no. Well, we're incentivizing this, you know, pioneering approach and we're uniquely in the position to do it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, exactly. Well, actually, Jamie, if you pull that receipt back up, there's a paragraph there we didn't read, but that's useful to this. And then there's another topic related to this that I think makes this point even harder. But look at that fourth paragraph there. This is from the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State Department, which is in control of managing all of the media assets, those 90% of media assets in Ukraine and the ones that simultaneously operate here. I would offer that Burisma's incentive to support could plausibly read, the main objective of Burisma was to create incentives for journalists to offer sympathetic coverage.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yes, yes. Humanitarian aid. This is a for-profit company that's directly tied.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yes, yes. Wow. Right. They want to pitch it as a sort of patriotic, pro-Western. They bought the media. They bought the media. They bought the media. And they bought the media here. On that topic, can we talk about a related scandal and, frankly, monstrosity that the American people need to understand the full extent of its influence on American hearts and minds? No, we can't talk about that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I call those weapons of mass deletion, that they would be like weapons of mass destruction, but for speech. You know, a few lines of code would allow you to destroy entire political movements, governments, narratives. There'd be no escape from it. We would permanently change the face of political warfare or domestic politics and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Okay. All right. Well, let's go on to the next thing. OK, so, Jamie, if you if you go to X, I think probably the best thread on this currently published is the WikiLeaks thread on on Internews, which just reading some of the statistics and that will help make sense of some of the clips and screenshots that I'm going to show you about its operations that then impact domestic affairs and and.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
uh international governments that are allied with this with the state with the state department so if you just look up into just type in the word internews one word i n t e r n e w s and uh and uh you go to search down the wikileaks profile you'll see Yeah, here you go. If you just top that top one, you know, USAID has pushed nearly half of it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So this... So Internews, I've been talking about for a long time, but now the stage is sort of set to really show the extent of this. But... What we do is we create these pretty little predicates, these pretty little lie words, weasel words to hide from the American people and especially from foreign governments what we're really doing in the area.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So we have a catchphrase at State and in Statecraft. It's called independent media. You can think of that as the State Department's word for good guy. OK, doesn't mean independent. They are funded by us. They are not independent from the government. They literally submit their work and approval plans for their work plans for what they cover for review and approval to the U.S. State Department.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They are dog walked the whole way. But we call them independent because they are said to be independent from foreign governments who influence. So basically, they're independent from us. the Chinese government or they're independent from the Russian government. So there's just like with the word USAID itself that we talked about last time. It's your mind playing tricks on you.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You're seeing aid, but it's Agency for International Development. But they do the same thing with independent media, which is that... Internally, to them, it means it's a good guy for us because it's independent from our enemies. But when Americans see that, they think, well, independent, that means it's a free actor who's not being sponsored by any government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But under the banner of USAID's independent media and media sustainability branches, we fund half a billion dollars a year. to this network of, again, over 4,000 media outlets. It reaches 778 million people, 9,000 journalists trained.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Remember last time we went over the Atlantic Council with seven CIA directors and annual funding from USAID, as well as the State Department and Pentagon, how they were holding up I call BS placards and putting Trump tweets on screen to flag for disinformation. If you remember, we went over that. Well, this is what training journalists looks like.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
is they is is not only do they have the direct spawn of of of a media octopus under their direct subgrantee group, but they then go out and train the journalists who work at all the other ones who aren't directly sponsored. So they reach everywhere. And you'll see here, for example, it makes reference to Gene Bergo, who is making half a million dollars a year there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You don't need a standing army of 100,000 sensors if you just have one, you know, machine learning, you know, just ingested database, you know, of 900 million tweets that you can ingest and then make this sophisticated narrative network map of all the different keywords and concepts you want to censor. And to me, that was like this free speech version or the censorship version of the atom bomb.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And if you go now, I'm going to show this domestic impact real quick and then a couple of screenshots. So this has been going viral on X. I've been talking about USAID's role in the censorship industry forever. And if you look up...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If you just look up Internews and you just plug in the name, if you just copy-paste that Gene Bergo phrase, you'll see this in the video section because it's everywhere now. So she made speeches for a long time, but this is a big one. Here we go, this one right here. Okay. So USAID-funded Internews CEO pushes for a global advertising exclusion list to censor disinformation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So this is USAID sponsoring both sides of this. She runs a $500 million mercenary media for hippies for hire empire sponsored by USAID. USAID also gave $68 million to the World Economic Forum itself. And USAID's own internal documents show the explicit political targeting of these advertiser networks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I can show you receipts on that if you just type in the word CEPPS, C-E-P-P-S, and advertiser on my X timeline. And I don't mean to just go receipt to receipt to receipt, actually.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Actually, before we get to that, just so I can close the loop on something that's a little bit more accessible and less political, Jamie, I texted you a screenshot of Internews
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
in in brazil and uh if one of them has uh at the top of it something called rooted in trust uh yeah if he keeps going up yeah there you go that one yep okay so this is internews with a worldwide media octopus sponsored a half a billion dollars a year and reaching 9,000 journalists, 5,000 media outlets. And here's what they were doing just on COVID censorship.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So Rooted in Trust is an inter-news program. It's a global pandemic information response program to counter the unprecedented scale and speed and spread of rumors and misinformation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
All of which turned out to be true. Our own CIA says that. Our own House Oversight Committee says that now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yes, yes. $50 million. Right, right. From UC Davis to EcoHealth directly into... Because I always say, when it's too dirty for the CIA, you give it to USAID. And that's why you have all this pandemic stuff. And maybe we can get to that later. But I want to just show the scale of this. You sponsored your own... state censorship.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Rooted in Trust has tracked more than 19,000 rumors about the virus across 14 plus languages globally, over 81 million people. In response to the unique rumors sourced from each country context,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This USAID-sponsored project has produced a total of over 130 rumor bulletins, 500 radio broadcasts, and 480 media stories through a series of training opportunities, events, peer-to-peer networks, and small grants. Root & Trust has supported 550 local media organizations in order to...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So I started... I started that quest in 2016, but very quickly, that research and the process of trying to write that showed these international networks immediately. I mean, the NLP, the natural language processing sort of backbone of this was all being sponsored by DARPA. And to be able to monitor the speech of ISIS or extremist or terrorist groups. And when I saw that
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I only had time before this to text one page of this. I mean, this is everyone should go through this this document. I'll post on my X feed and there's there's millions around this. I mean, this. The whole global coordination was done through this, through USAID and the USAID Department and its partners in the UK and in NATO.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And, you know, the fact that these very organs are implicated in it, these strange DARPA grants around creating the gain of function, you know, the USAID, you know, grants that were all jumping, you know,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
animal to human uh... for for these things add you know that the presence of folks like avril haines the deputy director of the cia and then head of director of the the director of national intelligence at these censorship planning conferences for event to a one the fact that
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State and DOD and the UK Foreign Office all funded all of the censorship organs like the Atlantic Council and Grafica and these others that we went over last time. You know, they basically they're the prime suspect for the crime. And they and they sponsored the entire white blood cell apparatus to swarm any kernel of truth penetrating the membrane in order to orchestrate the cover up.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So they're on both sides of it. And we can talk more about the inner news work there, but... I want to, but I want to... This is the darkest of conspiracy theories.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Even now to this day, having spent so much of my life in it, I try to just pursue the leads that I have and then try to let the conclusions come to me. Certainly the fact that they funded...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The capacity to do this, they work directly with all the networks that were both doing it and censoring it is that puts you pretty much as you know, they created it and they covered up at least the leak in terms of the intentionality for doing it. That is a really dark scenario. You know, there are a lot of things in American history that have that same, you know, me-ha-lee-ha distinction.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, do they make it happen or do they let it happen? Do they let it happen or do they make it happen? And both of them are major scandals that completely change the legitimacy and credibility of policy changes in response to the crisis, for example. Like, You know, take something like Pearl Harbor. Right. It's been declassified now. The McCollum memo, the eight action plan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Are you familiar with this? Yeah. You know, and this was, you know, written before the bombing. And it was eight ways to get Japan to attack us because we don't have diplomatic cover to declare war on them. But if.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If we get them to attack us and we can then spiral that into a war predicate, I mean, the same thing, for example, with the Northwoods memo, with, you know, pretext to war with Cuba and cooking up all these, you know, hijacking our own planes, sinking our own ships, doing, you know, riots on the streets of Miami and then saying that it was the Cuban government behind it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Same thing with Vietnam, Gulf of Tonkin, you know, same thing with, you know, with the weapons of mass destruction predicate for invading Iraq. Did we know that that did we were we duped and the crime was negligence for letting our national security state believe the New York Times reporting on, you know, on chemical and biological and weapons of mass destruction in Iraq? Or did we?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Coming home and being advocated here, I spent my whole day, morning, noon, night, 20 hours a day basically chronicling, archiving. That's how I know so many of these characters is because I feel like I know them better than my own friends and family having spent so many years watching this all develop. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
make that happen? Was that something that we knew was not true based on our own intelligence, but because there was a useful thing there? And, you know, a lot of people have the same thoughts about issues around 9-11 and any number of crisis events. And I I suppose I have my own thoughts on it. They're not fully settled.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And because they are beyond the evidence I currently have, I stay in the zone of this is what they did to create it. This is what they did to cover it up. Here are the stars in the sky. Draw your own constellation from there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, so, well, so, again, there's two simultaneous tasks that I have. One is to burn down these rogue institutions that have been weaponized domestically and salt the earth behind them so that these kind of excesses can never come home again. The other one is we do need U.S. soft power projection in order to maintain the standard of living and prosperity that we have.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I give the example all the time, no blob, no pencils. You can't make pencils in this country unless you depend on governments in Malaysia and South America and parts of Africa. And if that's the case for pencils, now do that exercise with petroleum. Now do that exercise with cobalt, for example. There was only one operational cobalt mine in all of the U.S., and in 2022, even that mine shut down.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So most of the cobalt's in the Congo. If the Congolese government decides they don't want to allow you access to cobalt, well, there goes your capacity to create any high technology or renewable battery or anything – There is potentially a need for some modified and more honest restrictions on our Department of Dirty Tricks.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
For example, the CIA used to be allowed to assassinate world leaders in the 40s and 50s. You know, this is where we got in trouble in Congo with Lumumba or, you know, Allende or any number of these. And then when those scandals got revealed, there were legislative reforms put in place and executive branch national security reforms put in place to say, OK, I'm
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You can do dirty work, but not that dirty. You can't do that. The same thing needs to be done now for all of these things, many categories of things. For example, we just played Internews and the Internews CEO campaigning to governments and corporations and private sector civil society organizations around the world to
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
that they need to economically blacklist news sites that operate on social media. And those are U.S. news sites. This is the basis of lawsuits here in the U.S. like Daily Wire and The Federalist suing the State Department. Because U.S. news sites are in these advertiser blacklists. And to that end, I want to note two things.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
First, if you go to my XFeed and you type in the word advertiser or advertisers, and if you need to, you can plug in the word USAID or CEPPS, C-E-P-P-S, in this. And I want to show you that this is not... Internews gone wrong. This is not a half a billion dollar year grantee of USAID going rogue and being ideological about this. This is top down U.S. government policy from the White House.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I'll show you the documents on that to the White House executive branch agencies like USAID and state. OK, if you go to search and you put in the word advert advertiser. Yeah. Yeah. And it could be advertiser or advertisers. Okay, so there you go. So click on that left, the left image first. This is, now we talked about this group, CEPPS, last time, you know, in our hit a few months ago.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
CEPPS is a program that is basically a joint baby of USAID and the State Department and is implemented by USAID's key operational arm, the National Endowment for Democracy. But this is a USAID program on countering disinformation. Internet censorship is what they do. And we went over last time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Remember, we played that two-minute video where they were openly saying that the plan is to get foreign governments to pass legal reform, pass laws and regulations to stop the spread of misinformation on U.S. social media websites. So USAID would not be able to lobby the U.S. government to do that because we have a First Amendment.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
europe doesn't other brazil doesn't but here is from an internal document february 2021 uh of us aid's seps program and now this is a 97 page document they reference the word advertiser and advertising in this document 31 times in 97 pages so this is that was three years before that clip we just saw how how far back in motion this is and i can go back even further that in 2017 and share it close on that and how this network coordinated
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The very ad boycotts that Elon is subject to and that brought Facebook and Google to their knees when they folded to advertiser boycotts. There you go. In order to disrupt the funding and financial incentive, using the same phrases that the internet CEO did to disinform, attention is turned to the advertising industry, particularly with online advertising.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So it goes on to say, thus, cutting the financial support in the ad tech space would obstruct disinformation actors. They're not human beings. They're not Americans running mom and pop shops that depend on their Facebook page to be able to advertise their flower business. No, they're reduced to the inhuman disinformation actors from spreading messaging online.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the efforts being made to inform advertisers of the risks, such as the threat to brand safety. So this is USAID saying we got to talk to these advertisers and say, hey, you know, brand safety is really important to all your little all your brands. It would be a shame if you were known for putting ads next to misinformation websites like Daily Wire and The Federalist.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And that goes on to say, additionally, with this data organizations, and these are partner organizations, this group steps runs, you know, is together with USAID and, and, uh, and the state part of that run network of hundreds of NGOs around the world that all jointly carry this out. This is what they're sponsored to do.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It says the aim is to redirect funding to higher quality news domains and improve regulatory and market environments. Regulatory means laws, laws, laws about this, like the EU digital services act, um, So this is a top-down U.S. government plan to financially re-engineer the entire economics of...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
the news industry in order to make it so that if you spread messaging against the state or against a sensitive policy issue by the state, you are put out of business. You cannot professionalize. You can't compete with CNN or New York Times or MSNBC. Just like this is what happened to Breitbart, for example, and they got caught up in this web. They lost 99% of their advertising revenue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They were going up like this. And however you feel about Breitbart, these are the plain facts of this inaction. They were a rising star in the 2016 election. Steve Bannon, who was the head of that, went on to be basically the top White House advisor directly. They got crushed when 99% of their ad revenue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is why everyone's having to switch to bilking our own citizens to pay for it because the natural thing advertisers would want to do, a return on investment for putting ads on news sites or social media, they can't do because they're getting pressure from the government. And so now look at the bottom.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, I don't have this, but any members of Congress or Doge or House or Senate oversight or White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, I implore you, a few examples of advertiser outreach are included in Annex 3. I don't have that annex. It's not available on the USAID website that I downloaded this from before it went down.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
USAID is giving out examples of advertiser outreach, how to pressure them in order to do this. And there's much more there. If you go to the next slide, for example, you'll see this is – they have whole categories of what USAID wants media companies to do, wants regulatory bodies to do, wants all of its other whole society partners to do. But here are just the first two entries from this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
What can technology companies do? So this is USAID telling Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, Reddit, Twitch – eliminate the financial incentives, nuke their ad revenue, if we don't like what they say. What could national governments do? Again, this is our government funded by our tax dollars. telling foreign governments that they should regulate ad networks to kill the ad revenue of U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
social media websites and U.S. news entities, like has been caught up in the advertiser database at State and USAID under the Biden administration. And there's a million more examples like this. But if you want to go to a really crazy one, there's a YouTube video that is still live. It's by Globsec. Actually, before I turn to that, do you mind if I go? No, go ahead.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We're going to go to this May 2017 Globsec video. But before I do that, Jamie, I texted you an image. of um of a piece that that uh my foundation just published if you um it says 23 eu organizations drive eu censorship law uh if you yeah if you scroll scroll up or or actually if you scroll down um uh Oh, you know, actually, maybe I didn't text you. So it's at the top of my feed right now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And you'll see it's it might be like the fifth or sixth one down. But, you know, just down a little bit. OK, OK, right there. OK, so so I'm sorry. No, it's both the one above and below that. So before we get to the one above that, let's go to the one right below that. So one more below that. One more, one more, one more, one more, one more, one more, one more. It's that one. It's yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
See those four screenshots? Yeah. So we just reported this. This is 23 U.S.-funded organizations who are all signatories or implementers, signatories to the EU's Code of Practice on Disinformation, which if U.S. tech companies don't comply with what the EU, a foreign body, calls disinformation, the penalties for that are losing 6% of U.S. social media companies' global annual revenue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. Well, you know, the joke that I tell here is it's like what they tell you to do your first day of prison is you go in, you walk up to the meanest, baddest SOB and you punch him right in the mouth.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
or get kicked out of the entire eu market which is 550 million people so you know we go through this you know in in this in this here uh but if you so not only are they the signatories to it uh who you know basically helped craft this thing and put the us government stamp on this But if you go, you'll see they're also the implementers.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They're the ones who are helping define disinformation in the EU that targets US social media companies and US news websites. So go to the fourth one, go to the fourth thing right here. Now this, my foundation just reported as well. We got access to a White House interagency working group for information integrity. This is one of these censorship weasel phrases, weasel words.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Information integrity is what you just saw in that USAID document about high redirecting ad revenue from high quality news outlets to low quality news outlets. They make that determination by determining high integrity news and low integrity news. So basically, if they like you, they call you high integrity.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If they don't like you or you're publishing a scandal or you say, hey, the COVID vaccines might have some problems with them. Hey, there might be some issues with, you know, what happened in the 2020 election. Hey, you know. What's happening with our Ukraine aid? Low information integrity.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So this phrase, information integrity, is one of these evolving sets of weasel phrases in order to do internet censorship while making it look like it's just an intervention to help you. We're making the information integrity ecosystem better so that we have a healthier information environment. Well, this was centrally coordinated from the White House. This working group has 26 U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
government agencies and programs participating in it. They're partnered with 14 outside universities as well as a whole row of private sector firms. USAID is one of those, by the way. USAID is a contributor to this in the Biden administration. This started in December 2021, really got the wheels turning in December 2022.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But this is from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy itself, where it's someone from White House. The other co-chairs are from ODNI, the Director of National Intelligence, the job that Tulsi Gabbard is currently campaigning for. DARPA, the Pentagon's brain, as well as the National Science Foundation, which is the civilian arm that funds all the censorship work.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But here you have from the Joe Biden White House itself, engagement with international partners. This is three years ago, before this thing even really kicked in in the way that it now is. Engaging with our international partners outside the United States on our censorship efforts, assessing, establishing a partnership with the European Union to
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
to provide US researchers, now that's their cover word. That's the big lie word of all of this. It's operations, but they call them researchers to make it look passive rather than active. And I can go through a million examples of that to show how deep that lie goes. With access to social media data accessible under the 2022 EU code of practice on disinformation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Every single one of these researchers is connected to the blob, whether directly or indirectly. They're either part of organizations that are sponsored by USAID, the State Department, the Defense Department, or the transatlantic networks in the UK, like the UK Foreign Office, or they are indirectly or they're partnered with one who is indirectly. Every single one of these.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They don't just like researchers. They got to be accredited. They got to be credentialed. They got to be vetted. In fact, a lot of these internal documents talk about how only basically the trusted inside web should be able to get access to this. But what they're saying is the U.S. government can't pry that out of Facebook's hands. We have a First Amendment.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We can't we can't make them subject to a code of practice on disinformation. There is no legislative bill that will pass Congress that will force them to give over that will force Facebook to give over the, you know, the private messages and all the internal algorithm and spread of information to a random U.S. university like, you know,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
pick your poison, the University of Washington or the University of Stanford to a random university that everything you thought was safe and secure on the platform is now being given to a private university because it was crowbarred out of the platform's arms by the government. This is the sort of thing the NSA does. When the NSA has secret warrants forcing Facebook
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
to compel private information about the platform for the FBI when they're doing an investigation or the NSA when they're doing a national security one. This is doing it for private actors. And they're using foreign governments to crowbar U.S. companies because we, in their eyes, are unfortunately bound by the First Amendment. There's a lot more there, but I can pause.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, it is. And you see how it all synchronizes just like Wisner's Wurlitzer did in, you know, from 1948 through the 1970s when, you know, formally it was supposed to have stopped. But just that's why I say when it's too dirty for the CIA, you give it to USAID. You know, the CIA used to do this work under covert action. But USAID has a couple of cute tricks that make it the...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
the central warehouse for all of this and this is why when we started this conversation i was saying you know you ain't seen nothing yet this thing is going to get so deep and it's going to connect to so many institutions that everybody thought you know like like in the truman show they thought it was their best friend you know they thought this thing was totally independent and these were authentic conversations you're having with the cashier and it turns out oops okay actually you're a part of this you know usaid sponsored network or the state or dod or intel sponsored network because
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is fundamentally covert action that's being done. And when the CIA – the CIA is subject to restrictions on the kind of covert activity it can do. Every covert action the CIA does, which is our organ for organized political warfare, George Kennan himself as well as William Casey and Colby and –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Everyone the express purpose of it was to carry out the subversive side of the political struggle, you know, so that we'd have a mechanism for influencing foreign, you know, the foreign affairs by creating an internal what looks to be an organic, you know, grassroots authentic network within the country. But we're actually funding and directing their actions, their actions to be favorable to U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
interests. But where I'm going with this is USAID has most of the worst scandals of U.S. statecraft and covert action in the past two decades have actually been from USAID rather than CIA. And there's a reason for this. So after the big scandals against the Democrats and liberals and anti-war groups in the 60s and 70s, reforms were put in place. And some of this goes back to the 40s itself.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But every covert action the CIA does has to be authorized by the president in what's called the presidential finding to take that covert action.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So if this if the CIA senior leadership were just a rogue cell that's not even at the top of leadership, but just a rogue desk, a rogue portfolio, portfolio, a rogue network wants to run a covert action in a region, but they don't think the president will approve. Or the president doesn't want to formally sign off on it in case it goes wrong.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They can walk right over to USAID who can do the exact same thing the CIA does, except they can call it discrete democracy promotion because it's not technically an intelligence agency. So it's not technically covert action. So it doesn't require executive branch approval or foreknowledge. And they've gotten in trouble in these cases in some pretty incredible ways. Can I... Can you show that?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Totally. I mean, it's been, it's been exhilarating. You know, there is a, there's a sort of, I understand the weight of history here. We are doing open heart surgery on the body of the American empire, our influence abroad. And it has to be done well. And so, you know, I want to help the American homeland. And so this is a sensitive process.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, please. So let's start with even the whitewashed version. Go to the Wikipedia of Zunzenio, Z-U-N-Z-E-N-E-O, just on the Wikipedia, and then we can go deeper on this if you want. This was a scandal during the Obama-USAID era. Now, we were running a number of rogue USAID operations in Cuba at the time. By the way, I have to say for the record, I'm no fan of the Cuban government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I'm not even weighing in on whether it's the right or wrong thing to do in terms of regime change there or liberating people there from autocratic excess by that government. I'm simply showing the American people where your tax dollars are going, and how these things are structured in order to systematically fool you and to fool Congress and to fool the White House.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So for example, so this is, I'll show a couple other things in a second here, but so this is Zunzaneo. If you just scroll for a second, we'll start with this, right? So it was an online social media, just scroll up one second, we'll start at the top here. It was an online social networking microblogging service created by USAID and marketed to Cuban users. This was a Twitter knockoff.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
See, the background of this is, this is 2009, 2014, that period. The State Department and USAID were gangbusters gung-ho on the promise of Arab Spring-style social media revolutions to topple other governments. The Arab Spring was a Facebook revolution and a Twitter revolution.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
USAID pumped one point two billion dollars in, you know, and we sponsored these activist groups and these civil society organizations to learn how to use Facebook, learn how to use Twitter, learn how to use hashtags, learn how to coordinate street protests so that everyone knows where to go, what street to show up on, you know, what kind of slogans to, you know, to use in order to create the pro-democracy predicate for it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But the problem was at the time, Cuba did not allow U.S. social media in. So they said, hmm, so they're not allowing Twitter in. How can we get a Twitter there, but without calling it Twitter, without making it look like it's coming from the U.S.? So what they did is they took the exact same thing as Twitter, same user interface, same like and retweet button.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Zunzunio is the Cuban slang word for hummingbird. So it means it's bird. It was the Twitter bird, the whole thing. But the whole trick about it was you have to make it look like it's coming from the Cubans if you're going to do this operation. So what you'll see is it began running. So this is 2010. This is right during the Arab Spring.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what you'll see is they took funds, millions of dollars of funds that were concealed as humanitarian funds designated for Pakistan. Now, I don't know if Joe or the audience, if you looked at a map lately, but. Pakistan is not exactly the next door neighbor of Cuba. Right. So and this is the this is the Wikipedia whitewashing. And we can get into the deeper layers of this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But contractors funded by USAID, I should note, the main contractor was Creative Associates International, who's a frequent one. It's CIA, CIA, not CIA. I promise. So they concealed in the budget from Senate, from Congress, from the White House National Security Council. They said that these were humanitarian funds for Pakistan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And then they ran that to their contractor, CAI, to, quote, set up a Byzantine system of front companies using Cayman Islands bank accounts and recruiting unsuspecting business executives who would not be told of the company's ties to the U.S. government. according to the AP. Private companies like Creative Associates International designed the network.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But, you know, obviously, it's been a bit surreal seeing the past couple weeks where people are now – I go to my X timeline and I see everyone doing the same exercise that – I gave up everything to be doing eight years ago going into, you know, cause all this stuff is open source. You didn't need to be an inside guy to see this. If you, if you knew where to look, these are USA spending.gov.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The idea arose after they were given 500,000 stolen Cuban cell phones that are available on the black market. And then what you'll see if you scroll down is Okay, the network, dubbed the Cuban Twitter, reached about 60,000 Cuban subscribers.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The initiative appears to also have had a surveillance dimension, allowing a, quote, vast database of Cuban Zunzanillo subscribers, including gender, age, and receptiveness and political tendencies to be built. With the Associated Press noting such data could be used in the future for political purposes. By the way, these are all quotes from the internal documents, and we can go through that.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The data would then be used for micro-targeting efforts towards anti- and pro-government users in Cuba. The developers aimed to at first use non-controversial content such as sports and music and hurricane updates, by the way. They used hurricane updates in the internal documents.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
things, you know, basically a humanitarian front that if you sign up to this app, you'll know about natural disasters in the area. Meanwhile, what was the plan the whole time? Once they built up enough subscribers, they would begin to introduce political messages through social bots and encourage dissent in this astroturfing. There's a great Guardian write-up on this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If you go to Guardian Zunzaneo, so you can see how crazy, just type in Zunzaneo Smart Mob Guardian. You'll see the internal files explicitly said we're going to lure them in with music, sports and hurricane updates. You have to join. You have to join this Twitter in Cuba if you want to be relevant in the culture and see what's trending in sports and music.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If you want to be safe in your homes, if you want to know where hurricanes are going, Twitter, Cuban Twitter is the fastest place to get this. It's humanitarian work for, you know, that's we're saving lives by doing this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But the whole point is once they hit a critical mass, they would create rental riots and and they would use this the same way they used it in Egypt and Tunisia to topple those governments under the Obama administration. They would organize smart mobs, rental riots. And if and if you if you scroll down, there's some you know, this this is a fantastic article. Highly recommend.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
There's a lot more there. But OK, stop right there. Scroll a little bit. OK. Documents show the U.S. government plan to build a subscriber base through non-controversial news content, news messages on soccer, music and hurricane updates. This is in The Guardian.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Later, when the network reached a critical mass, perhaps hundreds of thousands, operators would introduce political content aimed at inspiring Cubans to organize, quote, smart mobs. Mass gatherings called at a moment's notice that might trigger a Cuban spring, or as one USAID document put it, quote, renegotiate the balance of power between state and society.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And, you know, so one more thing, if you want to look up on this, you see how they conceal it. If you just type in USAID, Zunzaneo, and discreet or discreet action, and you'll see how USAID, when this scandal popped off, Everyone said, what the hell? How did this happen? This is classic CIA work. You're using Cayman Islands bank accounts.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You're saying it's you're earmarking it for Pakistan, you know, Pakistani aid. This has clear implications for U.S. statecraft. If this gets busted, this is what the sea is, why we task the CIA to do this plausible liability. Yeah. If something has diplomatic blowback and we don't want U.S. fingerprints on it, we need a formal intelligence agency because there's diplomatic blowback if U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
fingerprints are revealed. So, yeah, just discreet. Yeah. Yeah. Like discreet. Let's see if you scroll down. That third one might do, but if you scroll down, if you put discrete action, it may be put discrete action or discrete covert and action. I believe there's a HuffPo one on this. That's right. Yeah, there you go. Yeah. When is covert action not covert when it's discreet? U.S. aides.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I mean, that's basically what's happened here with the White House's first target being USAID, because USAID opens up the entire world of the blob of the foreign policy establishment and its weaponization of what are supposed to be foreign facing Department of Dirty Tricks operations against domestic opponents.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So basically when this and if you scroll down to the bottom of this, you'll see if you just control F for the word Senate, you'll see. Last week, Elon Musk held an X-Space directly with Senator Joni Ernst, who has been on this crusade to reform USAID accesses.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, I used to joke is the main difference between, or was I think until freedom opened up when Elon acquired X and a few institutional changes began to happen, you know, in, in the government and with, and with Congress, uh,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And there was a really scandalous moment there where Senator Ernst revealed that she was actually threatened by USAID when she tried to get insight into what they were actually doing. If you actually scroll down, if you just do the next the next one, basically what USAID said is, well, it's discrete democracy promotion. So it's you know, we don't need a presidential finding for it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
OK, maybe this is not there. But basically, if if if you control it for the word staff, that might help it, too. But everyone can look this up independently. All this. OK, is that the only. OK. Maybe it's a different article. But basically, Senate staffers and everyone go on YouTube. There was a formal hearing on this for oversight of what happened. And what the staffers said is.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is the staffers on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which is supposed to be the thing that reigns in that gives the American people oversight and accountability for USAID gone rogue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what what this what the Senate staffers overseeing USAID said is we had no visibility on this entire operation the entire time because USAID told us if they had to if they had to tell us what we were doing, people could die. This is classic CIA stuff. But the Senate was blocked. And I should note, again, when it's too dirty for the CIA, you give it to USAID.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is why these drug operations and these terrorist operations run primarily through USAID rather than directly at the CIA. The inspector general just two weeks ago put out a report. This is the first time this has been publicly reported. There's been an inspector general at USAID practically from the day it was born. It's supposed to be
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is what Joni Ernst was complaining about, Senator Joni Ernst was complaining about, which was that how can they get away with this? And it's because the inspector general is supposed to hold the agency to account from the inside. But it's an independent agency, so there's limited oversight from the outside. If you have a rogue inspector general, they keep the whole op in-house.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Don't need to tell the executive branch. Don't need to tell the Senate or Congress. run it just like an Ali North, Iran Contra-style, self-sustained, stand-alone, off-the-shelf private enterprise to run covert action on taxpayer dime, but not have it go through the formal approval channels. Well, so basically...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But, you know, I used to joke that USAspending.gov was the main difference during the height of this censorship, you know, total control era was the main difference between us and Russia and China, which was that we have this sort of autocratic control over information and institutions by the U.S. government. So do they.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
What they were doing here, what the OIG report, the Inspector General Report, just published, and the best article on this with the link to it is John Solomon's Just the News, published this, a write-up on it, as well as the source document from the OIG's office. We're just now learning this two weeks ago, despite them doing this activity for 30 years.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It turns out there's a get out of sponsoring terrorism free card at USAID, which is that USAID cannot directly provide funding to terrorist groups, but their contractors are not required under the grant agreements to go through those OFAC style, those counterterrorism financing. If a bank did it, you would go directly to jail. Do not pass go.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Do not have liberty again for the next 20 years of your life. But if USAID does it, it's completely legal right now. And so this is how you have USAID giving. Last week, $122 million to ISIS, we found. They fund all the terrorist groups in Pakistan. They fund the terrorist groups in the Sahel in Africa.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Paramilitary terrorist groups are extremely useful to U.S. statecraft for DOD special operations work as well as for political destabilization work. I'll give you a great example. We'll stay in Pakistan. Osama bin Laden, a peaceful, what was it? A warrior on the road to peace. I remember the puff pieces about Osama bin Laden before. The Mujahideen.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
No, 79, I believe. Oh, 1979. Yeah. If you type in Zbigniew Brzezinski, that's going to be a wallop one to spell live. But if you used to do Zbigniew... Brzezinski, you can go to YouTube and type in Mujahideen and you'll watch him airdrop out of the helicopter and make the exact same speech that John McCain made to the Azov Battalion, the extremist
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
paramilitary faction of ukraine that was banned from getting federal funding uh... you know in uh... twenty fourteen the democrats said they're all nazis but now they're all you know sponsored and get uh... standing ovations from in the halls of congress because now they are geopolitically useful uh... to pump up to capacity build so so so here u.s.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Can you pause for a sec? Notice how he said he wanted to arm the Mujahideen without revealing America's role. The whole point was to pump up this fundamentalist, extremist, terrorist group with the funding and support they need, but without revealing America's role. Hello, USAID. That's the function today, but keep on.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The difference is, is we can go to USAspending.gov and look up how they do it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so when I when I've been going to my X timeline and seeing everybody independently doing that exercise and finding the joy in that, the self-discovery process and being able to share it with people and everybody being able to understand and make sense of the receipts, because, you know, this framework for understanding it has been has been shared and popularized.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That land is yours. Go out there and take it. We'll give you the money. Now, Jamie, if you can pull up one thing, and I'm going to just talk a little bit more about this case while you're pulling this up. You can find this, I believe, on my X feed. I've posted this clip.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But you could also find it searching either X or YouTube of John McCain, and I believe he was with Lindsey Graham, making that exact same speech using the same language. in, I believe it was 2016 or 24, I believe it was 2016, around then, to the Azov battalion folks in Ukraine and to the, you know, to the paramilitaries. It's almost, it's almost word for word. You know, this was...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But let me stick on the Mujahideen thing for a second because this gets back to this fundamental structuring, why USAID is tasked with this. There's a bigger budget than the CIA USAID does. It capacity builds the assets that CIA liaises with. But if the assets aren't there, CIA has no one to tell what to do.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
None of their agents on the ground or case officers can build an action plan unless there are assets on the ground that have money, that have training. that have food, that have shelter, and USAID steps in to build, to put the chess pieces on the board that the CIA can play with.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Interestingly, I should note that the, you know, the CIA gets a copy of every grant that the National Endowment for Democracy makes. This was published in the New York Times in a piece called, you know, Missionaries for Global Pluralism about USAID's top operational arm, NED. But the point I'm getting at here is, Why were we funding terrorists in the 1970s and 80s?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, according to our national security advisor, he's a big new Brzezinski, the grand chessboard, this celebrated apex predator of American statecraft. I think he had a quote that was something like, well, what does arming a few Islamic fundamentalists matter when weighed against the history of America winning the Cold War?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, that this fundamentally destabilized and bogged the Soviet Union down. This was extremely effective. But also, how do we fund the Mujahideen? Well, the Mujahideen is in Afghanistan. They were before they became al Qaeda and ISIS. What asset does Afghanistan have to play with in order to fund its its allies? War network. It's paramilitary network. Well, it's the drug network.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They happen to sit on the, you know, basically the poppy fields that when exploited comprise 95 percent of the world's heroin if you export that. And so the CIA backed State Department, USAID backed. And we can go through receipts of USAID doing the same, you know, drugs for cash for guns work in the 1960s, practically from the day it was born.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But what they were doing is they were taking those poppy harvests and then they were depositing them in CIA proprietary banks like BCCI, the Bank of Credit and Commerce International. Everyone can look this up. Or if you want to plug in CIA, BCCI and look at all the mainstream media reporting on this, it was a major, major, major scandal.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It had become one of the world's largest banks and it was basically a CIA front scandal. And it was a Pakistani frontman for this, and it was converting, effectively washing the proceeds of these drugs so that they could be so that the Mujahideen could buy arms. And while the Pakistani militants were being funded and trained in Pakistan and then they go to Afghanistan and.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
conduct military operations against the Russians, who are our stated Cold War enemy. The same thing's happening today, though. If you go on my X-Feed right now, I'm going to show you something related to this and how this still goes on today. USAID has been busted multiple times for actually cultivating the poppy and heroin production in Afghanistan, exactly in Afghanistan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That, to me, has been the goal all along, to be able to give people the language and the frameworks to understand what is so terrifying and necessary to reform, but that's right there in front of your eyes if you only open your eyes to see it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This was actually the inspector. There was one of the adjacent units. I don't think it was directly overseeing USAID, but they published a whole report on this that basically USAID was keeping the poppy production alive by doing what was said to be You know, irrigation and, you know, agricultural sustainability, but targeting it in the in the in the heroin network.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And by the way, remember, the Taliban banned banned poppy production. And it was after that ban that Afghanistan became the source of 95 percent of the world's heroin. So USAID was growing those crops. Now, okay, you can argue, well, hey, maybe it was an accident. Maybe they went rogue.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I want to show you something now from an adjacent USAID network group, which is funded 100% by the US government, created by an act of Congress. If you go to my ex account right now and you type in US Institute for Peace, or you just put in Institute Peace, you'll see this. This organization gets $56 million a year from U.S. taxpayers. Its office is right next to the U.S. State Department.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I literally walk by it. So it's funded by the government. It's accountable to the government. It's accountable to the House and Senate, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Relations. It gets all of its money as a pass-through from the U.S. State Department. Type in, yeah, there you go. Scroll down, scroll down. That one, that one right there, right there. Taliban's successful opium ban. So this is...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
100% top to bottom, a direct organ of the U.S. government. Okay. Click that. Click that. There you go.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This ain't ancient history. This is less than two years ago. This is the State Department saying, yeah, listen, 95% of the world's heroin flows from here. Keep the heroin flowing. It would be an economic disaster. What do you think those drug money, what paramilitary networks, you know, you hear about all these terrorist networks that, like, think about what just happened in Syria with ISIS.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
everyone well actually before i go to that let's let's get back to isis and the difference between the isis foreign policy for the obama biden world and trump i'm going to connect this but uh wait can you pull that back up jamie for a second i just want everyone to see it don't look away stare straight into the sun go to the next next receipt here there you go 2024 budget and brief u.s institute of peace is seeking 20 56 million dollars from u.s taxpayers
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
to promote global peace and security, don't you know, by keeping the 95% of the world's heroin flowing in accordance with its congressional mandate. And then I think I have the next screenshot just showing this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, you always have to invert it, right? When they say peace, it's war, right? So this is war. For example, U.S. Institute of Peace was doing the same thing with the Albanian drug networks that formed a paramilitary fighting squad against the Yugoslavian government as we were overthrowing Slobodan Milosevic. I mean, this stuff goes way back.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I mean, this was created in 1984, somewhat thematic, ironic, you know, by Congress. And again, this was a Ronald Reagan creation. And why I come back to, you know, that thing that just broke the John Bolton hand grenade. Right. The holy hand grenade of Antioch from Monty Python.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It is. It is. You know, we need to make sure that the patient doesn't die, you know, on the operating table just because it's the right move to do the open heart surgery because the patient needs it. doesn't mean that the operation goes well if the operating surgeons don't know the anatomy of the organ they're operating on.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is the, you know, nothing's nothing really gets to the heart of what USAID truly is than the the image of John Bolton proudly declaring that he was the head of policy and budget at USAID and his farewell gift from the agency was a. golden hand grenade with his name carved on it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But, you know, what he said, you know, in that Piers Morgan interview, and I don't know if you, we could play it if you want. Yeah, he wants it off your feed. But, you know, what he said is, listen, it also said proud Reganot. And this is where I come back to this. We're fighting a number of ghosts from our past here. You know, a lot of Republicans are fine with fighting Woodrow Wilson's ghost.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
He was the one who, you know, said, make the world safer democracy and gave us this doctrinal blank check to do soft power infiltration work against every plot of dirt and every foreign citizen in every foreign country on planet Earth gives us. The blank check to be a global empire. OK, a lot of people say, OK, we don't focus on us. You know, Wilson's a bad guy. OK, OK.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But you're also fighting the ghost of Ronald Reagan. You know, I should note that USAID is actually in its headquarters in D.C. is in the Ronald Reagan building. USAID and Ronald Reagan played played the key role in fundamentally creating the restructured policy. blob that we live under after the scandals of the 1970s that the CIA was busted in.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Church committee hearings, heart attack gun, Mockingbird, MKUltra, you know, assassinations, all that stuff. Jimmy Carter got into power in 1976. Carried out the harshest destruction of CIA operations capacity and funding ever in American history. He laid off 30% of the entire CIA operations division in a single day. That was called the Halloween Massacre. Crippled their budget.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Then the Iran hostage situation pops off in, you know, 79. The National Security State argues this wouldn't have happened unless the CIA had its old powers back.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Democrats still hated the CIA at that time because it had been directly interfering in their own domestic politics and trying to thwart factions of them, just like they're doing today against the MAGA movement side of the Republican Party. You know, the universal thump has been passed around in that way. So they couldn't get a legislative bill to do this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So what they did is they restructured the intelligence apparatus, the covert action capacities, and the way our statecraft is done through USAID and the creation of the National Endowment for Democracy to take the baton from what the CIA used to do. But the whole point of it is in tandem. Now, that's why you have these John Bolton at USAID. This is why you have Liz Cheney at USAID.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And this is what we're fighting against as we're reforming this. It's not really a partisan issue as I see it, even though, you know, statistics show there's disproportionate Democrat beneficiaries. But, you know, the real issue is the MAGA movement is fighting the ghost of Ronald Reagan past.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The reason Republicans loved USAID, John Bolton types, Liz Cheney types love it, is because this was our muscle for U.S. Chamber of Commerce multinational companies to pad their profits because ExxonMobil, how many hundreds of billions in the aggregate has ExxonMobil and Chevron benefited from U.S. regime change efforts or U.S. pressure on foreign governments in order to give them access to
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so that I see right now is sort of my prime function is to just teach more and more of the anatomy of the organ so that the people who are operating on The patient, the American homeland, and generally speaking, the American influence and power projection into foreign countries comes out better, smarter, a little bit more honest, and there is a hard...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
to the petroleum in order to do partnerships with those governments we saw that just you know a few years ago as we just went over with joe biden doing the same thing for barisma but so the big the big multinational businesses love this and it was sold as trickle-down economics this is the the reaganite sort of reaganomics and why it's attached to the hip with usaid and why this is something we need to keep in mind as we reform
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
is that the idea was, is look, we do some dirty work abroad. But at the end of the day, that adds profits and revenue for U.S. companies. Those U.S. companies employ U.S. citizens. And they build manufacturing plants in Ohio and in Colorado and New Mexico. And that's what allows you to have 401ks. That's what allows you to have discretionary income.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That's what allows you to afford higher education and houses and a retirement plan. The problem was is as globalization kept a pace through the 90s and 2000s, these same multinational corporations that the Reaganite trickle-down economics used the blob to support the Chamber of Commerce – They don't hire their labor here anymore. They don't have their manufacturing facilities here anymore.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We're not the primary export market for this. So you have U.S. State Department and USAID paying to help the corporate welfare of nominally U.S.-based companies.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But the trickle, it's all being kept within that secular blob of the, you know, the thicket of government officials, equity holders in these corporations, foreign currency speculators, you know, banking on the activity in the region, you know, the banks, financial firms and political insiders. And so it doesn't actually get down to the people anymore.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So you do need to restructure if you're going to keep using this. In order to qualify, you have to have a certain minimal threshold of reinvestment in America, which I'm very happy that Trump is doing by trying to bring all this investment. You know, he saw with Japan and other countries, he's trying to get them double, triple their commitments.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We need to demand that of our own corporations if they want to have a meeting with the Secretary of State or the head of the Central Intelligence Agency, like Pepsi did in the 1970s when we overthrew that, if you want to go there. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, no, not four years. This is a 50-year project. 50-year project. Oh, yeah. There are many fractal layers to this reform process. And every step of the way, there are going to be layers of resistance. I don't think the people who are, look, we should spike footballs. We should pop champagne. We should do a touchdown dance on this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is the first serious time in American history that the foreign policy establishment has had to be accountable to the people who pay for it. Even the church committee. didn't cause the entire shutdown of a federal agency. Didn't lay off, you know, remember I mentioned the Halloween massacre, Jimmy Carter, 30% of the workforce laid off.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We'll try what just happened with USAID, which employs a lot more people than even the CIA did at that time. 99 99 went from 14 000 down to 290 this is in every way symbolically operationally financially the hardest blow the blob has ever had to suffer in terms of accountability and it's only getting way deeper from here because he's only been in office for a month Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, that's why we need to create a legacy and a pipeline of people to carry on these reforms, which is part of my personal struggle here, which is that most people, 99% of people who got involved with the MAGA movement did it because they care about the domestic. They care about, you know, we talked about this, they got because their school curriculum is woke and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
domestic firewall against our foreign-facing dirty tricks, criminal penalties against agencies who go against this, civil penalties so that you can sue both the agencies and the NGOs who are sponsored, maybe with treble damages in a bill from Congress so that if USAID, in whatever form it continues to take, whether that's at the State Department or whether it gets rolled back out into another independent agency, that you could sue the agencies as an individual if you've been
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Because the police allow crime, you know, in the streets and, you know, you know, the infrastructure is crumbling and there's corruption everywhere and no one's held accountable. They don't think about Pakistan. They don't think about Bangladesh. They don't think they don't they don't they don't think about, you know, who's on the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce and, you know, how if they're living in Louisiana or Houston or, you know. Oklahoma, that actually their jobs at ExxonMobil and Chevron sort of depend on these, you know, this strong armed diplomacy that we have with Persian Gulf countries. They don't care about the Persian Gulf. They care about local Oklahoma. And but they have to now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
In order to understand the world they live in, in order to understand what's driving the world around them, in order to understand the actual true face of the characters they thought they've known, they're going to have to become international-minded. They're going to have to become versed in the interplay between the domestic and the international.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
One of the problems when I started out this journey in 2016 is there was no MAGA foreign policy intelligentsia. I could make all of these... I was traveling the country, slideshow presentation after slideshow presentation, talking to every human I could. Even DC insiders in MAGA, you'd show them all of this, and they didn't have a framework for understanding it. They could see...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They could see that the information was true. They could see that this is, you know, formal government documents. These are formal grant outlays to real organizations run by real people with real names and addresses. It's, you know, but. But you'd have to explain the function of every single one of those.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You'd have to explain, for example, that the Pentagon does an awful lot more than kinetic military activity. For example, this is what's coming next, right? President Trump tasked Elon Musk with sicking the doge dogs on the Pentagon. And, you know, depending on how you measure it, the size of waste, fraud, and abuse at the Pentagon ranges from a couple hundred billion.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They are the biggest, you know, federal agency in all of this. They have $900 billion budget compared to only $44 billion at USAID. And even less at CIA. But Yahoo Finance published this a couple of years ago, a $35 trillion black hole. If you want to pull up that receipt on screen, just so I don't look like I'm saying this directly myself, but just type in 35 trillion Pentagon black hole.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
that's larger than you know the entire national debt just the amount of just a black hole in the size of the accounting budget of the pentagon uh over the years from its continual uh you know uh failing you know this is on yahoo finance you know this is and this is what 2020 i think uh you have
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
When America was born in 1789 in the first meeting of Congress, there were only three agencies that were created in the beginning of time, shall we say. The first act of Congress was to create the Department of State, the Department of Treasury, and the Department of War.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And the Defense Department became the Department of War in 19... The Department of War became the Department of Defense in 1948. Okay. What people, even now, they're seeing these USAID scandals with funding to the Democrats or funding to some of these blob internationalist Republicans or funding these media institutions.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You ain't seen nothing yet when you get to the Pentagon stuff because USAID was created effectively in part to assist Pentagon activity under humanitarian front. And I talk about this a lot, but I feel that the point is underappreciated. So this is sort of a good moment to go over it. Am I talking too much, by the way? No, perfect. Okay. So everyone, you know, they say. JFK is a martyred figure.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And in the news again this week, obviously, with the new trove of documents and whatnot and Trump's EO around the source of his assassination. But the fact that JFK created
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
um uh created usaid by executive order in 1961 and he is known and loved as a as a martyred figure regardless of who in the end killed him um has given a sort of public imprimatur on usaid as a or usaid as it used to be called and you know uh you know in order to try to make clear that it was not uh you know, an aid organization.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If they've broken that domestic firewall so that there's an incentive at the agency on their own budget to tightly oversee these things, there's so much that can be done to bring this in line in a smarter and more moral and, frankly, more effective way. And that's the task right now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But now now almost even that policy has dropped off as they need to defend it more and more. But so they think, OK, you know, JFK martyred deeply beloved figure. He created USAID. It was sort of out of the kindness of his heart. It was a charity. This was – it was JFK who fundamentally supercharged America's – the American military's small wars capacity. This is the terminology in the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Army War College and special forces around sort of not full-scale conventional wars. They're either small-scale paramilitary skirmishes or insurgency, counterinsurgency. So it's –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And the problem was JFK was bogged down in Vietnam, bogged down in Laos, and the problems that we were fighting against were not the kind of things that you'd have the political predicate after a lot of the disasters of the Korean War in 1950 and the international blowback to having formal DOD boats on the grounds. What he believed was vital and necessary to capacity build and supercharge was
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
was a paramilitary covert capacity for DOD in the warfighting space that the CIA had at that point in the political war space. And this is done through the U.S. Special Forces and through some of its sub-branches, which are psychological operations, civil-military affairs. We can stick with that. But basically, civil-military is...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
When in order to achieve the military objective, the thing that needs to be done is actually something of the civil layer. Like, for example, in order to win the war against Russia right now, NATO believes we need to build the single largest military base in all of NATO.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
On the Black Sea coast of Romania, that points straight out in a line at Crimea and move this base that's under construction is 100% bigger than the biggest current Air Force NATO base in Europe, the Ramstein base in Germany. We're now moving as we speak. There are fighter jets and drones being moved from Germany to Romania.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
As we are building this base, that will be the point of source projection against the Black Sea Navy of Russia, against Crimea in order to turn the tide. Well... That's a military operation, right? The military, the NATO military base against the Russian forces in Crimea. But what is actually the most important strategic objective for the military? It's actually not a military one.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's a civil one. See, there's an election going on in Romania right now. You may have heard about this, the canceled election in Romania with the Georgia skew, this right-wing populist figure who has pledged neutrality in the war. He doesn't want to antagonize America, but he doesn't want to kill the Russians.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
He wants to basically back NATO off and he doesn't want to allow this military base to be made. Well, that is a civil decision by the elected government of Romania decided by the hearts and minds of the voters of the Romanian people. But that civil action will either, in NATO's eyes, win the war or lose the war.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the problem is, is it would kind of be something of a diplomatic incident, shall we say, if NATO rolled in and did, you know, Slobodan Milosevic style air, you know, air strifing of, you know, air strifes against the Romanian parliament building and rolled into, you know, rolled into the Capitol with tanks and troops just because, you know, the president was responding to the damn correct will of the people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So you need another mechanism to. to influence the civil affairs. Enter civil military. This is where you get U.S. aid in this, as well as U.S. aid for psychological operations. For example, I've been playing this clip for months now and showing this U.S. military document from the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center. I mean, the special forces, the psychological operations center,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
and Civil Military Training and Recruiting Center at Fort Bragg, the center of our psychological operations. It's called the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Training Center. But USAID does that work.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So, for example, I've been showing a military document from the Biden Mark Milley era published in 2021 about how to plan race riots in Africa in order to in order to stop the construction of a of a port by a foreign government that would allow their force projection into the Atlantic Ocean. In a sample scenario where the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
ambassador tries to get this West African country on the Atlantic coast there to cancel the port construction in partnership with the foreign government, but that government doesn't want to do it. And so they refuse the U.S. ambassador. They refuse the State Department. So this is literally in the planning guide and pitch book for the U.S. Special Forces. It's available online right now.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Everyone can look this up. It's all over my X feed. I post the link a million times and all the screenshots online. But they show the role of special forces.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They're pitching this basically to, you know, to get more grant funding that that we can help a near peer competition, actually, with these with foreign countries by having special forces destabilize the country, inflame racial tensions between the Africans who work in the factories and the business owners of the foreign government in the local regional development.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Uh, cause mass walkouts and strikes. But if you want to pull this on screen, I can, you know, if you see, you know, I can just show you these two, these two things. Um, if you just go to my X feed and, um, uh, you can type in rent rights or you just type in, uh, you know, just type in USAID job fairs. or USAID job.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And you'll see in this scenario, they talk about the interagency coordination between defense, diplomacy, and development. All the roles, yes, if you do USAID job, you can pull it up. And what they propose is that as they are inflaming these racial tensions to cause these riots and boycotts of the local businesses, that... USAID would play the role of swooping in. Yeah, go ahead, click those.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I can show you the source documents and everything. It's all over. So IWC, for example, is Information Warfare Center at Fort Bragg. Again, they're in West Africa. Now, this is a sample scenario with a hypothetical African country. And I don't want to belabor this. I'm not trying to cause an international incident by saying this.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm just trying to get the American people insight into why you are going to find USAID fingerprints all over Pentagon operations. And no one's going to have known about it before because you park it at USAID. The military doesn't have to tell the president what they're actually doing. This is why, for example, you had the fight over ISIS.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And we can get to this right after this, but we'll get to how... how the U.S. military duped Trump through these things, constantly playing shell games with the numbers in Syria, for example. You'll see, you know, what the Information Warfare Center did is, you know, they saw a sign along the road for this port construction. And they say the plan is we need to buy the ambassador more time.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
because this port is going to be, they're going to close on it. And we need to give the ambassador more leverage at the negotiating table. So this is a support operation for the State Department in order to secure an agreement from the African government to shut the port down. But right now, the ambassador doesn't have the smoke, doesn't have the clout, doesn't have the leverage.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Right. Well, this gets to the fundamental heart of the breach of the social contract that this thing was always set up to do. You know, it was really set up in 1948 when George Kennan created this NSC 10-2, this national security contract. We completely reoriented the structure of the American empire in 1948 after World War II. In 1947, we passed something called the National Security Act.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the military will come in and provide that leverage by destabilizing the country, inflaming longstanding friction between the African workers and the foreign corporations, popping off protests and then using their swarm army of terrorists.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Internews, USAID, you know, the social media campaign and media articles to that are led actually in the background by the Information Warfare Center at Fort Bragg to illuminate the controversy to a global audience. Right. This caused international financial pressure and sanctions on them. But if you go to the next slide. And here we go, USAID. So this is, again, U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
military document 2021 Biden administration. To make sure this thing really pops off, USAID is going to swoop in, along with other NGOs, to establish job fairs near the protest areas so that when so that when these racially inflamed African workers. want to take to the streets.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They don't need to worry about losing their careers at those companies they just went on strike at because they're going to be on U.S. taxpayer dime, baby. It's going to be U.S. truck drivers, median income, you know, forty five, fifty thousand dollars a year. paying for striking African workers to get no-show jobs as a part of a race riot operation for the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Special Forces to give leverage to the U.S. State Department ambassador in order to stop a random port construction in West Africa.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So it's effective. And this is where, I don't know if you want to take a breather and pivot to something lighter, but this is where it starts to get really, really nasty because there are layers to this that I see, but because I'm not an insider, I don't have access to the inside government documents, I don't have subpoena power at Congress,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Someone has to has to get an answer on some of these questions. And I was going to talk about the connection of this to, you know, the rent riots. I should say formally, we don't know that the rent rights formally the riots that popped off in this country happened.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
In 2020, and that I see as one of the main ways that the blob may be able to regain leverage here in the United States in the years ahead. Right now, they're doing lawfare. They're trying to mend... They're a little bit impotent right now because their coalition is very fractured. Many of the stalwart international Republicans have gone full MAGA.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the bipartisan consensus on this is weaker than it was. And then probably most... most difficult for them there's a bit of a civil war happening even within the democrat party because of all the bad blood between the biden camp and the kamala harris camp i mean you need a unified network on the democrat side to pull this off and you had joe you know joe biden was
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
soft coot out of office by his own party and you have half the democrat party who was in by it was a very contentious long drawn out process joe biden put on a mega hat actually asked one of those union workers i believe he was one of those people at that event for the mega hat to put on and that was a that was quite a how about jill biden wearing a red dress when she went to vote Yeah. Yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And when Joe Biden walked out at that White House press conference to announce that Donald Trump had won the election the day before, people go back and watch that. I have never seen Joe Biden smile harder in my life.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Right, right. And Obama was was backing the Kamala, you know, sort of, you know, ouster of Biden. So when they were all united in this bipartisan, you know, blob network, and the Democrats were completely cohesive, and a full half of the Republican Party was he was internationalist, you could get this buy in, for example, it was easy to synchronize the US Chamber of Commerce with
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That's what established the CIA. That's what established the National Security Council, which coordinates all of our foreign-facing empire management work. It renamed the Department of War to the Department of Defense so that it didn't look like we were. You know, acquiring territory by military force, which had just been banned under international law, under the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
the AFL-CIO with the union street muscle. The way, so USAID
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
you know just back back at this whole usa truman show and i didn't like i say this ever there is no nothing you can tell me that is not affected by by the usa truman show you want to talk about the music industry i can i tell you about usa's complete infiltration of the music industry how so oh my gosh okay so and maybe i can show you receipts on screen here for for a second um
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Do you want to – we'll start with an easy one because it's directly connected to what we were just talking about with Zunzaneo in Cuba. So if you go to – this is Max Blumenthal's outlet. It's called Grey Zone News. And again, I'm not trying to beat up on our foreign policy establishments. foreign policy on Cuba or way into that, but this is how the sausage is made.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And you're going to see a million examples of this in a second of this, but, but go to, go to just type in on Google, like, or any search engine, gray zone news, Cuban rappers, USAID. And, you know, you'll see this and, and, you know, these are basically,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
sponsored hip hop artists to write, you know, to, to do revolutionary hip hop, to appeal to, to appeal to the Afro Cuban community who the national down for democracy had identified as being, um, a demographic. See, every time we do these operations, USAID, the NGOs, they'll, they'll submit what they call baseline assessment or strategic assessment to the state department where they will do, um,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
where they will do a demographic segmentation of all the demographics in the country, who's pro us, who's against us in the region. And then they will micro-target the grants in the capacity building to capacity build the burning ember to turn it into a flame. So for example, and just so you see this, but you can go to the CIA World Factbook right now. This is just a public facing cia.gov.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You can type in a random country like Burma on just CIA World Book Burma. You'll see that we keep meticulous tabs on the the racial distribution, the religious distribution, the gender distribution, the you know, the the heteronormative versus LGBT, LGBT, LGBT one. This is why USAID and NED were were backing and supporting Pussy Riot in Russia, you know, to do these sort of insane things.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
you know, sort of feminist LGBTQ-styled left-wing street riots. This is what they, you know, cause this international incident. You can see all the USAID, NAD stuff on them. Pussy Riot is the music industry. And go to YouTube and look at their music videos if you want to see what state-sponsored music looks like. But in the Cuba case, You know, they were – NED had published this document.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
NED is the operations arm of USAID, and they get a ton of their grants through it, and they're a companion star. Said, okay, all of our previous attempts to overthrow the Cuban government failed. Well, you know, something like 60% of the Cuban population is Afro-Cuban. They're radically underrepresented in the Cuban government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so we moved from primarily kinetic warfare into what George Kennan called just two months before he created the plausible deniability doctrine that we live under. He called this organized political warfare. And he has a great memo from April 30th, 1948. It's just 12 days after the CIA's first operation, first time it ever overthrew or rigged the election of a foreign government.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They have their own grievances around policing issues and around representation issues. And they even noted in the document that that demographic – and I'm not saying this, Ned is saying this – in Cuba is disproportionately drawn to drugs, influenced by rap music, and suffers from overwhelming amount of youth unemployment. And so capacity building those desperate networks –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Capacity building, the anti-addiction programs will get you into the drug networks. Doing job fairs and getting these people on U.S. payroll will alleviate their pain points on employment. And they're predominantly listening to hip-hop, so we need to work with them. I believe the group is a San Ysidro. And I'm not beating up on it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You can make an argument that that I'm not weighing in on whether this is good or bad. But the American people have to know this because this gets played on their radio stations in Miami. This gets, you know, art testimonials to this are at, you know, Art Basel in Miami every year.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And this is the Truman Show around you, but you can read that Grey's Zone report, for example, or write up on that, on all the USAID funding, all the meetings with the U.S. ambassador and Western Hemisphere assistant secretary folks, how the whole thing was. You can talk about musicians like Dua Lipa. You're familiar with Dua Lipa?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, you know, Don't Stop Now. You know, she's, you know, a million of these great hits. Fantastic musician. I'm a big fan on the music side. Dua Lipa won the Distinguished Leadership Award, I forget if it was last year or the year before, from the Atlantic Council. The Atlantic Council.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That's the same organization that we played on screen during our first conversation where we went over the Atlantic Council, you know, holding up I call people. bullshit placards, BS, uh, and looking at Trump tweets and training hundreds of journalists for how to flag and censor him saying tweets like witch hunt or Brexit slogans for, you know, cheaper healthcare.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Uh, the, the Atlanta council who has seven CIA directors, seven former number one heads of the CIA on its board of directors that gets direct grant funding from the Pentagon, the state department and USAID. Uh, The Atlantic Council, who had a formal partnership agreement with Burisma, I should note, signed on January 19th, 2017, one day before Trump became the U.S. president.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Why the heck would they give Dua Lipa a distinguished leadership award? Well, she's ethnic Albanian and has activities in Kosovo. But I'm not trying to cause an international incident when I say this. But her messaging around the...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
um the post yugoslavia breakup uh balkan states and a lot of the geopolitics around serbia right now the u.s state department has been pursuing as well as u.s aid and to whatever extent you may or may not be there you know the the civil military arm of of the u.s military um uh
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I believe, and I'm not privy to any inside information, this is my reading of the tea leaves that I've been laying out before everyone, is not very happy with the government of Serbia. And they want that Serbian government, people in the Serbian government arrested, indicted, and put through a process that they call transitional justice.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Transitional justice is the idea that when you transition a country, when you overthrow its government or you pump up your favorite political party to win the election, it transitions from democracy – from autocracy to democracy or it transitions from illiberal democracy to genuine democracy. It's a turnover of government. And and we have doctrine.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We have a whole field of scholarship at the State Department at USAID and that is carried out in covert ways through civil military DOD and at CIA called transitional justice, which is weaponizing the Justice Department and creating the. criminal predicate to eliminate your political adversaries you just narrowly vanquished in a nail-biter vote in order to stop them forever rising to power again.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This was the April 1948 election in Italy that pitted a pro-Western, A pro-Western candidate against a sort of pro-Soviet candidate. And so the U.S. State Department felt it was essential to hit the scales of that election because it showed that the pro-Soviet candidate was winning 60 to 40.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And I'll show you some great receipts on this so that everyone can see this with their own eyes. But before I do, let me just flesh this out for a second, which is that every regional desk at the State Department or in the USAID portfolio has to compete every year for their budget.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They have to fight for their lives because the people, you know, who are at the regional desks around Kyrgyzstan and, you know – Georgia, Moldova, Latvia, Lithuania, they're competing in the budget for what's going to Western Hemisphere, what's going to Argentina and Brazil and Colombia, and they're competing against sub-Saharan Africa.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the cheaper it is to manage the political vassalage of a country, the better. They may have had to ask for a lot more money in the budget, one-off in election year, to run that money through Democracy International or through CEPS or any number of USAID or NAD programs to fund the political party they want to win.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But they can't keep that – they were only given that money because it was a special – they're not necessarily going to be able to get that the next time around. And they'll be able to spend money on other soft power goals in the region if they don't have to worry about the other party rising again. Or doing what Trump just did, you know, winning, then losing, then winning again.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so transitional justice is a whole field at state and in the NGO plex to to make it cheap to manage the course of and result of foreign elections by making sure anyone who's a serious challenger to you ends up in jail. And I'm just going to show you something because it's now in the news.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Elon Musk this week tweeted out about a horrible situation where someone from the PIS, the Law and Justice Party in Poland, I believe is now facing arrest for clicking the like button on a social media post.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
What was the post? I don't actually know what the post was.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I played the fan. I don't know. But the fact is... Poland plays, and I've been saying this forever, and this may be too far afield for the narrow topic of discussion today, but Poland plays an absolutely huge, probably the linchpin role in all of Eastern Europe with everything that's happening with Ukraine, because the whole play was to kill Russian gas.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And and then you need an alternative gas supply into Europe to offset that. And there's only two ways to do that. One is Ukraine builds up its own gas infrastructure and exploits its endogenous, you know, hydrocarbon supply, which it has a lot of. It's the third largest in Europe, but it's unexploited, underexploited.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
No. In fact, I think we're at the tip of the iceberg. And what people are going to see on this is going to completely reorient their mental map of how they think the world works, how they think American power projects into the institutions. And I think the calls for reform are going to get louder and louder.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Unfortunately, they can't do that right now because Russia reconquered that exact territory in eastern Ukraine that those.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The only other way to do that is through exporting LNG, you know, liquefied natural gas from North America, you know, from the Permian Basin or whatnot in Houston, freezing it, shipping it, you know, 7,000 miles across the Atlantic up through the Baltic Straits through these newly built ports.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is all declassified and all the major people who were involved in that operation have all come out and said this publicly. But so, you know, basically we threw together this ramshackle effort to tilt that election by pumping in propaganda, by using charities and churches as fronts to funnel money into the pro-Western political party.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, routing terminals into Poland and the terminals there and then routing it there into Slovakia and Ukraine and Central Europe and on from there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, well, that's interesting because that has to do also with the economics of it. You don't want too much supply because then the profits of the corporations, they're selling it for less margin as the supply goes up. But yeah, the LNG fight is the major one in the energy space, but it's much more expensive for LNG.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
That process, liquefication, transport, deliquefication, transport back is way cheaper than just taking it out of the ground and putting it in a pipeline straight to the customer. So the European countries don't want to do this. They don't... Or at least... until they were strong-armed.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what the State Department and NATO have done is they've selectively bred and financed and politically supported all of the European political parties and candidates who have vowed to basically go forward with this plan and put their country through an energy diversification policy and buy this expensive LNG, which has skyrocketed, as you know, the profits of many of these Western exporters.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So again, there's an argument. Maybe that's in U.S. interests. If there was that trickle down. But we'll leave that aside. But the point is, is Poland basically is a veto right on this whole plan, because if if the poll, if the Poland government says, hey, you know what? We don't want to antagonize the Russians. The Russians may actually attack us.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, this is this is provocative because this is in tandem with the plan to cut off Gazprom. Also, we don't want to become a political vassal state of the U.S. or the U.K. or NATO. And this is what was starting to happen with the law and order, you know, law and justice P.I.S. party in Poland.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And so this whole network, the Atlantic Council Network, was backing to the full hilt Donald Tusk, who became the prime minister of Poland in, I believe, December 2023. With that context, Jamie, can you pull on screen? I just re-upped these receipts. I've been posting this for months, but this is very – everyone should see this with their own eyes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Because this gets back to OCCRP and state-sponsored media to prosecute people. This gets back to the role of the USAID. the capacity building, the networks around prosecutors here in the U.S., the U.S. aid capacity building, the prosecutor networks. And we should get to that on Brazil. But let's can we start here with Poland? We kind of like bypass the whole music industry. Oh, my God.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We've just we've just started on that. OK, here's an easy one. Look up the U.S. Music Diplomacy Program.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Well, that's the issue is because there's this interplay. So first, I'll get back to the Dua Lipa Atlantic Council thing. So again, essentially, she's calling out human rights abuses from these Balkan governments with a family pedigree and popularity in Kosovo and other places that are hugely in the geopolitical crosshairs right now. And so and I'm not saying whether it's good or bad.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Again, I'm not even weighing in on, you know, the the humanitarian abuses or whatnot. What I'm saying is, is it's it's music as an instrument of statecraft. Dua Lipa is this is the the U.S. military, the State Department, USAID, seven CIA directors, the Burisma networks, because, you know, she's got. Tens of millions of social media followers, people who are diehard follower concerts.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, we piped in, you know, the Greg Garbo movies and whatnot. We worked with some very unseedy, very seedy elements of Italian society there. We worked with the mafia and we worked with mafia connected unions because these were all assets for the War Department. during World War II because Mussolini was cracking down on them.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
She's an international superstar and her public support for calling out human rights abuses by these Balkan governments that are in the crosshairs of the U.S. State Department. makes it easier to prosecute those political figures, just like with the OCCRP publishing hit pieces for hire. These people become less popular because the people who love Dua Lipa have to sort of hate those U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State Department enemies. This has been going on forever, okay? Jazz diplomacy. The State Department was doing this with black African jazz musicians to win the soft power war against against the Soviet Union in Africa in the 1940s.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State Department's working with Louis Armstrong and most of the major jazz musicians because Russia, the Soviet Union, was making the argument in these newly sovereign, independent African countries who had to pick a side in the great power competition that America was racist. America discriminates against African-Americans. There's there's all this, you know.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
you know, upward mobility limitations. There's, you know, there's no legal, you're underrepresented in the government. the Marxist socialist egalitarian concept of communism will liberate you from the racial inequalities of Western imperialist capitalism. And so to offset that, we did jazz diplomacy. You can pull this up on screen as I talk about this, Jamie, just so you see.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is on state.gov. You can look up this whole history, I'm telling you. And look up, you know, U.S. State Department jazz diplomacy and just
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Louis Armstrong initially pushed back on it though he said the way they're treating my people in the south the government can go to hell yes well many of them did or had a complicated relationship with it but you can I mean you can look up everyone like you know for example they targeted you know other you know African-American musicians who were you know who are using their platform who's the guy who sings Old Man River Paul oh my god why am I blank on the name Dizzy Gillespie
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, Dizzy Gillespie had the first State Department sponsored tour. Okay, but we've, this is every, John, I'm telling you, it's every single genre of music. Is it rap music as well? Oh my God, rap music. Can I tell the evolution from jazz to classical to rock music to rap? Sure. So, yeah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
In the 1950s and 60s – and again, Jamie, you can just follow along as I'm saying all this if you want to put it on screen – there was a big classical music. Shostakovich and other Russian, Soviet classical composers were more popular in Europe than American ones were. And these were big aristocratic concerts and elites, and they would be listening to Russian music.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, they'd be listening to Russian music and getting to know more Russian culture. And that would that would come. Money would flow into the institutions. Prestige would. And so to combat that, the CIA backed front group. And this is all public, public and known. It's called the Congress for Cultural Freedom. sponsored American classical musicians to travel abroad.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the War Department had a relationship with these organized criminal networks to serve as a beachhead against Mussolini. But we kept those relationships in order to run this pro-democracy regime change thing.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They are sponsored classical music concerts in Rome and in Paris and in Germany in order to promote pump up and sponsor and have, you know, our classical musicians be more predominant in distribution or basically, you know, dominate, you know, what at the time were effectively, you know, the airwaves in Europe in order to do that. We did the same thing with rock music.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, for example, I mentioned Pussy Riot and Pussy Riot being backed by USAID and NED in 2012 in in Russia. But also look at the the German rock music scene that, you know, in we were sponsoring these protest rock anthems against authoritarian governments worldwide. all over the Iron Curtain throughout the Cold War.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And in fact, we were sponsoring them basically right up against the side of the Berlin Wall as we were taking it down. Everyone right now can go on YouTube.com and watch the documentary called Taking Down a Dictator, which is an in-depth pro-regime change. I think it was PBS who produced it. This is U.S. government-funded media.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
where it has in-depth interviews with all of the architects of the color revolution against Slobodan Milosevic in the 1990s, working with a group called Oatpour, which received $72 million of U.S. taxpayer funding in order to pump up their political operations. Again, I'm not weighing in on whether it was good or bad. You know, I leave it to the audience to make their own determination.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But you can see how even in that effectively state-sponsored documentary.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We're going to have. Yeah, we're going to have a lot more on that when we get to the rap program, because they just sponsored 22 rappers and hip hop artists from around the world to personally come to the State Department and be trained in youth engagement and democracy mobilization in their countries and art as activism. 22 rappers from Cameroon, Algeria, France.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So in 1948, when we established the secrecy doctrine that we now live under, all these NGOs work under this cover effectively because of their sponsoring organizations, USAID or CIA or state organizations. And he called it the inauguration of organized political warfare.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We'll pull that up as we get to it. But coming back to the – I think we were on the rock music side of it. They were sponsoring this protest rock. I just lost my thread for a second. I felt like I was –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Weird scenes inside the canyon. Yeah. Yeah. I think it would benefit greatly from a lot of the stuff that I'm laying out now to see how these things had a foreign purpose for pumping up a domestic scene and why you see these military interlinkages with all these music promoters For example, you know, they sent you in that Gray's own article I recommended on in Cuba.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, they they USAID ran that operation to sponsor protest rap music through through.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
people a contractor posing as music promoters in cuba you know basically looking at these local rap groups and saying we can make you an international star baby you know type type thing and then they get radio distribution and this is how you see these bono types and sting types who are at every single save ukraine conference again not even weighing in on the substance of it you know that you want distribution you use you know you use as a background and
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'd be remiss if I didn't say this, even though I know that this is going to cause a lot of headlines. But here's a great example of this. The NATO Psychological Operations Planning Center in Riga, Latvia in 2019. And you can pull this on screen if you type in Taylor Swift, NATO, or you type in, you know, what was it? trained, trained to share messaging or just trained, trained messaging.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And, uh, and, and I, this was a big news cycle. There was a huge controversy around it. Uh, a lot of people misreported it by, uh, by closing the loops on things that were, that I, that I didn't say. Um, but that are open questions about what really happened, which, which is, you know, this sort of Taylor Swift as an instrument state graph. And the example I give here is, um,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And what he said is we need to create a covert apparatus to hide what we do from the rest of the world to do secret political warfare on the low. And the problem is the American people are not going to like this. The American people do not understand the intricacies of international relations. They think there's always an easy political cure-all.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And if you pull this up on screen, if just, you know, Jamie, you'll see this and have it all underlined. This is a public YouTube right now on NATO's formal website, the Western Military Alliance. They set up this psychological operations, strategic communication cell to do Internet censorship and information operations out of after Crimea and Riga, Latvia.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And in 2019, they held a conference there about. How to use AI scanning technology to map out narrative distribution networks on social media, Facebook, Twitter, whatnot. And there's three people who are at this thing. One of them was 77th Brigade from from British intelligence who are presenting to NATO. One of them started their career in the Central Intelligence Agency.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And one of them was put in the description is someone who worked at it was part of the Johns Hopkins School of International Affairs school. But then that actually was announced on the panel and. you know, according to their LinkedIn was actually working at the time for Grafica, which is the which does this Internet censorship, they get seven million dollars from the Pentagon.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They were incubated. They were they had they were formerly incubated inside the Pentagon's Minerva Initiative, which is the Psychological Operations Research Center of the Pentagon. When the Pentagon wants to do psychological operations in Africa or in Central Asia, they turn to the thought leadership, the sort of policy planners who pitch ideas about, well, you know, these tactics work.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So, for example, one of the Minerva Initiative grants, not to Grafka, this group, but to others, because theirs was for Russiagate stuff, you know, sort of psychological operations, you know, stuff around fighting the hearts and minds war against Russia, but Grafka. But, you know, others in the cohort were...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
how to secure citizen buy-in after a crisis event in order to make people trust their government against when we topple the government and people think it's a coup. I mean, basically how to get people to trust their government when they're skeptical of it. And then you turn around and see Grafica was partnered with The Atlantic Council, as well as the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Department of Homeland Security, to censor the 2020 election and partnered with our own NIH to censor COVID. But the fact is, all three people on this panel were involved or had a career at one point in intelligence work. And specifically, you know, at least with two of them, psychological operations. And on screen, Jamie, if you can find it, I think you're going to see it.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You're going to save us both a lot of headache because everyone will just see it right there in red underline on a YouTube video everyone can pull up right now. Let me know if you're having trouble finding it. Just trained to spread, maybe. And I'll have this my time. But it literally has a pitch to NATO.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And they think there's a fundamental difference between peace and war. And what he proposed is and this is just two months before this before this would formally be given to the CIA to do. But at the time, what he said was this was this work gangbusters in Italy. We need to replicate this everywhere. We need to create a capacity to do black propaganda, to do economic sabotage, demolition.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah, if you just type in – if you just go to my XFeed and you just hit the search bar and you type in Taylor Swift.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Oh, no. My XFeed is the best way to search it. But it has a picture on that slide deck where, again, this is psychological operations planners pitching to NATO, the Western World's military alliance. And the slide has a picture of Taylor Swift, and it basically says something like – and when the receipt's on the screen, you'll read it directly. It says –
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You know, example of, you know, celebrities who can be trained to spread desired messaging. I think that was the exact phrase trained to spread desired messaging. And she and the presenter goes over the drawbacks of this and how and, you know, what we need to decide.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So the moral efficacy of this, but basically saying that, you know, Taylor Swift has worked in various things before that have been empirically shown to move the needle on government initiatives. For example, her get out the vote campaign. you know, her get out the vote work, increase the vote, her public health campaign stuff, bought by in there. Well, don't, that video has a lot of cursory.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Okay, yeah, pause right there. Okay, no, no, no, no, scroll up, scroll up. Right there, pause right there. And if you, you see that goal, identify key actors to train and spread desired messaging. This is on NATO's, we pay for NATO. We paid for this to be pitched. Now, here's where some of this story got misreported.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I don't know that anyone from NATO directly reached out to Taylor Swift or her campaign to do that. And if they did, this would not be formalized in a formal Pentagon grant or quid pro quo. But I should note, look at who the biggest sponsor of South by Southwest is in Texas now. It's the military. Go ahead and look up the scandal if you want about South by Southwest Pentagon funding.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They've taken over the music industry because it's hearts and minds work. Okay, I guess that just happened in 2024. Let's see. If you go to, okay, so this has caused so much problems for the past couple of years that I guess they're now reforming this. But if you run a Boolean search for before 2024, you'll see this. But basically the Pentagon, or if you scroll down, maybe it might be right there.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
So it caused this big boycott because the Pentagon, in tandem with this music diplomacy program and these U.S. aid backing of these things... Okay, well, that's a U.S. Army in Palestine one, but you'll see the numbers on this. Basically...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
The Pentagon moves into this, and just like they were giving Dua Lipa the awards, just like they're working with Pussy Riot, just like they have 22—in fact, you can look this up if you want the State Department Music Diplomacy Program, 22 rappers, hip-hop. you'll see, again, these people become network nodes. They become assets to play with.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And, you know, an incredible example of this that I hesitate to discuss here because I know that the organization that these documents leaked from is contesting, you know, these documents. But there's... There's evidence to suggest the same play around recruiting the hip-hop artists in Cuba. Here you go. Breakdancing news. Diplomacy meets hip-hop as 22 artists visit the U.S., OK, this is the U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
State Department. We are paying to recruit them as assets. So when they go and you go and look at the country list, if you want, look how far and wide this is to the edges of the earth. You know, you know, Mongolia, Cameroon, you know, there's a whole there's a whole thing here. But basically. It was protest rock. It was protest rap in Cuba for that USAID operation. It was protest rap.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
There's language, for example, in this Gray Zone report around Bangladesh, and I'll leave it to the current fight between them and the National Endowment for Democracy about the nature of those documents. But
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
yet those documents that grid that the gray zone published have to wrap songs in bangladesh that that have lines like they were designed uh... to inspire anti-government act uh... uh... uh... sentiment into uh... into promote uh... street protests and uh... and political reform i mean it literally writing rap albums to get people to take to the streets and pull off the exact right that the state for wants to destabilize the country
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
There's a whole list of what's authorized under NSC 10-2. And and what he says is the American people are not necessarily going to like this. And we're going to need to effectively hide what we do from them, because if they find out, then the rest of the world finds out. If we're trying to run an operation in Eurasia and we report this in U.S. news, well, then any person in Eurasia who reads U.S.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And music penetrates. I mean, they got really attached to this during the Cold War and in the 1980s because it's – and in fact, in those documents, they talk about how sponsoring individual artists is actually sometimes a lot more effective because they do art and activism. While they're doing – they're putting on these festivals, they're promoting an agenda at the festivals.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
while they are putting these, you know, songs on radio distribution and supercharging, you know, their brand, those songs have themes and messages about taking down authoritarian governments and the people got to rise up. And, you know, we have to represent the will of the people.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
We have to, you know, end poverty, you know, and then they'll make the argument it's the government's fault that there's poverty. We have to end it. Racial or gender inequality. And then the State Department or USAID will be working through its demographic segmentation with those exact groups. This is another reason we've been pumping up these feminist groups and these LGBT groups.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If you want, for example, you can pull up the WikiLeaks CIA red cell memo that showed how the CIA pitched to the State Department in the during the Afghanistan war. that uh... the best way to shore up additional funds from european parliaments is to is to transition states media uh... octopus messaging from a national security predicate for uh... for the war to a uh... to a feminism
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And a women's empowerment won because of field work and polling from the Central Intelligence Agency around Europe showed that European parliaments and voting demographics felt, it said on surveys that they were more willing to give money or wanted to give more money from their own government coffers, their own taxpayer funds to the war in Afghanistan.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
If it was about stopping repression against women or if it was about giving women more rights in the society and whatnot. And so that that was because the CIA loves feminism. Now, this was a cold, calculated instrument of statecraft. to shift the messaging, and then also to work with these exact groups who have that cleavage point ax to grind against their country as part of the mobilizations.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's how you see a lot of these women's marches and women's protests, or you see a lot of these sort of protected class ones, because that also gets you the human rights, you know, predicate to add sanctions and other, you know, protected speech measures. Like this is why the State Department pushed Facebook to put hate speech provisions in place to stop hate speech against the Rohingya.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I don't have a good record, you know, in the 80s and 90s. There's a lot of strange things there, and I want to tell you what I really feel. It is highly controversial, though, and I...
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
news now knows about it. And so that was authorized at the time with simultaneous with the Smith-Munn Act, which I'm not. Are you familiar with the Smith-Munn Act?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
I'm not sure with everything else that we're covering and some of the other things that I, you know, I'd like to be able to just hit before the conversation concludes about, about us AIDS control and influence over prosecutors. And an example in Brazil, since I know that a lot of people in Brazil want to get to Brazil. Okay. Yeah. Um, I'm going to get in a lot of trouble if I say this, uh,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
When you read that National Endowment for Democracy, oh, we didn't do the Poland one. Can we circle back to this in one second? Yes. Just because this really is an appropriate international incident to talk about this here. If you go to my X feed and you just type in search Poland or the word PIS as a one-off, or you can just scroll down. You'll see I re-upped it earlier this morning.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
You're going to see the National Endowment for Democracy's in-house journal called the Journal of Democracy. Again, the NED is this CIA front group. The New York Times reported the CIA gets a copy of every grant that they make. Their own founders say that the CIA got in trouble for sponsoring democracy.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
uh pro-democracy groups around the world in the 1960s and that's why we don't do it anymore and that's why the national endowment was created uh basically to take the baton from the cia during that transition between carter anti-cia and and reagan pro-cia this was the compromise between left and right and that that's why they have two political cores ira and ndi but can you pull that back up
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Okay. USAID's partner in operations arm, National Endowment for Democracy, has been specifically demanding Donald Tusk's government in Poland must find ways to arrest high-ranking members of the PIS party in order to, quote, stamp out populism. They wrote this the first month in office. So, and again, you'll see this is responding to someone facing three years for flagging votes.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now, let's click on this. And again, we pay as taxpayers for the production of National Endowment for Democracy's in-house journal, the Journal of Democracy. So can you can you zoom out to zoom out a little bit when you see this? Yeah. Perfect. How to dismantle a liberal democracy. So, again, NATO was at war with the PIS party.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
They wanted more cooperation on security, on economic issues, whole other can of worms. They wanted Donald Tusk, the pro EU pro super pro NATO candidate to win. He wins. The month he takes office, this is December 2023, National Endowment for Democracy, the CIA publishes this think piece, how to dismantle in a liberal democracy.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
And again, I think formally, you know, what's published here is supposed to, you know, not technically, it's published in the NED publication. It doesn't mean it's NED foreign policy, but this is what they're publishing and you're paying for. So they're saying, listen, it's not an autocracy in Poland. Unfortunately, we can't call it a dictator like Putin or the CCP.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Yeah. What was done then under Obama was the effective repeal of it. It was called the Smith Modernization Act.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's democracy because the people voted for it and they won fair and square. But it's a liberal democracy because the democratic institutions, don't you know, are not having their way. But here's what it says. Poland may be saying on its first steps in, quote, stamping out populism and holding those responsible for the worst violations of rule of law. That means the criminal justice system.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Now get to the next one. Next slide. Poland's new government must therefore do more than just return to liberal democracy. It must address transitional justice, the same thing, which is all over every USAID operation. It has to arrest the people from the government we just transitioned from.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Prime Minister Tusk and his coalition must, again, not should, not maybe should consider, maybe if there's something there, must stabilize the political system. I mean, ensure the reign against losing in the next election. To ensure that populism does not return in the next election. Donald Trump is a populist president. Bolsonaro is a populist president. Marine Le Pen is populist in France.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Matteo Savini is populist in Italy. This is State Department and USAID policy everywhere. And this is part of the can of worms that's going to have to be unwoven here.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But this is a direct order that in order to make sure you win the next election and we don't need to keep funding you or projecting our lending our soft power apparatus to prop you up, arrest these people so they can't run against you again. Go to the next one. Can you zoom out?
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
But the modernization got rid of the whole purpose of it, the firewall, because at the time, the media and media control was seen as the linchpin crux of winning the Cold War, piping in pro-US media influence so that – because everything moved after World War II from kinetic warfare and military occupation.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
It's not just telling them that you must do it if you want to get USAID support like the, you know, the Ukraine, you know, Ukraine Burisma loan type thing. But here's what it says. The new government should therefore focus attention on whether and how suspected criminals can be punished. At present, there are a number of cases that should be tried immediately. The chutzpah, the frigging chutzpah.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
This is a foreign country. As far as the Polish people's people are concerned, this is a foreign government. It's foreign CIA front apparatus imploring their own elected government about which citizens there that they need to arrest those citizens and even giving them the list of targets.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
Imagine if the Russian Ministry of Affairs sent Donald Trump said, not only do you have to, you know, arrest people,
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2272 - Mike Benz
the remnants of the of the kamala harris joe biden campaign but we're giving the list of target names here's who pam bondi the attorney general must file criminal indictments against this is an international incident again technically i believe what's published here is not they're not supposed to be you know does not represent it's like retweets are not endorsements but you're paying for this organization you're paying for this journal and this is what they're publishing as a command to a foreign country
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2197 - Mike Baker
Hey, Joe, it's the replacer. Yeah. No, you. Hey, I'm going to take it from here so you can enjoy some Call of Duty Black Ops 6. Great. Now, listen up, folks. Life can be chaotic, but you shouldn't have to miss out on the latest Call of Duty just because you've got, I don't know, responsibilities. That's where I come in. I will handle the boring stuff like work, chores, even podcast ads.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2197 - Mike Baker
Well, I think it's important that we all participate. It's a free market. I gotta go. I gotta go.
The Joe Rogan Experience
#2197 - Mike Baker
So you can dive right into the fight. Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is out October 25th. So dive in because I've got your back. Remember, I replace you, Blade. It's that simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
The development is the clearest signal yet that, despite their public statements, Beijing is eager to de-escalate the trade war and limit the impact on their export-driven economy, as orders dry up, manufacturers pause production, and factories shut down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, China already began granting tariff waivers last week for certain product categories, including aspects of the aviation, pharmaceutical and semiconductor sectors. But the official existence of a so-called, quote, white list for broader exemptions, described by Chinese sources with knowledge of the matter to Reuters, had not previously been disclosed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Die Behörden in China haben die Liste nicht öffentlich geteilt oder sogar ihre Existenz beurteilt, und es ist unklar, wie viele Produkte von den Tarifen ausgewählten Ausgaben erhoben werden. Gerichte sagen, dass eine große Ausgabe, aber, anhand der industriellen Chemie Ethyl ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Die USA sind der einzige große Verbraucher von Ethyl weltweit, und China kauft fast die Hälfte dieser Ausgaben, bei einer Erhöhung von mehr als 200.000 Perl pro Tag im Jahr 2024. Athen ist kritisch für die Produktion von chinesischen Petrochemikalien, besonders für die große Plastikindustrie in Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Die Berichterstatter, die mit Reuters gesprochen haben, sagten, dass Firmen, die für Ausgaben zuständig sind, von öffentlichen Offizialen privat kontaktiert werden, die auch Unternehmen über andere potenzielle Sektoren überprüfen, wo Tarifausgaben möglich sein könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Analysts noted that this quiet approach by the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, allows China to maintain its hardline messaging, demanding the US back down, while easing the economic damage of the trade war domestically. As we recently discussed, the devastating financial impact of Trump's 145% tariffs and Beijing's 125% retaliatory tariffs have been felt swiftly in China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Chinese manufacturers are beginning to pause production entirely and shut down factories as they scramble to find new buyers, with warehouses filling with unsent goods. An official report on manufacturing in April found that China's factory activity has contracted at its fastest pace in 16 months. But those economic shocks will soon likely be felt here in the US as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Cargo volumes into the US have already fallen dramatically, and shipments through the port of Los Angeles are expected to drop by an eye-watering 35% next week. Most American businesses will need to restock by mid-May, and major retailers like Target and Walmart have warned consumers to expect higher prices and empty shelves.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
The decline in imports could trigger large-scale layoffs in the retail, trucking and logistics sectors. And to make matters worse, a Commerce Department report released Wednesday found that the US economy shrunk by 0.3% between January and March. That's the first quarter of negative growth since the beginning of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
It's Wednesday, the 30th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, we may have an answer as to who's going to blink first in the ongoing tariffs battle, China or the U.S. ?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Still, President Trump remains optimistic that economic relief is in sight, saying at a rally on Tuesday that he thinks a quote fair trade deal with China is within reach. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant echoed those sentiments, telling reporters that the tariffs are quote unsustainable for China and could soon cost their economy 5 to 10 million jobs if Beijing does not start making concessions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Besant hat gesagt, er erinnert sich darauf, dass wir das Defizitland sind. Sie verkaufen fast fünfmal mehr Güter zu uns, als wir sie verkaufen zu ihnen. Also wird es an ihnen sein, diese Tarife zu entfernen. Kommen wir zum nächsten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Wladimir Putin kann von den USA mehr intense Druck ausüben, um den Krieg zu beenden, nachdem Präsident Trump und ukrainischer Präsident Zelenskys private Meeting am Sonntag im Vatikan stattgefunden haben. Ich werde gleich zurückkehren. Hey, Mike Baker hier. With the temperatures warming up, spring is definitely here. And, as you might have guessed, it's grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
And I'm about to give you a tip on where to find the best beef to throw on the grill. Of course, I'm talking about a classic American business. You've probably heard me talk about them before. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. Yes, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tritails isn't some corporate meat factory or a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman or no mystery with Tritails. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker hier. Well, I suspect by now you've heard all about the trade wars, all about the tariffs, and you know that they've thrown the global economy into some chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on everyone, right? But there is a silver lining that I think some people may have missed, and in fact it's also a gold lining. What I mean is that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
And while the new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
The first step is to text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free, no obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Berch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Berch Gold to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker compound and it is absolutely true. Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
China ist beruflich, ruhig, eine Liste von US-produkten verabschiedet, die von den Pflichten verabschiedet sind, weil der finanzielle Einfluss der Tarife auf ihre exportabhängige Wirtschaft zerstört ist. Aber es ist nicht alles Sonne und Rosen für die US-Ökonomie, die über das erste Quartier dieses Jahres verschwunden ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Willkommen zurück im Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Wir lernen neue Details über das, was Zelenskyy Trump während seines 15-Minuten-Meetings im Vatikan am Samstag gesagt hat, wo er für eine hartere Linie auf den russischen Leiter Wladimir Putin gedrängt hat und für einen wiederholten Anruf für einen Aussturz. Wie wir am Montags-PDB diskutiert haben, hat der Sit-Down in der St.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Petersbasilika auf den Seiten des Feierabends für den Papst Franziskus stattgefunden, trotz des abenteuerlichen Sturms aus dem Februar-Oval-Office-Geräusch, der kurzfristig die Militärhilfe und Intel-Sharing aufgelöst hat, und der fortschrittlichen öffentlichen Sparring zwischen den beiden Leitern auf den sozialen Medien.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Zielinski's team was reportedly split on whether another face-to-face with Trump was worth the risk. But two sources briefed on the exchange told Axios the Ukrainian president walked away believing he'd made a dent, perhaps his first, in Trump's long-held view of Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Dann, wenige Stunden später, auf dem Flughafen Air Force One, hat Trump zwei soziale Wahrheiten mit einer schrecklichen Entfernung von seinem gewohnten Ton gemacht. Reaktiv zu einem brutalen, aerialen Angriff auf Kiew, hat er geschrieben, Quote, Es macht mich denken, dass Putin vielleicht nicht wollen will, den Krieg zu stoppen. Er ist nur mich anzupassen und muss anders behandelt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Ende Quote. Trump flog Sanktionen als möglichen nächsten Schritt. During their private conversation, Zelenskyy warned that Putin would only respond to pressure and urged Trump to revisit his earlier demand for an unconditional ceasefire, which Ukraine accepted, but Russia spurned.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
One source said Trump appeared open to reconsidering his posture, even acknowledging that his approach to Putin might need to evolve. The White House declined to confirm or deny the account. Zelenskyy hat auch die ukrainische Position geäußert, dass sie Russlands Annexierung von Crimea nie erkennen würde. Laut einer der Berichte sagte Trump, dass er diese Position respektiert hätte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Während die Administrationsteam-Frage die US-Erkennung des russischen Kontrollen über die Peninsule beinhaltet, hat ein Vorsitzender bemerkt, dass Trump klar gemacht hat, dass er der Ukraine nicht das gleiche tun würde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Later in the show we're learning more details about the pivotal meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky at the Vatican on Saturday and why it may cause President Trump to take a tougher stance against Russian President Putin. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Zelenskyy hat gesagt, dass irgendwelche ernsthafte Verabschiedungen, um den Krieg zu beenden, Bindungs- und Sicherheitswahrnehmungen benötigen, und das ist ein Punkt, den er wiederholt hat. Einer der möglichen Gründe für einen produktiveren Ton, laut den Nachrichten, war die Unwahrheit des Vizepräsidenten J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Vance und des White-House-Envoy Steve Witkoff, beide von Kiew als sympathisch mit Moskau betrachtet. Trump hat für seinen Teil den Zeitraum genutzt, Zelensky zu pressen, über den langstrahlenden US-Ukraine-Minerals-Versuch, der seit Wochen in Red Tape befestigt wurde. Eine Suche, die sich mit dem Thema bekannt macht, sagte CNN, dass der Vertrag so früh wie heute gegründet werden könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Der Deal, der seit Trumps Rückkehr in den White House im Januar funktioniert, würde den USA Zugang zu Ukraines riesigen unabhängigen Mineralreservs geben, um Washington's Investitionen in Kiews Kriegsbewegung zu bezahlen. Ukraine's Prime Minister confirmed Tuesday that their economy minister was headed to Washington, potentially to finalize the agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Still, it remains to be seen whether Trump's harder tone on Putin will stick. In a follow-up ABC News interview on Tuesday, the president reiterated his belief that Putin, quote, could be tapping me along a little bit, but said he still thinks the Russian leader wants to end the war. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
At the State Department, Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said the US remains willing to, quote, step back as mediators if ceasefire talks continue to stall. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 30th of April. That is the last day of April. You know what? We're heading into May, as if you didn't know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And of course, as you've probably read in the gossip pages, to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 30th, 2025: China Caves On More Tariffs—Exempts List Of US Goods & Why Trump May Be Turning On Putin
Wir beginnen heute mit einem Update auf die US-China-Tradwahl, als Berichte herausfinden, dass die Führer in Beijing von den Tarifen der Trump-Administrationen zu der Druck kommen. Laut einem exklusiven Bericht von Reuters hat der kommunistische Regime eine Liste von US-produkten erschaffen, die von ihren 125%-Retaliator-Tarifen and to quietly notifying companies of the shift in policy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
And not just silver, it's also gold in there somewhere. President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. And while these new policies are triggering some significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
So, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. It's very easy. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA with no money out of pocket.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In today's Back of the Brief, a U.S. Navy F-A-18 Super Hornet fell into the Red Sea. The almost $70 million aircraft was being towed on the deck of the carrier USS Harry Truman when a sudden evasive turn by the ship to dodge incoming fire from Yemen's Houthi rebels caused the plane and its towing vehicle to fall into the sea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
It's Wednesday, the 30th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off by taking a closer look at Vladimir Putin's declaration of a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The mishap unfolded as the Iran-backed terror group claimed on Monday to have launched a missile and drone attack toward the Truman, prompting the carrier to veer sharply, hard enough, officials said, to destabilize the fighter jet as it was being moved across the hangar bay.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The tow crew lost control and the jet valued at some $70 million, actually more if it was equipped with cupholders and floor mats, careened overboard. A sailor stationed inside the cockpit, which is standard protocol during towing, managed to jump free just before the Super Hornet went into the water. That sailor sustained a minor injury, but all personnel were accounted for.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Ukrainian President Zelensky called the move, quote, another attempt at manipulation and said that a few days of quiet isn't good enough. Zelensky said, quote, the ceasefire should not be just for a few days. It must be immediate, full, and unconditional for at least 30 days to ensure it is secure and guaranteed. That, he said, is the foundation that could lead to real diplomacy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The Navy said in a statement Monday that the crew, quote, took immediate action to move clear of the jet as it went over.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The exact details of the turn that the Truman made to avoid the Houthi fire have not been released, but photos of the Defense Department's website show just how dramatically Nimitz-class carriers like the Truman can list during high-speed evasive maneuvers, sometimes destabilizing operations on deck.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Still, the Navy was quick to stress that the USS Harry Truman Carrier Strike Group and its air wing remain, quote, fully mission capable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
As we've covered here on the PDB, the Truman is deployed to the Red Sea as part of the Trump administration's expanded military campaign against the Houthis, designed to secure commercial shipping routes and eliminate the Iran-backed terror group's ability to menace maritime traffic.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
That escalation began after the Houthis declared solidarity with Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel and they turned their sights on vessels headed for Israeli ports. When the U.S. Navy stepped in to shield merchant ships, the terrorists responded by targeting American warships directly.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has intensified airstrikes on Houthi targets inside Yemen, strikes that have drawn fresh retaliatory threats from the terror group. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 30th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
And remember to check out our not-yet-award-winning but still highly entertaining YouTube channel, which you can find by going to at President's Daily Brief. Now, help us to get to 100,000 subscribers on YouTube. We're very close, at which point we'll engage in a variety of celebratory shenanigans and hijinks, including a live stream that you won't want to miss.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The White House echoed that skepticism. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes issued a statement Monday saying, quote, While President Trump welcomes Vladimir Putin's willingness to pause the conflict, the president has been very clear he wants a permanent ceasefire and to bring this conflict to a peaceful resolution, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
So that raises the question, why now and why these specific three days? Well, first... it's not likely that Putin has suddenly discovered compassion. The last time Russia announced a so-called humanitarian ceasefire, it was on Easter, and Russian forces violated it within hours. Putin also, of course, continues to launch missile attacks on Ukrainian cities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Now, not to sound cynical, oh, but I think I'm about to, there's a good chance, and by that I mean there's every chance, that this ceasefire has nothing to do with being compassionate and everything to do with optics. May 9th, you see, is Victory Day in Russia, a deeply significant national holiday marking the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
And under Putin's leadership, it's taken on even more symbolic weight. Military parades, speeches, patriotic displays, ice cream for the toddlers, it's a big affair. Think of it like Russia's version of the Fourth of July in the U.S., but...
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
With more tanks and missiles on display and fewer hot dogs and beer bongs And this year, well, it's an especially big deal It's the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in Russia Putin wants it to go off without a hitch, of course And without the sound of air raid sirens echoing across Red Square He's invited several high-profile guests to attend the parade Including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico And Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
For the record, he also invited President Trump. Trump, however, declined. Now, think about the risk here. Over the past three years, Ukraine has proven its ability to strike targets inside Russia, even deep into Moscow. Drone strikes have hit the capital multiple times, including a dramatic moment last year when one drone actually landed on the Kremlin's roof.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Just last month, Russian air defenses intercepted more than 90 drones over Moscow in a single night. So imagine what that might look like if it happens again, this time with Xi Jinping sitting front row at the parade, eating popcorn and sipping on a Big Gulp. The last thing Putin wants is footage of the Chinese president diving for cover.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Now, Putin claims it's for humanitarian reasons because, well, nothing says I'm a humanitarian like invading another country and contributing to death and destruction for over three years. We'll unpack what's really going on. Later in the show, tensions erupt near Syria's capital with 13 killed in sectarian violence.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Now, that's not the image of control and strength that the Kremlin wants to project. So, yes, Putin wants a ceasefire, but not really for peace, not to protect civilians. He wants a ceasefire to protect his image. And frankly, in Moscow, that's always priority number one.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
All right, coming up next, deadly sectarian violence erupts near Damascus, and a massive power outage across Europe sparks fresh concerns about the reliability of green energy. Where's Greta Thunberg when you need her? I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, it's grilling season. Well, you knew that because you've already taken the cover off the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
And I'm about to tell you where you can get the finest beef possible to throw on that grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high-quality beef in the great state of Texas. And, of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory. They're not a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and they ship it straight to your door, so there's no middleman or no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged, and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker compound, and it is absolutely true. designed to restore, refresh, and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, so you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth Risk-Free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Another wave of sectarian violence and bloodshed erupted early yesterday just miles from Damascus, killing 13 in a Druze-majority town after an audio clip sparked a mob attack, a grim reminder of the new government's tenuous grip on post-Assad Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The violence broke out in Jeramana, a suburb of the capital, after a recording allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad surfaced on social media falsely attributed to a prominent Druze leader. The inflammatory clip triggered a wave of anger in nearby Sunni-majority towns, including Malaya, where armed men quickly mobilized and stormed Jeramana overnight, according to local officials.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Plus, officials are scrambling to determine what caused a massive power outage across parts of Europe. Early reports point to solar plant failures, and it's of course raising new questions about the stability of modern energy grids. Here's a pro tip, don't give up on fossil fuels just yet. And in today's Back of the Brief, how a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In a statement late Tuesday, Syria's Interior Ministry confirmed the casualties and said it had opened an investigation into what it described as, quote, intermittent clashes between groups of gunmen. The ministry vowed to pursue those responsible and hold them accountable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
As we've discussed here on the PDB, the newly formed government in Damascus, cobbled together from the rebel factions that toppled leader Bashar al-Assad in December, promised to unify the war-fractured country and safeguard its religious minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
But the Germanic killings highlight a sobering reality The post-Assad era has yet to deliver stability, especially for communities long caught in Syria's sectarian violence Among the 13 killed were two members of Syria's General Security Service, that's a new force made up of mostly former rebels, according to an Interior Ministry spokesman
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that six Druze fighters from Germana were also killed, along with three of the attackers. The Druze community in Germana swiftly condemned the violence and the doctored audio message, calling it a malicious fabrication, quote, meant to incite sedition and sow division among the people of the same nation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Marwan Kiwan, the Druze leader falsely linked to the recording, posted a video denying any connection to the inflammatory message. He stated, quote, I categorically deny that the audio was made by me, adding, quote, whoever made it is an evil man who wants to incite strife between components of the Syrian people.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The Jarrahmana attack is the latest in a string of sectarian flashpoints since Assad's ouster. As PDB listeners may remember from last month, brutal clashes between Assad loyalists from the Alawite community and the new government's security forces in the coastal governance of Tartus and Latakia spiraled into mass vigilante killings, leaving hundreds dead.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Although Syria's 14-year civil war is officially over, the country remains carved into fragile zones of influence. The Druze, an Arab minority whose religion branched out from Islam, have largely armed themselves throughout the conflict to defend against jihadist factions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The Interior Ministry says it's investigating the source of the forged audio and has appealed for calm, but many fear the damage is already done. With sectarian wounds still raw and trust in the new government low, Germana may not be the last flashpoint, but rather the latest reminder that Syria's long-awaited peace remains fractured and dangerously combustible. Okay, turning to Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
A massive power outage plunged Spain and Portugal into chaos earlier this week, halting public transport, freezing financial systems, and sending city streets into darkness in one of the continent's most widespread energy collapses in decades.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Initially blamed on solar plant breakdowns in Spain, the blackout triggered a national emergency declaration, shuttered critical infrastructure, and reignited longstanding fears over the fragility of Europe's vastly interconnected energy grid. But turnaround, well, was quick.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
By sunrise Tuesday, more than 99% of Spain's power supply had been restored, according to Red Electrica, the country's national electricity operator. Portugal's grid agency, REN, said all 89 substations were back online by late Monday night, bringing power back to over 6 million customers. So, you ask, what exactly happened? Well, a fine question.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
According to Red Electrica, two separate power generation failures, likely involving solar plants, destabilized the Spanish grid and ruptured its energy connection with France via the Pyrenees. Reuters, citing unnamed officials, reported that both breakdowns occurred in southwestern Spain, though investigations remain ongoing. Wren, Portugal's grid operator, offered a different diagnosis.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Navy Super Hornet worth almost $70 million, that's a lot of fat stacks, ended up at the bottom of the ocean. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. As we reported earlier this week, Russian President Putin has announced what he's calling a humanitarian gesture. Oh, good for him. A three-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
It pointed to a, quote, rare atmospheric phenomenon, claiming extreme temperature swings had triggered anomalous oscillations in high-voltage transmission lines. Ah, of course. A disruption known in energy circles as induced atmospheric vibration. Of course. Induced atmospheric vibration. That, of course, was my first thought when the lights went out. Spain's weather agency wasn't convinced.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In a statement Tuesday, it flatly stated that no abnormal temperature swings or atmospheric anomalies were recorded. That contradiction hasn't helped calm nerves. The financial toll of the blackout across the Iberian Peninsula is still being tallied, but according to investment bank RBC, the economic impact could range anywhere from $2.5 billion to over $5 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In Spain, some 35,000 passengers were rescued from halted metro cars and stranded trains. Footage from Madrid and Barcelona, some people say Barcelona, showed swarms of commuters evacuating blackened subway tunnels. Parliament also went dark, but nobody noticed. Okay, I'm kidding. Of course, of course, folks would notice if Parliament went dark. The sheer loss of hot air would alarm people.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Lisbon wasn't spared. Traffic lights blinked out, subways stalled, and emergency services scrambled to maintain order as confusion gripped the capital. A joint emergency cabinet session between Madrid and Lisbon was convened to manage the fallout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
In a televised address Monday night, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the event, stating, quote, "...we have never had a complete collapse of the system," and he pledged full investigation. Sanchez confirmed Spain's top criminal court had opened an inquiry into whether a, quote, computer sabotage incident triggered the collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
He also said he had discussed the matter with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, citing potential security implications. Portugal's Prime Minister, Luiz Montenegro, tried to tamp down fears, insisting there was, quote, no indication of a cyber attack. But rumors of intentional sabotage were already reverberating across social media.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
I want to point out that this wasn't Europe's first blackout of this scale. Back in 2003, a hydroelectric malfunction between Italy and Switzerland plunged the Italian peninsula into darkness for about 12 hours. And in 2006, an overloaded German line caused rolling blackouts from Western Europe all the way to North Africa. And now, two decades later, Europe is facing the same vulnerabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The full cause of Monday's outage, well, it remains murky. But what's clear is that the continent's power infrastructure is no more resilient today than it was all the way back in 2003. In an era of hybrid warfare and digital disruption, that fragility is starting to look less like a technical oversight and more like a strategic liability.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, a $70 million fighter jet falls off the deck of a carrier and is lost at sea. Well, I'm sure it was insured. We'll tell you what we know about the incident aboard the USS Harry Truman next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
The Kremlin says the unilateral pause in hostilities will begin just after midnight on the 7th of May and last through the end of the 10th of May. A statement from Putin's office claimed, quote, all military actions are suspended for this period. Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example, end quote. But, frankly, not everyone is buying the goodwill angle.
The President's Daily Brief
April 30th, 2025: The Real Reason Behind Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire & Sectarian Clashes Continue In Syria
Well, you've heard about tariffs, and you've heard about the trade wars, and you know that those things have really thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, it's all weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you there's a silver lining that most people may have missed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
She called it a, quote, preposterous waste of taxpayer money and an example of the kind of rampant excesses, well, that's true, that the Trump administration is trying to purge from U.S. foreign aid programs. Levitt added, quote, that's what this pause is focused on, being good stewards of tax dollars. Officials with the former Biden administration were quick to hit back at those allegations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
It's Wednesday, 29 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get ourselves briefed. First, as they work to trim waste across government agencies, the Trump administration has pulled $50 million in taxpayer funding allegedly earmarked by the previous administration for the distribution of condoms in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Andrew Miller, the former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Israeli-Palestinian Affairs under Biden, told the Times of Israel that the White House's claims were a, quote, "...feverish dream." He claimed that while it was possible that $50 million was set aside for, quote, sexual health or something of that nature, it was not going towards condoms alone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Ah, see, you have to really pay attention to what they say. So they did have a Johnny's for Gaza program, just maybe not totaling all $50 million. That, of course, would be called splitting hairs. The Trump administration has stood by their claim and said the planned spending has officially been axed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
It's worth noting, strange as it might sound, that the condom issue potentially has real-world consequences for the security of Israel. According to a report from Fox News, in 2020, militants in Gaza used scores of condoms to create IED-carrying balloons that were then floated into southern Israel. causing panic on schoolyards and farmlands and highways.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
While it's not clear if the practice has continued, the incidents in 2020 reportedly burned thousands of hectares of land, causing millions in damages. As a reminder, over the weekend, Secretary of State Marco Rubio paused all U.S. foreign assistance funded through the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development for 90 days, following an executive order from President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
The White House argued that the move was done to give the department time to review budgets and ensure that all taxpayer expenditures are aligned with the new White House administration's America First priorities. But the decision drew immediate outrage from Democrats, really, who said it would damage America's international standing and jeopardize critical aid programs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
The White House, countered by pointing to the planned spending on condoms in Gaza, hardly a vital interest for U.S. taxpayers. Notably, Rubio did exempt emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt from the freeze, as the funds are critical to maintaining the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
A State Department spokesperson said, "...President Trump stated clearly that the U.S. is no longer going to blindly dole out money with no return for the American people." Reviewing and realigning foreign assistance on behalf of hardworking taxpayers is not just the right thing to do, it's a moral imperative." Coming up, following months of tense negotiations, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
military is transferring 90 Patriot missile interceptors from storage in Israel to Ukraine. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The US military has transferred roughly 90 Patriot air defense missile interceptors from storage in Israel over to Poland this week. Now, the maneuver is aimed at bolstering Ukraine's aerial defense capabilities against Russia's missile barrages on critical infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
According to Axios, the American-made interceptors, integrated initially into Israel's air defense network during the Gulf War, had been phased out in April last year in favor of the country's more advanced Iron Dome and other advanced systems such as David's Sling. Ukraine, facing a shortage of Patriot missiles, pushed Washington to repurpose the decommissioned interceptors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
This is clearly a story that needs investigating. Then, following months of tense negotiations, the U.S. military is transferring 90 Patriot missile interceptors from storage in Israel to Ukraine, marking the single largest delivery of weapons from Jerusalem to Kiev since Russia's invasion nearly three years ago. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Negotiations over their fate began last year between the US, Israel, and Kyiv, but the process was mired in diplomatic hesitation. Israeli officials wary of provoking Russia. Well, stalled for months. Moscow maintains a military presence in Syria, at least for now, and has the capacity to escalate arms supplies to Iran, which, of course, backs terror groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
With Israel already engaged in a two-front war in Gaza and Lebanon, Netanyahu's government was reluctant to take any steps that could invite Russian retaliation. According to Ukrainian officials, frustration in Kyiv mounted as Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly ignored President Zelensky's calls on the matter for weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Instead, Netanyahu sought to discuss a separate issue, that would be allowing ultra-Orthodox Israelis to travel to the Ukrainian city of Oman for a religious pilgrimage. Zelensky, in turn, refused to engage on that request until the Patriot deal was approved. Ultimately, in late September, Netanyahu signed off on the transfer. Israel, however, denies any connection between the two issues.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Now, to sidestep direct involvement in arming Ukraine, the Israeli government framed the move as merely, quote, "...returning the Patriots to the U.S." An Israeli official emphasized that Moscow had been notified beforehand, echoing the approach taken when the U.S. transferred emergency artillery shells from Israeli stockpiles to Ukraine back in 2022. In recent days, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Air Force C-17 transport planes touched down at an air base in southern Israel, loaded the interceptors, and ferried them to a key logistical hub for delivering Western military aid to Ukraine in Poland. Additional components, such as radars and other critical systems, will first be sent to the U.S. for refurbishment before a potential deployment to Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
This latest transfer underscores the Pentagon's urgency in reinforcing Ukraine's air defenses as Russian missile barrages intensify. The newly supplied interceptors will integrate with Ukraine's existing Patriot batteries, boosting Kyiv's capacity to counter waves of aerial attacks. However, while this shipment provides a short-term boost, Ukraine's long-term security remains uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Kiev continues to press Washington and NATO allies for additional military aid. That's a request complicated by the Trump administration's freeze last week on all foreign aid outside of food assistance and military aid solely to Israel and Egypt. For now, the question of future weapons deliveries to Kyiv from the U.S., well, remains uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 29 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, that can be done. All you have to do is become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
And I know based on the tease that you're keen to get to our afternoon spotlight. The Trump administration's decision to temporarily freeze foreign aid has drawn attention to a rather bizarre use of taxpayer funds. And that, of course, would be the condoms for the people of Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
K, the Trump White House claimed Tuesday that the Biden administration had earmarked tens of millions of dollars for a condom distribution program in the Gaza Strip, an expenditure that was reportedly discovered during a review by Elon Musk's new Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 29th, 2025: Trump Axes $50 Million For Condoms In Gaza & Ukraine Gets Major Delivery Of Patriot Missile Interceptors
At the first official White House press briefing of Trump's second term, Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt told reporters that Doge, "...found that there was about to be 50 million taxpayer dollars going out the door to fund condoms in Gaza."
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
As you'll recall, residents of New Jersey and other northeastern states began noticing unidentified drones over both residential areas and sensitive sites last November, with the sightings increasing substantially over a very short period of time.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The activity caused widespread disruptions in New Jersey across November and December, including temporary flight restrictions over President Trump's golf club in Bedminster and over the Picatinny Arsenal military base. At the height of the activity in December, the New York Stewart International Airport was forced to close its runways for an hour due to drone activity in their airspace.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The incidents prompted New York Governor Kathy Hochul to request federal assistance on the issue and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to appeal to congressional lawmakers and President Biden to take action at the federal level.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
But White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said that the federal government was well aware of why the activity was occurring, raising questions, of course, about why officials in the Biden administration stonewalled on the issue, refusing to offer the public any clarity. Yes, that is a question worth asking.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Levitt implied that this lack of transparency actually caused more problems, as curious hobbyists and private citizens began flying their own drones at night to investigate the phenomena, fueling increased sightings among frightened residents.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The panic reached a fever pitch in mid-December, prompting speculations by lawmakers that the drones belonged to a foreign adversary such as Iran or China, as well as online theories that they were actually UFOs with otherworldly origins. You travel all that way just to fly over New Jersey. The truth, as it turns out, is out there, but it's actually far less interesting than the speculation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Levitt said, quote, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons. She then emphasized, quote, this was not the enemy, end quote. Well, it does make you wonder why the Biden White House wouldn't have just cleared that up right away.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Levitt said the information she was sharing came directly from President Trump, who briefed her on the situation earlier on Tuesday in the Oval Office. As you may recall, late last year, Trump criticized the Biden administration for their silence, saying that the government knew the origin of the drones, but, quote, for some reason, they want to keep people in suspense.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The actions build off of an executive order Trump signed on his first day back in office, revoking the Biden administration's 2021 directive allowing trans people to serve openly in the military. That's according to an exclusive report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
We should note that Leavitt did not elaborate on what kind of research these drones were conducting or who was operating them. So while the update from the White House is a welcome one, it's not likely, frankly, to put this issue entirely to rest. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 29 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Now, as you may be aware, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
It's Wednesday, 29 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, we're looking at a series of new executive orders from President Trump that are shaking up the U.S. military, from banning transgender service members to dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The new orders specifically prohibit, quote, gender radicalism in the military, barring any service member who identifies as a gender other than their birth sex from serving or enlisting on the grounds of mental unfitness.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Now, it's not clear how the administration will deal with the estimated 9,000 active duty and 6,000 reserve troops already enlisted who identify as transgender, though it directs the Pentagon to determine a policy for those individuals within 30 days.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Furthermore, the orders ban biological men and women from sharing bathrooms, bedrooms, and changing areas while in the service and prohibits the use of, quote, invented and identification-based pronoun usage, end quote. President Trump said Monday, to ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
It's going to be gone, end quote. Regarding more specific DEI initiatives in the armed forces, the orders direct the Pentagon to ban the, quote, race or sex-based preferences system.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
It also directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to investigate and rectify any instances of discrimination based on DEI practices, suggesting some of the generals that Trump has criticized as woke could soon be on the chopping block.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Additionally, Trump has issued a ban on all bureaucratic bodies dedicated to DEI initiatives and has tasked the Secretary of Defense and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem with reviewing all academic curricula being used at U.S. military academies to ensure it's free of, quote, radical DEI and gender ideologies. The orders are already having an immediate impact.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Late Monday, Fox News revealed that the Department of Veterans Affairs has placed nearly 60 employees on leave who oversee DEI initiatives. The DEI employees reportedly had a combined total salary of more than $8 million. Now, if you're keeping score at home, that averages out to about $133,000 annually per person.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The VA also plans to cancel multiple contracts for DEI-related consulting services that are estimated to cost more than $6 million. Well, thus endeth the DEI cottage industry. The Trump administration argues that current DEI practices constitute a woke assault on the military driven by both the Obama and Biden administrations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
They say that the military's focus on woke issues has undermined military readiness and unit cohesion, resulting in low troop morale and the lowest recruitment numbers for the military since 1940. It's also worth noting the financial cost to taxpayers of various DEI initiatives. For example,
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Since 2016, the Pentagon has spent more than $15 million on medical care for transgender service members, despite a brief pause during President Trump's first term. While the majority of those funds went towards things like therapy, some $3 million was used to cover the costs of hundreds of gender reassignment surgeries.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
White House officials have said the policy shifts are not about attacking those who identify as transgender, but about reorienting the military's priorities back to focusing squarely on having the most capable and lethal fighting force. The order states, quote, to protect the American people and our homeland as the world's most lethal and effective fighting force.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The pursuit of military excellence cannot be diluted to accommodate political agendas or other ideologies harmful to unit cohesion."
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
As we covered earlier this week on the PDB, President Trump signed two other executive orders on Monday aimed at the Pentagon, including the reinstatement of all American troops dismissed by the Pentagon over the COVID-19 vaccine mandate with full back pay and benefits. He also ordered the Pentagon to begin building a new comprehensive air defense system for the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Later in the show, a senior NATO official confirms a Russian plot to assassinate the head of German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, part of a larger effort to target Europe's defense industry and intimidate EU nations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
modeled after Israel's Iron Dome. Defense Secretary Hegseth said all Trump's orders will be swiftly implemented with a focus on prioritizing, quote, Lethality, meritocracy, accountability, standards and readiness, end quote. All right. Coming up after the break, a senior NATO official confirms a Russian plot to assassinate a top German defense executive.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Seriously, is there anyone that Vladimir Putin isn't willing to target for assassination? Plus, a rebel alliance seizes a key city in the Congo, threatening regional stability. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to NATO, a senior official confirmed a Russian plot to assassinate Armin Papager, the CEO of German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, as part of a broader sabotage campaign targeting European defense executives. The scheme, foiled by the U.S. and German intelligence back in July,
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
marks the first acknowledgment on record from a senior NATO, German, or American official of the plot to kill Papager. The assassination plot was part of Russia's broader attempts to destabilize NATO allies and weaken Europe's sustained support for Ukraine in its efforts to combat Moscow's ongoing full-scale invasion.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Plus, a developing situation in Africa, where a rebel alliance has seized the largest city in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, threatening the stability of the region. And in today's back of the brief, do you remember the mystery drones over New Jersey? Seems like ages ago.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Speaking before a European Parliament committee on hybrid warfare Tuesday, NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General detailed Russia's escalating campaign of sabotage across the NATO countries.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
These acts, which we've covered on the PDB, include train derailments, arson attacks, sabotage of undersea cables in the Baltic Sea, and assassination attempts like the one targeting the German industrialist. The NATO official stated, quote, We've seen incidents of sabotage taking place across NATO countries over a period of the last couple of years.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
He also accused Russia of leveraging criminal gangs, unsuspecting youth and migrants to carry out its operations. While the methods are often crude, the intent is unmistakable. Sow chaos and destabilize the continent. NATO has described the current level of Russian sabotage as unprecedented.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Secretary General Mark Rutte has urged member states to adopt a, quote, wartime mindset to confront these hybrid threats. Rutte's call aligns with the Deputy Assistant Secretary General's stark warning that NATO must act decisively to counter these operations before lengthy investigations are completed. Setting clear red lines, he stressed, is critical to deterring further acts of aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
He cited past successes in foiling Russian sabotage attempts, such as when incendiary devices destined for DHL flights were detected in warehouses in Germany and England last November. The NATO official stated, "...these acts can be deterred if you identify what your red lines are amongst yourselves and then communicate that effectively."
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
framing Russia's hybrid warfare as a central pillar of its broader strategy to achieve political and military objectives through destabilization and disruption. The assassination plot against the German arms executive underscores the growing risks faced by European defense leaders as Western nations accelerate efforts to arm Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
As NATO prepares for its summer summit in The Hague, the alliance is pushing to finalize a comprehensive strategy to address hybrid threats.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
As member states prepare to meet in the coming months, the alliance's commitment to setting clear red lines and responding with urgency will be critical in countering Russia's continuous campaign of sabotage aimed at undermining European stability and defense. Okay, let's shift now to a story that, well, hasn't been getting a lot of coverage lately.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
And that's the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the DRC. Now, bear with me because there's a lot of moving parts here. A rebel alliance seized the largest city in the country's mineral-rich eastern region on Tuesday, plunging the nation into one of its worst humanitarian crises in years.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The Coalition of Rebel Groups, known as the AFC, seized the city of Goma in an offensive that marks its biggest territorial gain to date. Goma is strategically situated as a hub for coltan extraction. Now, coltan is an essential mineral for global electronics, and this is a critical economic prize for the armed groups.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
According to an AFC spokesman, the city, quote, fell under pressure following a string of advances in surrounding states. So, how did we get to this point? The regional violence is rooted in a tangled web of ethnic tensions, militia activity, and resource exploitation that has plagued the DRC for decades.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Well, we're now getting some answers from the White House on last year's drone sightings across the Northeast. And spoiler alert, they were not alien spaceships. Well, at least that's what we're being told. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President Trump's executive order blitzkrieg shows no signs of letting up as the president seeks to shake up the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The rebels present themselves as a protector of minority communities, particularly the Tutsi, and claims that their actions are aimed at defending marginalized groups against the failures of the DRC government.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Yet these claims are overshadowed by widespread allegations of war crimes, including the recruitment of child soldiers and violence against civilians, leading to sanctions from the United Nations and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The roots of the current conflict can be traced back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which destabilized the region and fueled competing interests over the DRC's vast mineral wealth. These tensions have drawn neighboring countries into a prolonged and bloody struggle. It's important to note that this is not the first time that the city of Goma has fallen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Rebels initially captured the city in 2012, citing grievances over unfulfilled peace accords. Though driven out by Congolese forces and UN peacekeepers, the group re-emerged in 2022, capitalizing on weak governance and the lucrative coltan trade to finance its resurgence. The AFC control over the mineral is particularly alarming.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
A UN report estimates that coltan mined in areas under their control accounts for approximately 15% of global tantalum production generating roughly $300,000 in revenue for the rebels each month. This economic lifeline not only funds rebel operations, but also provides leverage against the Congolese government, which has struggled to maintain control over its eastern provinces.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Adding to the complexity, see I told you there were a lot of moving parts here, the DRC has accused neighboring Rwanda of actively supporting these rebels with troops and logistical aid, a charge that Rwandan government denies despite mounting evidence from UN investigations. The humanitarian consequences of this conflict are, frankly, devastating.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
According to the UN, over 400,000 people have been displaced just last year alone as hospitals in Goma struggle to cope with the influx of injured civilians, many of whom are children. CNN reports brutal scenes in the city, with streets littered with bodies, widespread looting, and accounts of sexual violence by rebel fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Meanwhile, French intelligence confirms the rebels' seizure of Goma's airport on Tuesday, cutting off vital supply lines, of course compounding the crisis. In the DRC capital, the unrest in the eastern provinces has triggered widespread protests, with demonstrators targeting both Western and African embassies.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
The chaos reached a boiling point with a prison break that saw more than 4,000 inmates flood the streets. The nationwide violence has taken a toll on peacekeeping forces, as South Africa confirmed the deaths of 13 soldiers from its contingent in the UN mission just over the past week.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Kenya's president has called for an emergency summit to address the crisis, but previous peace efforts, including truce agreements mediated by Angola, failed to produce meaningful results. For now, the situation remains dire.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
With Goma under rebel control, ethnic conflicts rising, and a worsening humanitarian crisis, the DRC is teetering on the brink of deeper chaos as the escalating tensions with Rwanda threaten to ignite a broader regional war. Okay, coming up in the back of the brief. Remember those mysterious drones over New Jersey that grabbed headlines late last year?
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
Well, it turns out that many were authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration, the FAA. I'll be back with the details. In today's Back of the Brief, we're finally getting some answers on the mysterious swarms of unidentified drones that caused widespread alarm among residents of New Jersey and the surrounding area late last year.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
military and purge its ranks of, quote, woke ideology. On Monday, Trump issued a wave of executive orders reshaping Pentagon operations, namely banning transgender service members from the military and gutting diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 29th, 2025: How Trump Is Shaking Up The US Military & A Russian Hit Job in Germany
At a White House press conference on Tuesday, the Trump administration disclosed that most of the drone activity had actually been authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration, the FAA, and was related to research programs. That's according to a report from NBC News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
He's like the braggadocious schoolyard bully, but with nukes. And you have to assume that given Medvedev is essentially Putin's puppet, nothing he says or writes is really at odds with Putin's own mindset. Now, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy to Ukraine, wasted no time firing back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
It's Wednesday, the 28th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll start today with a chilling new message from Moscow. Russia's former president just invoked World War III in a direct warning to President Trump. raising, of course, the stakes in an already volatile standoff. Later in the show, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
He called the statement, quote, reckless and accused the Kremlin of, quote, stoking fears of global war. Kellogg added that the comment was unfitting of a world power. So, while the war of words escalates, we are learning some of the details of Vladimir Putin's conditions for ending the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
According to three Russian sources who spoke to Reuters, Putin is looking for a written pledge from the West not to expand NATO further east, particularly into Ukraine, Georgia, or Moldova. In other words, he wants the alliance to rule out membership for any former Soviet republic. In addition to NATO restrictions, Russia reportedly wants a guarantee that Ukraine will remain neutral.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
He's also asking for some sanctions to be lifted and for the issue of frozen Russian assets to be resolved. Finally, he's asking for protection of Russian-speaking populations inside Ukraine. Now, one of the Russian sources told Reuters, quote, Putin is ready to make peace, but not at any price, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
After speaking to Trump for more than two hours last week, Putin said that he had agreed to work on a memorandum that would establish the contours of a peace accord, including the timing of a ceasefire. So far, that draft memorandum has not yet been delivered and no date has been set.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Now, one could argue, if one were cynical, that Putin is simply playing the waiting game here, dangling the possibility of peace talks at some point while he waits to see how the current battlefield realities play out and while he prepares for further offensives in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky is throwing his own proposal on the table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
In a press conference today, Zelensky proposed a trilateral summit between himself, Putin, and Trump to hash out terms directly. Zelensky said, quote, we are ready for the Trump, Putin, and me format. We are ready for Trump-Putin, Trump-Zelensky, and then the three of us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
As for where such a meeting might take place, Zelensky mentioned three possible venues that have been previously suggested, Istanbul, Switzerland, or the Vatican. So far, neither Trump nor the Kremlin has publicly responded to that invitation. All right, coming up next, the State Department issues a stark new warning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Americans in Venezuela are at risk of torture and kidnapping, and they need to get out now. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, perhaps you've heard about this, but there's going to be a big global summit of BRICS nations, and it'll be held in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes Russia and China and India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this effort the Rio Reset, I guess because that's a catchy name.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
As the BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for US dollars, of course, could decrease, and that would then bring down the value of the dollar. And while the transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
So, you should ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, might I suggest you check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group. Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. To claim your free information kit on gold, just, it's simple, just text PDB to 989-898. That's PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
With an A-plus rating, with a better business bureau, and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
is warning Americans don't travel to Venezuela. Citing risks of torture, kidnapping, and wrongful detention, the State Department says all U.S. citizens should leave immediately. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Well, Russia's number one saber-rattler is at it again. Former President Dmitry Medvedev is now invoking the specter of World War III.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Look, I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about online security and to tell you about a business that's working hard to protect your online security. Now, Delete.me makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are, well, common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Look, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. You know this. Having your address, phone number, and family members' names just hanging out on the internet, well, it can have actual consequences in the real world, and it can make everyone feel and be vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
With DeleteMe, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now you can get a special discount for our listeners at the PDB. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan simply by texting PDB to the number 64000.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Again, the only way to get the 20% off, it's easy. Just text PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The State Department is warning that Venezuela's descent into lawlessness under socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro has made it one of the most dangerous countries for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
nationals, with more Americans wrongfully detained there than in any other country. In a renewed and sharply worded advisory Tuesday, the department urged Americans already in the country to leave immediately and warned those considering travel to prepare a will. But who exactly at this point is considering travel to Venezuela?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
The country has been assigned a level four do not travel designation, that is the highest possible, with the alert stating bluntly, quote, there is no safe way for Americans to travel to Venezuela. Every American is at risk of being detained by Maduro's regime. The advisory cited severe risks of wrongful detention, kidnapping, and even torture in custody. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
citizens are considered at, quote, extreme risk of detention upon entry into Venezuela and could be unjustly accused of terrorism or espionage, even if crossing into the country inadvertently. In several cases, individuals have been seized after accidentally crossing poorly marked borders from neighboring countries. and the threat extends well beyond tourists.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Dual nationals, travelers with prior Venezuelan visas, and even those with family ties in the country are not exempt. According to the advisory, legal connections to Venezuela offer no protection. Compounding the danger is the total absence of US diplomatic presence in Venezuela.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Since the suspending of embassy operations in Caracas back in 2019, the US has been unable to provide consular support of any kind. Venezuelan authorities routinely withhold arrest notifications, meaning that Americans can vanish into the country's legal system, such as it is, without access to legal counsel, contact with their families, or even confirmation of their whereabouts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
This latest advisory follows a series of high-profile detentions. In January, two Americans were arrested and branded as, quote, mercenaries by Maduro's regime ahead of his disputed inauguration. And when I say disputed, well, I mean stolen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Then in September, Caracas claimed to have foiled a U.S.-backed assassination plot and arrested three additional Americans, a claim that Washington swiftly dismissed as entirely fabricated. U.S. embassies in neighboring Colombia, Brazil, and other countries echoed the warning on Tuesday with coordinated security alerts, underscoring the widespread concern among American diplomats in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
While diplomatic efforts have secured the release of some detainees, including six Americans freed earlier this year following talks between Maduro and US Special Envoy Richard Grinnell, others remain imprisoned under opaque and harsh conditions. As we reported on last week's PDB, a US Air Force veteran was released this month following lengthy negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Medvedev was responding to a recent comment by President Trump who said on Tuesday, quote, What Vladimir Putin doesn't realize is that if it weren't for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia. And I mean, and then all capitals, really bad. You know it's really bad when you put it all in capitals. Trump added, he's playing with fire, end quote. Well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
The renewed advisory comes as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on Maduro's regime. Last week, the Supreme Court cleared the way for the administration to revoke temporary protected status from more than 300,000 Venezuelans residing in the U.S. It's part of a broader push to crack down on illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Behind closed doors, administration officials are reportedly exploring ways to formally designate Maduro's regime as a transnational criminal organization. Now, that's a step that could unlock sweeping wartime authorities and potentially pave a way for more mass deportations with limited judicial oversight. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 28th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you know, it could be quite simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 28th, 2025: Kremlin Sends WWIII Warning To Trump & Americans Told to Flee Venezuela
Within hours, Medvedev responded on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. He wrote, "...I only know of one really bad, also in capitals, thing. World War III. I hope Trump understands this." Ooh, well, this is diplomacy at its finest. To be fair, Medvedev's signature move is really to regularly imply the use of Russia's nuclear arsenal isn't off the table.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Instead, he voiced support for a return to the 1974 disengagement agreement, which established a UN-monitored buffer zone in the Golan Heights. indicating that de-escalation, rather than diplomacy, remains the immediate goal. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, a fascinating development.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
A nationwide trucker strike hits its sixth day in Iran, with arrests mounting and unrest spreading. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased to report that it is now officially grilling season. That's right. It's time to fire up that grill if you haven't already.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
And look, if your grill could talk, it would probably tell you something like, hey, how about you don't throw that supermarket mystery meat on me, right? I'm going to be asking for something better. And I'm going to tell you where to get that something better. It's where I get my beef. from Tri-Tales Beef. Now look, Tri-Tales is a legit family-run ranch, fifth generation family-run ranch in Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It's not some big box meat factory. And they're all about delivering pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef right to your front door. And right now, for Memorial Day, they're knocking $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. And when you head over to tribeef.com slash pdb, well, they'll toss in two flat iron steaks for free.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
No strings, no middlemen, just delicious cuts of beef delivered right to your door. So stock the freezer and get ready to grill like you mean it. And treat your grill and your taste buds with a little respect. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. In today's Back of the Brief, a potential warning sign of growing unrest in Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
A nationwide trucker strike has entered its sixth day and is now affecting more than 100 cities across the country. What began as a protest over freight rates and deteriorating working conditions has rapidly morphed into something, well, much larger. A visible backlash against the Islamic Republic's economic mismanagement and a flashpoint for broader discontent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Truckers are the backbone of Iran's domestic supply chain, not unlike in the U.S. And when they stop moving, well, the country feels it fast. Markets are seeing delivery delays, fuel stations in some areas are reporting shortages, and daily commerce is being disrupted. But instead of addressing the root issues, Iranian authorities are cracking down.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Oh, well, who would have thought that the Iranian regime's response would be a crackdown? I, for one, am very surprised. In the southern city of Shiraz, multiple striking drivers were arrested over the weekend. The provincial prosecutor confirmed the arrests and warned that truckers who obstruct the delivery of goods and cargo will be dealt with seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
So, let's try to figure out why the UN and humanitarian groups would be against an organization with the stated goal of delivering aid to the beleaguered Gaza Strip. In short, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation appears to be part of a larger plan to strip Hamas of one of its most effective tools, and that would be control over aid distribution.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Other reports suggest similar detentions are happening in cities across the country, with security forces being deployed to monitor key transportation hubs and highways. The regime's response is drawing sharp criticism from human rights groups and only appears to be fueling more anger.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It's Wednesday, the 28th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a look at a new group handing out aid in Gaza. The UN is furious. Okay, so it can't be all bad. Major relief groups are boycotting it, and its former marine director just walked away.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
This protest is especially significant because, well, it cuts across Iran's fragmented political and social lines. Truck drivers aren't activists or political dissidents. They're working-class citizens who have long kept their heads down. But with inflation soaring, the currency collapsing and fuel prices skyrocketing, even those on the sidelines are stepping forward.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
And that, of course, is what has the regime worried. Whether it's Iran or it's China or Russia, the one thing the leaders fear is an unhappy and restless population. Now, protests in Iran admittedly are not new, but they often burn out quickly due to brutal repression, isolation, or lack of broad-based participation. What's different here is the scale and coordination.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Strikes are spreading quickly, and drivers are using social media to document their movement and call for solidarity. Observers say the strike could evolve into a wider anti-regime protest, especially if other labor sectors begin to join in. For now, the Iranian regime, the IRGC, and the mullahs are trying to contain the situation through arrests, intimidation, and promises of investigation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
But the damage may already be done. The regime's economic policies have pushed ordinary Iranians to the brink, and this trucker strike may be the clearest signal yet that the ground is shifting beneath them. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 28th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
And remember what your mom said. If you want to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And of course, as you know, your mom is always right. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
For years, Hamas has siphoned off international aid, using it to line its own pockets or sell on the black market to fund military operations. By putting a new group in charge, the goal appears to be to cut Hamas out of the equation. Controlling the international aid has been a key element of Hamas controlling the Palestinian population of Gaza. But this isn't just about Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It's also about the U.N. Israeli officials have long accused the UN of harboring anti-Israel bias, especially within agencies operating in Gaza. There's also plentiful evidence that aid groups that are overseen by the UN, like UNRWA, are compromised by terror groups. UNRWA itself has admitted in the past that it harbored members and supporters of Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
By shifting food distribution responsibilities to the GHF, Israel hopes to bypass and ultimately replace the current UN-run system. Obviously, well, not everyone's on board. The UN, the Red Cross, and several other humanitarian organizations are refusing to work with the GHF, citing multiple concerns. First, they say, there's the issue of neutrality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Critics argue that by involving governments in aid operations, the GHF has blurred the boundary between humanitarian work and political agendas. They warn that this sets a dangerous precedent for future conflict zones. Yes, like the dangerous precedent of efficiently delivering aid to the people that need it, rather than to the warlords or terror groups controlling those areas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Second, there's the use of biometric screening at distribution sites. That includes facial recognition technology. Human rights groups say this opens the door to, oh, there it is, mass surveillance and possible targeting of Palestinians by Israeli security forces. Well, the privacy implications are obvious, especially in a war zone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
But you certainly wouldn't want to have the ability to identify terrorists in a war zone. And third, the aid itself is mostly being distributed in southern Gaza. That means residents from the north would have to travel south, often through active conflict zones, just to access basic supplies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Now, critics say this could amount to coerced displacement, pushing civilians out of strategic areas under the guise of humanitarian relief. Although, frankly, and not to say that this justifies the concept, but just pointing it out, the residents of Gaza have been moving back and forth, north and south, within the Strip ever since Hamas started this conflict back in October of 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
So, who's running the show for the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation? Well, I'm glad you asked. Up until just a few days ago, the executive director of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation was a fellow named Jake Wood. He's a former U.S. Marine and co-founder of Team Rubicon. That's a veteran-led disaster relief organization.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
But Wood abruptly resigned on the 25th of May, just before GHF launched its operations in Gaza. He cited concerns of the group's failure to uphold basic humanitarian principles like neutrality and independence, basically echoing the UN's criticism.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Another key player in this group is the man now effectively overseeing security for the operation, and that will be an important, obviously, part of this, a former Green Beret and later CIA officer named Philip Riley. Now, Riley helped train the Contras back in the 1980s, was one of the first CIA officers on the ground in Afghanistan after 9-11, and later served as CIA station chief in Kabul.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
So, what's really going on with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation? Later in the show, brutality in Ukraine. Intercepted Russian radio transmissions reveal orders to execute surrendering Ukrainian soldiers. If confirmed, it could mark another war crime chalked up to Putin's invasion. Plus, an unexpected development in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
These days, he runs a private security firm, Safe Reach Solutions, which is managing on-the-ground operations for GHF in southern Gaza. And another question, who's footing the bill? Well, that remains somewhat unclear. According to GHF, it does not receive money from the U.S. or from Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
The organization recently told The New York Times that a Western European nation pledged more than $100 million to support the effort, but they refused to name the country. For now, the GHF is up and running. As of today, two distribution sites are operational, with two more expected to come online in the next few days. Now, one last note.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It's also worth noting that Hamas itself seems to be pretty upset that this group is operating. No surprise there. The terror group has denounced the GHF, calling it a, quote, agent of the occupation. and warning Palestinian civilians who accept its assistance that they will, quote, pay the price. Yet another sign of Hamas's benevolence towards the people they were supposedly leading.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
So if you're wondering, well, which side of the fence to stand on in this particular dispute, if Hamas is against the GHF and is threatening Gaza residents and bullying them into not accepting desperately needed food aid, that might be a clue where to stand. All right, coming up after the break, intercepted Russian radio transmissions reveal orders to execute surrendering Ukrainian soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Plus, an unexpected development in the Middle East. Israel and Syria are holding direct talks for the first time in years. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, this July, maybe you've heard about this, there's going to be a big event in Rio de Janeiro. That sounds very posh, doesn't it? But it's a global summit of BRICS nations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Now, this block of emerging superpowers includes China and Russia and India and Iran. And the BRICS countries are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling their effort the Rio Reset. That's a catchy name. So as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
And that, of course, would bring down the value of the dollar. And while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Well, might I suggest that one thing you could do is check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Just claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB. Intercepted Russian radio transmissions reveal what Kyiv officials say is a chilling pattern.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Direct battlefield orders to execute surrendering Ukrainian troops. The recordings, shared with international monitors and media outlets, reportedly align with drone footage captured in November of 2024 in the Zaporizhia region, where six Ukrainian soldiers are seen lying face down. Two appear to be shot at close range.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Israel and Syria are holding direct talks for the first time in years, aiming to cool tensions along their volatile border. And in today's back of the brief, a story worth keeping an eye on. In Iran, a nationwide trucker strike is spreading fast, hitting over 100 cities and potentially signaling deeper unrest. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Another is disarmed and marched away by a soldier wearing Russian military gear. According to a transcript of the intercepted audio, the execution orders were repeatedly issued over a 26-minute span with escalating frustration from a Russian commander.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
The audio begins with one Russian officer shouting, quote, ask who is the commander, take the commander captive, and kill everyone else, end quote. Four minutes later, that order is reiterated in cruder terms, quote, take the commander captive, take the senior, get rid of the effing others. The commanding Russian officer grows impatient as field troops fail to respond clearly.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
He demands, quote, really? Because that order seems fairly clear. He demands, quote, someone answer or the soldiers surrendering are not, end quote. Eventually, a soldier radios back reporting that only a, quote, senior has been identified. The officer responds flatly, quote, take the senior, get rid of the others, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Moments later, the drone footage reveals a masked figure in green military fatigues consistent with Russian uniforms approaching the Ukrainian soldiers. One captive gestures, seemingly pleading, before being shot in the head. The disarmed soldier is taken into custody. A final radio message confirms the outcome. Quote, we killed the effing others, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Ukrainian officials have identified the alleged perpetrators as members of the storm unit within the 394th Motorized Rifle Regiment, which falls under Russia's 127th Motorized Rifle Division. That same unit has previously been implicated in the beheading of a Ukrainian soldier in the same region, with Kyiv's prosecutors now formally charging its commanders.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
CNN consulted a forensic audio expert who verified the authenticity of the transmission and found no signs of editing. While CNN has not independently linked the audio to the drone footage, analysts say that the timeline, the language, and context are consistent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
The UN Special Investigator on Extrajudicial Executions described the evidence as pointing to a deliberate strategy rather than isolated acts, calling the killings, quote, grave breaches of international law. The investigator said, quote, they would not happen at this scale without orders or at least consent from the highest levels of the Russian military, which means the presidency, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
According to Ukraine's military intelligence, more than 150 cases of executed prisoners of war have been recorded since the full-scale invasion began back in February of 2022. Figures released on 24 May that officials say likely undercount the actual toll.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
A separate report from the 19th of March from the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine supports the allegation, citing testimony from Russian defectors who were told not to take prisoners. One deputy brigade commander was quoted as saying, prisoners are not needed, shoot them on the spot. Ukraine's prosecutor general has opened 75 criminal cases tied to POW executions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Only eight were filed in 2022. That number jumped to 39 in 2024, many involving group killings. Already this year, 20 new investigations are underway. The head of Ukraine's war crimes prosecution unit said Putin's past remarks that, quote, Ukrainian soldiers captured in Russia should be treated as terrorists has created essentially a climate of impunity.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
The prosecutor revealed that on the Kremlin's terms, quote, it's a green light to kill them. Moscow denies committing war crimes, well, there's a surprise, and insists that its forces follow international law. But Ukrainian officials say the growing body of audio, visual, and testimonial experience and evidence paints a different picture, one of systematic executions sanctioned from the top down.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
In a story you might have missed, but one that could have major implications for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, a new and somewhat controversial group has quietly taken over aid distribution in parts of the war-torn enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
All right, shifting to the Middle East, where for the first time in years, Israel and Syria are holding face-to-face meetings aimed at easing tensions along their shared border, marking a major pivot in a decades-long adversarial relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
According to five people familiar with the matter, the talks represent a significant step forward as Washington pushes Syria's new Islamist leadership to establish dialogue with its longtime enemy. In turn, Israel has eased its long-running campaign of airstrikes targeting Syrian territory, a move that reflects just how much the ground has shifted since December of this past year.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It was December of 2024 when the Islamist rebel group HTS swept into Damascus and deposed former President Assad. Two Syrian officials, two Western sources, and a regional intelligence figure confirmed that multiple rounds of meetings have occurred, some reportedly taking place on Israeli territory.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Syria's delegation is led by Ahmed al-Dalati, a top intelligence official appointed governor of a southern province bordering the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights. Dalati, who was recently tapped to oversee security in the Druze-majority province of Sueda, is quickly emerging as a key player in Syria's post-Assad era. The Israeli side has kept a low profile.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Two sources told Reuters the meetings include senior security officials, though Jerusalem has not publicly acknowledged the talks. Earlier this month, Syrian interim president and former al-Qaeda operative Ahmed al-Sharaa confirmed indirect talks with Israel aimed at de-escalation. The admission followed a Reuters report that the UAE was mediating the discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Israel, which has controlled the Golan Heights since the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, expanded its military footprint in the region after Assad's fall, citing concern over the extremist background of Syria's new leadership. For years, Israel maintained a campaign of regular airstrikes and lobbied the U.S. to keep Syria decentralized and weak.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
Those strikes have now all but ceased, and criticism from Israeli officials has markedly cooled. A turning point came on the 14th of May, when President Trump met with al-Sharba in Riyadh, as we previously reported here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
It's called the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, or GHF, and while it presents itself as an independent contractor, it does have powerful backers, namely the governments of the U.S. and Israel. The U.S. State Department has publicly expressed support for the group's efforts, even as major humanitarian organizations have slammed the operation and are now boycotting it altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
The meeting signaled a dramatic realignment of U.S.-Syria policy, undercutting Israel's strategy of exploiting Syria's fragmentation and prompting a reassessment in Jerusalem. According to the regional intelligence source, Trump's engagement opened the door to possible accommodation between Israel and Syria, shifting focus away from fragmentation. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
policy now appears aimed at stabilization, even under Islamist control. Currently, the talks are centered on joint security arrangements aimed at preventing accidental flare-ups and reducing Israeli incursions into Syrian border villages. While two sources suggested the discussions could pave the way for broader political understandings
The President's Daily Brief
May 28th, 2025: UN Fumes As Mystery Group Takes Over Gaza Aid Operations & New Evidence Of War Crimes In Ukraine
One person familiar with the talks clarified, quote, For now, they are just about peace. Following their meeting in Riyadh, Trump hinted that al-Sharah may be open to formal ties with Israel in the future, although he acknowledged that such a move would take time. For his part, Sharah has not confirmed any intent to normalize relations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
A social media post from the protest organizers called for a further nine anti-Hamas demonstrations to take place on Wednesday, with a caption reading, quote, Our voices must reach all the spies who sold our blood. The message continued, quote, Let them hear your voice. Let them know that Gaza is not silent and that there is a people who will not accept to be eradicated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
It's Wednesday, the 26th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First up, in a rare show of public dissent, scores of Gaza residents took to the streets on Tuesday to protest against Hamas. Now, that's the largest public demonstration against the terror group inside the enclave since the war began.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Now, there have been small pockets of protests at times among local Palestinian residents of Gaza since the war began, but none match the scope of Tuesday's demonstrations. While opposition to Hamas among Gazans is very hard to gauge, a poll released last fall by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research suggests the terror group's popularity has been decreasing for some time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
It found that support among Gazans for Hamas to remain as the governing body for the enclave had fallen to just 36%, and that's down from 46% in polling that was released in June. One of Tuesday's protesters told a BBC reporter, "...we refuse to die for anyone, for any party's agenda. Hamas must step down and listen to the voices of the grieving."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Another could be heard shouting, quote, we don't want destruction, we don't want war, we want to live, end quote. Well, that seems reasonable. It will surprise no one to learn that Hamas fighters and supporters reportedly didn't take kindly to the public show of dissent and they moved in quickly to suppress the protests.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Masked Hamas militants armed with guns and batons moved in on the crowds, assaulting and forcibly dispersing the protesters. Well, huh, that doesn't sound like a group that says they support and promote the best interests of the Palestinian people. It does make you wonder if there'll be campus protests in the US over Hamas's suppression of the Palestinian people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Meanwhile, pro-Hamas supporters throughout Gaza downplayed the significance of the demonstrations, calling the protesters traitors to their cause. The protests come roughly a week after the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas broke down, and Israel resumed ground and air operations in Gaza, targeting the militant group's fighters and leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Now, as a reminder, Hamas is still holding 59 hostages, though at least 35 are presumed dead. Coming up next, US senior officials got off their chat group long enough to issue a 30-page threat assessment, warning that China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia are increasingly working together to undercut US interests abroad. I'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing can feel, well, impossible. But with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals. Or if you just want to sit back and watch your money go to work, well, you can do that. Just opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 a month. Don't let your savings sit around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Make your money work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures. That's get.stash.com. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and SEC Registered Investment Advisor.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Investing involves risk and the offer is subject to terms and conditions. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Later in the show, U.S. spy agencies have issued a 30-page threat assessment warning that the usual suspects, China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, America's four greatest adversaries, are increasingly working together to undercut U.S. interests abroad. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
is facing a rising tide of threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, nations that are increasingly working together to chip away at American influence and power. That's the sobering warning from America's top intelligence officials in a new threat assessment
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
released Tuesday by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, otherwise known by its acronym ODNI, because nobody likes an acronym like Washington, D.C. likes an acronym. In the report, Communist China is labeled the, quote, actor most capable of threatening U.S. interests globally, even as it operates with more restraint than other U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
adversaries, despite its ambitions to replace the U.S. as the world's superpower. Beijing, for its part, is avoiding direct confrontation but leaning heavily into coercive tactics, leveraging its economic might, military presence, and a sprawling influence campaign to reshape the global order, especially in the Indo-Pacific.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
The ODNI report forecasts that China will ramp up pressure on Taiwan in 2025 while continuing to push aggressive territorial claims in the South and East China Seas. And while there's no kinetic war, the digital front is already active. China remains the most persistent cyber threat to the American government and private sector networks, the report says.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Officials believe Beijing is methodically executing a long-term plan to overtake the U.S. in artificial intelligence by 2030. Russia, meanwhile, continues to pose a more immediate military challenge through its war in Ukraine. Putin, the ODNI report notes, sees the war in Ukraine not just as another battlefield, but as a personal legacy project and a defining showdown with the West.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
While Western hopes have lingered around a possible change of leadership in Moscow, the report makes clear that is less likely now than at any point in Putin's 25-year reign. Then there's Iran and North Korea, each sharpening their tools in different but equally dangerous ways.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
The Iranian regime, according to National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, hasn't restarted formal nuclear weapons development. But, frankly, that's very little comfort. Its uranium stockpile has now reached what Gabbard described as, quote, unprecedented levels for any non-nuclear state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
The report also flags increasing domestic momentum inside the Iranian regime to take the final leap and go nuclear. But at the top of it all, of course, is Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the only man in Iran with the authority to greenlight a bomb. Meanwhile, Tehran's regime scientists continue research into chemical and biological agents with potential military uses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
I want to begin with our coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, as reports emerge that Hamas may be, and I caveat that with a big may, may be losing the support of some Gazans as frustrations mount over the group's handling of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
For Pyongyang, strongman Kim Jong-un while he's busy expanding his weapons programs and beefing up his arsenal, all with Russia's help. But perhaps the most chilling takeaway from the 30-page report is the deepening collaboration between America's foes. These regimes aren't just aligned in rhetoric, they're increasingly sharing resources, technology, and strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
Take China and Russia, for example. Beijing has quietly been keeping Moscow's defense sector alive by sending dual-use goods and key components to help Russia skirt Western sanctions and recover from battlefield losses. Iran, in turn, has become Russia's go-to drone supplier and is now receiving, in return, advanced military and cyber support.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
North Korea has gone even further, shipping munitions and sending combat troops to support Russia's war effort, all while gaining access to upgraded weapons systems and weapons technology. The Trump administration has acknowledged the shifting landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
According to officials, these emerging alliances are already shaping the contours of the 2025 national security strategy and will play a central role in American defense planning. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 26 March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
On Tuesday, large crowds of Palestinians demonstrated against Hamas in northern Gaza, calling for an end to the war in what reports say is the biggest protest against the terror group in the enclave since their 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 26th, 2025: Gazans Stage Largest Anti-Hamas Protest Since War Began & Spy Agencies Issue Grave Warning Over Collaboration Between America's Foes
It was a rare show of dissent, with thousands of people marching through the streets of Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, and that's according to estimates from CNN. Now, protesters could reportedly be heard chanting, quote, for God's sake, Hamas out, Hamas terrorists, and we want an end to the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
with the continuing violence and vandalism directed at the EV manufacturer Tesla, where the Trump administration is forcefully responding to mounting attacks of extreme violence and vandalism targeting electric vehicle maker Tesla. Seems like just yesterday, when the far left loved Tesla, now they're firebombing charging stations and dealerships. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Even more concerning, the device is designed to integrate with China's advanced submersibles, both manned and unmanned. Robotic arms equipped with advanced positioning tech allow it to operate in near-zero visibility, meaning this thing can be deployed covertly and accurately. Now, on paper, Beijing says this tool is meant for civilian uses. Nothing to see here, folks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Salvage operations, seabed mining, and scientific exploration. But the dual-use potential is obvious. Military analysts are already warning that it could be used to sabotage global communications in a conflict or as part of gray zone tactics. And it's not just theoretical. This news comes after a string of undersea cable incidents where China is already suspected of foul play.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Back in January, a Chinese-linked cargo ship reportedly damaged the Trans-Pacific Express cable near Taiwan. And just a few months earlier, in November, two cables in the Baltic Sea were cut within hours of each other, with suspicion falling on a Chinese vessel. And in late February, Taiwan detained a Chinese crewed ship, the Ongtai 58, after it allegedly cut another telecom cable.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 26th of March. Look, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, which you can do, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
It's Wednesday, the 26th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. In today's spotlight, the FBI is ramping up its investigations into a wave of attacks on Tesla vehicles. launching a new task force to tackle the surge.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
On Monday, the FBI launched a task force intended to crack down on attacks against Tesla and hold perpetrators accountable for what they contend are acts of domestic violence. Well, yeah, firebombing and damaging and vandalism. I guess that could be construed as possible domestic terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The move comes in the wake of a series of destructive arson attacks and acts of vandalism and straight up criminal violence. targeting the electric car maker over CEO Elon Musk's role in leading the Department of Government Efficiency, also known as DOGE, which has undertaken sweeping cuts to the federal government workforce. Now look, in reality, it's basically about Musk's support of Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Most of the gormless morons involved in the acts of violence and vandalism couldn't tell you what DOGE does, much less spell DOGE. The FBI says they've received reports of at least 48 attacks across nine states in March alone, 10 of which have targeted Tesla dealerships and charging stations, and that the activity appears to be escalating, as according to a report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The attacks regularly involve arsonists setting fire to Tesla vehicles and charging stations, often using Molotov cocktails, and also include multiple instances of perpetrators shooting at Tesla vehicles in showrooms. The latest high-profile incident came on Monday when a bomb squad found multiple incendiary devices at a Tesla showroom in Austin, Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
That, of course, is the same city that hosts the company's corporate headquarters. The devices were removed by authorities without incident. But the scare, well, it gives you an idea of the dangerous nature of these attacks and their potential for causing accidental or intentional bodily harm. FBI Director Kash Patel said Monday, quote, This is domestic terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Those responsible will be pursued, caught and brought to justice. The newly minted task force is partnering with special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as personnel from the FBI's Counterterrorism Division, to try to identify and arrest the criminals involved in these ongoing attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The ATF has reportedly already embedded personnel in multiple FBI field offices to help accelerate the efforts. So far, only three people have been arrested in relation to the attacks, according to the Post report. FBI officials note the perpetrators largely appear to be lone offenders who carry out their attacks at night, making identification and arrest somewhat difficult.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
In Massachusetts, for example, seven Tesla charging stations sustained heavy fire-related damage earlier this month after unknown vandals deliberately put the facilities to the torch under the cover of darkness.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
In another case, on the 7th of March, vandals targeted a Tesla charging station in South Carolina, spray-painting expletives directed at President Trump alongside the words, Long Live Ukraine, before throwing homemade Molotov cocktails, destroying three charging stations. As I mentioned, in addition to the rampant arson attacks, there have also been shooting incidents.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
For example, on the 6th of March, an unidentified gunman fired shots at a Tesla dealership in Tigard, Oregon. Police said seven bullets damaged three cars and shattered windows around the dealership, according to a report from CNN. There are, frankly, too many attacks to keep track of, but you get the picture.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Despite the difficulty in investigating these attacks, the FBI is hopeful that their new task force can help flush out those involved. The FBI has so far partnered with local law enforcement to investigate seven of these attacks at the federal level, and more cases are expected to be opened. Meanwhile, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
But in a textbook example of what goes around comes around, Democrats are accusing the Department of Justice of being weaponized for political purposes. We'll break down what's happening. Later in the show, a controversial decision by Washington. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Attorney General Pam Bondi has also labeled the attacks as domestic terrorism and said those caught will face prison terms of up to 20 years. But critics say the Justice Department is being weaponized by the Trump administration. And they're saying that with a straight face, decrying the new task force as an abuse of power.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Democrat Congressman Daniel Goldman of New York condemned the action in a post on X on Monday, calling the task force blatant, quote, political weaponization. He argues that it's a cynical maneuver by President Trump to go after adversaries of Musk. but bizarrely branding it as a form of lawfare rather than a form of going after arsonists and vandals.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Social media users quickly jumped on that post, however, pointing out that shootings and arsons are clear criminal acts that warrant severe legal repercussions. Responding to the escalating attacks, Musk said Monday, "...there is no doubt that shooting bullets into Tesla stores and burning down superchargers are acts of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Tesla just makes electric cars and has done nothing to deserve these evil attacks." All right. Coming up next, the U.S. quietly drops bounties on top Haqqani leaders, while Turkey's president cracks down on growing protests after jailing his main political rival. I'll be right back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing can feel, well, impossible.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
But with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy. Look, Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Or if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can hop into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. So don't let your savings just sit around. Make your money work harder for you.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Go to get.stash.com slash PDB to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and a few important disclosures. That's get.stash.com slash PDB. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients, and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Investing involves risk, and as they say, the offer is subject to terms and conditions. Welcome back to the PDB. In a quiet policy shift, at least one that didn't make the headlines anywhere, the United States has removed millions of dollars in bounties on several senior members of the Haqqani terrorist network, including its leader, Sirajuddin Haqqani.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
has quietly removed multi-million dollar bounties on senior figures in the Haqqani militant network, including its leader, who's now serving as the Taliban's interior minister. Plus, chaos continues in Turkey as Turkish President Erdogan tightens his grip, cracking down on demonstrators as pro-democracy protests stretch into a second week following the arrest of his chief political rival.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The move comes on the heels of a high-level U.S. delegation's visit to Kabul, where Trump administration officials, including hostage affairs envoy Adam Bowler and a former Afghanistan envoy, held talks with Taliban leadership. Within days of that meeting, the Taliban released American citizen George Glessman, who had been in prison since December of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
While the exact terms of the exchange remain unclear, Taliban officials have pointed to the bounty removal on the Haqqanis as a signal of thawing relations. So, well, at least we know what the tit for tat entailed. Remove the bounties and we'll release the U.S. citizen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
For background, the Haqqani Network is a powerful semi-autonomous arm of the Taliban, long believed to have orchestrated some of the bloodiest attacks against Western targets in Afghanistan. Sirajuddin himself is currently the Taliban regime's interior minister. In 2011, the terror network carried out a 19-hour assault on the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Six years later, they were responsible for a devastating truck bombing that killed over 150 people, mostly civilians. Sirajuddin is tied to the 2008 Serena Hotel attack, which left several foreign nationals dead. Until recently, Sirajuddin carried a $10 million bounty on his head under the State Department's Rewards for Justice program. That reward has since vanished from official FBI listings.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
A Taliban Interior Ministry spokesman declared the bounty removals, "...a major achievement for the Islamic Emirate," citing them as evidence of "...continued diplomatic efforts and the start of a new phase of interaction with Washington." The State Department confirmed the change.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told the BBC there is, quote, no current reward for Sirajuddin, his brother, or his brother-in-law, each of whom holds a senior post in the terror network. In total, the U.S. had once offered $20 million in bounties for information about the three leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
That said, all three men remain designated as specially designated global terrorists, and the Haqqani Network itself is still classified as a foreign terrorist organization under U.S. law. The Islamist group's roots date back to the anti-Soviet Mushadin insurgency of the 1980s, when Sirajuddin's father received CIA backing to fight Soviet troops.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Over the decades, the network transformed into one of the most capable anti-Western terror organizations in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
As Interior Minister, Sirajuddin controls Afghanistan's police and intelligence agencies and is widely viewed as a political counterweight to the Taliban's reclusive supreme leader The two have clashed behind the scenes on multiple issues, including the contentious debate over girls' education with the Haqqani faction attempting to present itself as more moderate and diplomatically viable
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Washington, for its part, still does not formally recognize the Taliban government, but the quiet removal of these bounties signals a recalibration in U.S. engagement with elements of the regime, particularly as humanitarian conditions worsen and security threats mount inside Afghanistan. Okay, shifting to Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The country's political crisis continued to spiral Tuesday as nationwide protests over the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu entered their sixth consecutive night. The demonstrations prompted President Erdogan to accuse the opposition of fueling unrest.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Now, as we've been following here on the PDB, demonstrations first broke out last Wednesday after İmamoğlu was detained on sweeping charges of corruption, bribery, extortion, and bid rigging.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The popular mayor, widely seen as Erdogan's most formidable political rival, has denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated Despite large-scale protests, Turkey's main opposition party, the Republican People's Party, known as the CHP, abruptly announced Tuesday night that it would conclude demonstrations, offering no clarity on what might come next CHP leadership described the near week-long movement as, quote, an act of defiance against fascism
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
And in today's Back of the Brief, China reveals a dangerous new weapon. It's a deep-sea device designed to cut even the most secure underwater cables. Well, what could the Chinese Communist Party want with a device designed to cut undersea cables? If only we had a clue. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Speaking from Ankara, Erdogan condemned the demonstrations as, quote, evil, accusing the CHP of inciting what he called a, quote, violent movement rather than formally responding to the charges against their leader.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
He warned the CHP would be held accountable for injured officers and damaged property, claiming the opposition had made, quote, vile and unlawful statements that stirred public agitation. While the demonstrations remained largely peaceful, the government deployed a heavy security presence with water cannon equipped vehicles stationed near Istanbul City Hall and a mounting number of arrests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The Interior Ministry confirmed that more than 1,100 people have been detained since the unrest began. According to demonstrators in interview by AFP, they felt as if Turkish authorities were, quote, hunting them like pests, while CHP officials condemned what they call the police's excessive use of force that left many hospitalized.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
While the CHP formally ended its participation, it remains unclear whether spontaneous demonstrations will continue in Istanbul or other major cities. Ema Mola's wife addressed crowds outside of City Hall, declaring that the injustice done to her husband, quote, struck a chord with every conscience.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
CHP officials say they'll appeal for Imamoglu's release ahead of trial and have called for the court proceedings to be broadcast on state television. The party also reaffirmed his candidacy for the 2028 presidential election. While a conviction could legally bar Emomolu from running, he remains, for now, the symbolic figurehead of Turkey's embattled opposition.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The Ministry of Justice has denied that Erdogan played a role in the arrest, insisting the judiciary is operating independently. Of course it is. Still, Erdogan, who has ruled Turkey for more than two decades, appears largely unmoved. He suggested the CHP is unfit to govern based on the demonstrations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
Now some analysts speculate that Erdogan may even pursue amendments and constitutional loopholes to extend his rule beyond the current two-term limit, potentially carrying him past 2028.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
The demonstrations underscored sustained unease over Erdogan's prolonged rule, particularly among younger Turks, many of whom have known no other government and are increasingly disillusioned with the country's direction. Whether Erdogan can reassert control without further backlash or if this moment marks the beginning of a deeper unraveling, well, that remains an open question.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief. China's Navy has a new toy, a weapon designed to cut underwater cables, sparking fears of sabotage against Western infrastructure. Well, I don't see why folks would think that a weapon designed to cut undersea cables might be used for sabotage. That seems far-fetched. We'll have the details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
In today's Back of the Brief, China has just pulled the curtain back on a new deep sea weapon, and it's raising some serious red flags. According to the South China Morning Post, China has developed a compact underwater cable cutting device, small, precise, and powerful enough to sever even the most fortified communication lines that crisscross the ocean floor.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
We're talking about armored cables made of steel, rubber and polymer, the same lines that carry 95% of the world's internet and global data traffic. This isn't just some bulky salvage tool. This device operates at depths of up to 4,000 meters, that's around 13,000 feet, which is twice the range of most existing undersea cable infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
March 26th, 2025: FBI Zeroes In On Tesla Attackers & Washington Lifts Taliban Bounties
It features a 6-inch diamond-coated grinding wheel spinning at 1,600 RPMs, able to slice through reinforced steel with surgical precision, all while minimizing any disturbance to surrounding marine sediment. In other words, it can do its job and vanish without leaving much of a trace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
DNI spokesperson Alexa Henning said Tuesday that a memo had been sent out to all intelligence agencies to identify by Friday any employees who participated in the, quote, obscene, pornographic and sexually explicit chats. All those who took part will be terminated from their positions and have their security clearances revoked. Look at that. Consequences for bad actions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
It's Wednesday, 26 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, a major and somewhat bizarre shakeup in U.S. intelligence. As Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard fires more than 100 intelligence officers for using a sensitive NSA messaging platform
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday, Gabbard said, quote, There are over 100 people from across the intelligence community that contributed to and participated in what is really just an egregious violation of trust. They were brazen in using an NSA platform intended for professional use to conduct this kind of really, really horrific behavior.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
And they were brazen in doing this, she said, because when was the last time that anyone was really held accountable? End quote. Well, she's not wrong there. The NSA Intel Lake messaging platform also became a forum for bashing the new DNI, with employees sending messages accusing Gabbard of being, quote, fervently anti-queer, a, quote, Russian agent, and a member of the, quote, MAGA cult. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Gabbard said the explicit chats violated the basic rules and standards of workplace professionalism, really, and that the firings were necessary to, quote, clean house, root out that rotten corruption and weaponization and politicization so we can start to rebuild that trust in these institutions. The employees represented a wide array of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
intelligence agencies, including the Defense Intelligence Agency, U.S. Naval Intelligence, the NSA, United States Space Command, and even the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The revelations come amid Gabbard's broader effort to purge diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives from the intelligence community. Her office, in concert with the Central Intelligence Agency,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
has already moved to fire an undisclosed number of employees that worked on these diversity initiatives, though those terminations were paused by a federal judge who was reviewing the action and expected to make a final ruling on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
According to sources who spoke with the conservative Manhattan Institute, the sexually explicit chats were given legitimacy as part of the NSA's DEI efforts, which the agency had previously called, quote, Mission critical? I'm sorry, I tried to say that with a straight face.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Seriously, look, having worked in intelligence operations around the world for a couple decades, I can tell you that there is absolutely nothing mission critical about DEI efforts. The chat logs came from two DEI-focused groups within the NSA's Intelink messenger titled, quote, LBTQA and, quote, IC Pride TWG.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Now, while the groups were, in theory, meant as DEI-focused employee resource groups, the sources said they were hijacked by intelligence employees who spent all day holding meetings with titles like privilege or ally awareness and transgender community inclusion. Yeah, yeah, definitely mission critical to U.S. national security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Gabbard commented that these firings only scratched the surface of what she called the DEI insanity that became pervasive in the intel community under former President Biden. She said that since the memo went out, numerous intel officers have come forward to disclose other inappropriate activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Gabbard stated, "...people are stepping forward because they are all on board with the mission to clean house and refocus on our core mission of serving the American people."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Now look, even as I speak, I guarantee that Chinese and Russian intel are working to identify the individuals who are involved in these chat groups if they don't already know them already, because the bigger issue here is the counterintelligence threat that they pose to US national security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Look, intel officers spend their careers looking for potential recruitment targets who are disaffected or angry or angst-ridden, disturbed or disgruntled, which is why intel organizations are supposed to spend significant time and resource vetting any potential hire and looking for any indications that they may have issues, such as, I don't know, ending up on an NSA chat group belittling their organizations or leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
to engage in sexually explicit discussions. Later in the show, after several weeks of tense negotiation, Ukraine has struck an agreement with the Trump administration to grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's rich mineral resources. The deal could be finalized as soon as Friday when Ukrainian President Zelensky is expected to meet with President Trump at the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Alright, up next, after several weeks of tense negotiations, Ukraine has struck an agreement with the Trump administration to grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's rich mineral resources. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Well, it looks like President Trump has finally gotten his mineral rights deal with Ukraine, securing access to the country's vast mineral wealth in a move that could reshape Kyiv's relations with Washington. The agreement, set to be finalized as early as Friday during a White House meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
follows weeks of standoff over the terms of a deal. The Trump administration initially demanded up to $500 billion in potential revenue from the development of Ukraine's vast mineral resources, and that was an ask that sparked pushback and outrage in Kyiv and across Europe. Trump told reporters Tuesday, quote, It's a very big deal. It could be a trillion dollar deal, adding that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
has spent hundreds of billions of dollars on Ukraine's war effort. For Zelensky, the deal represents a diplomatic breakthrough. Despite Kim's desperate push for a face to face meeting with Trump, the White House had kept Ukraine at arm's length while engaging in direct talks with Moscow over a possible settlement to the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Zelensky's refusal to sign an earlier version of the agreement, crafted by Treasury Secretary Scott Besant, only deepened tensions. The Ukrainian leader, who has long supported Western access to Ukraine's critical mineral reserves, balked at the original deal's lack of security guarantees.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
At the time, Zelensky also voiced concerns over the scale of US financial demands, which far exceeded the total US aid package provided to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion back in 2022. As our listeners know, we've been tracking the growing rift between Kyiv and the Trump administration here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
That friction came to a head last Wednesday when Trump lashed out at Zelensky, calling him a, quote, dictator without elections and a truth social post. That divide widened further when Trump accused Ukraine of starting the war with Russia and when the U.S. voted against a U.N. resolution condemning Russia's invasion on Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Now, despite the revised deal still lacking explicit security assurances, Ukrainian officials hope that it will be enough to stabilize relations with Washington. Trump described the agreement as including, quote, a form of peacekeeping that's acceptable to everybody, though he stopped short of committing U.S. forces to any future deterrence mission.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Under the new terms, Ukraine will allocate a portion of future revenues from mineral resource development into a dedicated fund to invest in domestic projects. However, the specifics of the U.S. stake in the fund will be determined in upcoming negotiations. The stakes are high. As a statement of the obvious, Ukraine is home to reserves of at least 20 of the 50 minerals that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Director of National Intelligence, or DNI, Tulsi Gabbard, is moving quickly to remove more than 100 staffers from the ranks of America's intelligence agencies after discovering activity that she described as a, quote, egregious violation of trust.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
deems critical, including rare earth elements, which are essential materials for industries ranging from consumer electronics to defense technology. Industry analysts estimate their collective value in the trillions of dollars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
Now, one interesting element of this deal is the unfortunate fact that a significant portion of the mineral reserves are currently located in the 20% of Ukraine that's currently controlled by Russia. As the final details are hammered out in the coming days, the long-term impact remains uncertain. For Kiev, the deal is a potential economic lifeline and a way to keep Washington engaged in the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
For Trump, it's a strategic gambit that could not only reshape U.S. policy on Ukraine, but also bolster his leverage with Moscow. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 26 February. If you have any questions or comments, well, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
And not that you need reminding, but to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
On Tuesday, Gabbard issued an order to fire more than 100 intelligence officers from 15 agencies for engaging in sexually explicit discussions on an NSA messaging platform meant for sharing sensitive security matters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 26th, 2025: Tulsi Gabbard Purges Intel Officers Over Explicit Chat Scandal & US And Ukraine Agree To Mineral-Rights Deal
The chats, first disclosed publicly by conservative activist and writer Christopher Rufo, included X-rated discussions on sexual fetishes, gender transition surgeries, artificial genitalia, hormone therapy, polyamory, and pronoun usage. That's according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Officials underscored the serious nature of the outbreak, noting that the illness appears to have a fatality rate of roughly 12.3%. So far, the WHO has tested samples from 13 cases at the National Institute for Biomedical Research in Congo's capital. While all the samples have tested negative for Ebola or common hemorrhagic fever diseases like Marburg, some have tested positive for malaria. Now,
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Before folks get ready to break out the masks and stockpile supplies, and by the way, don't forget the toilet paper, we should stress that there is no indication that the current outbreak risks spreading globally. It's worth keeping in mind that the Congo has suffered from many disease outbreaks in recent years, including typhoid, malaria, and mpox.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Just last year, a mystery flu-like illness killed more than 143 people before being contained. It was later determined to be an aggressive strain of malaria.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Still, officials with the WHO warn that the remote location of the affected areas, along with the Congo's weak health care infrastructure, increase the risk of further spread in the country and require, quote, immediate high-level intervention to contain the outbreak, end quote. Here at the PDB, we'll keep an eye on this and bring you further details as they develop.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
And in today's back of the brief, not to be alarming, but a mysterious illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the DRC, has killed more than 50 people. Health officials are scrambling for answers, and reports say some of the victims fell ill after eating a bat. Okay, so there's one health advisory, quit eating bats. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 26 February. As you may have heard me mention in the past, to listen to the show ad-free, well, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdppremium.com. It really is just that simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
It's Wednesday, 26 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Coming to you from on the road, and it looks like I'm in St. Louis, the great town of St. Louis, where I had the terrific opportunity to speak to the YPO chapter of St. Louis. They have a terrific bunch of people, all extremely well representing the great town of St. Louis.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
President Trump is facing some pushback from Moscow over his claims that Vladimir Putin is ready to accept the deployment of a European peacekeeping coalition to Ukraine, suggesting that a deal to secure an end to the war may still be far off. As a brief refresher, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have recently been championing a plan
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
to send a contingent of European peacekeeping troops to Ukraine in the event that a ceasefire deal is reached in order to enforce its terms and deter future Russian aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Just last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated flatly that the Kremlin would not support the deployment of any NATO troops, regardless of what flag they're operating under, calling the scenario, quote, unacceptable. Well, that seems fairly clear.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
But on Monday, during a press conference in the Oval Office alongside Macron, Trump confidently asserted that Putin was on board with the concept, telling reporters, Yeah, he'll accept that. I specifically asked him that question. He has no problem with it." Well, hmm, not so fast, said the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Their spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, firmly stated on Tuesday that Moscow had not dropped their opposition to the proposal and had no intention of shifting their position. He referred reporters back to Lavrov's comments that a peacekeeping force would be perceived as a direct threat to Russia and said the Kremlin had nothing further to add regarding the issue.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Now, it seems like someone needs to talk to Putin and explain that nobody is looking to take over Russia. Everything in the fellow's mind is a direct threat to Russia. That's what happens when you grow up in the Cold War and never evolve from that mentality. He's never, ever gotten over the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
The icy rebuke followed comments by Putin in an interview on Monday evening that appeared to pour cold water on Trump's hopes for a quick settlement to the war. During his meeting with Macron on Monday, Trump had suggested that the war could end within a matter of weeks. But Putin didn't appear to get the memo.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
While Putin praised Trump's approach to the Russian conflict, saying he was one of the few world leaders that was acting rationally, Putin said Russian and U.S. officials have yet to discuss specifics on how to bring the war to a resolution. The Russian strongman described last week's talks in Riyadh between U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
and Russian delegations as a diplomatic starting point focused on establishing trust between Moscow and Washington, which he said was key to getting more substantive negotiations off the ground. Putin said, quote, we only agreed that we would move toward this, but added that the war was, quote, not discussed in detail.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
He said the next few rounds of talks would still be devoted to rebuilding that trust, and only then would the discussion turn to finding ways to settle the conflict. A spokesman for Putin later drove the point home, saying, quote, In order to say that we trust the Americans, we have to go a long way. We need to take many, many small steps.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Well, if it's any consolation, fella, the Americans feel the same way about your government. I mean, it's almost like they've forgotten that Russia is the invading country.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
As we've been tracking on the PDB, the exclusion of Kiev and NATO allies from the Riyadh talks has caused widespread panic in Europe, with concerns that the Trump administration could cut a deal with Russia behind their backs that favors Putin's interests. But Putin dismissed criticism of Trump's approach, saying such fears were based in emotion and not logic.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
He claimed that once conversations between Washington and Moscow turned to reaching a settlement with Ukraine, European countries would be welcomed to the table. While it looks like that process is still a long ways off, Trump is holding his own talks with European leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
As I noted, French President Macron visited Trump on Monday in an attempt to get on the same page regarding a strategy for Ukraine. And British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will meet with Trump on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
While the meeting between Trump and Macron was friendly, Macron did press Trump to take a more deliberate approach towards ending the war, arguing that he should reach a consensus with leaders in Kyiv before rushing into talks with the Putin regime. On that score, it appears that Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky have finally found some common ground despite their recent diplomatic spat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
So there you have it. There's the latest. You've been briefed. Oh, wait. No, you haven't. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with the Kremlin contradicting President Trump. Moscow says it has not dropped its opposition to peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, despite Trump's claim to the contrary.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Spat, that's an interesting word. Trump announced Tuesday that Zelensky would be visiting the White House on Friday to sign a deal to grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals, critical minerals, after two weeks of tense negotiations. While details of the agreement were not immediately clear, U.S. officials have argued that the arrangement will give the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
a powerful strategic incentive to provide long-term security guarantees to Kyiv to deter future Russian aggression. Now, as with everything involving this conflict, the reality of any minerals deal is a bit more complicated than we've been hearing. Because in reality, the majority of key Ukrainian minerals of interest are actually located in the 20% of territory currently held by Russia. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
That's what we'd call a complication. All right. Coming up next, the U.S. reinstates maximum pressure sanctions on Iran's oil trade, while North Korean hackers pull off a record-breaking $1.5 billion crypto heist. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
State and Treasury Departments are ratcheting up sanctions aimed at Iran's shadowy oil trade by reviving the Trump administration's maximum pressure campaign from the president's first term as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain frigid. That's putting it mildly.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
On Monday, the State Department announced sanctions against 16 entities and vessels involved in what it terms a, quote, network of illicit shipping facilitators that have helped Iran circumvent previous restrictions through opaque transactions and deceptive routing to buyers in Asia.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Seems that there's still a ways to go before the White House and the Kremlin are on the same page. But to be fair, well, the White House and the Kremlin have never been on the same page. Later in the show, the U.S. is turning up the heat on Iran. The state and treasury departments have reinstated what are referred to as maximum pressure sanctions on Tehran's shadowy oil trade.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
In coordination, the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control, OFAC, imposed additional sanctions on 22 individuals and designated 13 vessels as, quote, blocked property due to their roles in the Iranian regime's oil industry.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce underscored the scale of the operation, stating that the sanctioned parties facilitated the shipment of, quote, tens of millions of barrels of crude oil worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
She emphasized that this action is part of a robust strategy to cut off the regime's economic lifeline and undermine its capacity to finance regional proxies and terrorism. According to OFAC, the sanctions cast a wide net, ensnaring oil brokers in the UAE and Hong Kong, tanker operators in India and China, and the Iranian Oil Terminals Company.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
That's a pivotal entity in the regime's revenue stream. Treasury Secretary Scott Besson reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to cracking down on those facilitating Iran's clandestine oil supply chain, warning that anyone involved in such oil transactions faces significant sanctions risks. He emphasized that the regime relies on covert networks to sustain its operations, which the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
is determined to dismantle. For years, Iran has operated a so-called shadow fleet of tankers, utilizing deceptive practices such as ship-to-ship transfers, falsified documentation, and disabling tracking systems, all to circumvent Western sanctions and clandestinely export crude. Now, this is similar, of course, to what Russia has been doing for some years to evade energy sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Unsurprisingly, Iran dismissed the latest crackdown as futile. Following President Trump's executive order reactivating the sanctions campaign, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted, quote, maximum pressure is a failed experiment and trying it again will only lead to another failure, end quote. The Iranian regime has also rejected accusations that its shadowy oil trade funds terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Oh, they're denying that. And insists it will resist any attempts to curb its nuclear program or economic expansion. The U.S., however, remains undeterred.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
The latest sanctions package is part of a broader initiative to reduce Iran's oil exports down to zero, with a particular focus on shipments to China, the world's second largest oil consumer behind the U.S., and Iran's most significant remaining customer. In the order, Trump explicitly referred to Iran's exports to China, saying those should also come to a complete halt.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Alright, shifting now to North Korea. It looks like the regime executed the largest cryptocurrency heist on record, siphoning a staggering $1.5 billion from the Bybit crypto exchange in a single lightning-fast operation. The scale of the theft, executed in mere minutes last Friday, eclipses Pyongyang's previous cyber heists and represents a significant chunk of the country's estimated annual GDP.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
According to crypto tracing firm TRM Labs, the single hack nearly doubled what North Korea's formidable hacking core stole in digital currency last year. Bybit, which touts itself as the world's second largest cryptocurrency exchange with more than 40 million users, confirmed the breach but insisted that it remain solvent despite the staggering loss.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Bybit's CEO stated that the company is working closely with regulators and law enforcement. But the incident does underscore a troubling reality. North Korea's cyber units continue to expose vulnerabilities in the global cryptocurrency sector, turning it into a lucrative funding stream for the regime's illicit operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Cybersecurity analysts warn that the sheer scale and sophistication of the attack emphasized Pyongyang's deepening reliance on cybercrime to circumvent international sanctions and bankroll its nuclear and missile programs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
We'll look at what this means for the regime. Plus, North Korean hackers have reportedly pulled off the biggest crypto heist in history, stealing 1.5 billion, that's with a B, from one of the world's largest exchanges. and experts warn that the stolen funds could fuel Pyongyang's weapons programs. We'll take a look at how Kim Jong-un's minions pulled off the caper.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
Former FBI intelligence analyst Nick Carlson, now with TRM Labs, emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, "...the ability of these illicit financial networks to absorb such huge amounts of money so quickly is deeply concerning." and the laundering process is already underway.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
In the days following the attack, the North Korean operatives began washing approximately $160 million of the stolen funds, dispersing assets through a web of digital wallets to obscure their origins. This follows a well-worn playbook. Once a heist is completed, Pyongyang's cyber units typically convert stolen cryptocurrency into U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
dollars or Chinese yuan through shadowy brokers, making it difficult for authorities to seize the funds before they disappear into underground financial networks. Investigators in the US and South Korea are scrambling to track and recover portions of the stolen assets.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
So far, a group of crypto security specialists claims to have clawed back $43 million, while blockchain tracing firm Elliptic reports an additional $243,000 in seized funds. But these efforts are, well, little more than a drop in the ocean, as the vast majority of the money remains unaccounted for.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
This latest heist presents an immediate test to the Trump administration, which now faces the challenge of responding to North Korea's increasingly aggressive cyber warfare tactics. A White House official in 2023 estimated that as much as half of Pyongyang's missile program is funded through cybercrime, making the disruption of its hacking networks a national security priority.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
For Washington and its allies, the challenge now is how to disrupt North Korea's cyber operations more effectively and prevent the regime from further exploiting digital financial systems in an effort to evade sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, a deadly mystery unfolding in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where dozens of people have died from an unknown illness, and some of the victims reportedly fell ill after eating a bat. I'll be right back. Welcome back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
In today's Back of the Brief, a mysterious illness is tearing through parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the DRC, setting off alarm bells with health authorities who are warning of a, quote, significant public health threat, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
The unknown illness, first discovered in three children who ate the carcass of a bat, has already killed more than 50 people in northwestern Congo over the past five weeks. And so far, well, it shows no signs of slowing down. Disturbingly, the time between the onset of symptoms and death has been just 48 hours in most fatal cases. That's according to a report from CBS News.
The President's Daily Brief
February 26th, 2025: The Kremlin Pushes Back On President Trump & North Korea’s $1.5 Billion Crypto Heist
The World Health Organization, the WHO, which is scrambling to identify the contagion, has logged at least 431 cases of the mystery disease since January with victims appearing to suffer from hemorrhagic fever symptoms. The symptoms have included severe fever, vomiting blood, and an internal bleeding, though some victims have reported milder symptoms like muscle aches or headaches and fatigue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
The abrupt U-turn from Trump, who has previously maintained a hardline stance regarding his tariffs on China, came just hours after Treasury Secretary Scott Besson told attendees of a closed-door investor conference hosted by J.P. Morgan that the trade war with China is unsustainable. That's according to an exclusive report from the Wall Street Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Als Erinnerung, gestern im Monat hat die White House China mit einem Tarif von 145% auf die meisten ihrer Exporten getroffen, obwohl bestimmte chinesische Produkte jetzt zu Tarifen von 245% verpflichtet sind. China hat sich natürlich mit einem Tarif von 125% auf US-Gesetz verpflichtet und hat sich gezwungen, auf ihre Grundlage zu stehen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Die Terrassen haben die Verhandlungen zwischen den USA und China zu einem virtuellen Standstill gegründet und breite Verluste in den globalen Stockmärkten getriggert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Trumps Kommentare am Dienstag, aber, stürzten sofort Optimismus zwischen den Wall-Street-Investoren, mit den USA-Stocken am Dienstag, auf der Hoffnung, dass der ökonomische Stand-off in der nächsten Zukunft möglicherweise zu Ende kommen könnte. Aber die White-House-Affizien stressen am Dienstag, dass, obwohl es mehrere Optionen auf der Tafel gibt,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Discussions remain fluid, and the President has not yet made a final determination on how he wants to proceed. They added that Trump would need to see some movement from China to lower tariffs on US goods before Trump's tariffs are reduced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
When asked Wednesday about his remarks from the previous day, Trump didn't tip his hand, but signaled that he would not continue to play hardball with the Chinese Communist Party, saying, quote, we are going to have a fair deal with China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Senior administration officials told the Wall Street Journal that they are discussing plans to cut the tariffs on China by more than half, with levies potentially dropping to somewhere between 50 and 65%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Sie betrachten auch beruflich einen tierischen Ansatz, um mit China zu handeln, bei dem 35% der Tarife auf Bereiche, die die USA nicht als Threats zur nationalen Sicherheit bezeichnen, geimpft werden, während ein Levy von 100% auf Bereiche, die als strategisch für die Interessen von Amerika bezeichnet werden. But a White House spokesperson later cautioned, "...President Trump has been clear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
China needs to make a deal with the US. When decisions on tariffs are made, they will come directly from the President. Anything else is just pure speculation." Still, leaders in Beijing reacted somewhat positively to the reports, cautiously saying that they're open to trade talks with the US as long as the White House refrains from making any more economic threats.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
A spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, China's attitude toward the tariff war launched by the US is quite clear. We don't want to fight, but we are not afraid of it. If we fight, we will fight to the end. If we talk, the door is wide open."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
While the developments are encouraging, analysts say that even if the US and China meet at the negotiating table, as you might imagine, a quick resolution with America's third largest trading partner is somewhat unlikely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Coming up next, Ukrainian President Zelensky has poured cold water on a peace proposal from the Trump administration that would recognize Russia's hold over Crimea, calling that unconstitutional. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Former CIA-Dude, Businessman, Podcast-Host, and of course, Style Guru. And here's a pro tip for guys on how to look your best. Get your duds from True Classic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Now, True Classic's mission is simple. Make guys look good and feel better. But honestly, it's more than just a great fit. With great quality and fair prices, you can tell they care about the product, about their customers, and about doing things the right way. And that matters. It's gear made for life. True Classics Shirts & Hoodies fit better. They're snug across the shoulders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
They're relaxed where you need it. None of that boxy, cheap feel you get from other brands. You know what I'm talking about. Look, my True Classics shirts are part of my regular rotation because they fit and they look great. It's as simple as that. Their commitment to quality and fair pricing shows they care about their products and customers. It's more than just clothing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
It's about doing things the right way. So, if you're ready to upgrade your basics and who isn't, head over to trueclassic.com.pdb. It's the only place to go for this deal, trueclassic.com.pdb. You'll see why True Classic is the preferred choice for so many. Mike Baker hier. Well, you've heard about the trade wars, right? All the tariffs bouncing back and forth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Well, it's thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. It's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you, there's a silver and a gold lining that I think some people have missed. You see, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
And while the new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. It's really simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birchgold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birchgold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst einmal. Präsident Trump besagt, dass er die Tarife auf China substanziell reduzieren wird. In der ersten echten Zeichen, dass die krüppelnde Handelskrieg mit dem kommunistischen Regime bald deeskalieren könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Again, just text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right? When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve. You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy. These PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now. Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is pushing back against a US peace proposal that leans heavily in Russia's favor, including that would recognize Russia's hold on Crimea, just as Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Vance issued a blunt ultimatum to either accept the deal or risk the US walking away from talks. At a press conference, Zelenskyy declared, quote, Ukraine will not legally recognize the occupation of Crimea, calling the plan unconstitutional and stating flatly, quote, there's nothing to talk about here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the plan, floated last week by American officials during closed-door meetings in Paris, aimed to freeze the front lines, meaning essentially handing Putin the 20% of Ukraine that his military currently occupies, block Ukraine's NATO ambitions, place the Zaporizhia nuclear plant under US oversight, and acknowledge Russia's hold on Crimea as the price for peace."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Später im Show hat ukrainischer Präsident Zelenskyj kaltes Wasser auf eine Friedensvorschläge der Trump-Administration getrunken, die Russlands Halt über die Krimea bemerken würde, sie als unkonstitutionell und als Ansteller zu nennen. Die Kommentare kommen aus dem Wachstum eines Ultimatums von Vizepräsidentem J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
If adopted, the plan would represent a stunning shift in American foreign policy. Since 2014, Washington has refused to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
And though the proposal stopped short of recognizing Russia's claims to four other occupied regions, Zelenskys' rebuke, delivered prior to the high-level summit in London today between U.S., Ukrainian and European officials, underscores Kiebs' alarm over what it sees as creeping Western acceptance of Moscow's redrawn map.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Es ist wert zu bemerken, dass der Vorschlag nichts über russische Truppenabschlüsse aus diesen beobachteten Regionen sagt. Zusätzlich zu den diplomatischen Fissuren wurde heute's London-Summit zu einer relativ niedrigen-Level-Meetung gedowngradiert, nachdem der Staatssekretär Rubio abrückwürdig zurückgezogen wurde, besagte logistische Komplikationen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
In seiner Absence wird Trump-Envoy Keith Kellogg die amerikanische Delegation ledigen. The optics are unmistakable. What was once billed as a potential turning point in the pursuit of peace now risks becoming a sideshow. Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance, speaking from India, laid it out plainly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
He stated, "...we've issued a very explicit proposal to both the Russians and Ukrainians, and it's time for them to either say yes or for the U.S. to walk away from this process." It was the sharpest signal yet that patience in Washington is wearing thin. Just last week Rubio warned that without meaningful progress, the US would pull the plug on negotiations altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Now back in Kyiv, Zelenskyy is walking a tightrope, holding on to US support while pressing Washington to avoid overtures from the Kremlin, he sees as caving to Russian President Putin's demands. Zelenskyy dismissed the Kremlin's 30-hour Easter ceasefire over the weekend as, quote, hollow, saying Russian forces never stopped firing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
and he waved off the idea of American oversight at Zaporizia, saying bluntly, quote, the plant will not work without Ukraine and Ukraine's technical knowledge, citing the uncertain fate of its workers and a depleted water supply as major obstacles. The stakes for Ukraine are, of course, immense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Its 2019 constitutional amendment committing to NATO membership and its ban on territorial concessions place legal and political constraints on Zelenskys ability to entertain such terms. Any move perceived as capitulation könnte natürlich einen domestischen Ausbruch erzeugen. Das ist natürlich das, wofür Putin hofft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Vance, dass die USA von den Negotierungen weggehen können, wenn Kiew nicht kapituliert. Aber zuerst das Nachmittagspotlight. Wir beginnen mit einem potenziellen Ausbruch in der Handelskriege mit China, als die Führer in Washington und Beijing ein Willen signalisieren, sich zu deeskalieren und möglicherweise einen Deal zu streiten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Moskau hat sich in den letzten drei Jahren für die Entfernung von Zelensky für eine kremlin-freundliche Alternative geäußert. Was klar ist, ist, dass der initiale Momentum hinter dem US-leitenden Druck jetzt wehnt. Zelenskys starke Verabschiedung, zusammen mit einem zentralen Wettbewerb und einer wachsenden diplomatischen Verlust in Washington, hat die zentralen Fragen unbeantwortet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
All right, and here comes my statement of the obvious. Look, Putin is currently expressing a willingness to consider peace talks because the US peace proposal as it currently stands essentially satisfies Putin's key demands. At the same time, he sees the US backing away from Ukraine. And as a Kremlin advisor noted a few weeks ago,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Given Russias slow but incremental progress on the battlefield and an apparent growing rift between Trump and Zelensky, why would Putin agree to end his war now? J.D. Vance and the White House are essentially demanding that Zelensky give in to Putin, painting Ukraines leader as the villain in this situation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
The administration is essentially saying, we've drawn up a plan that basically gives Putin what he wants. Why isn't Zelensky agreeing to it? And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 23rd of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
And to listen to the show ad-free, which you certainly can do, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, I know you know this, but owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
And you need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. That's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with the Stopbox Pro. Look, it's a lockbox that gives you instant access to your firearm. There's no electronics, no keys or codes required. The five-button locking system responds to your unique input. It's built for muscle memory, so you're not thinking, you're reacting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
I have a Stopbox Pro at home and it's an excellent piece of kit. It's extremely well made, it's secure and it's easy to use and that's important. With a Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed. Your firearm stays secure and always within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use code PDB at stopboxusa.com, but they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. That's right. So it's 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use code PDB at stopboxusa.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 23rd, 2025: Trump Signals De-Escalation In Tariff War With China & Zelensky Rejects White House Plan To Cede Crimea To Russia
Sprechend an einem White-House-News-Event am Dienstag, sagte Präsident Trump, dass er seine krippelnden Tarife auf China zu kühlen diplomatischen Temperaturen aufwenden wird, nach neuen Handelssitzungen mit dem kommunistischen Regime.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The five-button locking system responds to your unique input. It's built for muscle memory, so you're not thinking, you're reacting. I have a Stopbox Pro at home, and it's an excellent piece of kit. It's extremely well made, it's secure, and this is important, it's easy to use. With the Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed. Your firearm stays secure and always within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use PDB at StopboxUSA.com, but they'll also give you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. That's right, 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use the code PDB at StopboxUSA.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And at first glance, well, I suppose it made sense. China dominates the global rare earths market, controlling about 70% of production and almost 90% of the processing and refining capacity. Cutting off exports to the U.S. and its allies was meant to create pain, particularly for the defense contractors and advanced tech manufacturers. And it is having an impact. American companies are scrambling.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
In today's Back of the Brief, Nadine Menendez, the wife of disgraced former US Democrat Senator Bob Menendez, was found guilty Monday on all counts in a federal bribery case involving gold bars, stacks of cash, and a luxury car exchanged for political favors.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
This marks the latest chapter in a saga that we've been tracking here on the PDB, and it mirrors the fate of her husband, who was convicted of many similar charges in the very same Manhattan courthouse just last summer.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The jury deliberated for three weeks before returning the unanimous decision, concluding that Nadine conspired with Bob to help three businessmen with legal problems protect their monopolies and facilitate foreign deals. She's now slated to be sentenced on the 12th of June, just six days after Gold Bar Bob is due to report to federal prison to begin serving his 11-year term.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The couple, well, they say they're innocent and never took bribes. Ah, well, imagine that, a convicted person saying they're innocent. Prosecutors painted the Menendezes as, quote, partners in crime, linking the bribery scheme to the couple's whirlwind romance that began in 2018. Oh, this is just a tale of love. It didn't take long before that relationship turned transactional.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
A 2022 FBI raid uncovered nearly a half a million dollars in fat stacks and over $150,000 in gold bars hidden throughout their New Jersey home. Details that helped earn the senator his now-notorious nickname of, as you've heard, Gold Bar Bob. For Nadine, prosecutors said it began with desperation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Her car had been totaled, her home was in foreclosure, and into that financial vacuum stepped Jose Uribe, a New Jersey insurance broker who allegedly gifted her the Mercedes in exchange for pressure on state prosecutors investigating his associates. This sounds like quite the charming crowd.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
It's Wednesday, the 23rd of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with China's rare earth retaliation, say that three times fast, meant to tighten the regime's grip on the global supply chain. But it may be doing just the opposite.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Real estate developer Fred Dibas added gold and cash to the pile, seeking to help secure a $95 million Qatari investment and protection from looming criminal charges. And Wahel Hanna, a longtime friend, sent payments to cover Nadine's mortgage, allegedly receiving help in return from then-Senator Menendez to arrange and secure a business tied to the Egyptian government.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Prosecutors say Nadine wasn't just present, she was pivotal. They described her as the go-between, facilitating communications between the senator and the businessman, as well as with Egyptian officials. The evidence, they argued, was quote, consistent and overwhelming, backed by text messages, financial records, and witness testimony that laid out a clear and coordinated scheme.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 23rd of April. Look, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you've probably already heard from Celebrity Gossip, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And finally, if you get a free moment in your busy day, check out our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
MP Materials, the only rare earth miner in the U.S., has stopped shipping raw materials to China. It's no longer cost-effective, thanks to new tariffs. Instead, the company is pivoting hard, investing nearly $1 billion into domestic processing and magnet production at a new facility in Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Meanwhile, manufacturers that rely on rare earths for everything from weapon systems to electric motors are being forced to explore new options. For some, that means turning to less efficient substitutes. For others, it means pausing production until supply lines stabilize. Either way, it's been seriously disruptive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And Beijing isn't just tightening exports, it's also pressuring its trade partners to do the same. This is an important angle. According to the Korea Economic Daily, Chinese officials have asked South Korean companies not to export products containing Chinese rare earth minerals to U.S. defense firms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
It's a clear attempt, of course, to extend control over the global supply chain and tighten the stranglehold on critical materials, not to mention to bully other countries. But here's where the story turns, because there are signs that this move is already backfiring on Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
By weaponizing its dominance over rare earths, China is actually accelerating the very outcome it wanted to avoid, a global shift away from dependency on Chinese materials. In Washington, the Trump administration is moving quickly. The White House has announced fast-track permitting for 10 new mining projects across the U.S., aimed at rapidly expanding critical minerals production.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
That includes rare earths, lithium, and other materials essential for defense and advanced manufacturing. Officials say more projects are expected to be added in the coming months And it's not just the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
responding In Europe, the European Commission is finalizing a slate of strategic mining projects to reduce dependence on China The plan targets 17 critical minerals vital to Europe's green energy, defense, digital, and space sectors Brussels aims to build reserves capable of covering at least one year of industrial demand while ramping up domestic extraction and processing across the continent.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Australia, Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the US, each in their own way, are working to ensure that China can no longer use rare earths as a geopolitical weapon. Now, if these efforts take hold, China's rare earth dominance could erode over time. The monopoly that once gave Beijing strategic leverage is now pushing the world to build alternatives.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Instead of weakening the US and its allies, China may be isolating itself. Its bid to control global supply chains is forcing those chains to evolve. Sooner or later, the world was going to confront this dependency. China just forced the issue and sped up the timeline. Now, of course, it won't happen overnight, but the warning shot from Beijing has been heard loud and clear.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And if current momentum continues, this rare earth retaliation might just go down as the moment that the Chinese regime started losing its grip. All right, coming up next, the State Department unveils a major overhaul and a terrorist attack in Kashmir. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here, former CIA dude, businessman, podcast host, and of course, style guru.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
And here's a pro tip for guys on how to look your best. Get your duds from True Classic. True Classic's mission is simple, make guys look good and feel even better. But honestly, it's more than just a great fit. With great quality and fair prices, you can tell they care about the product, about their customers, and about doing things the right way. That matters. It's gear made for real life.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The export ban was designed to punish the U.S., but now countries around the world are rushing to break free from Beijing's control. We'll have those details. Later in the show, the State Department, the U.S. State Department, rolls out a major reorganization plan aimed at slashing bureaucracy and more closely aligning with President Trump's America First agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
True Classic shirts and hoodies fit better. They're snug across the shoulders, relaxed where you need it, and none of that boxy, cheap feel that you get from other brands. My True Classic shirts are part of my regular rotation because they fit and they look great. It's simple as that. Their commitment to quality and fair pricing shows they care about their products and their customers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
It's more than just clothing. It's about doing things the right way. So if you're ready to upgrade your basics, head over to TrueClassic.com slash PDB. That's the only place to go for this deal. TrueClassic.com slash PDB. You'll see why True Classic is the preferred choice for so many. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. And this spring, they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has unveiled plans for a sweeping restructuring of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
State Department in the latest move by the Trump administration to significantly downsize the federal bureaucracy. Announcing the long-anticipated reorganization on Tuesday, Rubio bluntly stated that in its current form, the diplomatic agency is, quote, bloated, bureaucratic, and unable to perform its essential diplomatic mission, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
To remedy the situation, Rubio will be shuttering more than 130 domestic offices and cutting around 700 positions in Washington, D.C. over the coming months. The goal is to streamline operations and align the department more closely with President Trump's foreign policy objectives. That's according to a report from Politico.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
An organizational chart released publicly shows that the current strategy to trim the department is not as severe as previous leaks suggested While a statement from Rubio's office was light on details, an internal facts sheet obtained by several media outlets shows plans to reduce the agency's total number of offices from 734 to 602 That's a reduction of roughly 17% if my mathematics is correct
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Undersecretaries of State have also been tasked with developing plans within 30 days to reduce the number of U.S.-based employees by 15%, with the changes set to be implemented by the 1st of July. In a statement, Rubio said, quote, Over the past 15 years, the department's footprint has had unprecedented growth and costs have soared.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
But far from seeing a return on investment, he said, taxpayers have seen less effective and efficient diplomacy. Rubio also said the department had become, quote, beholden to radical political ideology at the expense of America's core national interests.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Plus, a major terrorist attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir leaves dozens of tourists dead, marking a dangerous new turn in the region's long-running insurgency. And in today's Back of the Brief, the curtain falls on the Menendez bribery saga. Remember Gold Bar Bob? A Manhattan jury convicts Senator Bob Menendez's wife in a high-profile corruption case. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
He said under his new approach, region-specific functions will be consolidated to improve efficiency, redundant offices will be eliminated, and offices misaligned with the Trump administration's priorities will be removed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Among those offices that Rubio plans to cut are the Office of Global Women's Issues and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which should come as little surprise given President Trump's war on all things DEI. Also, the Office of the Undersecretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, which is charged with advancing American values globally, will reportedly be cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
We should note, however, that many elements of that office, such as a Bureau for Human Rights and one for refugees, will be folded into the Office for Foreign Assistance and Humanitarian Aid. Rubio said the Office of Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights had become a, quote, platform for left-wing activists to wage vendettas against conservative leaders around the world.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
He also alleged it had been used to promote an arms embargo against Israel, and that's according to a report from the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
In another example of political bias, Rubio said that the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration had been used to funnel millions of taxpayer dollars to NGOs promoting mass migration at the southern border That office will also be on the chopping block But Rubio also plans to create new roles, such as an assistant secretary for emerging threats who will report to the undersecretary of state for arms control and international security
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
In an internal memo, Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau stressed that the overhaul will not disrupt any of the department's ongoing missions, and that, quote, no embassy, consulate, or overseas post closures have been made at this time, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
But the reorganization chart shows plans to shutter several embassies and consulates in sub-Saharan Africa and shrink diplomatic operations in Canada. Oh, does the US still have diplomatic relations with Canada? As I mentioned, the finer details of the reorganization are still being fleshed out and subject to change.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Still, many career diplomats at the State Department were reportedly relieved following Rubio's announcement. Media reports previously suggested that the planned overhaul would be much more aggressive and would see deeper personnel cuts throughout the agency One anonymous State Department official told Politico, quote, Okay
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
On now to a brutal terror attack in the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir, which has left at least 26 tourists dead and dozens more seriously wounded. Indian authorities say four gunmen opened fire Tuesday on a group of vacationers at a popular mountain meadow near the resort town of Pahalgam, deep in the Indian-controlled portion of the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The police are blaming the attack on militants fighting against Indian rule. Witnesses described chaos as the attackers sprayed bullets at close range. Most of the dead and wounded were Indian nationals visiting the area. Officials say the victims had been relaxing in a scenic meadow, a well-known destination surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
While no one has claimed responsibility for this latest attack, Indian officials are eyeing familiar suspects Lashkar-e-Taib, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and the newer resistance front are all active in the region and have a history of targeting security forces
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
What makes this attack different is the focus on tourists, marking a potential shift in tactics aimed at undercutting India's claim of stability in the region. India's Home Minister Amit Shah vowed the, quote, harshest consequences for those behind the assault. Prime Minister Modi cut short his trip to Saudi Arabia to return to New Delhi and oversee the response.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
The attack, no surprise, is already drawing strong condemnation from around the world. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who happened to be visiting India this week, called it a, quote, devastating terror attack and said, quote, our thoughts and prayers are with the Indian people. President Trump, along with world leaders, including from Russia and Italy, expressed solidarity with India.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted, quote, the U.S. stands with India. For many, the most chilling part of this story is the target, civilians Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan But attacks against tourists have been rare even during periods of heightened conflict The roots of the violence in the area go back decades
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
As we've reported on this show, China has halted exports of rare earth minerals used in military applications and high-tech devices. Now, these minerals, 17 in total, are critical to manufacturing everything from missile guidance systems and fighter jets to electric vehicles, smartphones, and even wind turbines. The decision was framed by Beijing as a retaliatory move in the ongoing trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
After India and Pakistan gained independence in 1947, the state of Jammu and Kashmir was given the choice to join either country. Its ruler at the time opted for India, igniting a conflict that's never fully settled. Since 1989, an armed insurgency has raged in Indian-controlled Kashmir, fueled by both local separatist sentiment and, according to India, Pakistan-backed terror groups.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
In 2019, India revoked Kashmir's limited autonomy. That's a move that intensified anti-India sentiment and tightened the government's control. While Delhi has touted a return to normalcy, highlighting a boom in terrorism, critics say the calm has been an illusion. Apparently so. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, remember the saga of Gold Bar Bob?
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Well, a jury in Manhattan has found Senator Bob Menendez's wife guilty in the federal bribery case. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you've probably heard about them. They seem to have thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. Well, it's weighing heavily on all of us.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
But I'm here to tell you that there's a silver lining that most people seem to have missed. Not just silver, but gold as well. You see, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 23rd, 2025: China’s Rare Earth Ban May Be Backfiring & Rubio Overhauls The State Department
Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, I know you know this, right? But owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility. And you need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. And that's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with the Stopbox Pro. It's a lockbox that gives you instant access to your firearm. There's no electronics, no keys or codes required.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
But that program was shut down within minutes of Trump being sworn into office. Trump has also moved to suspend a program that allowed migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to be paroled into the U.S. with sponsors. Some 800,000 migrants had been granted entry into the U.S. under the parole program since its implementation back in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
It's Wednesday, 22 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, we'll begin with President Trump's sweeping immigration crackdown as the U.S.-Mexico border closes and mass deportations get underway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Additionally, Trump has suspended a refugee resettlement program for at least four months and issued an executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. The sweeping immigration actions have brought traffic at the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
southern border to a virtual halt, leaving many migrants who were waiting along Mexico's northern border for asylum appointments in limbo. Andrew Selle, president of the Think Tank Migration Policy Institute, told CNN, quote, As of today, there's almost no way of getting protection at the U.S. border or anywhere along a route to the United States. That's a huge shift, end quote. Well, yes, it is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
With the border secure, Trump has quickly moved to his next immigration agenda, and that would be mass deportations. Trump's border czar, Tom Holman, said Tuesday that immigration and customs enforcement agents, ICE agents, have been directed to begin seeking illegal immigrants living in the U.S. for removal to their home countries. Now, look, it's worth noting, given the hyperbole and the angst,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
floating about in media and social media about this issue currently, deportations have been a part of US policy for decades. As an example, during Barack Obama's tenure, 400,000 individuals were deported from the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Tom Homan said they've created what he called target sheets, prioritizing the arrest of illegal migrants with a criminal record or who have been deemed a potential threat to public safety.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
The operation got off to a bit of a bumpy start after the administration's plans to arrest illegal immigrants in Chicago were leaked last week, but Homan said they've since reworked their strategy to address concerns around the safety of their agents.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Homan told Fox News on Tuesday, quote, ICE officers throughout the country were told today, go make arrests of those here illegally that have a public safety threat. So, they've deployed target sheets and an operational plan to go out in the field. They're out there right now looking for the most serious public safety threats throughout the country, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Homan noted that there are currently more than 700,000 illegal immigrants in cities across the U.S. with criminal records, saying, quote, that's who we're looking for right now, end quote. Now, you wouldn't think that that would be necessarily controversial on either side of the political aisle. We should note there has been some pushback on Trump's efforts to reform the immigration system.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
His order to end birthright citizenship has already triggered challenges from 22 states. which argue that it violates the 14th Amendment. Coming up, with President Donald Trump shifting America's stance towards the war in Ukraine, President Zelensky is calling on European allies to step up and play a more active role in ensuring the continent's security and deterring Russian aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
I'll be back with those details in a moment. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Then we'll turn to the war in Ukraine as President Zelensky calls on European allies to commit a minimum of 200,000 troops To serve as a peacekeeping contingent, should Kiev reach a peace agreement with Moscow? But first, our afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with a look at President Trump's promised crackdown on immigration, which began just hours after he was sworn into office on Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Ukrainian President Zelensky has called on European allies to commit to a minimum deployment of 200,000 troops to enforce any potential peace agreement with Russia, urging the continent to defend itself. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on Tuesday, ugh, is it Davos time already again?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Zelensky framed Europe as the, quote, indispensable player for its own security rather than relying on potentially shifting U.S. policies under President Trump. Zelensky warned European leaders against complacency, citing battles near Ukraine's eastern border in the Kursk region, where North Korean troops are fighting alongside Moscow's forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Zelensky's call to action underscored Europe's vulnerability to Moscow's aggression, as he reminded leaders that Pyongyang is farther from Davos than the front lines of Ukraine. Central to Zelensky's Davos address was his vision of a multinational peacekeeping force. Zelensky stated, quote, from all the Europeans, 200,000, it's a minimum. Otherwise, it's nothing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Dismissing smaller contributions, he said, is insufficient to securing lasting peace. The Ukrainian president also rejected outright Russian peace demands to slash Ukraine's military to one-fifth of its current size. Well, now Putin's just trying it on, labeling such proposals as Kremlin power plays.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Zelensky stated, quote, This is what Putin wants, and we will not allow this to happen, adding that his administration is seeking a meeting with Trump, who's pledged to end the conflict quickly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Trump, in his post-inauguration remarks, suggested that Russian President Putin should pursue a deal stating, quote, Putin is destroying Russia, accusing the Russian leader of weakening his own country with a prolonged war effort. While Zelensky welcomed the sentiment, he remained skeptical of a swift resolution without robust European and NATO involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
European responses to Zelensky's plea have been mixed at best. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following a visit to Kiev last week, expressed Britain's readiness to, quote, play our full part, but refrained from committing troops, leaving the scope of future support open-ended.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
Under an executive order declaring a national emergency at the U.S. southern border, all crossings with Mexico have been officially shut down for migrants seeking asylum in the United States. Refugee admissions are also being suspended, effectively cutting off all avenues to cross the border previously available under the Biden administration. That's according to a report from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
As we reported here on the PDB earlier this month, Zelensky discussed the possibility of deploying French troops inside Ukraine in non-combat capacities with French President Emmanuel Macron, but concrete commitments, well, they remain elusive. Talks with Poland and the Baltic states are ongoing as Zelensky builds momentum for broader European engagement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
NATO membership remains a cornerstone of Zelensky's strategy for peace, which he calls, quote, the best guarantee for Ukraine's security. However, opposition from the US, Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia complicates Ukraine's bid, as some nations remain wary of antagonizing Moscow further. In his Davos address, Zelensky cautioned that Russia, which has mobilized some 600,000 troops,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
could expand its military to upwards of 1.5 million. Such a force, Zelensky warned, would dwarf the capabilities of any single European national army and leave the continent vulnerable to Moscow's ambitions. He called on Europe to invest heavily in military technology, including drones and advanced air defense systems, to counteract Russian advances and prevent future invasions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
As Europe ponders its response, Zelensky's message is clear. The stakes extend far beyond Ukraine's borders. In his view, the continent's proximity to the conflict and Moscow's willingness to escalate make inaction a dangerous gamble. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 22 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
As you may know, every month, the PDB team, including the sometimes compensated interns, gathers around the bar at our local watering hole at Buzzy's 8-Ball Tavern. And after sufficient beverages, well, we select the month's top questions and comments for inclusion in our monthly Ask Me Anything episode. And of course, as you probably heard during the coverage of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
presidential inauguration festivities, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Couldn't be easier. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 22nd, 2025: Trump's Immigration Crackdown Begins & Zelensky Calls On Europe To Commit 200,000 Peacekeeping Troops
While Biden had moved early last summer to restrict asylum eligibility at border checkpoints, many migrants were still able to claim refugee status through the controversial CBP One cell phone app, which has allowed at least 936,000 illegal immigrants to apply for asylum since January 2023 from within their home countries before then flying into the United States.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
While the long-term impact of the Iron Wall operation remains uncertain, of course, its immediate consequences are clear, a recalibration of Israel's approach to counterterrorism in the West Bank in the ongoing struggle for some form of lasting peace and the renewed tension now between the PA and terrorist factions. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Coming up in the back of the brief, one of President Biden's final acts is causing a backlash. It's a last minute commutation so controversial that even former FBI Director Christopher Wray is calling it out. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, I want to draw your attention to a last-minute commutation issued by former President Biden that has left the FBI and law enforcement fuming.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, while I was gone, I may have missed out on important news, but I know that thanks to the most excellent Mike Slater, PDB listeners, well, you stayed informed and up to date. I want to thank Mike for stepping in and working with our PDB team. It's very much appreciated. All right. Let's get briefed. The purge, well, has begun.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
In the final hours of his presidency on Monday, Biden commuted the life sentence of Leonard Peltier, a radical left-wing Native American activist convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975 in South Dakota. Peltier was serving two consecutive life sentences for the killings, as well as another seven years for an armed escape attempt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
But after the commutation, Peltier, now in his 80s, will serve out the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. Oh, isn't that nice? according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Prominent supporters of Peltier, such as the self-described Indian native Senator Elizabeth Warren and fellow senator but not fellow Indian native Bernie Sanders, have long petitioned for his release, claiming he was wrongly convicted of the murders.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, we should note that former Democrat presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama both denied clemency requests for Peltier after extensively reviewing his case. Apparently, Senator Warren knows better. His latest parole bid in July also failed due to the nature of his crimes. For background, yeah, let's get a little background here.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Peltier was in a vehicle stopped by FBI special agents Ronald Williams and Jack Kohler on June 26, 1975, near a Sioux Indian reservation in South Dakota. Peltier was already the subject of an arrest warrant for the attempted murder of a police officer in Wisconsin, though the agents were unaware of that fact when they stopped the vehicle. A shootout ensued, leaving both agents wounded.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
According to the FBI, Agents Williams and Kohler were then executed at point-blank range by gunshots to the head, traced back to Peltier's AR-15. Yeah, he seems like a solid candidate for forgiveness by the outgoing Biden administration. Biden's move to free Peltier has left the FBI community, well, stunned.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
It came just days after outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray sent a letter to Biden urging him not to grant Peltier clemency, arguing it would, quote, be shattering to the victims' loved ones and undermine the principles of justice. In the letter, Ray said, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
It's Wednesday, 22 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And as you may have noticed, I'm back in the PDB saddle sooner than anticipated. The desert trek through Saudi Arabia and Jordan on behalf of the UK's Special Forces Benevolent Fund continues its epic journey. But I have been sidelined with an injury.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Wray noted that over the past 50 years, 22 federal judges, multiple parole boards, and six presidential administrations have studied the evidence and upheld Peltier's conviction. Still, Biden overruled Wray and moved forward with Peltier's release.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Of course, Natalie Barra, president of the FBI Agents Association, issued a blistering statement condemning the commutation on Monday, calling it, quote, disgraceful and cowardly. Well, she's not wrong. She added, quote, it is a cruel betrayal to the families and colleagues of these fallen agents and is a slap in the face of law enforcement, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Well, perhaps some enterprising, objective journalist could ask Senators Warren and Sanders to go on the record this week explaining their support for Peltier. That would seem fair. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 22 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, which you could do, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with a PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
President Trump has launched a sweeping removal of Biden appointees from his administration, starting with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs or former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley. He's also revoked the security clearances of dozens of former intelligence officials. I'll bring you those details.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Later in the show, speaking of personnel changes, a major shakeup in the Israeli Defense Forces as IDF Chief of Staff and the head of the Israeli Southern Command announced their resignations, citing failures leading to Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack. Plus, as the ceasefire holds in Gaza, the IDF initiated a major counterterrorist operation in the West Bank that's expected to last several days.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
And in today's back of the brief, one of Biden's final acts as president is now under fire. The now former president pardoned a man convicted of killing two FBI agents, sparking outrage within the ranks of top law enforcement officials. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President Donald Trump may have only just returned to the Oval Office, but he's wasting little time in shaking up the D.C.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
bureaucracy and delivering on his promise to purge holdovers of the Biden administration from government. Shortly before midnight on Monday, President Trump took to Truth Social to announce that he'd begun the process of identifying and removing more than 1,000 appointees from former President Biden's administration, closing out the post with his signature TV line, You're Fired.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Trump said he'd already fired four high-profile individuals with immediate effect. Retired General Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who sat on the National Infrastructure Advisory Council. Celebrity chef Jose Andres, who served on the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, who worked on the President's Export Council. And former diplomat Brian Hook, who was a trustee of the Smithsonian's Wilson Center for Scholars. Milley's axing has garnered the most attention due to his tumultuous relationship with Trump, which soured in the waning days of Trump's first term in office.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Trump's allies accused Milley of undermining the president just before he exited office in 2021 by back-channeling with a Chinese general following the January 6 Capitol riots. Since Trump left office, well, there's been no love lost between the pair, to put it mildly. Milley has publicly called Trump a, quote, wannabe dictator and, quote, fascist to the core.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
While Trump has suggested that Milley committed, quote, a treasonous act with his call to the Chinese and said that in days gone by, he would have been executed. Yeah, it sounds like they're not getting along.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Milley continued serving as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff until retiring in September of 2023, but was subsequently appointed by President Biden to the president's National Infrastructure Advisory Council. He'd recently expressed fears that he would face court-martial if Trump returned to the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
But on Monday, just hours before Trump's inauguration, Biden granted Milley a, well, frankly, controversial preemptive presidential pardon. Preemptive. Just one of many preemptive pardons handed out by Biden, including several to Biden's own family members.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Trump, unsurprisingly, immediately slammed the move as, quote, disgraceful, arguing that Milley was, quote, very, very guilty of very bad crimes, end quote. And that, if you're not counting, is a lot of varies. Within hours of retaking the Oval Office, Trump reportedly ordered the Pentagon to pull down Milley's portrait. from a hallway filled with paintings of his predecessors.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
The portrait had only gone up 10 days earlier. The dismissals of Jose Andres and Keisha Lance Bottoms from the president's councils, well, they garnered less attention, as both were expected to be moving on from their roles. But the firing of Brian Hook caught many by surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Hook was a key former policy operative during Trump's first term, helping to craft the president's maximum pressure campaign against Iran. He was appointed to the Smithsonian's Wilson Center think tank by Trump after serving as his special envoy to Iran. Like Trump, Hook has faced death threats from the mullahs in Tehran over the 2020 assassination of Qasem Soleimani.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
As we approached the Hejaz Mountains in Saudi, I managed to tear some abdominal muscles during what can only be described as an unfortunate dismount from my camel. Now, I, too, was surprised at the injury because, honestly, I didn't know I still had ab muscles. I haven't seen them in years. Regardless...
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
But Hook maintained close ties with Trump's former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who Trump has increasingly distanced himself from. Still, it was reported in November that Hook was advising the Trump transition team... Well, so it's not clear what prompted his dismissal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
In addition to the firings, President Trump signed an executive order Monday revoking the security clearances of the 51 intelligence officials who signed a letter ahead of the 2020 presidential election dismissing reports about Hunter Biden's infamous laptop as, quote, Russian disinformation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Last year, the FBI confirmed the authenticity of that laptop, leading to accusations that the letter from intelligence officials was politically motivated, you think? We should note, many of these former intelligence officials have said they stand by their statements, arguing that they were concerned about Russian interference in the 2020 election.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Text to the executive order said signers of the letter had, quote, weaponized the gravitas of the intelligence community and imperiled its public reputation. Among those who will have their clearances stripped are former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, former CIA Directors John Brennan and Michael Hayden, and former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Trump's former National Security Advisor John Bolton was also included for publishing, quote, sensitive information in a memoir he released in 2020. Now, the move may really not mean much to a number of those 51 former intel officials, given that clearances expire, and it's likely that many of them no longer hold, need, or want active clearances.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
So, you could argue the move may be considered more theatrical than impactful.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Additionally, the executive order directs the director of national intelligence to deliver a report within 90 days regarding, quote, any additional inappropriate activity that occurred within the intelligence community by anyone contracted by the intelligence community or by anyone who held a security clearance, end quote. Well, that's rather broad, isn't it?
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Coming up after the break, top Israeli military leaders resign over failures tied to Hamas's October 7 attack, as at the same time, the IDF launches a major counter-terrorist operation in the West Bank. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Although I'm now on the disabled list, or I guess they now call it the injury list in sports, the rest of the team, and it is an amazing team, let me tell you that much, it continues on towards Aqaba in Jordan. And if you're able, please go to sfcbf.org. That stands for Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund. That's www.sfcbf.org.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
In a major shakeup of military leadership, Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzli HaLevi and Southern Command Head Major General Yaron Finkelman announced their resignations Tuesday, taking responsibility for the military's security failures ahead of the 7 October 2023 Hamas terror attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Halevi, the first IDF chief of staff in 17 years to resign before completing a three-year term, will step down on 6 March. His resignation will align with the conclusion of the initial phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas. In a letter to Defense Minister Israel Katz, Halevi stated, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Halevy's public appeals for external oversight reflect a growing demand for transparency to investigate the military's failures. In a televised statement, Halevy stated, "...the IDF must provide answers and conduct thorough, high-quality, and fully transparent investigations."
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Halevy added he would complete the IDF's internal investigations and ensure a smooth transfer of command to his successor, preparing the military for any future challenges. Similarly, Finkelman, tasked with overseeing the Southern Command during the 7 October terror attack, submitted his resignation in a handwritten note to Halevi, acknowledging his failure to protect the Western Negev.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Finkelman stated, quote, this failure is seared within me for life, though he also emphasized the valor of his troops, describing their efforts as, quote, chapters of heroism and excellence in the history of the IDF. Finkelman did not specify the date that he intends to step down.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
These resignations add to a growing list of senior officials stepping down following the terror attack 15 months ago, including the former chief of the Military Intelligence Directorate and the former Gaza Division Commander Brigadier General. The head of the Shin Bet security agency also acknowledged responsibility for failures, but has not resigned.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Despite the shift in leadership and the growing accountability among military leaders, Prime Minister Netanyahu and most of his coalition have resisted widespread calls for a state commission of inquiry into the attack, insisting that such matters be addressed after the war concludes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Meanwhile, Defense Minister Katz has begun the process of selecting Halevi's successor, with Halevi's deputy and also the head of the Northern Command among the top candidates. Katz expressed gratitude for Halevi's four decades of service and his leadership during what he described as, quote, a difficult war that was imposed on us, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
As Israel navigates the ongoing stages of a hostage release and ceasefire with Hamas, Halevy's call for transparent investigations and external oversight remains a focal point.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
While Halevy underscored the military's successes in his letter, stating, quote, "...the military achievements of the IDF have altered the Middle East," his and Finkelman's resignations are an acknowledgment of the missteps that failed to prevent the 7 October terror attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Sticking with Israel, while the ceasefire holds in Gaza, the IDF launched a sweeping counterterrorism operation codenamed Iron Wall in the northern West Bank city of Jenin on Tuesday, deploying drones and airstrikes against terrorist infrastructure. This operation, which began with precision drone strikes against imminent threats, is expected to extend over several days.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
to learn more about the trek and the vital work of the Benevolent Fund on behalf of UK veterans and their families. Seriously, it'll take you two minutes to go to that link, learn more about the trek, and if you're able, click on the donate button. Maybe give the price of a cup of coffee. It will make a difference.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Prime Minister Netanyahu framed the campaign as a direct confrontation with what he terms the, quote, Iranian Axis. The operation comes in the wake of a deadly roadside bomb attack just days earlier in the region that killed an Israeli reservist soldier and wounded four others, including a senior Israeli officer.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Prior to submitting his resignation letter, IDF Chief of Staff Halevi foreshadowed significant military operations needed to preempt threats in the West Bank. Speaking on Monday, Halevi also emphasized the urgency of preventing Hamas from maintaining its influence, particularly in the wake of its ceasefire agreement with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
The concern here is that the ceasefire is in place, but there's no agreement or process for future governance in Gaza, which, of course, creates a vacuum likely to be filled by the remnants of Hamas. as we've been tracking here on the PDB. The ceasefire agreement details a planned release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those convicted of deadly terror attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Now, the backdrop to the Iron Wall operation in the West Bank is the Palestinian Authority's shaky truce with terror groups in Jenin, ending a six-week standoff in the city and adjacent refugee camp.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
The so-called Jenin Battalion, a coalition aligned with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, has challenged the Palestinian Authority's governance, compelling their withdrawal as Israeli forces advanced. This withdrawal reflects the PA's struggle to assert authority while attempting to project stability in its bid to assume the leadership role in Gaza from Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 22nd, 2025: The Trump Purge Begins & Biden Pardons a Murderer
Israel's resumption of airstrikes in Jenin marks a shift in strategy, as the IDF had paused such actions while the PA conducted its own operations. Israeli forces advanced with a large number of troops, including special forces, shinbed operatives, and border police, in a coordinated effort to neutralize the terrorist strongholds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for their free training program. And when you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, use my promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, just like you would imagine, to save 10% at checkout. Again, give it a try. Go to GetJackedUp.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
But that will only represent an initial investment, as you might suspect, with the project estimated to cost a total of somewhere close to $175 billion. Now, I'll go on record as saying that $175 billion in fat stacks is a very conservative estimate for the Golden Dome.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
It's Wednesday, the 21st of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, President Trump has unveiled his plans to build a new comprehensive air defense system for the United States that he's called the Golden Dome.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
As our regular listeners will remember, Trump first announced his plans back in January, when he signed an executive order directing the Pentagon to begin the immediate development of an Iron Dome-style missile defense system.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
While the Golden Dome may take its inspiration from Israel's Iron Dome, the project promises to be, well, obviously many times larger and designed to combat a wider range of threats. The administration is keeping the details of the project close to the vest, but Trump said Tuesday it will involve technologies across land, sea, and space, including space-based sensors and interceptors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Analysts have speculated that it will probably work by employing thousands of satellites to spot and track missiles and then fire interceptors from orbit to neutralize any potential incoming threats. It sounds a bit like Dr. Evil's Alan Parsons project from Austin Powers. But perhaps I'm oversimplifying it. Trump said, quote, We'll have it done in three years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Once fully constructed, the Golden Dome will be capable of intercepting missiles, even if they're launched from other sides of the world, end quote. Well, that's good. You kind of want that in your missile defense system. We should note, however, that there are significant doubts among former national security experts about the project's viability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
The Iron Dome, for example, protects a country that is roughly the size of New Jersey. Many have questioned whether the U.S. has the capabilities to build a system to protect a landmass roughly 450 times larger than Israel, let alone in the short timeframe that Trump has outlined. Still, the project has caught the attention of America's adversaries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
The communist regime in China was particularly vocal about their opposition to the Golden Dome, accusing Trump of, quote, "...turning space into a war zone," and claiming it, quote, "...violates the principle of peaceful use in the Outer Space Treaty."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
China's foreign minister lashed out in a statement on Wednesday, saying, quote, the project will heighten the risk of creating a space arms race and shake the international security and arms control system. He added, quote, China is gravely concerned about this. We urge the U.S. to give up developing and deploying global anti-missile systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
He added, honestly, only China should be in the business of weaponizing space, end quote. Alright, that last little bit there was obviously made up. But the point being, China's outrage, well, it rings a bit hollow, or completely hollow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
As we discussed just last week on the PDB, China has put a strategic emphasis on space-based warfare, rapidly working to expand their military presence in orbit and beyond.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
General Bechance Saltzman, he's the chief of US space operations, recently warned that Beijing has developed what he described as a satellite, quote, kill web, which can precisely target the location of US forces, preemptively giving the communist regime valuable intelligence, of course, about American troop positions and operations before military objectives could be met.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
China has also partnered with Russia to launch a joint lunar exploration project called the International Lunar Research Station. China intends to put astronauts on the moon before 2030 and build a joint nuclear power plant on the moon with Russia to support the station. The ambitious project aims to create a permanent moon base by mid-2030 to compete with America's Artemis moon mission.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
And China, well, they're already throwing a fit, accusing the US of trying to turn space into a war zone. We'll have the details. Later in the show, Mexico's bloody political violence escalates inside the country's capital, where two top aides to the mayor of Mexico's city were brazenly assassinated in broad daylight on Tuesday in a suspected cartel hit. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Russia, meanwhile, has been mulling plans to put a nuclear weapon into orbit. Such a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon could trigger an electromagnetic pulse across low-Earth orbit that would, of course, disable dozens of critical satellites and have a catastrophic effect on any ground-based devices that rely on satellite connectivity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
As Russia and China vie for military supremacy in space, Saltzman said the US must rapidly work to build out its own space-based military capabilities to counter these next-generation threats. Coming up next, two top aides to the mayor of Mexico City were brazenly assassinated in broad daylight on Tuesday in a suspected cartel hit. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Let's take just a few seconds to talk about your financial health. I know, it's everybody's favorite subject, isn't it? But it is very important. Now, when your credit isn't perfect, it can really feel like the system is stacked against you. But there is a company out there looking to help, and that company is Kickoff. That's Kickoff without the C-K-I-K-O-F-F.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Kickoff gives you the smartest tools to build real credit fast. With transparent, affordable plans starting at, get this, just $5 a month, no hidden fees and zero interest, Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit. It's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see good behavior, and your credit can grow fast.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Users with credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year. With over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there's a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app. Start building credit with Kickoff today, and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's 80% off the normal price when you go to GetKickoff.com slash Mike today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
That's Kickoff without the C. GetKickoff.com slash Mike. must sign up via getkickoff.com slash mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new kickoff customers first month only. Subject to approval, offer subject to change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points, Vantage Score 3.0, between January 2023 and January 2024 for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score, and individual results may vary. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Now, you may have heard about this upcoming summit, but it's worth paying attention to. This July, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations being held in Rio de Janeiro. Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes Russia and China and India and Iran,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
They're meeting with the stated goal of displacing the US dollar as the global currency, and they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. That's a catchy name. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for US dollars could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Now, while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? I would suggest first stop would be check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
We'll begin today with a return to our coverage of space-based warfare as President Trump unveils his plans to build a futuristic missile defense system dubbed the Golden Dome. The ambitious multi-billion dollar project aims to protect against next-generation aerial threats to the U.S., including ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as, and this is important, hypersonic weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Mexico's bloody political violence spilled into the capital Tuesday as two top aides to Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada were assassinated in a daylight motorcycle ambush. According to officials with the federal prosecutor's office, Brugada's private secretary, Ximena Guzman, had been driving to work and stopped on a busy avenue downtown in Mexico City
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
to pick up senior advisor José Muñoz when two gunmen on a motorbike pulled up alongside the vehicle. That's a classic hit scenario. The attackers opened fire, killing Muñoz on the spot. Guzmán, still behind the wheel, was executed with at least four rounds fired directly into the windshield. The violence shattered the capital's long-standing reputation as a haven from cartel warfare.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
As of now, the motive remains unclear, but Mexican security analysts say the ambush bears all the hallmarks of a cartel-ordered hit likely meant to send a message ahead of next month's judicial elections. Public security specialist David Saucedo stated, quote, this was a harsh message sent to Bugata, undoubtedly perpetrated by drug traffickers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
He noted that organized criminal groups impacted by recent seizures have a pattern of retaliating against officials, even in the capital. Photos from the scene show a black Audi riddled with bullet holes. One victim lay slumped in the front seat, the other was found on the pavement covered with a white sheet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Police cordoned off the area as forensic technicians collected shell casings and combed nearby streets for physical evidence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
I'd like to point out that Mayor Bugata was not in the vehicle at the time of the attack, and in a somber statement Tuesday, she mourned her longtime colleagues, saying, quote, I feel very sad for the loss of Ximena and Jose, with whom for many years we shared dreams and struggles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
In an announcement from the Oval Office on Tuesday, the president said he had selected a design for the new missile shield, which he teased would be fully operational by the end of his second term. That's according to a report from the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
She vowed that there would be no impunity and thanked Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum, herself a former Mexico City mayor, for swiftly deploying federal resources to assist the investigation. Scheinbaum stated, quote, it is a deplorable incident and we are going to give all the support that the mayor may need.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Later that day, Mexico City's civil security office confirmed the recovery of a motorbike near the crime scene and a second vehicle in a neighborhood east of the capital. Ballistic and fingerprint evidence are currently under analysis. The ambush has drawn inevitable comparisons to the 2020 cartel attack on then-Mexico City Police Chief Omar Garcia Harfouk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
now serving as Federal Security Minister, which left two of his bodyguards dead. Arfuk survived the hit and later blamed the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of Mexico's most powerful and violent criminal syndicates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
As we discussed on Tuesday's PDB, the New Generation Cartel is also the lead suspect in a recent targeted hit at a Guadalajara restaurant that left two private security consultants dead, one of whom was a former U.S. State Department contractor. Notably, the New Generation Cartel has been designated by the U.S. government as a terrorist organization since February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
With Mexico's election season already covered in blood, Tuesday's daylight double assassination, well, it's a reminder of how far cartel influence has penetrated and how brazenly it now operates, even in the nation's capital. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin, late afternoon, early evening, whatever you'd like to call it, for Wednesday, the 21st of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, you can do that. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com. And as always, don't forget to check out our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to tell you about a great home fitness company. It's called Jacked Up Fitness. Jacked Up Fitness. Now, they make amazing gym equipment for home use, making it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
The Trump administration has so far remained vague on the details of the project, but officials said Tuesday that an initial sum of $25 billion, with a B, has been earmarked for the Golden Dome in the spending and tax cut bill currently making its way slowly through Congress.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
And of course, strength training, well, it's key to your overall fitness. Now, as an example, their all-new X Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level. The Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a Power Rack Pro at my place. Let me tell you something, it is outstanding.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 21st, 2025: China Rages At Trump's 'Golden Dome' Announcement & Top Aides To Mexico City Mayor Assassinated In Suspected Cartel Hit
It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulating pulley arms, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group. And if you're new to strength training, don't worry. They offer a free Get Jacked Up program. It has full body video workouts. Simply press play and follow along. It's that simple. Look, take control of your fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, a top Navy admiral convicted in a historic corruption case, marking the highest ranking officer ever found guilty of a federal crime while in uniform. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, coming up this July, you may have heard about this. There's a global summit of BRICS nations being held in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia and India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. How's that for a catchy name? Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
And while the transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, I could suggest, and I will, that the first stop is with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Now, a disturbing investigation by some intrepid reporters at the Daily Caller News Foundation has uncovered evidence that the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, is actively using a shadowy financial web of Chinese government-linked entities to fund an American nonprofit group accused of trying to facilitate illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, for those of you in the U.S., well, look at the calendar. Aha, Memorial Day is right around the corner. Now, as you know, Memorial Day isn't just a long holiday weekend. Of course, first and foremost, it's an opportunity, an important opportunity, to thank those who have sacrificed and served. But then, yes, again, it is a holiday weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
You're right about that. And it's also... the kickoff to grilling season. So let me tell you, if your grill could talk, it would definitely be asking for something better than grocery store beef. And that's why I order my beef from Tri-Tales Beef. Look, Tri-Tales is a fifth generation Texas ranch run by family, not run by some faceless meat corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Tritails ships pasture-raised, grain-finished black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, no middlemen, no mystery. Just real premium beef delivering great taste in every cut. And right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
So if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll also throw in two free flat iron steaks with your order. So stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you. In today's Back of the Brief, a historic conviction is sending shockwaves to the U.S. military this week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Retired four-star Admiral Robert P. Burke, once the Navy's second-highest-ranking officer, has been found guilty of bribery, conspiracy, and concealing material facts in a federal corruption case. His conviction marks the first time an officer of his rank has ever been convicted of a federal crime committed while on active duty.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
It's Wednesday, the 21st of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We begin today with a disturbing report. The Chinese regime may be bankrolling a U.S. group that teaches illegal immigrants how to evade ICE.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
According to federal prosecutors, Burke participated in a scheme to steer Navy contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, possibly more, to a private training company in exchange for a future job. The job came with a hefty salary, a $500,000 annual salary, and stock options to begin after his retirement. The timeline of events is, well, damning.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
In 2021, despite previous warnings from the Navy to avoid contact with the company, later identified by CBS News as a company called Next Jump, Burke met with its co-CEOs, Yongchul Charlie Kim and Megan Messinger, at a Washington, D.C. lunch. During that meeting, they allegedly discussed Burke using his influence to secure the company a federal contract.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
In return, they offered him the lucrative post-service position. Soon after, Burke allegedly ordered his staff to award the company a $355,000 contract to train naval personnel stationed in Italy and Spain. He also tried, but failed, to persuade a senior Navy commander to grant the company another contract. In August 2021, Burke notified the Navy of his intent to retire the following May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The organization in question called the Chinese American Planning Council, or CPC, has previously been caught coaching illegal immigrants on how to evade apprehension by immigration and customs enforcement agents or ICE agents, all while raking in millions of dollars in grants from the federal government. Of course, the federal government is giving them money.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The company had previously been cut off from Navy business after a short-lived training stint back in 2018 and 2019. Internal communications revealed during the trial show that company executives knew what they were doing. In one message, Kim allegedly wrote, quote, Burke wants to work for us, but we're asking for a deal first, end quote. Well, that's quite the clue.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
While Messenger remarked that the arrangement, quote, felt slimy. Now, here's a pro tip. If you're typing a message that says what you're doing feels slimy, then maybe don't do it. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Attorney Jeanine Pirro put it bluntly in a post to X. She wrote, quote, When you abuse your position and betray the public trust to line your own pockets, it undermines the confidence in the government you represent. She promised that her office will continue to pursue corruption no matter what title or rank the individual holds.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Burke now faces up to 30 years in prison, sentencing is scheduled for August, the same month that his co-conspirators are set to go on trial. Now, this conviction comes amid broader efforts to clean up Navy leadership following other scandals, including the infamous Fat Leonard case that ensnared multiple officers in a web of bribery and gifts and corruption.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
I mean, who could ever forget Fat Leonard? And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 21st of May. If you have any questions or comments for me, well, please reach out at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, which you can do, and it's very easy, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
According to financial records reviewed exclusively by The Daily Caller, the CPC, a nonprofit based in New York, has received up to $445,000 in funding from sources with links to the Chinese government since 2018.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Some of the organizations bankrolling the nonprofit include the state-owned Bank of China, the state-run Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, and the Bank of East Asia, whose executives have served as delegates to the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, where they received directives straight from the CCP, the, again, Chinese Communist Party.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Another notable group linked to the nonprofit group is a fellow New York-based nonprofit called the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center, whose billionaire patron, the aforementioned Wang, regularly meets with CCP leaders in China.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The CPC, which is a nonprofit, their extensive ties have caught the attention of members of Congress and raised the prospect that the Chinese government is actively trying to undermine the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, a Republican from Tennessee,
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
told the Daily Caller News Foundation, quote, I'm deeply concerned that Americans' hard-earned taxpayer dollars were potentially used by an NGO, a nonprofit, to help illegal aliens subvert our nation's laws. Even more troubling is the Chinese American Planning Council's alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
He added that his committee would continue investigating the nonprofit, along with any other NGOs that are using taxpayer dollars to, quote, make a mockery of our laws. The House Homeland Security Committee first announced their investigation of the nonprofit group CPC in mid-April over allegations that they've been using federal funds to facilitate illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The committee took action after footage surfaced allegedly showing the CPC's chief policy and public affairs officer teaching illegal immigrants on the most effective ways to dodge arrest by ICE agents.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
In the footage, which was first obtained by Muckraker.com, the CPC official instructed audience members to avoid ICE by, quote, hardening your physical space, identifying a list of individuals authorized to respond if ICE comes to the door, and training everybody who's going to be involved. Another speaker advised attendees to, quote, not open the door at all if ICE agents come knocking.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
We should note that while state and local officials are not obligated to assist federal immigration authorities in their efforts, it is a crime to stop or otherwise impede enforcement of federal immigration laws.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The Trump administration has made cracking down on illegal immigration a policy priority, and the Justice Department has made it clear that they will prosecute those engaged in attempts to obstruct justice. The Daily Caller report points to the recent arrest and indictment of a Wisconsin judge by the DOJ, who was accused of helping an illegal migrant evade detention by ICE.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Again, when it comes to the Chinese-linked CPC, the nonprofit, the main concern for House Republicans is whether the group has been actively trying to subvert U.S. immigration laws, given the extensive funding they receive through federal and state government grants. The Daily Caller investigation found that roughly 55% of the CPC's total revenue comes from these grants.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
A new investigation has traced money from the Chinese Communist Party-linked entities straight into the hands of this controversial nonprofit. Now, I'd like to say that I'm surprised that the Chinese Communist Party might engage in these types of shenanigans. But, well, I'm the opposite of surprised. Later in the show, new details about an Israeli covert operation in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
While it's unclear how much money they've received from grants through the state of New York, we do know that they've received more than $1.4 million in direct federal grants from the Department of Health and Human Services since 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Given the nonprofit's close links to a slew of organizations with ties to China's communist regime, many are concerned that the Chinese Communist Party is directly trying to derail the Trump administration's immigration agenda. So far, the CPC, the nonprofit, has not issued a statement or responded to the Daily Caller's request for comment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The investigation by the House Homeland Security Committee continues. All right, coming up next, Israel's special forces go undercover in women's clothing to take out a top terror leader. And Europe targets Russia's secret oil fleet with sweeping new sanctions. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me take just a few seconds of your time to talk about financial health, right?
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Oh, I know, that's everybody's favorite subject. But it's very important. Look, when your credit isn't perfect, it can really feel like the system is stacked against you. But there's a company out there looking to help, and that company would be Kickoff. That's Kickoff without the C, K-I-K-O-F-F. Kickoff gives you the smartest tools to build real credit fast.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Look, with transparent, affordable plans starting at just, get this, $5 per month, no hidden fees and zero interest, Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit. And it's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see good behavior, and your credit can grow fast. Users with credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
So with over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there's a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app. Start building credit with Kickoff today and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's 80% off the normal price when you go to getkickoff.com slash Mike today. That's Kickoff without the C. Getkickoff.com slash Mike.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new kickoff customers first month only. Subject to approval and offer subject to change. Average first year credit score impact of plus 84 points. Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Individual results may vary. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Special forces disguised as women infiltrated deep into enemy territory to eliminate a senior terror commander. Plus, Europe cracks down on Russia's secretive shadow fleet. Nearly 200 oil tankers now face sanctions as the EU and UK move to choke off oil revenues that help fund Putin's war machine. And in today's back of the brief, a stunning fall from grace.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
In what sounds more like a scene out of a movie than a true military operation, IDF special forces disguised as women stormed into Khan Yunus early Monday and killed Ahmad Sarhan, a senior commander in Gaza's third largest terror faction.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
According to eyewitnesses and reports from the Hamas-linked Safa news agency, nine commandos stepped off a white civilian bus posing as displaced Palestinian women and stormed Sarhan's home. The senior commander was shot on sight. His wife and children were reportedly detained.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Sarhan, a senior operative in the al-Nasr Salah al-Din Brigades, the militant wing of the Popular Resistance Committees, was declared dead roughly four hours later by the terror group, which referred to him as their, quote, special operations officer.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
For those unfamiliar, the Popular Resistance Committees are a jihadist Salafist militia aligned with Hamas and responsible for a string of deadly attacks, including participation in the 7 October 2023 terror attacks on Israel. The terror group has a long history of carrying out rocket barrages, roadside bombings, and ambushes on IDF patrols, and Sarhan was a key architect in those efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Witnesses described the early morning raid as short but intense, lasting no more than 20 minutes and heavily supported by the Israeli Air Force. The home, reportedly damaged in a prior airstrike, came under renewed fire as Israeli tanks and helicopters provided covering fire for the commando's extraction.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Palestinian media outlets reported that more than 30 Israeli support airstrikes were carried out across the span of 40 minutes, blanketing southern Qanunis. Dozens were said to be killed or wounded, though those numbers have not been independently confirmed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Terrorist affiliated media also claimed that the Israeli unit used a civilian vehicle with local license plates and concealed weapons under blankets and clothing to avoid detection. Safa News Agency alleged that Israeli forces had hoped to interrogate Sarin before killing him, though this has not been verified. The IDF has denied speculation that the raid was linked to a hostage rescue operation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Also reported killed in the strikes, Mahdi Kawara, a Hamas commander in southern Qanunis, though it's unclear whether he died in the raid or in concurrent airstrikes. The targeted operation unfolded in tandem with Israel's renewed military campaign, dubbed Operation Gideon's Chariots, which began over the weekend following a breakdown in ceasefire talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Meanwhile, international backlash is mounting as leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada later on Monday threatened to take, quote, concrete actions, including sanctions, if Israel continues blocking humanitarian aid to the enclave amid several days of heavy airstrikes. As PDB listeners know, the blockade resumed back in March when the brokered January ceasefire collapsed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Under growing pressure from Western allies, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that Israel would now allow what he called a, quote, basic amount of food into the enclave. Five aid trucks were reportedly allowed through this week, though the UN's humanitarian chief dismissed the deliveries as, quote, a drop in the ocean of what is urgently needed, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Even so, indirect talks between Hamas and Israel do continue in Doha, with mediators clinging to faint hopes of brokering a new agreement, as Israel's offensive intensifies by the day. Okay, shifting to Europe, the EU unveiled its 17th sanctions package against Russia, again taking direct aim at tankers in Moscow's so-called Shadow Fleet.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
That's the clandestine armada used to bypass Western restrictions and sustain the Kremlin's wartime oil revenues. In all, 189 vessels tied to illicit oil and grain shipments were blacklisted, alongside asset freezes and travel bans targeting Russian officials and companies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The Navy's former second in command has been convicted in a historic corruption case, becoming the highest ranking officer ever found guilty of a federal crime while in uniform. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
The measures, greenlit by EU foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels, mark one of the bloc's most aggressive moves yet in the economic pressure campaign against Putin's war machine. EU foreign policy chief Kajik Halas didn't hold back. She stated, while, quote, Russian leader Vladimir Putin feigns interest in peace, more sanctions are in the works.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Halas warned that Moscow's actions and those aiding them would face escalating consequences. Now, this isn't the first time that Europe has tried to hobble Russia's offshore lifeline.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
These ships, many of which are aging or poorly maintained and sailing under foreign flags to circumvent regulations, have quietly carried crude oil and diesel and Ukrainian grain, often under murky ownership structures and shielded by complicit insurance schemes. According to Ukrainian estimates, the Shadow Fleet consists of around 500 ships.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Third-party assessments by firms such as S&P Global and the think tank Kyiv School of Economics place the number closer to 400. So far, the EU has sanctioned nearly 350 of these ships, yet concerns extend beyond revenue loss and sanctions leakage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Back in December, Finland's investigation into the Eagle S tanker, suspected of damaging the S-Link II undersea power cable with its anchor, sparked fears that parts of the fleet could be doubling as platforms for maritime sabotage. The latest package of EU sanctions also blacklists 17 individuals and 58 entities, including an insurer linked to the Shadow Fleet's operations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Officials say the measures target financial and logistical nodes across the UAE, Turkey and Hong Kong, all of which have played key roles in facilitating Russia's global oil trade despite the sanctions. In a coordinated move, the UK rolled out its own slate of 100 new sanctions on Tuesday, aimed at, quote, ramping up pressure on the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Among them were 18 additional Shadow Fleet vessels and several firms supplying Iskander short-range ballistic missiles. Those are weapons that have been repeatedly used to strike civilian areas in Ukraine. London sanctions also targeted sectors central to the Kremlin's military-industrial complex, including energy exporters, propaganda outlets, and financial facilitators.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
British Foreign Secretary David Lamy issued a blistering statement, declaring, "...Putin's latest missile and drone strikes once again show his true colors as a warmonger. He urged Moscow to accept a full unconditional ceasefire and move toward real negotiations." Well, that should do it. I'm sure we'll get a call from Putin soon.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
We'll begin today with a look at the subversive activities of China's communist regime and their latest attempts to destabilize American society from within by undermining US immigration laws.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
According to Fox News, these sweeping sanctions come on the heels of President Trump's phone call with Putin, which failed to advance ceasefire negotiations. EU officials say work on the sanctions package began immediately after the last round was finalized three months ago in an effort to strong-arm the Kremlin to the negotiating table.
The President's Daily Brief
May 21st, 2025: China Funding Anti-ICE Groups In The US & Europe Hits Russia With New Sanctions
Since the outset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February of 2022, the European Union has sanctioned roughly 2,400 Russian officials and entities. And with Moscow continuing to stonewall ceasefire overtures, EU diplomats say that this latest move won't be the last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Zelenskyy condemned what he described as a deliberate provocation and said Ukraine will be forced to respond in kind. He also held the strikes up as clear evidence that Putin is not acting in good faith when it comes to Trump's diplomatic outreach and is using the discussions to manipulate the situation to his advantage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
It's Wednesday, the 19th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, President Trump's much-discussed and anticipated 30-day partial ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine, which was supposed to halt strikes on energy infrastructure, is already collapsing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
On Wednesday, Zelenskyy stated, quote, You see, this ceasefire is already not working. Putin's words are very much at odds with reality, end quote. The Ukrainian leader added that, quote, there won't be a situation where Russia will continue to shell our energy infrastructure and that we won't respond. We will respond, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Russia, meanwhile, said that Ukraine already launched its own overnight attack on Russian oil infrastructure in the country's south. and accused leaders in Kyiv of trying to undermine the tentative deal struck between Trump and Putin. The Russian Defense Ministry said multiple Ukrainian drones had entered their airspace and that a drone attack caused a fire at a major oil depot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
The dueling accusations underscore the fragile nature of Trump's negotiations with both Russia and Ukraine and lingering uncertainties over how to implement and enforce any potential ceasefire proposals. Zelensky said that the U.S. must closely monitor Russia's military activity and hold them accountable to their stated promises.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
He said he would be discussing next steps with Trump on a phone call that actually took place Wednesday morning. Details of the discussion are scarce at this time, but we will have more on that call in tomorrow's PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
As we discussed on this morning's show, President Trump was initially seeking to convince Putin to agree to a full 30-day ceasefire that would pave the way for discussions on a more permanent peace deal. While Kiev accepted the proposal last week, Putin rejected the offer, saying that it did not go far enough in addressing Russia's strategic concerns and objectives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Putin is insisting that any lasting ceasefire must include Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and recognizing Russian territorial gains. Additionally, the Kremlin said on Monday that a key condition for ending the war is to fully end all foreign military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine, and assurances that Ukraine will cease the mobilization and rearmament of its military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Putin also reportedly wants a pony and a golden ticket to Wonka's chocolate factory. Look, the dude essentially expects everything and, to date, appears uninterested in actual negotiations. Putin's demands are so steep that many are skeptical, really, as to whether he has any real interest in peace, at least in the short term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Zelensky said Tuesday that Putin is attempting to use these talks to, quote, weaken Ukraine so that he can issue ultimatums from a position of strength. The White House had said that Trump and Putin agreed on Tuesday's call to send delegations to the Middle East immediately to negotiate a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and to get the ball rolling on a more permanent peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
But Wednesday's attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure raise major questions about whether the U.S. can trust any promises made by the Kremlin. Now, you may be shocked to hear me say that I don't believe that you can trust any promises being made by Putin. It's just not in his nature. Coming up next, China is looking to thwart the sale of two critical ports in the Panama Canal to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
asset firm BlackRock. I'll have those details when we come back. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. A deal for the United States to reclaim control over the Panama Canal is rapidly becoming a flashpoint in the ongoing power struggle between Washington and Beijing as Chinese and Hong Kong authorities seek to stand in the way of the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
As we've tracked here on the PDB, the $23 billion deal spearheaded by investment giant BlackRock triggered legal challenges in Panama and regulatory scrutiny from Beijing over one of the world's most strategic waterways. At the heart of the dispute is BlackRock's acquisition of the Panamanian ports of Cristobal and Balboa.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
We'll look at what happened just hours after the call between Trump and Russian President Putin. Later in the show, China is looking to scuttle the sale of two critical ports in the Panama Canal to the U.S. asset firm BlackRock, jeopardizing President Trump's plans to regain control of the strategic waterway from the Chinese Communist Party. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Now, those are critical ports on the Atlantic and the Pacific ends of the canal from Hong Kong-based C.K. Hutchinson. The deal aligns with President Trump's broader push to reclaim American influence in the region, with him calling it an effort to, quote, reclaim control of the canal and slamming Beijing's, quote, ripoff of American shipping firms through excessive tolls.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
The Panama Canal handles roughly 5% of global maritime trade and is a crucial transit route for the U.S. Navy, allowing vessels to move between the Atlantic and the Pacific. For years, American national security officials have warned that Beijing's presence in the canal zone could enable China to restrict American access in the event of conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
That's a concern that is only intensifying as tensions between the two nations escalate. On Tuesday, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee weighed in, denouncing the BlackRock deal and insisting that it requires, quote, serious attention.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
In what appeared to be a pointed jab at President Trump, Lee added, quote, we oppose the abusive use of coercion or bullying tactics in international economic and trade relations. He added, and if anybody knows the abusive use of coercion or bullying tactics in international affairs, it's the Chinese regime. End quote. All right, fine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
I made up that last part of the quote, but that doesn't make it wrong. Beijing, meanwhile, launched an antitrust and national security review through its State Administration of Market Regulation. That's a move that's widely interpreted as an effort to scuttle the sale before it can even go through.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
A Chinese Communist Party-owned newspaper in Hong Kong also entered the fray, warning that the Hutchinson-BlackRock agreement would allow Washington to, quote, use the canal for political purposes and promote its own political agenda. It suggested that the sale could lead to China's shipping industry becoming, quote, subject to the United States. The fight isn't confined to Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
In Panama, the country's Attorney General formally backed two lawsuits that challenged C.K. Hutchinson's 25-year contract for the canal ports, arguing that the agreement is unconstitutional and improperly grants foreign control over national infrastructure. Now, this could be a factor in Hutchinson's intent to sell.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Adding to the tension, Panama's president announced last month that the country would pull out of China's Belt and Road Initiative, that's Beijing's global infrastructure push that has served as a cornerstone of its economic expansion efforts. The dispute comes at a precarious time for U.S.-China relations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
As we've covered, Trump earlier this month raised tariffs on Chinese goods from 10% to 20%, citing Beijing's failure to rein in fentanyl trafficking. On Monday, Trump hinted that Chinese President Xi... may visit the US, quote, in the not too distant future. Some analysts believe Beijing could leverage the canal deal to push for a reduction in tariffs. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
But should China formally move to block the BlackRock CK Hutchinson deal, It's all but certain to provoke a heated response, of course, from Washington. Trump's national security team views the Panama Canal as a core strategic asset, and any effort by Beijing to torpedo the sale is expected to trigger retaliatory measures.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Well, I guess it's only fair 2025 is already shaping up to be the year of retaliatory measures. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 19th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
And finally, have you ever found yourself thinking out loud, you know, I'd love to listen to the PDB, but I wonder what it would be like without commercials? Well, wonder no further. To listen to the show ad-free, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
It appears that the Trump administration's hopes for a limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine are already at risk of collapsing, as Moscow and Kyiv accuse each other of launching air attacks on civilian targets and energy infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
Less than 24 hours after Trump's lengthy phone call with Putin, where the Russian strongman reportedly agreed to cease attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for 30 days, Ukrainian President Zelensky said that Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack, striking civilian buildings and energy sites.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 19th, 2025: Trump's Limited Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Already Risks Collapse & China Looks To Thwart US Panama Canal Deal
The overnight bombardment involved roughly 145 Russian drones, four cruise missiles, and two ballistic missiles, which struck two hospitals in Sumy in northeastern Ukraine, as well as a power substation in the eastern Donetsk region. That's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
But on Monday, the pair boarded the SpaceX capsule, along with Dragon capsule commander Nick Haig of NASA and Russian cosmonaut Alexander Gobanov, to begin their 17-hour voyage back home. That's according to a report from the New York Times. The capsule splashed down off Florida's Gulf Coast just after 6 p.m. on Tuesday, concluding the 286-day saga.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
We'll begin with President Trump's call with Vladimir Putin as the U.S. president presses forward on his attempts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine, despite Keeb's skepticism over the Russian strongman's motivations and intentions. The pair spoke for at least 90 minutes on Tuesday, a conversation that President Trump described as a, quote, very good and productive one.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Commander Nick Haig could be heard saying the crew was, quote, grinning ear to ear upon their return. Now, as you may recall, Boeing, in partnership with NASA, launched astronauts Williams and Wilmore into orbit in early June of last year in what was supposed to be a brief test flight of the Starliner craft, lasting roughly one week.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
But shortly after launch, the vessel began experiencing a cascade of technical malfunctions, including thruster failures and a radiator leak, forcing the two astronauts into an extended stay aboard the International Space Station. After three months of deliberations, NASA ultimately decided it was too risky for the two astronauts to return aboard the Boeing capsule.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
During their extended stay, Williams and Wilmore took over responsibilities aboard the ISS from astronauts who departed the station last fall. Now, while they said their ordeal had been, quote, trying at times, they kept in good spirits, stating in a recent interview that at the end of the day, quote, it's work, it's fun.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Meanwhile, the fully automated Boeing craft was piloted back to Earth without a crew last September, causing embarrassment for Boeing in their quest to compete with Elon Musk for space dominance. How cool does that sound? Space dominance.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Speaking of Musk, well, he was accused of politicizing the situation earlier this month when he said he had offered to bring the two astronauts back last fall, but was rebuffed by the Biden administration for political reasons.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
But Bill Nelson, who served as the administrator of NASA under Biden, said Monday that he was not aware of any conversation with Musk or other SpaceX representatives about bringing the astronauts home early.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
And NASA officials have also consistently stated that the decision to delay their return until March was made solely based on what would cause the least disruption to the operations of the International Space Station. Regardless, setting politics aside, which frankly is never a bad idea, it's very good news to welcome the astronauts home.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
And given the state of the world currently, well, a bit of good news is always welcome. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 19th of March. If you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
And as your mother always told you, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Always remember, listen to your mom. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
It's Wednesday, the 19th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with the high-stakes call between President Trump and Russian President Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
They agreed to commence negotiations at a neutral site in the Middle East for a comprehensive peace deal immediately, though the pathway forward still remains uncertain. In the interim, however, Putin said he agreed to a more limited ceasefire that will halt attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure for 30 days, provided that leaders in Kyiv reciprocate.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
So, frankly, not really a ceasefire, just an agreement that in the course of waging war on Ukraine, Putin won't target power plants. According to our report from Axios, shortly after the call ended, Putin gave the order for the 30-day pause on power plants to be implemented.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The Kremlin also said there'll be a prisoner swap on Wednesday with Ukraine involving 175 soldiers from each side and that Russia would also be returning 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian soldiers as a gesture of goodwill.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
While it could be described in some circles as progress, the measures fall well short of the Trump administration's proposal for a full 30-day ceasefire, which Kiev endorsed but Putin rejected last week. Still, the 30-day pause on energy infrastructure attacks is similar to a previous Ukrainian proposal for a phased approach to peace.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
President Trump put an optimistic spin on the conversation in a post on Truth Social, saying there is, quote, an understanding that we will be working quickly to have a complete ceasefire and ultimately an end to this very horrible war between Russia and Ukraine. We will hopefully, for the sake of humanity, get the job done, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The major question is whether Putin, a dyed-in-the-wool KGB officer, is negotiating with Trump in good faith or simply biding his time at a moment when his forces have Ukraine on the back foot. Spoiler alert, if all you do is look at his track record, Putin has never negotiated in good faith.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
As we discussed on Monday's program, Moscow's forces have all but expelled the Ukrainian military from the Russian Kursk region and are slowly advancing in eastern Ukraine, and intelligence suggests the Kremlin may be preparing for an offensive push in northern Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Putin appears to feel that he has the upper hand in these negotiations and is already attempting to move the needle in a direction more favorable to the Kremlin's long-term strategic interests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Most notably, and much to the alarm of leaders in Kyiv, shortly after the call with Trump, the Kremlin issued a statement saying that a key condition for ending the war is the complete cessation of foreign military aid and intelligence to Ukraine. Putin also reportedly called for Ukraine to cease the mobilization and rearmament of its military.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Putin's demands didn't end there, though we don't yet have all the details of his conversation with Trump. But Putin has previously insisted that any ceasefire must include Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and recognizing Russian territorial gains, terms that Kiev has repeatedly rejected.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Now, the two spoke for at least 90 minutes yesterday, discussing an end to the war in Ukraine and agreeing to kick off negotiations straight away. We've got the details. Later in the show, Yemen's Houthi rebels are doubling down on attacks in the Red Sea, refusing to back off despite U.S. airstrikes and pressure from Iran, or I should say supposed pressure from Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Putin has also rejected proposals for a European coalition of peacekeeping troops in Ukraine to enforce a potential ceasefire, something that President Zelensky has said is a necessary security guarantee to deter future Russian aggression. Zelensky, for his part, confirmed Wednesday's prisoner exchange, noting that it was pre-planned prior to Putin's call with President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
He said that while he has not spoken to Trump since the call with Putin, he supports a halt on energy infrastructure attacks in principle and will adhere to that agreement as long as Russia does not violate its terms.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
But Zelensky expressed skepticism about Putin's true intentions, suggesting he's attempting to use these talks to, quote, weaken Ukraine so that he can, quote, issue ultimatums from a position of strength. Zelensky pointed to Putin's rejection last week of the 30-day full ceasefire proposal, saying, quote, they're not ready to end this war, and we can see that.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
They're not ready even for the first step, which is a ceasefire, end quote. Still, the White House appeared hopeful that talks on a more comprehensive ceasefire will rapidly progress. As noted, officials with the Trump administration said negotiations on a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, as well as a permanent peace deal, will commence shortly in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Those negotiations have yet to be confirmed by Moscow. All right. Coming up next, Yemen's Houthi rebels refuse to back down despite U.S. airstrikes. And China cheers cuts to the U.S. government media outlet Voice of America. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to the Middle East, Yemen's Houthis have intensified their attacks on Red Sea vessels, launching what they claim is their third missile and drone strike wave on United States warships just since Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
As we've been tracking here on the President's Daily Brief, the Iran-backed Houthis resumed targeting vessels in the Red Sea just last week, specifically those linked to Israel in what they call an act of solidarity with Hamas in Gaza. The U.S. responded forcefully, launching a series of airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen over the weekend and into this week, marking the largest U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
military operation in the region since President Trump returned to office. Now, Iran has stepped in to mediate. Seriously, the Iranian regime, which has trained and funded and armed the Houthis, claims now that they're stepping in as mediators. In an exclusive report from Reuters, two senior Iranian officials said that Tehran urged the Houthis to de-escalate during a meeting on Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Oman, a frequent intermediary in regional conflicts, reportedly conveyed a similar message at the request of the Iranian regime. But the Houthis remain unmoved. The terror group publicly rejected the call for restraint, insisting that they will not, quote, dial down their attacks unless Israel lifts its blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
A journalist in Sana'a reinforced the group's stance, telling Reuters, quote, Yemen is at war with the U.S., and that means we have the right to defend ourselves with all possible means, end quote. On Tuesday, the Houthis claimed on Telegram that they launched a third missile and drone strike on the USS Harry Truman carrier group in the Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Now, there's a chance, mind you, that the Houthi rebels might have an outsized opinion of their capabilities. Plus, Chinese state media is cheering the U.S. White House's move to cut funding for U.S.-backed news outlets like Voice of America and Radio Free Asia. We'll discuss why Beijing sees it as a win and what it means for America's reach abroad. And here's a pro tip.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The Pentagon immediately dismissed the claim, with a U.S. defense official calling it, quote, false claims and disinformation. U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Alexis Grinkovich added that the terror group's missiles were missing their targets, quote, by over 100 miles. That's quite the miss.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
According to NBC News, the USS Truman has not been struck in either of the Houthis' previous two attempts. Meanwhile, tensions flared elsewhere. Houthi terrorists launched a ballistic missile toward Israel on Tuesday evening, triggering air raid sirens across the central region of the country.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The Israeli military said it intercepted the missile before it could reach Israeli airspace, with no reported casualties or injuries. A senior Houthi official later posted a threatening statement in Hebrew on X, warning, quote, the Yemeni people will not leave Gaza alone, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
President Trump has placed full responsibility for Houthi aggression on Iran, despite Tehran's insistence that it is not directing the attacks. We have nothing to do with anything. While the Houthis deny that they're Iranian proxies, they remain aligned with Iran's Axis of Resistance network, which includes, of course, Hezbollah and Hamas terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Washington is ramping up its response as the Pentagon said it had struck over 30 Houthi sites since the weekend and would continue to use overwhelming lethal force against the terror group until they cease their attacks. Trump is also weighing new sanctions on the Iranian regime. The Houthi foreign minister stated, quote, the U.S. is threatening Iran and hitting Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Now all scenarios are possible. We will do what they will do to us. Adding, if the U.S. strikes Houthi positions from the USS Truman, the terror group will strike the carrier. All right. Shifting our focus to China, state-run media is celebrating President Trump's decision to cut funding for Voice of America and Radio Free Asia. There should be a clue in there somewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The outlets have long served as thorns in the side of authoritarian regimes, with Beijing calling the move a blow to U.S. propaganda. The executive order signed Friday, which halts public funding for the U.S. Agency for Global Media, has already resulted in the furlough of roughly 1,300 Voice of America or VOA employees, with similar cuts hitting Radio Free Asia and Radio Free Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Chinese state media wasted no time declaring victory. I think there's a clue in there somewhere. The Global Times, a mouthpiece of the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, said, framed the decision as evidence that even Washington had turned its back on the VOA, quote, lie factory, calling it a, quote, dirty rag that had been discarded.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
The Chinese paper's former editor-in-chief gloated that, quote, Voice of America has been paralyzed and so has Radio Free Asia, which has been just as vicious to China, end quote. I swear there's a clue here somewhere. The Global Times went on to claim that without these outlets, quote, demonizing narratives about China would cease to exist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
VOA and Radio Free Asia have spent decades exposing Beijing's abuses from mass Muslim internment camps to the CCP's obstruction and obfuscation during the early days of COVID-19. Though officially banned in China, their broadcasts still reached audiences via VPNs and shortwave radio.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Now, with their funding on the chopping block, the question remains, how much of a dent will this make in the flow of independent reporting into China? With Beijing's iron grip on information, it's difficult to gauge how ordinary Chinese citizens view these cuts. Well, critics argue that defunding these outlets is a gift to authoritarian regimes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
VOA Director Michael Abramowitz warned the move, quote, hobbles America's ability to counter foreign disinformation at a time when adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are expanding their state-run media operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
If the Chinese regime is crowing approval about something that a U.S. administration is doing, well, it may not actually be in the best interests of the U.S., And in today's back of the brief, after more than nine months in space, two NASA astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station since last June have made it back to Earth. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Radio Free Asia's chief executive was even more blunt, calling the cuts a quote, reward to dictators and despots, including the Chinese Communist Party, who would like nothing better than to have their influence go unchecked in the information space, end quote. The Trump administration, however, defended the decision, arguing that taxpayer dollars will no longer fund what it describes as quote,
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Radical propaganda. Hmm. The White House has long accused VOA of editorial bias, and this latest move reflects a broader effort to rein in its direction. Authoritarian leaders outside of China have taken note as well. Former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, who spent years cracking down on independent media, praised Trump's move. I swear, somewhere in here there is a clue.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Calling it a, quote, big contribution to eliminating fake news. I'll just repeat that. Authoritarian leaders are praising the move to shutter these US government-funded news outlets.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe, the Czech Republic is urging the EU to intervene to keep Radio Free Europe operational, warning that the US withdrawal weakens media freedom in a region increasingly targeted by Russian disinformation campaigns. Founded during World War II to counter Nazi propaganda, VOA reaches an estimated 360 million people weekly in nearly 50 languages.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Radio Free Asia, launched in 1996, focuses on six Asian nations where press freedom is virtually non-existent, including Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, and Laos, reaching nearly 60 million listeners weekly. For now, the full implications remain unclear. But with China's state media reveling in the moment, one thing is certain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
America's ability to project soft power and shape global narratives has taken a major hit. And Beijing, Moscow, Iran, and other regimes eager to control information are more than happy to pick up the slack.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Look, not for nothing, but I've spent most of my life overseas and in large part dealing with difficult regions where authoritarian governments work hard to ensure that their populations don't have access to news and information. For many of these people, the VOA over the years was the one outlet that gave them access to the outside world.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Now, has the VOA over the decades been used in part to project American opinion and democratic ideals, to project U.S. soft power through its news broadcasts? Well, absolutely. Has that been important to generations of people hungry for news and information and opinions that differed from what their dictators and authoritarian regimes wanted them to hear? Absolutely.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Look, if the cuts to VOA, Radio Free Europe and Radio Free Asia are simply part of the U.S. administration's doge effort to trim waste, well, they could be well served by reconsidering this value proposition. If your actions are being praised by the Chinese regime and other authoritarian governments, you probably should rethink your actions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Okay, coming up in the back of the brief, some good news. Two NASA astronauts finally returned to Earth after spending more than nine months stranded aboard the International Space Station. We'll have those details next. In today's back of the brief, I wanted to close out with a bit of good news.
The President's Daily Brief
March 19th, 2025: What Trump Said To Putin & Houthi Rebels Remain Defiant
Two NASA astronauts stuck on board the International Space Station, or ISS, since June of 2024 have returned safely to Earth aboard one of Elon Musk's reusable SpaceX Dragon capsules. The return of Boeing test pilots Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore comes more than nine months after a series of mechanical failures aboard Boeing's new Starliner astronaut capsule stalled their homecoming.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Manche fordern eine vollständige US-Militär-Intervention, um die Kartelle einmal und für alle zu zerstören. Die Idee, die US-Militär gegen die Kartelle zu deployieren, ist nicht neu. Sie ist seit Jahrzehnten in Washington, D.C. geblieben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
As far back as 1969, President Richard Nixon launched Operation Intercept, that was a large-scale federal crackdown, aimed at stopping drug smuggling from Mexico, though it mostly amounted to aggressive border inspections rather than full-on military action.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
By 1986, President Ronald Reagan took things a step further, declaring drug trafficking a national security threat and authorizing military involvement in counter-narcotics. Die US-Mitgliedschaften bieten Intelligenz, Trainings- und Logistiksupport für Antikartell-Operationen in Lateinamerika.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Nun, trotz dieser Bemühungen, wurden die Kartelle nur mehr sophisticated, mehr gewaltig und mehr enttäuscht. Heute sind einige Menschen wieder für militärische Aktionen und wir beginnen, Beweise von erhöhter militärischer Einwanderung zu sehen, insbesondere mit dem Nutzung von Navy-Spyplanes an der Grenze und weiter. Nun, auf der Oberfläche, das macht Sinn.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Kartelle flotten amerikanische Städte mit Fentanyl, brachten Millionen und Billionen von Dollar von Menschenverbrechung ein und brachten paramilitärische Attacks in Mexiko. Aber hier ist die Realität. Die Kartelle zu nehmen, wäre kein schnelles, kleines militärisches Interventionen. Es wäre schmutzig, gefährlich und viel komplizierter, als man es glauben würde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Die meisten Leute denken an Drogenkartelle als massive Krimi-Syndikate, welche sie sind. Aber in der Praxis funktionieren sie weniger wie die Mafia und mehr wie Insurgenzen oder paramilitärische Operationen, die Territorien kontrollieren, oder lokalen Offiziere beurteilen oder terrorisieren, und ihre eigenen Intelligenznetze behalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Manche, wie die Sinaloa- und Jalisco-Neue-Generation-Kartelle, haben bessere Waffen, Finanzierung und operative Disziplin als einige nationale Arme. Sie haben auch Militär-Grad-Hardware, z.B. Drohnen, Armut-Vehikel und ihre eigenen Luftstrippen. Es gab sogar Berichte im Jahr 2024, die beweisen, dass die Kartelle auf dem schwarzen Markt advanced US-Militär-Equipment gekauft haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Das betrifft weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit weltweit Now, even if the US launched airstrikes or special forces raids against cartel targets, it wouldn't end their operations. These groups are deeply embedded in civilian populations, using cities and towns as shields.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
During armed confrontations between rival cartels and law enforcement, Residents have been forcibly used as human shields. In some instances, community members are prevented from leaving their homes, effectively trapping them in conflict zones. Cartel members have also confiscated residents' phones to control information flow and prevent communication with authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Eine vollständige Grundkampagne gegen die Kartelle würde in manchen Fällen brutalen Straße-zu-Straße-Kampf bedeuten, so wie es die USA in Fallujah oder Mogadischu erlebt haben. Aber anders als diese Konflikte würde dieser Kampf nur über die US-Border passieren, mit Potenzial für Sprechrisiken, natürlich. Dann gibt es die Frage des Ausgleichs von der mexikanischen Regierung.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
It's Wednesday, 19 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Mit mehr US-Militärausschriften, die jetzt an die südwestfälische Grenze gebracht werden, beginnen wir mit einem Blick auf Anrufe für direkte Aktion gegen die Kartelle und warum das wahrscheinlich nicht so einfach sein wird, wie man denkt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Eine Regierung, die in vielen Fällen von den verschiedenen Organisationen, die die USA kämpfen, sehr kompromissiert ist. Kartelle benutzen nicht nur Gewalt, um Kontrolle zu behalten. Natürlich benutzen sie Geld. Die Behandlung von Polizisten, Politikerinnen und militärischen Offizieren ist eine Standard-Business-Praktik und war schon seit Jahrzehnten so.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
High-ranking members of Mexico's security forces have been caught working with the cartels, including the former Secretary of Public Security, who was convicted in the U.S. for taking millions in bribes from the Sinaloa Cartel. When corruption runs this deep, even if Mexico's leaders publicly condemned cartel violence, many within the system would actively undermine U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
efforts, leaking intelligence, sabotaging operations or simply refusing to cooperate. Intervenieren in Mexiko ohne die vollständige Kooperation ihrer Regierung wäre extrem problematisch. Selbst wenn die mexikanische Regierung die US-Strikes oder besondere Operationen zutreffend erlaubt hätte, könnte der öffentliche Wachstum in Mexiko das Land weiter stabilisieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Etwas, das die Kartelle wahrscheinlich verursachen würde, um Amerika als Anwanderer zu zeichnen. Und eine formelle militärische Inkursion? Nun, das würde wahrscheinlich eine Krise mit einem der US-größten Vertreter-Partnern verursachen. Let's say the US did take the fight to the cartels. These organizations aren't operating in a vacuum. They have networks inside the US, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
There's a potential for retaliation, potentially targeting US cities, assassinating officials or carrying out attacks against law enforcement. And unlike terrorists from overseas, cartel operatives already have boots on the ground in the US. Nun, none of this means that the US should just sit back while the cartels flood America with deadly drugs and violence and human trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
But the notion that a few airstrikes or a handful of special forces teams would solve the problem, well, the reality is far more complicated. Up next, Arab and Gulf nations are crafting their own blueprint for post-war reconstruction in Gaza. What's in the plan and how it could shape the region's future, well, we'll have those details right after the break. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denken Sie daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu knacken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Und wer hat das für eine Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Einfach die App öffnen und einen Knopf drücken, um instantane Schutz zu bekommen. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Willkommen zurück im Afternoon Bulletin. Wir beginnen, mehr über den Alternativplan für die Erweiterung des Post-Kriegs-Gazas zu lernen, den die arabischen Staaten zu Präsident Trump verkaufen wollen. Und es betrifft den Präsidenten mit bis zu 20 Milliarden Dollar in regionalen Beiträgen. Nun, das ist ein ziemlich hoher Dollar-Wooing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Um ehrlich zu sein, weiß ich nicht wirklich, ob es einen arabischen Wort für Wooing gibt. Arabische Leiter der Gulf-Staaten sind erwartet, ihre Vorschläge in größerer Tiefe an einem Ursprungs-Summit zu diskutieren, den Saudi-Kreuz-Prinz Mohammed bin Salman am Freitag in Riyadh gegründet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Wenn alles gut geht, wird der Plan an einem geplante Arabischen Summit vorgesehen werden, der in Kairo stattfindet, am 4. März, so ein exklusiver Bericht von Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
As we discussed earlier this week, officials from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have been scrambling to find a viable alternative to Trump's proposal for the US to take control of Gaza, relocate the enclave's Palestinian population, that's some 2.3 million people, and embark on a 10- to 15-year reconstruction effort to turn the Strip into a Middle Eastern Riviera.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
While Trump's plan was embraced by Israeli leaders, Arab states were caught by surprise and frankly left fuming. Egyptian, Saudi and Jordanian leaders quickly rejected the proposal, arguing that it would be deeply destabilizing to the region and that any forced expulsion of the population would amount to a war crime or ethnic cleansing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Später in der Show beginnt ein Arabisch-Gulf-Stadt-leiter Plan für die Postkriegs-Gaza und könnte bis zu 20 Billionen Dollar in regionalen Beiträgen betreffen. aber es ist wahrscheinlich weit entfernt von dem, was es eigentlich dauern wird, um das Enklave wieder zu bauen. Aber zuerst, heute Nachts Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
So, with that in mind, what does the Arab Alternative for Reconstruction look like? While the details are still being worked out, the current proposal is based off a plan drafted by Egyptian leaders, which would see Arab states shoulder a large portion of the financial burden of reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Es betrifft die Formierung eines nationalen palästinensischen Komitees, um Gaza ohne die Einführung von Hamas oder der palästinensischen Autorität zu regieren. Das sind zwei Gruppen, die Israel gesagt hat, dass sie keine Rolle in der Nachkriegsregelung haben werden. Es betrifft auch die Erstellung einer Bufferzone und das Errichten einer physischen Barriere auf der Grenze mit Ägypten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
um den Hamas von neuen Tunneln zu vermeiden. Zudem würden mehrere designierte Orte auf der Strecke als unabhängige Wohnzonen für verschlossene Gazen aufgebaut werden. Die Nationalpalästinensische Kommission würde die Erweiterung, die sie erwarten, über einen dreijährigen Zeitraum überwinden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Offizielle bestätigen, dass mindestens 20 Billionen Dollar über die ersten drei Jahre der Reconstruktion benötigt werden, und zwei Berichte sagten, dass die gulfischen Staaten wahrscheinlich das Gesetz in einer Versuchung einstellen würden, Trump zu akzeptieren. Unter dem Vorschlag würden auch 50 ägyptische und fremde Firmen eingeladen werden, um die erneuerbaren Bemühungen auszuhalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Eine Emiratisource sagte Reuters, Trump sei transaktional, also würde 20 Billionen Dollar gut mit ihm aussehen. Dies würde viele US- und israelische Firmen benötigen. Still, significant financial hurdles remain. While 20 billion dollars could cover the costs of the first three years of reconstruction, I said could, an assessment released Tuesday by the World Bank
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
sagte, dass die volle Rückkehr des Enclés wahrscheinlich zehn Jahre dauern wird und 50 Billionen Dollar nach Norden kostet. Und, um nicht zynisch zu klingen, aber diese Anzahl könnte sich deutlich erhöhen, wenn man alle Hände, die vorhanden sind, beendet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Ägyptische Nachrichten sagten Reuters, dass Diskussionen weiterhin anwesend sind, wie viel dieser Figur von regionalen Beiträgen geführt werden wird. Now, whether the Arab plan is a realistic alternative, that remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Leaders in Jerusalem have significant long-term security concerns regarding Gaza and will likely be skeptical that an autonomous Palestinian committee can successfully contain Hamas and prevent them from reconstituting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Given how deep into the fabric of Gaza Hamas is embedded and just how much incentive their puppet masters in the Iranian regime have to keep Hamas relevant, well, that skepticism is well founded. Israel's foreign minister said they would evaluate the plan once it's presented, but warned that they will not accept a proposal that allows Hamas to have any presence in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 19 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And as you've likely seen on billboards around town, to listen to the show ad-free, which you can, just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 19th, 2025: Why A U.S. Military War on Cartels Would Be a Nightmare & An Arab Plan For Gaza Takes Shape
Wie wir hier auf dem Präsidenten-Daily Brief berichtet haben, hat die US-Militärin ihre Rolle über die südlichste Grenze gesteigert, von der Überwachung der Beobachtung bis zur Beobachtung der Kartellbewegungen. Letztendlich hat das z.B. die US-Naval-Spyplane betroffen, die Kartellaktivitäten in Mexiko betrachten. Aber sobald die militärische Präsenz wächst, sind die Anrufe für direkte Aktion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
We could see new missile tests in the coming days as Pyongyang flexes its military muscle just to prove a point. Under Kim, the regime has made it clear that its nuclear program isn't just for show. It's the foundation of its survival. And as long as the U.S. and its allies keep up the pressure, Pyongyang will keep finding ways to push back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Of course, this all comes as President Trump looks to reestablish his personal diplomacy with Kim Jong-un. The two leaders, as you'll recall, met back in 2018, making history with the first ever U.S.-North Korea summit. Trump has hinted at future engagement, saying he, quote, still gets along with Kim.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Whether that leads to actual negotiations or just another war of words with little Rocket Man, well, that remains to be seen. So expect North Korea to keep rattling its saber, launching missiles, and demanding attention. The question now is whether the world will respond, or if Kim's threats will get lost in the noise of everything else that's happening on the global stage.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 19 February. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And if you happen to be jonesing for an ad-free PDB experience, well, we definitely have you covered. All you have to do is become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov led the Kremlin's delegation opposite U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Both Rubio and Lavrov said the initial discussions, which lasted nearly five hours, proved productive and that both sides listened to each other's concerns. That's nice.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
It's Wednesday, 19 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we're starting with the negotiations between the US and Russia over ending the war in Ukraine. Now, Moscow appears to be playing hardball.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
That's according to a report from Reuters. Witkoff was even more effusive, describing the talks as positive, upbeat and constructive. That sounds downright chummy. Adding, quote, everybody was there to get to the right outcome, end quote. Well, yeah, the invading country, that would be Russia, is certainly there to get what they would like.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Rubio told reporters that they agreed to pursue three broad goals restoring staffing at their respective embassies in Washington and Moscow, exploring economic cooperation and, of course, pursuing high level negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
But Rubio stressed that the talks served only as a starting point and that the road to achieving these ambitious goals would be a long one, particularly after more than three years of frozen diplomacy due to Putin's invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
With that in mind, Rubio said restaffing the embassies will be the first priority, noting that, quote, for us to be able to continue to move down this road, we need to have diplomatic facilities that are operating and functioning normally.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Now, the talks have alarmed leaders in Kiev who were not invited to participate, along with their NATO allies, also not invited, who fear Putin is trying to use the bilateral talks to foist a dictated peace on Europe. And when was the last time you heard anybody say the word foist?
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
But Rubio told reporters on Tuesday that no one was being sidelined, that the EU and Ukraine would join the negotiating process as discussions progress, and that any settlement would need to be approved by all parties. Despite these assurances, however, remarks by Russian officials proved that Kyiv is right to be wary of Moscow's motivations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Lavrov and the Russian delegation used Tuesday's talks to harden their stance regarding a negotiated settlement to the war, outlining concessions they suggested are non-negotiable. Now their chief objection is Ukraine's pursuit of NATO membership.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Lavrov said that Moscow's longstanding concerns regarding NATO membership for Ukraine could not be resolved simply with promises that Kyiv will not be granted access to the alliance. Instead, the Kremlin says NATO must go further and officially disavow a promise that it made at a summit in Bucharest back in 2008 that Ukraine would be granted entry at a future unspecified date.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
During that same summit, the same promise was made to Georgia. A spokesman for the Russian foreign ministry said that without the public assurance, quote, this problem will continue to poison the atmosphere on the European continent, end quote. Really? Well, to be fair, Russia's invasion of Ukraine has pretty much poisoned the atmosphere on the continent.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Lavrov later underscored Moscow's opposition to Ukraine's future accession to the alliance, telling the porters gathered in Riyadh, quote, We explained to our colleagues today what President Putin has repeatedly stressed, that the expansion of NATO, the absorption of Ukraine by the North Atlantic alliance, is a direct threat to the interests of the Russian Federation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
There's a surprise demanding that the West scrap Ukraine's NATO ambitions and rejecting any talk of NATO peacekeepers. Oh, is that all you want, Putin? We'll examine Russia's stated position, which essentially appears to be that they get what they want and Ukraine doesn't. Later in the show, Iran is vowing yet another attack on Israel, while Tehran claims that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Furthermore, Lavrov dismissed a proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to deploy a European coalition of peacekeeping troops to Ukraine to enforce any potential ceasefire deal. He stated flatly that the Kremlin would not support the deployment of NATO troops, regardless of what flag they are operating under, calling the scenario, quote, unacceptable.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Lavrov's comments suggest that Moscow will continue to push for further concessions from Ukraine, even before leaders in Kyiv have a chance to join the evolving discussions. But Rubio, for his part, said that the public discussions of concessions were premature, telling reporters, quote, We're not going to pre-negotiate an end to this conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
These are the kinds of things that have to happen through hard and difficult diplomacy and closed rooms over a period of time, end quote. That said, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz suggested the negotiating process will move at an accelerated pace, stating, quote, President Trump is determined to move very quickly.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
With the first round of talks out of the way, the focus is now on organizing a face-to-face summit between Trump and Putin, which would mark the first meeting between a U.S. president and the Russian strongman since the war began. Well, a timeline for a meeting remains unclear, while suggested that it could be arranged in the coming weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
All right, coming up next, Iran is vowing another attack on Israel, and Hamas says it's returning the bodies of four hostages, including its youngest victims. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. And look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details, and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
ExpressVPN prevents hackers from accessing private information by creating a secure encrypted tunnel between devices and the Internet. Think about that. Its encryption is so strong that even a supercomputer would take over a billion years to crack it. And who's got that sort of time? Setup is seamless. Just open the app and tap one button for instant protection.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
It works on phones, laptops, tablets, and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S. customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web, and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Welcome back to the PDB. A senior commander in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, has issued a stark warning. The regime is preparing for a third direct strike on Israel, a move that would, of course, further escalate hostilities and directly challenge U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
and Israel, quote, can't do a damn thing to stop its nuclear ambitions. Okay, well, technically, that's not correct. The question is whether the U.S. and Israel have the political will to do a damn thing regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions. We'll tell you what's behind the Iranian regime's threats.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Israeli assertions that Iran's military strength is weakened. On Monday, IRGC Deputy Commander Ali Farabi declared that, quote, Operation True Promise 3 will occur at the right time. Oh, it's a sequel. Though he offered no specific timeline.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
His remarks reinforce Iran's defiance in the face of Israeli airstrikes and Western pressure, signaling that Iran remains undeterred despite repeated attempts to weaken its military infrastructure. This latest threat from the regime follows two prior missile barrages on Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
You'll remember that back in April of 2024, Iran launched Operation True Promise One, firing over 300 missiles and drones at Israeli military installations in retaliation for the targeted killing of two IRGC generals in Damascus, Syria. The attack, though largely stopped by Israel's air defense, marked Iran's first direct military engagement with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Later that year, in October, the Iranian regime followed up with Operation True Promise No. 2, since they couldn't be bothered to come up with a brand new name for the operation, unleashing roughly 200 missiles on Israeli positions after the assassination of high-profile Iranian-aligned figures, including, of course, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Israel has continued to press its advantage in the region, most notably with its retaliatory strike just weeks later, codenamed Operation Days of Repentance. U.S. and Israeli officials hailed that operation as a devastating blow to Iran's military, claiming that it severely crippled Tehran's ability to project power in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
However, the Iranian deputy commander dismissed such assessments as Western propaganda, casting the conflict in ideological terms, stating, quote, not a single day has passed without the world's evildoers waging war against us, referring to America as, quote, the great Satan.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
His statement, of course, evoked rhetoric reminiscent of Iran's first supreme leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, who famously labeled the U.S. as, quote, the great Satan themselves. during the Iranian Revolution. That was back in the day when people were coming up with very catchy names for their nemesis. The timing of Iran's latest warning is no coincidence.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
It comes just a day after Secretary of State Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem to discuss strategies to contain Iran's regional influence and curtail its nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu, bolstered by President Trump's backing, vowed to, quote, finish the job, insisting that Israel had inflicted substantial damage on Iran's military apparatus.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Predictably, well, Iran blasted the high-level U.S.-Israeli meeting as a provocation. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman decried it. He decried it as a violation of international law, accusing both nations of conspiring to dismantle Iran's nuclear program. The spokesman stated, quote, They cannot do a damn thing, end quote, emboldening Tehran's longstanding defiance against Western pressure.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Plus, more hostage news in Israel, as Hamas says it's returning the bodies of four hostages, including the youngest victims of the brutal 7 October attacks. And in today's Back of the Brief, North Korea, we haven't heard from them for a short while. Well, they're making bold new promises to expand their nuclear arsenal, brushing off U.S. denuclearization efforts. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly weighing preemptive airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites, a move that would dramatically escalate an already volatile situation. In response, Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei reaffirmed the regime's resilience, warning that any attack would be met with severe retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
With both sides locked in an escalating cycle of military posturing and potential counterstrikes, Iran's vow to launch Operation True Promise 3 has pushed the prospect of a direct confrontation with Israel to the near future. All right, shifting to the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
The Iran-backed terror group has announced plans to return the bodies of four hostages on Thursday, including the two youngest captives taken during the 7 October 2023 terror attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
In pre-recorded remarks released Tuesday, a top Hamas negotiator claimed that the remains will include members of the Bibas family, Shiri and her two young children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were abducted. The terror group had previously asserted without evidence that the family was killed in an Israeli airstrike, a claim that the Israeli military has not confirmed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Instead, Israeli officials have maintained that they remain gravely concerned for the family's well-being. Notably, the children's father was released earlier this month. An Israeli official told Reuters that the bodies will undergo formal identification before any names are publicly confirmed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
In a statement, the Bibas family acknowledged Hamas's announcement, but stressed that they had not received official confirmation, stating, quote, until we receive definitive confirmation, our journey is not over, end quote. In a surprise acceleration, Hamas also announced that it will release six living hostages on Saturday. That's double the originally planned number.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
In exchange, Israel has agreed to release all Palestinian women and minors under the age of 19 who were arrested since October 2023 and to allow some rubble-clearing equipment to enter Gaza via Egypt. As our regular PDB listeners know, the first phase of the ceasefire agreement saw Hamas release 33 hostages in exchange for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
As of now, 73 hostages still remain in Gaza, both living and deceased, including Israeli soldiers, civilians, as well as Thai and Nepalese nationals. Negotiations for the second phase, focused on securing the release of all remaining hostages and reaching a permanent ceasefire, were set to begin earlier this month but have yet to move forward.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that talks would begin sometime this week, emphasizing that Israel would, quote, "...not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist organization in Gaza," end quote. suggested that the ceasefire could be extended if meaningful progress is made toward a final agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, North Korea is doubling down on its nuclear ambitions, dismissing U.S. denuclearization efforts as absurd. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
In today's Back of the Brief, with everything going on in the world, high stakes negotiations in Riyadh and the Middle East, America's attention to its southern border, the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Kim Jong-un of North Korea, well, he might be feeling a little left out. And typically, when Kim feels ignored, you can count on him throwing his teddy out of the crib.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
So what better way to grab the world's attention than by threatening to expand North Korea's nuclear arsenal? This latest warning from Pyongyang comes after a high-level meeting between the U.S., Japan, and South Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Over the weekend, Secretary of State Rubio met with his Japanese and South Korean counterparts at a security conference in Germany, where they reaffirmed their commitment to North Korea's, quote, complete denuclearization and vowed to keep up pressure on Kim's weapons program. Oddly, well, that didn't sit well with Kim's regime.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
North Korea's foreign ministry quickly fired back, calling the three-nation pledge a, quote, outdated and absurd plan. I wonder what they mean by that. They also promised an overwhelming and decisive counteraction against what they see as hostile forces. In simpler terms, they're doubling down on their nuclear ambitions and daring the West to stop them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
Senior US and Russian officials convened Tuesday in the capital of Saudi Arabia, that would be Riyadh, for landmark talks on reviving their diplomatic and economic ties and bringing the Putin regime's war on Ukraine to an end. But Moscow is already playing hardball, using the discussions to escalate their demands regarding a potential settlement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 19th, 2025: Russia Plays Hardball In Riyadh & Iran Vows Another Attack On Israel
The timing of this threat isn't a coincidence. The U.S. and its allies recently announced plans to ramp up military exercises and boost South Korea and Japan's defensive capabilities. That's a direct challenge to Kim Jong-un, whose long view of these drills as rehearsals for an invasion. And if history is any guide, well, North Korea doesn't just talk, it does act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Check in with the knowledgeable folks over at Patriot Gold today. Patriot Gold has been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. Think about that. It's a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
On Wednesday, Abu Muhammad al-Julani, leader of the top rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which is known as HTS, announced that Syria's rebel factions will be disbanded and their fighters will be trained to join a new national army under the direction of the Defense Ministry.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
The decision to dissolve the rebel groups is largely a strategic play aimed at easing international restrictions on their new transitional government. As we've discussed here on the PDB, HTS, a former arm of Al-Qaeda that used to be called the Nusra Front, is a U.S. and E.U. designated terror organization.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
While they've since tried to position themselves as moderates, the terror designation and the sanctions that come with it could significantly impede their plans to reform and rebuild Syria. Al-Jilani said Tuesday, quote, we have to adopt a state mentality, not an opposition mentality, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
He called for international sanctions against Damascus to be lifted so refugees displaced by the civil war can return home. Separately, he spoke of the need to restore relations with the UK and US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Despite skepticism in the West about HTS's ability to de-radicalize after their sweeping victory over Assad, leaders in the US and Europe have sought to directly engage with Syria's transitional government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
On Monday and Tuesday, officials from France, Germany, and the UK all traveled to Damascus for meetings with the country's new rulers, and officials in the US have also reportedly been in direct contact with HTS leaders. The EU, meanwhile, announced on Tuesday plans to reopen its delegation in Damascus.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Western powers are still reticent to lift sanctions, however, with most advocating a wait-and-see approach with regards to HTS and Al-Julani. They hope to see Al-Julani institute more comprehensive reforms to prove the group's rhetoric is actually sincere. For now, Al-Julani appears focused on consolidating the rebels' power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Analysts from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies said in addition to distancing the transitional government from the radical past of the coalition, the move to dissolve the rebel groups serves to swiftly monopolize power in the hands of the state. Al-Jilani has also framed it as a way to build unity among Syria's many ethnic factions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Speaking with leaders from the country's Druze minority on Tuesday, Al-Jilani declared that, quote, Syria must remain united. There must be a social contract between the state and all religions to guarantee social justice, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Now, as an aside, we should also note that to further distance himself from his terrorist past, al-Jilani has recently reverted to going by his birth name, Ahmed al-Shahra. Al-Jilani was his assumed name as an Islamist fighter for al-Qaeda, ties that he claims to have renounced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Last week, the rebels named Mohammed al-Bashir, who previously ran parts of northern Syria on behalf of HTS, as the new caretaker prime minister. But he's only expected to serve in that position until March, when the rebels hope to establish a more permanent government. Coming up, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Justice Department has charged two Iranian nationals in connection with a fatal drone strike in Jordan earlier this year that killed three U.S. service members and injured dozens more. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
It's Wednesday, 18 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Okay, it's the late afternoon bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
The Justice Department announced charges on Monday against two men accused of illegally exporting sensitive technology to Iran, which was used in the deadly January drone attack on a US base in Jordan. The strike killed three American soldiers and injured over 40 others, making it the deadliest attack on US forces in the region this year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
The DOJ confirmed that the first defendant, a naturalized US citizen employed at a Massachusetts semiconductor firm, was arrested here in the States. Meanwhile, the second defendant, who runs a Tehran-based company linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps , was detained in Italy, where US authorities are actively pursuing his extradition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
First, the leader of the rebel opposition that overthrew Syria's Assad regime has announced plans to disband their militant militias and form a new national army, as they reportedly work to consolidate their power and, at least on paper, distance themselves from their radical past. Then, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Justice Department officials revealed that FBI specialists traced the drone's navigation system to the Tehran-based company, which allegedly acquired components and technology through the first defendant using a Swiss front company. The charges include violations of US export control laws, with the second defendant also accused of conspiring to provide material support to Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Massachusetts top federal prosecutor Joshua Levy emphasized the case's significance, warning that the diversion of American technology into hostile hands is no longer a hypothetical threat. Well, to be fair, it hasn't been a hypothetical threat for decades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Prosecutors allege the second defendant's company maintained deep ties to the Iranian regime and facilitated the Revolutionary Guard Corps' acquisition of advanced navigation systems, an assertion that bolsters the broader narrative of Iran's growing technological capabilities. The one-way attack drone targeted Tower 22, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
logistics base near the volatile Jordan-Syria-Iraq border, housing roughly 350 military personnel at the time of the attack The U.S. blamed the Islamic resistance in Iraq for the strike It's important to note that the drone was likely mistaken at the time as it was incoming for an expected U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
drone returning to the base about the same time, evading detection and blasting the living quarters with devastating impact. Following the attack, the U.S. conducted a wave of retaliatory airstrikes on 85 sites across Iraq and Syria tied to Iran's IRGC and its proxies. While the indictments attempt to hold the pair accountable, they also expose weaknesses in U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
export control enforcement and emphasize the broader strategic challenges that Washington faces in countering Iran's paramilitary network and regional influence. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin, albeit a little bit late, for Wednesday, 18 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
And for those of you pursuing an ad-free lifestyle, well, we're here to help. You can do that just by becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Couldn't be any simpler. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
Justice Department has charged two Iranian nationals in connection with a fatal drone strike in Jordan earlier this year that killed three U.S. service members and injured dozens more. But first, our afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with an update out of Syria, where the new regime replacing deposed dictator Assad is beginning to take shape.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 18th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Disband & Iranian Nationals Charged Over Deadly Jordan Drone Strike
After establishing a transitional government in the immediate wake of Assad's ouster, the rebels are now moving to further consolidate their power and establish institutions that are built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets. Give the knowledgeable folks over at Patriot Gold a call today. Now, they've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And frankly, that is a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Wednesday, 18 December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. In today's Back of the Brief, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is considering stepping down after the resignation of his finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, leaving his leadership weakened at a time when Canada stares down the barrel of a worsening economic crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Freeland's exit on Monday came at a critical moment, with President-elect Trump threatening to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods. Such a move would deliver a punishing blow to Canada's economy, which is already straining under inflationary pressures, immigration, and a housing shortage. Trudeau's government, battered by internal divisions and external economic threats,
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
is facing mounting pressure to chart a clear path forward. Freeland had been preparing to unveil a much anticipated economic roadmap, but walked away instead, citing irreconcilable differences over fiscal priorities and Trudeau's leadership style.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Her resignation letter laid bare the internal discord, accusing Trudeau's administration of prioritizing, quote, costly political gimmicks over the, quote, grave challenge of preparing for a potential trade war with the incoming US administration. Freeland's rebuke struck a particularly sharp note when she called for, quote, fiscal restraint, implicitly criticizing Trudeau's spending policies.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Behind closed doors, tensions reportedly escalated after Trudeau asked her to accept a demotion in the cabinet. Yeah, that always goes well. A proposal that seemed to signal deeper fissures within the Liberal Party. Trudeau himself admitted it was one of his party's, quote, toughest days.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
His tone, one part weary and one part defiant, did little, frankly, to dispel the impression that his government is on the ropes. According to CTV News, Trudeau told his cabinet he's mulling two options, resignation or prolongation, which is a parliamentary maneuver that would effectively hit pause on the government's work, buying him some time.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Neither, however, projects the image of a leader in control, of course. The fallout has been swift. Senior voices in his own party, frustrated by Freeland's departure and the worsening economic outlook, are now quietly urging Trudeau to simply step aside ahead of the next election, which is due before October 2025.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
While a no-confidence vote does not appear imminent, the political damage caused by Freeland's resignation has led to speculation that Trudeau's near 10-year stint as Prime Minister may be coming to an end. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 18 December. Just seven more shopping days till Christmas.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And in the event you're hoping Santa will bring you an ad-free PDB experience... Well, save him the trouble. You can do it yourself. Simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's that simple.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
A military buildup by Turkey and its militia allies along their southern border with Syria is raising fears in Washington that a new theater of fighting could soon break out in the country. Specifically, senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin, and possibly without that groovy background soundtrack. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
officials warned Tuesday that Turkey may be preparing to mount a large-scale incursion into territory held by American-backed Syrian Kurds, longtime enemies, of course, of leaders in Ankara. That's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. For some background, Turkey, while counted as a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
ally, has long fought Kurdish separatists along their border who seek to establish an independent country. The Kurds, who have proven instrumental in helping the U.S. fight ISIS, control much of Syria's northeast under an autonomous civil administration, though Turkey claims they're linked with the PKK, that's a Kurdish terrorist organization.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Since Assad's ouster last weekend, Turkey has renewed a limited airstrike campaign against Kurdish forces in northern Syria, collectively known as the Syrian Democratic Forces . Turkey has vowed to do everything in their power to prevent them from expanding their territory and are already backing Syrian rebels opposing the Kurds in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Now, it seems Ankara may have an eye on eliminating this perceived threat altogether, with one U.S. official warning that a cross-border operation appears imminent Turkey's preparations certainly have the Kurds feeling, well, let's use the word anxious about their future.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
An official in the Syrian Kurds' civilian administration appealed to President-elect Trump on Monday to intervene, urging him to speak with Turkish President Erdogan to prevent a violent clash.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The official wrote to Trump that Turkey's chief goal was to, quote, "...establish de facto control over our land before you take office, forcing you to engage with them as rulers of our territory," end quote. The Kurdish official warned an invasion by Turkey would displace upwards of 200,000 civilians, including vulnerable Christian communities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
For their part, Turkey has been tight-lipped about their large-scale military buildup. Their fighting force is currently concentrated on the edge of Syria's northern border near the Kurdish city of Kobani. There was briefly some hope that diplomacy would win the day.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The Biden administration dispatched Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Turkey last week to discuss Syria's future with Erdogan and seek assurances that his government would not inflame the already well-inflamed situation. But ceasefire discussions between Syrian Kurds and Turkish-backed rebels in Kobani broke down on Monday, and there's little hope that they'll be revived anytime soon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
So where does Syria's rebel-backed transitional government stand on all this? While the leading militant rebel group HTS has not officially commented, Turkish officials claimed over the weekend that the rebels agree that Turkish military forces and their civil administration must be dismantled.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Turkey's defense minister said that while no formal agreement has been reached yet with the transitional government, "...both the new administration in Syria and we want this." We should know, however, that the Islamist Rebel Coalition, which has been attempting to distance itself from its past ties with terror groups, has repeatedly promised not to persecute religious and ethnic minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
At the same time, Turkey has reportedly demanded that the US review its support for the Kurdish militia, claiming ISIS does not pose the same threat that it once did. The Pentagon, however, is, of course, wary about leaving any space in Syria for ISIS militants to reconstitute. Yeah, that makes sense.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Both the US and Turkey will likely remain at an impasse on this issue until Trump returns to office in January. As you may recall, Trump partially withdrew US troops from northeast Syria during his first term, a moment that Turkey seized on to invade parts of Kurdish territory.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Trump subsequently helped negotiate a ceasefire, though it resulted in the Kurds ceding several miles of border territory to Turkey. Notably, Trump claimed on Monday that Turkey quietly backed HTS and orchestrated the rebel revolt against Assad to further their regional interests, calling it a, quote, unfriendly takeover, though he did not offer proof.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Welcome to the President's Daily Briefs. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Now, if it sounds like there's a groovy soundtrack in the background, well, there is. Sometimes when you're on the road, trying to find a quiet place to record the PDB for you, well, it can be a little difficult. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Regarding the threat of renewed fighting, Trump said Monday that while no one can predict what the final outcome will be, he gets along great with Erdogan, who he praised as, quote, a very smart guy. Well, I'm glad that that's the case, and I'm sure that Erdogan will be happy to hear that. All right, coming up next, promising signs in Gaza ceasefire talks as Netanyahu heads to Cairo. And the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Treasury Department targets North Korea and Russia with new sanctions. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. For months now, we've been tracking reports of progress toward a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. And if you've been paying attention, you know the cycle. Hope rises, only to be dashed as talks stall, conditions shift, and then talks completely break down.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
But now there's, well, reason to believe we could be closer to a breakthrough than we've been since the conflict was started by Hamas back on 7 October of last year. According to a new report from Reuters, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is heading to Cairo for what's being described as the final stage of negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
We'll start the show with Turkey's military buildup along the Syrian border. Ankara's moves are raising alarms, of course, of a potential large-scale incursion into northern Syria, one that could put Turkish forces on a collision course with U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
These talks aim to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages still being held by Hamas. That move alone, Netanyahu personally traveling to Cairo, signals that this isn't just another round of preliminary discussions. Those same sources say a deal could be signed in the coming days.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reinforced this sense of momentum on Monday, stating that Israeli negotiators have, quote, not been this close to an agreement since the temporary ceasefire back in November of last year. Optimism isn't only coming from the Israeli side.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
A senior Palestinian official involved in these indirect negotiations told the BBC that the talks have reached a, quote, decisive and final phase. Meanwhile, Hamas added its own perspective in a statement released on Tuesday. They said, quote, Hamas affirms that in light of the serious and positive discussions taking place today in Doha under the auspices of our Qatari and Egyptian brothers,
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Reaching an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange is possible if the occupation ceases to impose new conditions. End quote. So, what's on the table? Well, here's what we know. The plan is set to unfold in three phases.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Phase one would involve the release of women and civilian hostages over the course of 45 days, paired with an Israeli military withdrawal from key areas, city centers, the coastal road, and strategic border zones near Egypt.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The second phase would see the release of remaining hostages and the further withdrawal of the Israeli troops And finally, the third phase would formally bring an end to the war Now, to put this into perspective, there are 96 hostages still believed to be held in Gaza Israel estimates that 62 of them are still alive This time, U.S. officials are also weighing in cautiously.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
On Tuesday, White House Spokesman John Kirby acknowledged the progress, saying in an interview with Fox News, quote, End quote. So... It does appear that there is potential here. Netanyahu is in Cairo, Hamas is signaling an openness, and cautious optimism is coming from both sides of the table and key international players. Okay, shifting focus to the US.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Washington announced a new round of sanctions targeting North Korean and Russian entities accused of fueling Pyongyang's military support for Russia's war in Ukraine. The sanctions, revealed by the Treasury Department on Monday, zeroed in on North Korean banks, senior military officials, and Russian oil shipping companies violating United States sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The State Department said it had sufficient evidence to justify the designation of 11 individuals and eight entities for their role in facilitating North Korea's direct military assistance to Russia. In a joint statement issued by the U.S. and 10 nations, including South Korea, Britain, Japan, and the European Union, Pyongyang's growing ties with Moscow were sharply condemned.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Later in the show, we'll cover promising developments in ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas as Prime Minister Netanyahu heads to Cairo for what's being called the final stage of negotiations. Plus, the U.S. Treasury is hitting North Korea and Russia with new sanctions targeting Pyongyang's finances and its military support for Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Well, that shouldn't do it. The statement called North Korea's support for Russia's invasion a, quote, dangerous expansion of the conflict and a, quote, flagrant violation of UN sanctions, warning of its destabilizing effects on both European and Indo-Pacific security. You know, it is charming how the international community regularly acts as if North Korea cares about UN sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The signatories restated their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and demanded that North Korea withdraw all assistance, including the deployment of troops. Well, good. Again, that should do it. A harshly written memo. I'm sure Kim Jong-un is taking it under advisement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Concerns were also raised over Russia's potential contributions to North Korea's illicit weapons programs, including ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction, which pose a threat to stability on the Korean Peninsula. Diplomatic and economic cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow has visibly deepened, of course, in recent months.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Their growing partnership culminated in a mutual defense pact signed during Russian President Putin's high profile visit to North Korea in June. The military ties have drawn global condemnation, particularly following reports that North Korea has dispatched at least 10,000 troops to Russia's war effort.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
As we covered on the PDB on Tuesday, Ukraine's Military Intelligence Agency claimed for the first time that at least 30 North Korean soldiers were killed or injured in Russia's Kursk border region, signifying Pyongyang's forces are now on the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Ukrainian President Zelensky responded bluntly, vowing that Ukraine would continue to defend itself, stating, quote, including against these North Koreans. Zelensky has previously warned that the North Korean contingent couldn't balloon to as many as 100,000 soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
The newly imposed sanctions freeze US-based assets of the targeted individuals and entities, block their access to the American financial system, and bar transactions with US individuals for businesses. Among the notable targets are Russian oil companies, accused of covertly shipping oil and gas to North Korea, circumventing UN restrictions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
According to the Treasury Department, these companies began deliveries in 2022. Analysts, citing satellite imagery published in November by the BBC and British-based Open Source Center, estimate that North Korea has received over one million barrels of Russian oil since March, a figure enabled by over 40 tanker trips to an eastern Russian port.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Treasury officials said the shipments violate UN resolutions that cap Pyongyang's annual oil imports at 500,000 barrels As tensions mount, the international community is closely monitoring the ongoing romance between Moscow and Pyongyang North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has made clear his intentions to strengthen economic and technological cooperation with Russia
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure to resign as his party reacts to the looming threat of tariffs from President-elect Trump. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
And in today's Back in the Brief, a potential political earthquake north of the border. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau may be on the verge of resignation. But first, today's PDB Spotlight, with a little background music. We'll begin in Syria, where it appears the lull in widespread violence since the rebel coalition overthrew former strongman Assad may be short-lived.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
December 18th, 2024: Turkey Prepares To Invade Syria & Gaza Ceasefire On The Horizon
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
or other brands like Prada and Chanel. In these viral videos, individuals present themselves as factory suppliers, asserting that many so-called European luxury goods are actually made in China, not Italy or France or Switzerland as often advertised. The sales pitch in these videos is straightforward.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
It's Wednesday, the 16th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Well, the US-China tariff and trade war just keeps getting more interesting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
You can buy essentially the same luxury item at a fraction of the retail cost directly from factories in China. The implication here is that the only real difference between high-end branded products and their significantly cheaper counterparts is simply the label sewn onto them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Now one of the most widely viewed examples, which has racked up nearly 10 million views, shows a woman standing directly in front of factory machines. She confidently offers yoga pants, who doesn't need yoga pants, that she claims are produced on the exact same assembly lines as Lululemon's leggings, but at just $5 or $6 each, compared to Lululemon's retail price of around $100.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
She says, quote, the material and the craftsmanship are basically the same because they come from the same production line, end quote. Well, it's a message that's resonating. Apps that sell Chinese knockoffs of luxury goods have surged up the rankings on Apple's App Store. So this all raises an obvious question. Are these luxury goods really made in China? The reality is somewhat complicated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Luxury brands typically perform the final assembly of their products in Europe, Italy, France, Switzerland, but a significant portion of the actual production often takes place elsewhere, particularly in China, India, and Vietnam.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Many of the core components, leather goods, hardware pieces, textiles, and linings are frequently manufactured overseas, then shipped to Europe where brands complete final assembly and quality checks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Due to vague European Union labeling regulations, these brands can still legally label their products made in Italy or made in France, provided that the final significant processing occurs within European borders, even if substantial production is outsourced to countries with cheaper labor markets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Now, as for these viral TikTok claims specifically, there is no easy way to independently verify whether these videos are truthful, and it's highly unlikely that you're genuinely getting an authentic luxury bag at one-tenth of the price from some internet Chinese wholesaler. It's the old buyer beware.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
I mean, as the old saying goes, if it looks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, it's probably a duck carrying a fake Gucci bag. But this is all beside the point, as you might have guessed. We're not here to defend the trade practices of luxury brands manufacturers. What matters is the strategy itself.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
We'll start things off today with China's latest tactic, weaponizing TikTok, you've heard of TikTok, to convince Americans that they're massively overpaying for luxury goods. Later in the show, reports indicate that the U.S. is preparing to draw down its presence in Syria, a plan which could reduce troop numbers in the country by half. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
China is clearly demonstrating how effectively TikTok can be used to circumvent official US messaging on tariffs. By targeting American consumers directly, Beijing is attempting an end run around the tariffs that the US has imposed, a move meant to turn American sentiment against Washington's trade policies. This isn't just clever marketing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
It's an intentional form of information warfare conducted openly on American phones, most of which are produced in China, by the way. And this strategy should serve as a clear warning. If China's this skilled at manipulating perceptions and policy during a tariff battle, just imagine how TikTok could be weaponized in an actual conflict scenario. Alright, coming up next, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
military is set to consolidate its presence in Syria over the coming weeks and months, a move that could reduce the number of troops it has in the country by half. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it's tax season. Yeah, I'm sorry about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Now, while it might not be the most exciting time of year, it is a great opportunity to make smart money moves. Look, if your credit is under 600, well, you could jump that number by 84 points with on-time payments. No matter what your plans are, one of the smartest ways to set yourself up for success is by building your credit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
And if you need to boost your credit fast, well, let me tell you something, kickoff could help. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with Kickoff's special tax season promo. Tax season is the perfect time to take control of your financial future. For a limited time only, get your first month free at GetKickoff.com. Don't wait.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
That's Kickoff without the C, so it's spelled K-I-K-O-F-F. Get your first month free at GetKickoff.com. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only. Individual results may vary. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff credit service starts at $5 a month for 12 months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points. Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024 for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Well, tariffs, you may have heard about them, they've thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver lining that some people might have missed. And frankly, it's not just silver, it's also a gold lining.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from these sweeping tariffs. Now, while the new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
with an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
China is taking its terror fight directly into American homes through many people's favorite social media app, TikTok. Actually, I thought people's favorite social media app was MySpace. I might be behind the times on what's hip with the kids nowadays. Now, I'll admit, luxury handbags or high-end frocks weren't something that I thought we'd be covering here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The US military is preparing to cut its troop presence in Syria by as much as half in a move that has sparked alarm inside the Israeli security establishment, which sees the drawdown as a gamble that could embolden adversaries. According to Israeli outlet Ynet and U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
officials speaking to Reuters, the reduction is expected to cut the roughly 2,000 American troops in Syria down to around 1,000 within the next two months. The Pentagon has reportedly briefed its Israeli counterparts about the plans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
American troops have long maintained a presence across the northeastern Syrian area, working closely with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, known as the SDF, to suppress remnants of the Islamic State. But a steep reduction now, Israeli officials warn, risks creating a vacuum that both Turkey and Iran might be eager to exploit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
A senior Israeli official told Ynet that Jerusalem is pressing Washington to reconsider, arguing that the withdrawal could inflame Ankara's, quote, appetite to push deeper into northern Syria, especially into areas controlled by the SDF. Turkey considers the U.S.-backed Kurdish fighters an existential threat, equating parts of their force with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
That concern is layered atop growing fears in Israel that a diminished American footprint could also clear the way for Iranian proxy groups or even reconstituted ISIS cells to reassert themselves. There's also skepticism within the Pentagon. One U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the drawdown is under active discussion, but emphasized that debate continues over how steep a reduction is prudent, particularly as President Trump's broader regional military buildup remains in full swing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Trump administration in recent weeks has increased military deployments, including at least six B-2 stealth bombers to Diego Garcia in what analysts have called a message to Iran. Two carrier groups are now in the region, the USS Harry Truman in the Red Sea, targeting Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, and the USS Carl Vinson patrolling the Gulf of Oman.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Meanwhile, Syria's internal dynamics remain in flux. Following the ouster of former President Assad back in December, the country's new Islamist-led government has begun re-engaging with regional actors. Last month, the SDF signed a deal with Damascus to integrate Kurdish self-governing bodies into the Syrian state. Washington has responded cautiously.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
In March, the White House provided Syria with a list of conditions for partial sanctions relief, but engagement with a new regime remains at arm's length. Some administration officials argue that elements within the Islamist government, many of whom, including its leader, have ties to Al-Qaeda, pose unacceptable security risks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
But this latest move by China demonstrates clearly just how social media can be leveraged to wage an information war against U.S. citizens, something that Beijing would almost certainly intensify in the event of a real conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
I want to point out that this isn't the first time that the Trump administration has attempted to reduce troop presence in Syria. A similar drawdown effort during President Trump's first term triggered blowback from allies like Israel and was ultimately scaled back. The question now is whether such a recalibration leaves the region more exposed. For Israeli leaders, the answer seems clear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
Without a strong American deterrent in Syria, both Turkish and Iranian forces may see an opening to deepen their foothold, setting the stage for a new phase of possible instability on Israel's northern border. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 16th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 16th, 2025: Chinese Weaponize TikTok In Tariff War & U.S. To Reduce Troops Numbers In Syria
If you've spent any time on TikTok, and come on, I know you have, or any other social media platform lately, you may have noticed a flood of videos featuring Chinese nationals who claim to expose the astronomical markup on luxury goods from brands like Lululemon, Hermes, I would notice, by the way, how I pronounced Hermes and not Hermes. It shows you that I'm posh.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The 15-member Caribbean Community Regional Bloc, known as CARICOM, sounded the alarm on late Sunday, saying that the coalition of criminal gangs that have been terrorizing much of the country for the better part of the year may be planning to seize power for themselves. The armed gangs reportedly plan to target a Kenyan-led UN-backed security support force, which deployed to Haiti last June.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
That's been struggling to contain the rampant violence. The report stresses that such a move by the gangs, which control a staggering 85% of the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, risks exasperating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
It notes that more than 1 million Haitians have been displaced over the past year, and nearly 60,000 people have been forced to flee their homes over the past month alone. For more than a year, human rights observers have reported mass killings throughout the country and the widespread extortion of civilians by gang leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
In a statement from CARICOM, Caribbean leaders condemned recent threats by gang leaders to compel a change in governance as, quote, completely unacceptable, and said that they're in consultation with Haiti and its international partners to urgently provide further security assistance, though they didn't actually specify what form it would take. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce also responded to the reports, saying, quote, the U.S. supports the statement by CARICOM condemning any actions to destabilize Haiti's transitional presidential council, end quote. Well, there you go. That should do it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
While much of the media coverage of the trade war has been focused on the domestic impact for U.S. consumers, the effects within China have already been severe. According to an exclusive report from the South China Morning Post, manufacturers and distributors of Chinese semiconductors are beginning to buckle under the pressure, struggling to find international buyers as prices spike.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
As a reminder, the situation in Haiti has grown increasingly chaotic and violent since a gang uprising in March of 2024 forced the country's prime minister into exile. Armed groups have since run wild across the country, launching brazen attacks on critical infrastructure, including prisons, police stations, and the capital's international airport.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
A transitional government was set up in the aftermath of the gang uprising, consisting of a rotating body of presidential council members. But they've proved to be rather toothless, and when I say rather toothless, I mean toothless, having little success in reigning in the gangs, even with the help of the UN Security Mission.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
As we've been tracking on the PDB, the civilian population has essentially lost all patience with the transitional government, and thousands of protesters have been taking to the streets in recent weeks to demand more aggressive action against the gangs. But there seems to be little that the transitional government can do to improve the situation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Despite the chaos, Caribbean leaders still expressed hope that the transitional government can maintain some semblance of order until February 2026, when the country is hoping to hold new elections to return constitutional authority to Haiti. But with the gangs continuing to press their advantage, Haiti's government, well, frankly, may soon run out of time.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 16th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that, and you can do it very easily. And just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
It's Wednesday, the 16th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with more fallout from President Trump's tariff blitz. Chinese chip traders now say orders have vanished, and for some, it's reportedly gotten so bad that they're asking, what's the point of even showing up to work?
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Start your test today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
One anonymous chip distributor told the outlet, quote, orders have plunged since last week. We've had almost no orders in recent days due to the price increase, end quote. The price of a single central processing unit or CPU chip, the most common chip exported from Chinese markets, has reportedly increased anywhere from 10 to 40 percent.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The jump in prices has caused an exodus of customers and forced some chip makers in China to halt their operations. The chip distributor said, quote, They added, quote, End quote. According to the owner of a semiconductor distribution company, some suppliers of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
chips abruptly stopped quoting prices and halted shipments last Friday afternoon, right after the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, announced their 125% tariff retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Another veteran chipmaker, who also chose to speak anonymously, said the tariffs are having a ripple effect across global markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, causing a sharp decline in orders as buyers become increasingly cautious. He said boxes of ready-to-ship chips are now stacking up at his business with nowhere to go. He lamented, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The report comes as operations at two of China's most critical ports for foreign trade have slowed to a crawl, with virtually no cargo ships bound for the U.S. as of last Thursday. Warehouses are now reportedly filled with unsent goods, mostly intended for U.S. buyers, and factory floors in China's top exporting provinces have reportedly ground to a standstill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
As the Chinese economy buckles, irate officials are increasingly lashing out at the U.S. Xia Baolong, a senior Chinese official who oversees Hong Kong and Macau, said in a speech Tuesday that Trump's trade policies were, quote, brutally unreasonable and threatening, quote, our very survival.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Baolong attempted to spin the situation, however, extolling Chinese resilience and warning the Trump administration that the tariffs will eventually backfire on the U.S., He bluntly said, quote, let those peasants in the U.S. wail in front of the 5000 years of Chinese civilization, end quote. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Well, given the escalating war of words and Trump's unwavering position regarding his tariffs, it doesn't appear that relief is in sight for China's surplus driven economy. Now, as we reported yesterday on the PDB, the pain goes both ways. The CCP has now stopped the export of essential rare earth minerals and magnets to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Given that China essentially has a monopoly on the refining of numerous critical minerals, key to the manufacture of military and commercial components, as well as a near monopoly on rare earth magnets, this is a pain point that could seriously impact U.S. national security interests over the long term. All right, coming up next, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
airstrikes are setting the stage for a Yemeni ground war against the Houthis. Plus, chaos in France, as gunmen target prisons in a wave of narco-fueled attacks. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it's tax season. Yeah, sorry about that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Now, while it might not be the most exciting time of the year, it's also a great opportunity, though, to make smart money moves. Look, if your credit is under 600, you could jump that number by 84 points with on-time payments. No matter what your plans are, one of the smartest ways to set yourself up for success is by building your credit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
If you need to boost your credit fast, well, I got a pro tip for you. Kickoff can help. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with Kickoff's special tax season promo. Now, tax season is the perfect time to take control of your financial future. For a limited time only, get your first month free at GetKickoff.com slash Mike. Don't wait.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Later in the show, following weeks of US airstrikes, Yemeni government forces may now be preparing for a ground war to reclaim some of the territory currently controlled by the Houthi rebels. Plus, chaos in France, or as they say in France, le chaos, where the nation's prisons have been targeted in a wave of terror attacks amidst, say, drug crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
That's Kickoff without the C, so it's spelled K-I-K-O-F-F. Get your first month free at GetKickoff.com slash Mike. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only. Individual results may vary. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff credit service starts at $5 a month for 12 months.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points, Vantage Score 3.0, between January 2023 and January 2024 for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Yemeni militias aligned with the internationally recognized government are preparing a ground offensive aimed at reclaiming portions of the Red Sea coast from the Iran-backed Houthis. The offensive looks to take advantage of the ongoing U.S. airstrikes that degraded the terror group's capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
According to American and Yemeni officials, factions supported by the United Arab Emirates, the UAE, began drafting plans last week to seize Houthi-held territory, including the strategic port of Hodeidah. The port is a vital hub for arms smuggling and one of the terror group's primary revenue generators. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
has not formally endorsed the operation, but is reportedly open to supporting the effort. Private American security contractors have been tapped to advise Yemeni fighters on the potential offensive. I don't see how that could go wrong, which would push north along the country's western coastline.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Now, the objective, obviously, drive the Houthis out of their coastal bastions, disrupt their missile and drone launch sites, and cut off supply routes for Iranian weapons. The Iranian regime, of course, denies ever sending weapons to the Houthis, but UN inspectors have repeatedly traced the hardware back to Iran. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
launched its air campaign on the 15th of March and has so far conducted more than 350 strikes targeting Houthi missile sites, drone production facilities, and command infrastructure. The effort is part of a broader push to neutralize Houthi capabilities and restore freedom of navigation in one of the world's most vital shipping corridors.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The Houthis have framed their attacks on Red Sea shipping as retaliation for Israel's military campaign in Gaza following Hamas's 7 October 2023 terror attacks. Since the strikes began, Houthi forces have continued launching drones and missiles near the USS Harry Truman and have resumed attacks on Israeli territory.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
In response, President Trump ordered the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group to reposition from the Indo-Pacific to the Middle East, recently arriving in the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM reveals that the Vinson strike group, equipped with the military's most advanced stealth fighter, the F-35C, helicopter squadrons and logistical assets, marks a significant boost in American firepower in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
It's expected to remain deployed for several more weeks. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes told the Wall Street Journal, quote, Ultimately, security in the Red Sea is the responsibility of our partners in the region, and we're working closely with them to ensure shipping in those waterways remains safe and open far into the future, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Analysts say the proposed ground operation could achieve what airstrikes alone have not, dismantling hardened Houthi positions embedded deep within Yemen's coastal terrain. But, as you might suspect, the risks are considerable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
And in today's back of the brief, Caribbean leaders are sounding the alarm that Haiti's government may be on the verge of falling, warning that the nation's powerful gangs may attempt to take control. Well, you know, frankly, gangs have controlled most of the capital of Port-au-Prince for months now. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
American officials acknowledge that a renewed offensive could fracture the country's fragile peace, such as it is, and reignite Yemen's civil war, further, of course, destabilizing the region. The last major ground campaign, launched by a Saudi-Emirati coalition, produced a brutal humanitarian crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Senior Houthi figure Mohammed Ali al-Houthi publicly dismissed the reports of a ground offensive, claiming U.S. strikes have failed to blunt the terror group's momentum and vowing any ground incursion would, quote, meet the same fate.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Whether the Yemeni militias will move forward with the assault remains to be seen, but with Houthi missile sites degraded and American naval power now massed in the region, the strategic window to act does appear to be open. Okay, shifting to France.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The country is reeling from a series of coordinated assaults on its prison system, including automatic weapons fire, arson, and threats against officers, that officials say represent a defiant response to the intensifying crackdown by the government on cocaine trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office has opened a sweeping national investigation into the attacks, which hit prisons across multiple cities over the weekend and into Monday. France's domestic intelligence agency, the DGSI, is assisting in the probe in a clear indication of the seriousness with which officials view what they're now calling symbolic strikes on the state itself.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The justice minister confirmed the incidents on Tuesday and announced he would travel to Toulon, where 15 bullet holes were found in the main gate of the city's prison following an attack involving a Kalashnikov-style rifle. That's according to prison staff union FO Justice.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
In a post on X, the justice minister wrote, quote, attempts have been made to intimidate staff in several prisons, ranging from burning vehicles to firing automatic weapons. He added, quote, the French Republic is facing up to the problem of drug trafficking and is taking measures that will massively disrupt the criminal networks, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The scale and coordination of the attacks have stunned French authorities. Interior officials have long warned of rising narco-violence fueled by South American cocaine imports, but few anticipated such a direct assault on the penal system. In the first 11 months of 2024, France seized a record 47 tons of cocaine, more than double the amount intercepted in all of 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
What was once a Marseille-centric drug trade has metastasized into smaller towns and rural corridors, igniting a wave of gang-related violence. The interior minister referred to the surge in cocaine imports as a, quote, white tsunami that's transformed France's criminal landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
A French security official told AFP that the prison attacks were, quote, clearly linked to the anti-drug gang strategy, noting they appeared to be highly organized and deliberately timed. Among the targeted sites were facilities in Villepinte, Aix-louine, Nancy, and Marseille. In Villepinte, arsonists torched three vehicles, two belonging to prison staff, and left behind a fuel canister.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
CCTV footage captured two masked individuals setting the blaze before fleeing the scene. Nearby, in Ex-Louis, two more vehicles were burned, and the main gate of a prison surveillance unit was damaged. On Monday, similar fires were reported at a staff training center and another prison near Paris.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
We'll begin with the ongoing fallout from President Trump's tariff war with China, which appears to be rapidly destabilizing the communist regime's export-dependent economy. As we all know by now, last week President Trump hit China with a 145% tariff on most of their exports, prompting China to retaliate by placing a 125% tax on U.S. goods.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
In Nancy, the violence spilled into civilian life when a corrections officer was reportedly threatened at their residence. In Marseille, officials say they thwarted an attempted arson attack. The letters DDPF, interpreted by some French media as standing for French Prisoners' Rights, were found spray-painted at multiple scenes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
While officials have not confirmed the existence of any such militant group, the recurring symbolism is believed to have influenced the prosecutor's office decision to seize jurisdiction from other organized crime prosecutors.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
The violence comes as lawmakers finalize a sweeping anti-drug bill that would create a national office to prosecute organized crime and expand law enforcement surveillance and investigatory powers over narcotics networks. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, Caribbean leaders warn that Haiti's government is on the brink as armed gangs move to seize control. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Hey, Mike Baker here. Tariffs, as you may have guessed, have thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver lining that I think some people have missed. Well, it's not just silver, it's also gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. Now, while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
Look, the first step is so simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
With an A-plus rating for the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, it's simple. Text PDB to the number 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 16th, 2025: Trump’s Tariffs Crush China’s Chip Market & A Wave Of Narco Terror In France
In today's Back of the Brief, we return to our coverage of the ongoing upheaval in Haiti as a new report warns that the country's fragile transitional government could soon be overthrown by violent gangs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Hey there, Mike Baker checking in. I'm still deep in the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. We're making solid progress, thanks to the camels and a terrific support team. Meanwhile, Mike Slater is filling in to make sure you stay informed. And don't forget, stay safe and cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
The operation to detain Yoon involved over 1,000 officers from the National Police Agency and the Corruption Investigation Office for high-ranking officials who led the raid against Yoon's presidential security forces. After hours of standoff, officers breached the compound using wire cutters and ladders to scale barricades. Yoon was escorted from the residence in a convoy of black SUVs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
His departure was met with chants from hundreds of his supporters condemning the detention as unlawful. Yoon was questioned for over 10 hours at the CIO headquarters before being transferred to a detention center near Seoul.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
The charges against him, stemming from his martial law declaration, include rebellion, a grave offense under South Korean law that carries possibility of life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The CIO now has 48 hours to request a court order for Yoon's formal arrest. Without it, he must be released. Should the order be granted, prosecutors will have up to 20 days to prepare an indictment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
In a video recorded before his arrest, Yoon denounced the investigation, asserting that the, quote, rule of law has completely collapsed in South Korea. His legal team challenged the validity of the detention warrant, citing legal protections for military secrets, which covers the president, and questioning the CIO's jurisdiction over rebellion charges.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
In a separate video posted to Facebook after he was detained, Yoon stated martial law is not a crime and that his declaration was necessary to combat what he described as a, quote, legislative dictatorship by opposition party lawmakers blocking his policies. The warrant issued by the Seoul Western District Court, however, described Yoon as the, quote, ringleader of a rebellion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
The arrest sent shockwaves through South Korea's political landscape. South Korea's acting leader, Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, met with diplomats from the U.S. and other G7 nations, including a representative of the EU, aiming to reassure international partners of the government's stability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Yoon's political allies, including members of his People Power Party, condemned the arrest as a politically motivated attack, while opposition leaders argued that his actions warrant the harshest penalties. Already, several high-ranking officials—Yoon's defense minister, police chief, top military commanders—have been detained for their role in enforcing martial law.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
As South Korea remains deeply divided, the Constitutional Court is now tasked with deciding whether to remove Yoon from office permanently or reinstate him, with the next hearing scheduled for Thursday. Coming up next, ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
intelligence agencies have issued a threat assessment warning of risks from foreign terrorists, including Iran, and domestic terrorists. More on that after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Thanks, Mike. It's Wednesday, 15 January 2025. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Slater from Politics by Faith and SiriusXM Patriot. Let's get briefed. Today, we'll begin in South Korea, where impeached President Yoon Suk-yool has been arrested as the fallout continues from his shock martial law decree last month. Do you remember that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. I want to return to our coverage of President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration on Monday. As U.S. intelligence agencies warned, the event could attract wide-ranging threats, including from the mullahs of Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
As we discussed on yesterday's program, there's no known specific threats against the President-elect or Washington, D.C. at this time. But authorities have said the ceremony remains, quote, an attractive potential target for violent extremists, both foreign and domestic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
According to a threat assessment from a group of intelligence and law enforcement agencies, potential perpetrators with election-related grievances may see the inauguration as their, quote, last opportunity to influence the election results through violence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
The threat assessment, which has not been made public but was reviewed by Politico, outlines a myriad of potential scenarios that officials are preparing for ahead of the ceremony. The nightmare scenarios range from bomb hoaxes, swatting calls, drone flights, or vehicle ramming attacks that could be carried out by foreign terrorists, domestic terrorists, or lone wolves.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Of course, the nation is still reeling from the ISIS-inspired New Year's Day truck ramming attack in New Orleans, as well as the Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas, both of which prompted officials to further tighten security for the upcoming inauguration. But another major concern is Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
As our listeners know, the mullahs have been engaged in a years-long effort to assassinate Trump and members of his first administration over the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020. While Iranian leaders have denied the plots, given the two assassination attempts against Trump during the tumultuous campaign season, authorities remain on high alert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
The threat assessment points to a video released by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the immediate aftermath of Trump's election victory, threatening to kill the president-elect. Uploaded to their Telegram account, the video ended with footage of a bloodied Trump and the words, quote, we will finish the job.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Later in the show, we'll continue our coverage of the security preparations going into President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration on Monday, particularly in light of a threat assessment warning about the myriad risks facing the event, including for Iran. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Intelligence officials said the post prompted assassination threats against Trump from some 700,000 users on the social media app. Even if Iran is not planning to orchestrate their own plot, officials appear concerned that their rhetoric could inspire a lone wolf to act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
In addition to foreign threats, law enforcement is also concerned that the widespread protests expected during the inauguration could turn violent, noting that many of the groups that have applied for permits have arranged previous demonstrations that ended in arrests.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
They're particularly anxious about protests related to the conflict in Gaza and that the war could inspire extremists residing stateside. Taken together, authorities say the security risks facing Trump's inauguration on Monday are historically unprecedented.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
John Cohen, a former counterterrorism official who helped plan President Joe Biden's 2021 inauguration, told Politico, quote, As I sit here today, based on the work I've been doing with law enforcement for the past four years, the threat environment today is even more volatile and more dangerous than it was in 2021. But officials say they're more than up to the task of securing the event.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
Some 25,000 police officers and 7,800 National Guard soldiers will be deployed in the Capitol for Monday's ceremony, and they'll be aided by teams from two FBI field offices and a fleet of drones that will be monitoring the security situation from the sky. And that is today's PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 15 January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater from the podcast Politics by Faith, also SiriusXM Patriot. My handle is SlaterRadio on Twitter and Instagram. We'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay safe and spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
South Korea's impeached president, Yook Sool-yoon, was arrested Wednesday after an hours-long standoff at his fortified presidential residence, marking a historic turn in the country's ongoing political crisis. Yoon, the first sitting South Korean president to be detained, declared martial law last month in a controversial bid to counter what he described as a, quote, anti-state opposition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 15th, 2025: Impeached South Korean President Arrested & The Threats Facing Trump's Inauguration
His brief imposition of martial law, which deployed troops around parliament, was overturned by lawmakers who later voted to impeach him on 14 December, stripping him of his presidential powers. Yoon's arrest followed weeks of political turmoil and his refusal to leave the presidential compound in Seoul.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Border Agents encountered him crossing the Rio Grande into Texas with the drone, two passports and $4,000 in cash on 4 January, according to a report from Fox News. A criminal complaint shows that Praliev was questioned about his citizenship during the encounter, claiming he hailed from Kazakhstan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
But at a court appearance before a federal judge in McAllen, Texas, prosecutors revealed that Pralyev was in possession of both Russian and Kazakh passports. At his sentencing, the assistant U.S. attorney expressed concerns about community safety should he be released, noting that the Wagner Group has a history of stoking political violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
He ultimately pled guilty to unlawful entry into the United States and was sentenced to time served. He was, however, remanded into federal custody following his sentencing, and his current whereabouts are unclear. But this all raises some concerning questions about what he was planning to do inside the United States.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
A report from Radio Free Europe confirmed that just last month, Pralyev was honored in Russia for his service in the Wagner Group by an official government veterans organization founded in 1923 on the orders of Vladimir Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
He received a certification as a combat veteran and posed for photographs with officials from the veterans group called the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation at an event on 12 December. The Wagner Group has earned a sinister reputation as a largely unaccountable proxy of the Russian military, which Putin has wielded with brutal effect in Ukraine since the war kicked off in February of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, neue Sicherheitskonzerne an der US-Border, nachdem ein russischer Soldat neben Roma, Texas verhaftet wurde, mit zwei Passworten, einem Drohnen und 4.000 Dollar, nachdem er illegal in die Vereinigten Staaten eingestiegen ist. Es kommt zuerst heute's PDB-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Wagner currently has some 50,000 personnel deployed to Ukraine, including roughly 40,000 convicts recruited from Russian prisons. The group, founded in 2014, has been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department for their activity on behalf of the Putin regime, which has spanned across the Middle East, Africa and Venezuela.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Worth noting that Mike Pompeo, Trump's former Secretary of State, confirmed that the U.S. military back in 2018 killed up to 300 Wagner members in Syria. So you can imagine they're not very happy with President Trump in the United States. That is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 15 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater. It is my honor to be filling in for Mike Baker while he is away crossing the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Thank you for trusting us. Slater Radio is my handle on Twitter and Instagram. And we'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Until then, stay safe. Spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Es scheint, dass die Führer in Europa eine größere Rolle in der Krieg in der Ukraine beteiligen, als Präsident Donald Trump, der am Montag in der Office gezwungen wird, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy said he spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday to discuss the current state of the conflict, including the possibility of deploying French troops inside Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
The Ukrainian leader did not elaborate on whether he was talking about using Western troops in a combat or peacekeeping role, though in recent months French officials have repeatedly hinted at the possibility of deploying a military contingent in non-combat capacities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
These capacities include having French troops train Ukrainian soldiers from inside the country, replace Ukrainian forces guarding the country's borders of Belarus to free up Ukrainian troops for combat, or serve as peacekeepers to enforce a potential ceasefire with Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
The topic reportedly came up again on Monday, as the pair spoke about the need for Western security guarantees for Kiev, if any just peace with Russia is going to be achieved. In einem Social-Media-Post hat Zelensky gesagt, dass er eine solche Garantie hat, dass wir die französische Initiative diskutieren, um die militärische Kontingenz der Ukraine zu eröffnen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Wir haben praktische Schritte für ihre Implementierung, potenzielle Erweiterung und die Einwanderung anderer Nationen in diesem Versuch. Während die Idee eines westlichen Truppeneinbruchs in der Ukraine nicht neu ist, bleibt es hochkontroversiell.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Last February, the French President made a similar suggestion after discussions with other European leaders in Paris, although those talks explicitly centered on deploying troops in a combat capacity. The idea went nowhere at the time, with alarmed NATO officials dismissing it outright.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
But more recently, President-elect Trump laid out a vision for peace that would involve deploying a European-led coalition of ground troops to secure and support a limited ceasefire with Moscow. Trump has said he wants European allies to shoulder the main financial and military responsibilities for overseeing a halt to Russian hostilities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
But even if Western troops were deployed as a part of a peacekeeping mission rather than a formal NATO operation, there's no shortage of challenges. Fears of Russian retaliation, logistical headaches and divisions within Europe all cast doubt on the feasibility of this united approach.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Complicating matters, the Kremlin has rejected calls for a limited ceasefire outright and bristled at any suggestion of Ukraine hosting Western troops inside their borders. Last June, after Macron suggested using NATO forces to train Ukrainian soldiers, the Kremlin warned they'd be fair game for attack, saying, quote, it doesn't matter whether they're French or not.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Far right and far left leaders inside France have also rebuked Macron over the proposals, arguing a deployment would carelessly endanger the lives of French troops and be seen as escalatory by Russia. In the meantime, as the debate rages over the future of the war, Zelensky is doing his best to keep the Kremlin on the back foot.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Ukraine has escalated their attacks deeper inside Russian territory in recent weeks, giving the Kremlin, which has relentlessly bombarded Ukrainian cities, a taste of its own medicine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
In their latest operation on Monday evening, Ukrainian forces struck several Russian regions with a major drone and missile attack, damaging at least two factories and forcing schools to close in a major Russian city in the south, according to reports from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Hi, Mike Baker here. I'm currently in the Middle East, crossing the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan by camel during a month-long expedition to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. But don't worry, Mike Slater has got you covered on the President's Daily Brief while I spend my time pouring the sand out of my boots.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Russia reportedly downed more than 200 Ukrainian drones and five US-made ballistic missiles during the bombardment, though there was no official comment from the Kremlin. Notably, one of the drones impacted near an airbase in the Russian city of Engels, which hosts a number of Moscow's nuclear bombers.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
It's the second time in just the last week that Ukrainian forces have managed to strike critical Russian infrastructure stationed near the city of Engels. According to Forbes, Ukrainian drones flew at least 400 miles on January 8th to strike an oil depot near the airbase, triggering a large fire that burned for six days. The oil depot was a prime target for Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
as it reportedly houses some 800,000 tons of fuel used by Russia's long-range strategic bomber fleet. The operations aim to slow the pace of Russian air attacks on Ukrainian cities, as Kiev forces try to make gains in Russia's partially occupied Kursk region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
How Trump's return on Monday will impact the conflict is anyone's guess, but the president-elect has indicated he plans to meet with both Zelensky and Putin shortly after his inauguration to begin peace talks. Coming up next, NATO launches a mission to protect Baltic undersea cables. And TikTok's fate might ultimately hang on a possible deal with Elon Musk.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
I'll have those stories when we get back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, Code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Welcome back to the PDB. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Shifting focus to Eastern Europe, where NATO is ramping up efforts to safeguard critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, unveiling a new initiative dubbed Baltic Century. This coordinated mission is a direct response to a series of sabotage incidents tied to Russia and China.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Generalsekretär Mark Rutte hat die Initiative am Dienstag geöffnet, nach einem Summit in Helsinki, wo Führer aus Finnland, Deutschland, Polen und anderen EU-Mitgliedsstaaten beurteilt haben, dass die Verbrecher von Sabotage verantwortlich sind.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Rutte, der ehemalige Premierminister der Niederlande, plans, advanced frigates, maritime patrol aircraft and naval drones to enhance surveillance and deter malicious activities in the region to deploy, maritime patrol aircraft and naval drones to enhance surveillance and deter malicious activities in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Speaking on the urgency of the mission, Ruta stated, "...across the Alliance, we have seen elements of a campaign to destabilize our societies through cyber attacks, assassination attempts, including possible sabotage of undersea cables in the Baltic Sea." The importance of these undersea cables cannot be overstated.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
They carry 95% of global internet traffic and facilitate 10 trillion dollars in daily financial transactions. The enemy knows very well what that would do if they were able to cut... As many of these cables as possible. As such, they become a key vulnerability in escalating geopolitical tensions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Ruta stated, we will do everything in our power to fight back, reinforcing NATO's firm commitment to defending against attack. The necessity of the Baltic Sentry mission is amplified by recent incidents that Mike Baker has covered here on PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
In mid-November, a Chinese-flagged ship dragged its anchor over 100 miles along the Baltic seabed, severing cables that connected Sweden to Lithuania and Finland to Germany. Notably, the vessel departed from a Russian port, raising suspicions of coordinated sabotage.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
The incident mirred an October attack in 2023, when Finland reported damage to the Baltic connector gas pipeline and undersea cables between Sweden and Estonia, also linked to a Chinese vessel, employing similar tactics. Incidents like this evoke long-standing concerns over China's use of maritime sabotage, a strategy seen in the Taiwan Strait.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Just last week, Taiwan launched an investigation into whether a China-linked ship intentionally damaged a vital undersea cable connecting the island to the global internet, further underscoring the global nature of this threat. Meanwhile, Russia's activities in the Baltic have also intensified.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
On Christmas Day, a Russian-linked tanker was implicated in damaging power cables beneath Finland and Estonia, dragging its anchor in an act that the EU High Representative labeled part of a, quote, hybrid campaign of Moscow's broader efforts to destabilize Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Thanks, Mike. It's Wednesday, 15 January 2025. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Slater, filling in for Mike Baker as he is traveling across the desert of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. My podcast is called Politics by Faith and I host the morning show on SiriusXM Patriots. It's an honor to be here. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
The tanker is suspected of being part of Moscow's Shadow Fleet, a network of aging vessels circumventing sanctions to sustain Russian oil exports and fund its war in Ukraine. NATO leaders have raised alarms about the fleet, which poses economic, environmental and security risks, further complicating the Baltic Sea's strategic landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
In response, under NATO's Baltic Sentry mission, Germany pledged significant naval resources, while Sweden plans to contribute warships. While operational security prevents disclosure of exact deployment vessels, Ruta assured that NATO's resources would adapt to evolving threats. With advanced surveillance capabilities in a united front, NATO is sending a clear message.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Attacks on critical infrastructure will not go unanswered. Turning to China, as TikTok faces the threat of a nationwide ban on 19 January. Keep in mind, that is a ban from the app stores, Apple and Android. So if someone already has TikTok installed on their phones, they can still use the app and probably for a while.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Es wird nach einiger Zeit nicht mehr veröffentlicht, weil keine Updates erlaubt werden. Aber TikTok wird in irgendeiner Art und Weise für eine Zeit lang noch leben. Alas, die Verleihung der App-Store ist am 19. Januar. Beijing ist beruflich mit einem überraschenden Kontingency-Plan. Elon Musk erhält die App für die US-Operationen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
This development emerges as ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, challenges the looming ban in the U.S. Supreme Court. It did not go well for ByteDance. They've been fighting the ban on First Amendment grounds, but the court's 10 January arguments suggest it may uphold legislation forcing the company to sell or shutter its U.S. operations over national security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
That was the question in front of the court. What is the balance between freedom of speech and national security? While Chinese officials remain staunchly opposed to relinquishing TikTok's US arm, of course, because it's a giant spyware operation, sources close to the matter indicate that Beijing is weighing its options, including Musk as a potential buyer.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
If Musk were to acquire TikTok's US operations, the app could be folded into its growing empire, which includes X and the billionaire's AI startup, XAI. This move would grant Musk access to TikTok's massive 170 million US user base, potentially enhancing advertising revenue and data analytic capabilities. Musk's close ties to President-elect Donald Trump add a layer of intrigue as well.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Having contributed over $250 million to Trump's re-election campaign, Musk has become a trusted ally, frequently attending policy discussions at Mar-a-Lago. Also, Musk was tapped to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency by President-elect Trump, along with Vivek Ramaswamy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Beijing may see Musk's influence as a strategic asset in navigating TikTok's precarious future under a Trump presidency. Trump has indicated that he's maybe not that interested in banning TikTok or enforcing the congressional ban. Komplizierende Dinge weiter sind China's massive share-in by dance, which grants Beijing substantial control over the company's strategic decisions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Today, we begin with ongoing talks between Paris and Kiev that could see French troops deployed to Ukraine, even as the war with Russia rages on. Untertitelung des ZDF für funk, 2017
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Chinese export laws also bar the sale of TikTok's proprietary algorithms without government approval, a restriction that Beijing has used to condemn US efforts to force a sale as, quote, economic bullying and a theft of Chinese technology.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Analysts from Bloomberg pegged TikTok's US operations at $40-50 billion, a staggering sum that even Musk, still grappling with debt from his $44 billion acquisition of what was then Twitter, now X, in 2022, even Elon might find this challenging to finance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Musk has opposed banning TikTok in an April post on X, framing the move as a threat of free speech, therefore suggesting he might be willing to entertain the idea of buying it. Währenddessen hat Trump, dessen verteidigte Regierung die Druck auf China mit potenziellen Tarifen und Exportkontrollen intensiviert, die möglichen Negotiativen über TikToks Fortschritte gehandelt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Während er die App als potenzielles Bereich für die Begegnung mit Beijing bezeichnet, hat er seine Regierung auch mit berühmten China-Hawks gestaffelt, insbesondere Staatssekretär Marco Rubio, der empfiehlt, dass irgendein Deal mit internen Komplexitäten verursacht wird. Marco Rubio's confirmation hearing is today in front of the U.S. Senate. We'll see if this issue comes up.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
ByteDance for its part has floated alternative strategies, such as shifting U.S. users to a rebranded platform to sidestep the ban. However, such measures remain speculative and unlikely to satisfy Washington's national security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
For now, all eyes are on the Supreme Court's impending decision, which could come as soon as Friday, and the behind-the-scenes negotiations between Beijing, Musk and the Trump team. Whether Musk will emerge as an 11th-hour wildcard in the battle over TikTok's future in the U.S. remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Coming up in the back of the brief, new fears at America's border after a Russian mercenary was arrested in Texas, carrying multiple passports after illegally entering the United States. More on that when we get back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessantes Faktum. Wisst ihr, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt wird? Denkt daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist euer Onkel, Landfall. Kontrastiert das mit dem Vergangenheit. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir für eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich teure Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ausgestattet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. In today's Back of the Brief, US Border Patrol agents had a recent run-in with a Russian mercenary attempting to illegally cross the US southern border with a drone.
The President's Daily Brief
January 15th, 2025: French Troops to Ukraine? & A Russian Mercenary in Texas
The man, identified as 31-year-old Timur Pralyev, reportedly admitted to authorities that he is a veteran of the Kremlin's infamous Wagner paramilitary group, which has been branded a transnational criminal organization by the US Treasury Department.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
By that time, the US bombing campaign, which began on the 15th of March, had struck more than 1,100 Houthi targets, killing a significant number of mid-tier Houthi fighters who trained lower-level forces and significantly degrading their command facilities, air defense systems, weapons manufacturing, and storage facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
It's Wednesday, the 14th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, we'll revisit the recent ceasefire struck between the Trump administration and Iranian-backed Houthis and the critical intelligence that led the White House to cut the bombing campaign against the terror group short.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Under increasing pressure, the sources said that the Houthi leaders began reaching out around the first weekend in May to US allies in the Middle East to essentially wave the white flag. One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters, quote, "...we started getting intel that the Houthis had had enough."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
They added that the Iranian regime, which is engaged in delicate discussions with the U.S. over its nuclear program, also played a critical role in encouraging Houthi leadership to come to the negotiating table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
The Trump administration moved quickly to seize the moment, hoping to secure a deal that would allow the president to declare victory ahead of his Middle East tour that's taking place this week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
On Monday, the 5th of May, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth organized a series of meetings at the White House to discuss the viability of a ceasefire, where officials agreed that there was a limited window of opportunity to find an off-ramp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, who was already engaged in talks with the Iranian regime, immediately reached out to mediators in Oman, who brokered indirect talks with the chief Houthi negotiator and spokesperson. He, in turn, contacted the Houthis' top leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, and by Monday afternoon, a framework agreement had been reached.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Trump decided to take an unconventional approach to finalize the deal, notably bypassing Israel, which is not covered by the arrangement. The following day, President Trump made his announcement of the ceasefire, declaring that the Houthis had capitulated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
In an Oval Office press conference, Trump said, quote, They said, please don't bomb us anymore and we're not going to attack your ships and I will accept their word, end quote. The group consented to stop attacks on U.S. vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait and to end their disruption of one of the world's most vital shipping lanes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
The Omani foreign minister later confirmed the ceasefire, saying it would ensure, quote, freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of commercial shipping. It was an abrupt U-turn by the Houthis, who had previously maintained a defiant posture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
According to the Reuters report, the turning point came after an April 17 strike on a Houthi-controlled fuel terminal on the coast of the Red Sea that killed 74 people, severely damaging the Iranian-backed group's ability to conduct operations and generate revenue. By that point, the U.S. officials said each side saw a benefit to the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
With the Houthis seeing an opportunity to relieve pressure, they could have permanently ended their operations if the campaign continued for months or even years. But Washington's allies in the Middle East also wanted the air campaign to stop, fearing regional blowback.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
One source told Reuters, "...if the Houthis were under more pressure, well, their response was going to be to fire on the Saudis or the Emiratis." The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
was also feeling the pressure, as the bombing campaign, which had so far cost well over $1 billion, had severely depleted critical munitions and already led to the loss of two $60 million aircraft, including one that fell off the deck of the Harry Truman aircraft carrier while it was under Houthi attack. Since Trump took office, the Houthis had also managed to shoot down seven U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
MQ-9 Reaper drones, each costing approximately $30 million. For now, the ceasefire is holding, but questions do remain about how long the Houthis will adhere to the terms, particularly due to the group's persistent attacks on Israel, which have prompted escalating retaliations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
One official warned Reuters, quote, Proxies of Iran don't distinguish between what is Israel and what is the U.S., so at some point, I think the Houthis will see themselves as trying to hold the U.S. accountable. All right, coming up next, French President Emmanuel Macron says he is open to deploying France's nuclear weapons to other European countries. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Later in the show, amid ongoing concerns about Russian aggression and whether the EU can rely on the US as a military deterrent, French President Emmanuel Macron has said he's open to deploying his country's nuclear weapons to other European countries. We'll have those details. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Now, this July, perhaps you've heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations held in Rio de Janeiro. That sounds like a posh place to hold a BRICS nations summit. The bloc of emerging superpowers, which includes China and Russia, India and Iran,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as the global currency, and they're calling it the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for US dollars, well, could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, of course, the Rio Reset marks a pivotal moment
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how can you protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, I'll tell you. One thing that you can do is check in with the professionals at Birch Gold. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. With an A-plus rating with a better business bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Bike Baker here. I want to take just a little bit of your time to talk about eating smart, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
About eating healthy. That's all very important. And a big part of that effort, well, it's knowing where your food comes from, how it was raised, and how it was handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, I guarantee you somebody will, and it will probably be some large faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, well then, I've got a place for you to turn to, to find the best quality beef. And of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales beef. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
There's no corporate nonsense, no middlemen, no mystery, just pasture-raised, grain-finished Black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Amid mounting fears of Russian aggression and uncertainty surrounding future U.S. nuclear guarantees, French President Macron said he is open to stationing his country's nuclear weapons on Allied soil across Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
In a televised interview Tuesday evening with a French broadcaster, Macron declared he was ready to, quote, "...open the discussion on deploying elements of France's nuclear deterrent abroad, provided it adheres to stringent conditions."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
The French leader pointed to the long-standing US practice of hosting nuclear assets in Europe, noting, quote, the Americans have the nuclear bombs on planes in Belgium, Germany, Italy, and Turkey. France, which holds the European Union's only independent nuclear arsenal, maintains approximately 280 warheads.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
It's been a little over a week since the Trump administration struck a breakthrough ceasefire agreement with the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen. Now, we're beginning to learn more about the intelligence that led the White House to opt for de-escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Its arsenal is engineered for full operational autonomy, capable of launching from submarines and aircraft without foreign oversight. Macron was adamant that any forward deployment of French nuclear assets would not compromise national sovereignty or command authority.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
He stressed, quote, we would not be paying for the security of others, adding that ultimate command over nuclear use would, quote, always rest with the President of the Republic as the head of the armed forces, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Macron's remarks follow earlier proposals floated in March to engage European allies in a broader conversation about integrating France's nuclear umbrella into continental defense, a revival of the long-discussed but never-realized vision of a European nuclear deterrent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
France's full-spectrum independence has made it a more attractive and potentially more reliable nuclear guarantor in the eyes of some European capitals, particularly as questions grow over Washington's long-term commitment to NATO.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
In Berlin last week, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz publicly expressed openness to hosting French nuclear weapons on German soil, while taking pains to emphasize that the offer was not meant to supplant the existing American deterrent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Mertz said at a joint press conference with Macron, quote, "'This would be expressly not a substitute for the nuclear guarantee currently being given to Europe by the United States of America. The U.S. is currently believed to station roughly 20 nuclear warheads at a German military base.'" Elsewhere in Europe, interest appears to be growing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said in March that Warsaw was, quote, talking seriously with Paris about integrating under France's nuclear shield. Denmark and Lithuania have also signaled openness to the idea, with officials in both countries framing the proposal as a necessary hedge against Russian unpredictability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Still, Macron appeared eager to strike a balance between deterrence and escalation. He said during the interview, quote, we must help Ukraine defend itself, adding, quote, but we do not want to unleash a third world war. Well, that seems like a good idea. Macron reiterated that Kyiv must enter any ceasefire talks from a position of strength.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
As expected, the Kremlin wasted no time condemning Macron's proposal. Dmitry Peskov, Putin's chief purveyor of official state nonsense, called the proposal, quote, a threat to security, predictability, and stability in Europe. That's coming from the Russians, warning that any further proliferation of nuclear weapons on the continent would be seen in Moscow as a hostile act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
As you'll recall, the abrupt announcement of the truce on May 6th caught many by surprise as it came just seven weeks into a relentless U.S. bombing campaign that U.S. Central Command had recommended should last at least eight months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
You know, what was a hostile act? Yeah, that would be the taking of Crimea and the invading of Ukraine. The French president's comments come against the backdrop of a broader deterioration in East-West relations, with tensions at their highest levels since the Cold War.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Russia's Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev has issued nuclear threats on a dozen occasions over the past year to the West and Ukraine, but frankly, Medvedev never met a nuclear saber that he wasn't willing to rattle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
As Europe grapples with its ongoing security reality, Macron's latest remarks signal that France may be ready to assume a central role in the continent's future defense. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 14th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, it's very easy. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security, right? And specifically, let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
I want you to check out this excellent business. It's called DeleteMe. Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone feel vulnerable. Look, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. You know that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Having your address, your phone number, your family members' names hanging out on the internet, well, it can actually have bad consequences, of course, in the real world. So why take the chance? With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete Me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, you can get 20% off, that's 20% off, your Delete Me plan simply by texting PDB to the number 64000. Again, get 20% off by texting PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 14th, 2025: Revealed: The Surprising Intel That Led Trump To End The Houthi War & Macron Floats Deploying France's Nuclear Deterrent Across Europe
According to four anonymous US officials that spoke exclusively to Reuters, the administration was prepared to maintain their military pressure on the group over the long term, despite the hefty price tag of the strikes, but saw a diplomatic opening worth pursuing when they picked up intelligence that the beleaguered Yemeni militants were seeking an off-ramp to the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
And having your address, your phone number, or your family member's names hanging out on the internet can have actual bad consequences in the real world. So why take the chance? With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, you can get 20% off, that's 20% off, your Delete.me plan by texting PDB to 64000. It's very simple. Get 20% off by texting PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump said Tuesday that the U.S. will remove all sanctions on Syria in a major U.S. policy shift. Trump made the surprise announcement during his visit to Saudi Arabia, where, as we just discussed, he secured a $600 billion investment pledge from Riyadh.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
The president said he made the decision to lift sanctions on Syria following a request from Saudi Crown Prince MBS, jesting in public remarks, quote, Oh, what I do for the crown prince, end quote, according to Reuters. Turkish President Erdogan also reportedly lobbied the President hard for the removal of the long-standing sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
and China were already underway, and that was a claim that the CCP quickly and aggressively denied. But now, well, it looks like Trump was correct, and the CCP was lying. I know, it's hard to believe that the Chinese Communist Party would stray from the truth. According to a report from one of South Korea's largest newspapers, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
For some brief background, Syria has been under sanctions from the U.S. since 1979, when they were officially designated as a state sponsor of terrorism. Additional sanctions were imposed in 2004 on the regime of then-President Assad, and again in 2011 after the outbreak of the bloody Syrian civil war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
But Assad was ousted from power in December by a coalition of Islamist rebel groups led by former al-Qaeda operative Ahmed al-Sharaa. His new Islamist government has been requesting that Western sanctions be lifted since December to help rebuild the war torn country. But many remain skeptical of his motivations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Despite renouncing his past ties to terrorism and pledges to unify the country's religious minorities, he has struggled to maintain stability with brutal sectarian violence continuing to plague post-Assad Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Israeli leaders in particular remain deeply mistrustful of the new Sunni Islamist government and have carved out a demilitarized zone in southern Syria near the Golan Heights to protect their border from Islamist extremist groups. But it appears President Trump wants to give Shiraz's administration a chance.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Trump said that while the sanctions had served an important purpose in the past, it was time to move forward and work to restore U.S. relations with Syria now that Assad is gone. The move suggests he sees an opportunity to secure a long-term U.S. victory by stabilizing the region and opening Syria up to investment opportunities for U.S. businesses, undercutting adversaries like Russia and China.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
That's according to an analysis by the Atlantic Council think tank. White House officials told Reuters that President Trump will briefly greet Shara in the Saudi Arabian capital on Wednesday. Trump said, quote, I will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness in Syria, which has seen so much misery and death.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
It's Wednesday, the 14th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with some cloak-and-dagger diplomacy that flew under the radar. It was a secret visit by a Chinese delegation to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
There is a new government that will hopefully succeed in stabilizing the country and keeping peace. That's what we want to see. The president added, quote, it's their time to shine. So I say, good luck, Syria. Show us something very special, end quote. Whether Shira can deliver on his promise to reform the fractured nation, however, well, that remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
The ongoing sectarian bloodshed suggests that peace and stability in Syria, well, may continue to prove elusive. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 14th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me. at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, yes, that's possible, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It really is very, very simple. And when you have a spare moment, do please check out our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
and Chinese officials began behind-the-scenes discussions regarding the tariff war nearly three weeks ago. The paper confirmed that around 7 a.m. on the 24th of April, a high-ranking official from the Chinese Ministry of Finance was seen entering the Treasury Building in Washington, D.C., along with nearly a dozen staffers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
While the paper was unable to confirm the identity of the senior Chinese official, he was reportedly seen wearing an identification required for all G20 finance ministers and central bank governors participating in trade talks that were going on that week in Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Adding to the intrigue, the South Korean paper said the Chinese delegation, quote, strongly blocked the press from taking photos of high-ranking officials entering the U.S. Treasury building.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
The senior official, who refused to reveal his identity, reportedly went so far as to demand that the press delete all photos taken of them from their smartphones, saying, quote, we have no authority to block the freedom of the press, but we have the right to refuse to allow our personnel to be photographed, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Their secretive meeting at the Treasury was reportedly held just an hour before U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Trade Representative Jamison Greer met with a delegation from South Korea for tariff negotiations, though those negotiations were publicly confirmed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
At the time, a diplomatic source told the South Korean paper that, "...the fact that the Treasury communication channels of both the U.S. and China are actually operating means that both countries have reached a critical point under domestic and international pressure due to the current retaliatory tariffs."
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Adding, "...the results of the backroom negotiations between the two sides could be a major turning point in the tariff war." Now, given the trade breakthrough reached between the US and China this past weekend, it appears the diplomatic source was right. So why all the cloak and dagger diplomacy?
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Well, the same source told the paper, quote, since this tariff war is unfolding as a battle of pride, it may not be easy to create some kind of win-win structure. The source stressed that, quote, the fact that China visited the US Treasury Department in person could be an extremely sensitive issue for China. In short, it appears the CCP wanted to keep the activity quiet to save face.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
They likely feared that confirmation of such talks would make it look like they were caving to U.S. tariff pressure, weakening their negotiating position with other countries who they had warned not to engage with the U.S. in a way that would undermine China's economic interests.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
But for all their posturing and denials of back-channel conversations with the White House, it appears President Trump was telling the truth about early contact between the US and China on the subject of tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
It may even explain why, to the surprise of many financial analysts, that Washington and Beijing were able to come to such a quick understanding to de-escalate the trade war at the official talks in Geneva. As we discussed on Monday's PDB, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
and China agreed to lower their reciprocal tariffs on each other by 115 percentage points for a period of 90 days, during which discussions will continue on securing a long-term trade deal. That temporary pause will effectively lower U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% and Chinese tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Treasury Department, and it shows just how far the Chinese Communist Party will go to manage perception and try to control the narrative. We'll have those details. Later in the show, President Trump kicks off his Middle East swing with a pair of announcements, a $600 billion Saudi investment pledge, including a $142 billion arms deal. Now that is a lot of fat Saudi stacks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
China also agreed to remove all non-tariff countermeasures, such as export restrictions on some rare earth minerals. and it looks like the ice is continuing to thaw. On Tuesday, news broke that China had lifted their restriction on plane deliveries from American aerospace giant Boeing, which they had halted in April as part of their economic retaliation against Trump's tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Additionally, the U.S. announced Tuesday that they will cut the de minimis tariff for low-value items imported from China from 120% to 54%. Now, while the progress is encouraging, it's fair to say that there's still a lot left to negotiate between the globe's two largest economies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
All right, coming up after the break, President Trump announces major deals with Saudi Arabia as he begins his Middle East tour. And Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vows to bring the fight against Hamas to a decisive end. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Now, this July, and this is an important piece of news, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations being held in Rio de Janeiro. The bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia, India and Iran, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling it the Rio Reset. Isn't that a catchy name?
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Now, as the BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition, of course, won't happen overnight, the Rio reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask, how can you protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Well, one way is to check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
President Trump announced a $600 billion investment pledge from Saudi Arabia in what the White House is touting as the dawn of a golden era in U.S.-Saudi relations anchored in economic cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
At the core of the package is a $142 billion arms agreement involving more than a dozen American defense contractors, which the administration is touting as the largest defense cooperation deal in American history.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
According to a White House fact sheet, the package includes advanced systems for air, missile, and ground defense and is being positioned as a strategic bulwark against the Iranian influence in the region. In addition to defense, the broader agreement touches on energy, mining, and internal security, among them a newly inked partnership between Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior and the FBI.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Trump officials say the deals will generate thousands of American jobs and deepen bilateral cooperation across a range of sectors. The announcement came during the U.S. Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh, where Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, confirmed that $300 billion in deals had already been signed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
He pledged to raise the total to $1 trillion, declaring, quote, We will work in the coming months on the second phase to complete deals, end quote. Trump, seated beside the crown prince during the forum, praised the relationship as both personal and strategic. The president stated, quote, I really believe we like each other a lot. Well, that's nice.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Calling MBS a friend and ally while framing the deals as a blueprint for shared prosperity. The White House in its statement echoed that sentiment, describing the investments as, quote, historic and transformative for both countries. The investment minister of Saudi Arabia drove that point home, telling attendees, quote, When Saudis and Americans join forces, very good things happen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Plus, the latest from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Prime Minister Netanyahu says the fight is entering its final phase, vowing to unleash, quote, full force to finish off Hamas once and for all. And in today's back of the brief, a new era of U.S.-Syrian relations may be taking shape as President Trump announces plans to lift decades-old sanctions. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
More often than not, great things happen, end quote. Two sources told Reuters that discussions also explored the potential sale of Lockheed Martin's F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. It remains unclear whether that deal was included in the final package. Beyond defense and investment, Trump addressed the broader geopolitical landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
He again urged Saudi Arabia to consider normalizing relations with Israel, but he made clear that such a decision should be dictated by Saudi priorities, telling MBS that normalization should happen, quote, in your own time.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
I'd like to point out that the omission of Israel from this trip's travel itinerary is a notable departure from Trump's first-term Gulf tour, which has raised questions about the current state of the U.S.-Israel relationship amid the administration's behind-the-scenes push for a Gaza ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
On Iran, the president struck a familiar chord, diplomacy if possible, pressure if not, referencing the ongoing talks of securing a nuclear deal. Trump offered the Iranian regime what he called, quote, a new and better path toward a more helpful future in securing such an agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
But if talks failed, he warned, the Islamic regime would continue to face maximum pressure, echoing his ongoing sanctions campaign. Trump is now scheduled to arrive in Qatar today and the UAE tomorrow, with meetings planned in Abu Dhabi.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
While Washington's decades-old alliance with Saudi Arabia has traditionally centered on oil for security guarantees, Trump's trip signaled a shift toward one built on mutual investment in a broader effort to redefine America's role in the Gulf through economic engagement rather than military dominance.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Okay, turning to Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu is vowing to launch a full-scale military operation in Gaza this week to defeat Hamas and break the terror group's grip on the enclave. Speaking to IDF reservists, Netanyahu pledged, quote, in the coming days, we are going in with full force to complete the operation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
He left little ambiguity about the objective, adding, quote, completing the operation means defeating Hamas. It means destroying Hamas, end quote. Netanyahu emphasized that full dismantling of Hamas and the return of hostages taken during the Iran-backed terror group's 7 October 2023 attacks are objectives that, quote, go hand in hand.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
His remarks came just hours before the release of Eden Alexander, an Israeli-American hostage, on Monday. As we reported here on the PDB with his release, 58 hostages are now believed to remain in Hamas captivity, although Israeli intelligence estimates suggest that fewer than half remain alive.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
While expressing a willingness to receive additional hostage releases, Netanyahu made clear that such gestures would not stall the looming military operation. He stated, quote, It's possible that Hamas will say, time out, we want to release 10 more hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Fine, bring them, we'll take them, and then we'll go in, making it clear that there's no situation in which IDF forces will halt their advance. While allowing that a temporary ceasefire could be struck, he doubled down with, quote, We're going all the way. Despite Netanyahu's hard line, U.S. envoys appear cautiously optimistic.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and Special Envoy Adam Boehler met with hostage families in Tel Aviv on Tuesday before flying to Doha, where negotiations continue. According to Bowler, Alexander's release earlier in the week created momentum for a broader agreement, perhaps.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
The envoys reportedly told families that they would not be heading to Qatar if there weren't a credible chance to advance the talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Tuesday evening, Netanyahu convened Israel's security cabinet to review a proposal relayed by Qatari intermediaries on behalf of Witkoff that would secure the release of 10 more hostages, but any progress risks being overtaken by the rapidly approaching military operation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
At the same time, Israel expects roughly half of Gaza's civilian population, the over 1 million of the enclave's 2.3 million residents, to flee in advance of the IDF's anticipated actions. Netanyahu reiterated previous claims that a government agency has been formed to oversee the transfer of people, but acknowledged that the plan hinges on the cooperation from foreign governments.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
I want to start today's show with a story that flew under the radar late last month, but it says a lot about how the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, operates and how it tries to control the optics. You may recall, ahead of the formal US-China trade negotiations that took place this past weekend in Geneva, President Trump said that trade talks between the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
The Israeli Prime Minister stated, quote, There is one problem. We need countries to receive them. This is what we are working on right now, end quote. Now, that relocation plan has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups who warn that it may amount to forced displacement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
Nonetheless, Israeli officials argue the measure is necessary to sever Hamas from its civilian shield and to reduce casualties. As Israel readies its forces and American envoys press ahead in Doha, well, the window for diplomacy is obviously closing. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, President Trump announces the end of all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
sanctions on Syria, telling a crowd in Riyadh it's time to, quote, give them a chance at greatness. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's take just a few seconds to talk about eating smart, right? About eating healthy. It's very important. And a big part of that effort, right, is knowing where your food comes from. That just makes sense, how it was raised and handled.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, I guarantee you somebody else will, and it'll probably be some large faceless corporation. Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, well then, I've got just the place for you to find the best quality beef. It's a great business called Tri-Tails Beef. Now, Tri-Tails is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen. There's no mystery. It's just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and frankly, your grill will thank you. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security. Specifically, well, let's talk about your online security. Now, I want you to check out an excellent business. It's called DeleteMe.
The President's Daily Brief
May 14th, 2025: Secret Chinese Delegation Spotted At U.S. Treasury & And Trump’s Deal With The Saudis
DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable. Look, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. You know that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
When asked by a reporter if his Department of Justice, the DOJ, would label the protesters as domestic terrorists, Trump said, quote, I will do that. Activists have been staging so-called Tesla takedown protests to voice their displeasure at Musk and his association with President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
It's Wednesday, the 12th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, amid a series of destructive protests and a rash of vandalism aimed at Elon Musk's electric car company Tesla, President Trump said those engaging in such acts should be labeled as domestic terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
And while the demonstrators say most of these protests have been peaceful, of course, that's what they say, several have been marked by violent acts, and that's according to a report from ABC News. For example, last week, a man was arrested for attempted arson at a Tesla dealership in Colorado. after allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at vehicles and spray-painting Nazi cars on several Teslas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Sounds peaceful, putting people inside the dealership in danger. Just one week earlier, a woman was arrested outside the same Tesla dealership after police caught her with explosives also sounds peaceful. One wonders if she had brightly colored hair.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
In a similar incident in Massachusetts, seven Tesla charging stations sustained heavy fire-related damage last week after unknown vandals deliberately put the facilities to the torch. It is sounding increasingly peaceful.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
In another case, last Friday, unknown vandals targeted a Tesla charging station in South Carolina, spray-painting expletives directed at President Trump, alongside the words, long live Ukraine, before throwing homemade Molotov cocktails, destroying three charging stations. Peaceful. As the saying goes, you can't fix stupid.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
And in an even more disturbing scene, last week, unidentified gunmen fired shot with a mostly peaceful gunman, fired shots at a Tesla dealership in Tigard, Oregon. Police said seven bullets damaged three cars and shattered windows around the dealership. And, well, the attacks have continued.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Several vehicles outside a Tesla dealership in Seattle were set ablaze on Sunday in a peaceful example of arson, and the prior day in Washington, six Teslas were vandalized by peaceful activists who graffitied swastikas on the vehicles. Well, there are frankly too many incidents of vandalism and property destruction to list during this episode, but I suspect you get the picture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Large-scale protests have also drawn the attention of law enforcement. Police arrested six people during a protest in New York City over the weekend after hundreds of demonstrators occupied a Tesla showroom. A similar demonstration drew some 350 protesters last week outside a Tesla dealership in Portland, Oregon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Following Trump's remarks outside the White House on Tuesday, a spokesperson said, "...ongoing and heinous acts of violence against Tesla by radical leftist activists are nothing short of domestic terror." The remarks suggest that Trump could direct the U.S. Justice Department to charge Tesla vandals under terrorism statutes,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
though it is unclear if the charges would hold up in court, and it's according to a report from Reuters. Suspects will likely argue that vandalizing a Tesla dealership does not meet the federal definition of domestic terrorism. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Criminal Code defines domestic terrorism as, quote, acts dangerous to human life that are intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or government to advance a specific political objective. Well, not to split hairs, but some of these incidents are dangerous to human life and, well, they are intended to intimidate or coerce for a political objective. So, well, there's that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Trump appeared determined to intercede on behalf of Musk, calling out what he labeled, quote, radical left lunatics for trying to, quote, illegally and collusively boycott the Tesla brand. But organizers of Tesla Takedown condemned Trump's statements and said they would not back down from protesting the company.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
In a statement, the group said, "...peaceful protest on public property is not domestic terrorism. They're trying to intimidate us." They said that with no sense of irony. "...we will not let them succeed."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
The group added, while yes, some of our protests have involved arson, shooting up vehicles, throwing Molotov cocktails, carrying explosives and other violent acts, we think we can gaslight the public into imagining we're just engaging in peaceful protests, end quote. Okay, fine. That last little bit was made up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Later in the show, the Kurdish-led militia that controls northeastern Syria has agreed to merge its military and civilian institutions with the new Islamist government in Damascus. That's marking a major breakthrough for the country's post-Assad leadership. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
All right, coming up next, the Kurdish-led militia that controls northeastern Syria has agreed to merge its military and civilian infrastructure with the new Islamist government in Damascus. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
As we've been discussing here on the PDB, one of the biggest challenges for Syria's new post-Assad government has been uniting its fractured factions into a single national army. And to that end, well, it looks like the new government has made some progress.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
On Monday, the Kurdish-led militia controlling northeastern Syria agreed to merge its military and civilian infrastructure with the new Islamist government, and that's a major breakthrough for Damascus as it tries to assert national unity amid ongoing instability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Under the deal, which includes an end to hostilities, the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces will relinquish control over critical infrastructure including border crossings, airports, and vast oil and gas reserves. In exchange, the Kurdish minority is officially recognized as, quote, an integral part of the Syrian state, with assurances of political representation and governance participation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
An SDF commander hailed the agreement as, quote, a real opportunity to build a new Syria, framing it as a step towards securing rights for all Syrians. But beyond the rhetoric, the move represents a tactical shift that could ease tensions with Turkey and its allied factions, both of which have long opposed Kurdish autonomy in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
For Ankara, the SDF's dominant faction, the Kurdish People's Protection Unit, has always been a non-starter. Turkey views the group as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, the PKK. That's a terrorist organization that has waged a decades-long insurgency against the country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
While the PKK's imprisoned leader called for a ceasefire last month, Turkish officials made it clear that any Kurdish-led entity in northeastern Syria must be dissolved and fully integrated into the new government. The agreement has already garnered international reactions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Saudi Arabia and Qatar praised the development as a step toward, quote, civil peace, while celebrations erupted in multiple cities with Syrians expressing relief after years of conflict and uncertainty. But the security landscape does remain volatile. In Western Syria, sectarian violence continues to fester.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Over the past week, mass killings of Alawite civilians during clashes between security forces and Assad loyalists sparked calls for international intervention to protect religious and ethnic minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Meanwhile, in Syria's southern province, some Druze remain defiant, refusing to disarm, as reports suggest their leaders met with interim president and former al-Qaeda member Ahmed al-Shara in Damascus on Monday to discuss a potential deal similar to the one reached with the SDF. Israel, meanwhile, has not been quiet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
President Trump is coming to the aid of one of his key political allies, that would be Elon Musk, threatening to label violence against Tesla dealerships as domestic terrorism. The statement comes in the wake of a series of destructive protests and acts of vandalism targeting the electric car maker over Musk's role in leading the Department of Government Efficiency, otherwise known as DOGE.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Officials in Jerusalem have warned that they may intervene militarily to safeguard Syria's Druze population from the new Islamist-led government which Israeli intelligence regards as a growing security threat. As of now, the SDF controls more than 18,000 square miles in northeastern Syria, and that's an area roughly the size of the US states of Vermont and New Hampshire combined.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
And the SDF operates several prisons, housing some 10,000 Islamic State fighters. With Turkish-backed factions continuing to stage attacks in the region, SDF leaders caution that their forces are being stretched thin, heightening the risk of an Islamic State resurgence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
With this latest agreement, Damascus has secured an important victory in its bid to stabilize the country, bringing a powerful Kurdish force under the national umbrella. But, as you might imagine, obstacles do remain. Turkey's opposition, lingering ethnic and sectarian tensions, and the ever-present specter of terrorism suggest that Syria's long road to lasting peace
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
is still a long road and anything but assured. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 12th of March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as the old saying goes, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
DOGE, of course, has undertaken sweeping cuts to the federal government workforce. And apparently, the protesters feel that an appropriate response to downsizing a bloated government is to engage in violence and destruction of property.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 12th, 2025: Trump Says Violence Against Tesla Is Domestic Terrorism & US-Backed Kurdish Forces Merge With Syria's Islamist Government
Speaking from the White House lawn alongside Musk on Tuesday, after showing his support by buying a new Tesla Model S, Trump said the protesters were, quote, harming a great American company and that persons engaging in violence against Tesla or any American company would be caught and, quote, go through hell.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Officials with DHS said the app will be the centerpiece of a broader $200 million domestic and international ad campaign that will encourage undocumented migrants to, quote, stay out and leave now. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem issued a statement saying, quote, the CBP Home app gives aliens the option to leave now and self-deport.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
so they may still have the opportunity to return legally in the future and live the American dream. If they don't, we'll find them, we'll deport them, and they'll never return, end quote. But according to a report from Axios, the app is already causing controversy among immigration advocates. Well, again, there's not a surprise there.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Who denounced it as a mean-spirited attempt to scare and confuse migrants who came into the country under what was then a lawful federal program. A representative of the advocacy group America's Voice said it will, quote, only add chaos and cruelty to an already broken system.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Trump announced the retaliatory measure after Ontario Premier Doug Ford imposed a 25% tax on electricity exports to the U.S. on Monday. That's according to a report from CNN. It appeared the trade war was set for an extraordinary escalation, threatening to further royal markets that are, well, frankly, already in turmoil.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Others said they're advising migrants to avoid the app, warning it will be used to collect their personal data, with no guarantees of securing a legal pathway for residency or citizenship in the future. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 12th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
And, of course, as you may well know, if you happen to be in the know, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
It's Wednesday, March 12th. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, the trade war between the US and Canada heats up, with President Trump threatening massive tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, after the governor of Ontario announced electricity surcharges for American customers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Earlier on Tuesday, Trump took to Truth Social, calling the electricity tariff, quote, outrageous. In addition to imposing a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum, Trump vowed to target Canadian electricity with a 25% tariff and impose new taxes aimed at crippling the Canadian auto industry. He added that the only solution to the trade crisis was for Canada to become the 51st state.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
But after several tense hours, both sides decided to keep their powder dry and back down from the economic threats, at least for now. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Ontario Premier Ford issued a joint statement Tuesday afternoon, saying they would meet on Thursday in Washington to renegotiate aspects of the current North American Free Trade Treaty, known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
In the meantime, Ontario agreed to suspend its 25% surcharge on electricity exports, while White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro confirmed that Trump's 50% retaliatory tariffs on steel and aluminum would be shelved. Are you following me so far? Critically, however, the previously planned 25% tariff on steel and aluminum from Canada and all other U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
trading partners will still go into effect today. Addressing the chaotic events, a White House spokesman said, President Trump has once again used the leverage of the American economy to deliver a win for the American people, end quote. Okay. Still, trade tensions remain high between the U.S. and Canada, and jittery investors are anticipating further chaos despite the temporary reprieve.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The Canadian government has still promised to retaliate against the previously announced 25% tariff on global steel and aluminum, though it's not clear what their next move will be. It's impossible to keep score here, isn't it? Trump, meanwhile, threatened more levies on Canadian exports in the near future. if they don't lift various tariffs on U.S. dairy and agricultural products.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Trump said Tuesday, "...if other egregious long-time tariffs are not likewise dropped by Canada, I will substantially increase on April 2nd the tariffs on cars coming into the U.S., which will essentially permanently shut down the automobile manufacturing business in Canada."
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
As I mentioned, Trump also reiterated his invitation for Canada to become the 51st state, saying the tariff issue would vanish overnight if they agreed to be absorbed into the U.S. Almost made it. Canadian leaders, as you can imagine, are not pleased. That's putting it mildly in a diplomatic fashion.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Mark Carney, who's set to succeed Justin Trudeau as prime minister in the coming days, called Trump's latest tariff threats a, quote, attack on Canadian workers, families and businesses, a end quote. He continued, quote, my government will keep our tariffs on until the Americans show us respect and make credible, reliable commitments to free and fair trade, end quote. Now, as a reminder.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
This whole drama began in early February when President Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on most goods from Canada and Mexico over the migrant and drug crisis at both borders, as well as what Trump argues are imbalances in the current free trade treaty.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
After pausing those tariffs for a period of one month, Trump enacted the tariffs last Tuesday, though he lowered the tariff on Canadian energy products to 10%. Canada responded by imposing an immediate 25% tariff on nearly $30 billion worth of American goods, while threatening more in the near future.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
But last Thursday, Trump signed an executive order delaying the 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for all products covered by the USMCA Free Trade Treaty. The exemption, which frankly only covers roughly 38% of Canadian imports, will last through April 2nd, and that's the same day that President Trump plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on all major U.S. trading partners, including longtime allies.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
I'll have the latest. Later in the show, just months after Israel's invasion of Lebanon, a breakthrough. Israel and Lebanon are set to negotiate their land border for the first time in years. Plus, the Trump administration announces that it's once again pulling security clearances from former Biden officials.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Now, as you can imagine, the abrupt starts and stops on tariffs have left investors' heads spinning, and all major U.S. stock indexes posted their second straight day of losses on Tuesday. Okay, coming up next, Israel and Lebanon agree to border talks just months after Israel's invasion, and the Trump administration pulls security clearances from former Biden officials. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Welcome back to the BDB. After weeks of quiet U.S.-led mediation, Israel and Lebanon have agreed to negotiate their long-disputed land border. That's a development that comes just months after Israel's invasion of Lebanon as part of its war against Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The talks, spearheaded by the Trump administration, seek to stabilize the ceasefire, brokered last November under the then-Biden administration, and address long-standing territorial disputes that have fueled decades of conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
A senior US official confirmed on Tuesday to Axios that after extensive diplomatic efforts to shore up the ceasefire and generate momentum for a political resolution, both sides have now agreed to formal negotiations, which could begin as early as next month.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The discussions will center on 13 contested points along the blue line, and that's the boundary drawn by the United Nations back in 2000 to track Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon after its occupation. These disputed zones have been a persistent flashpoint for hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah terrorists, complicating efforts to maintain stability.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
To structure the negotiations, trilateral working groups consisting of representatives from the US, Israel, and Lebanon will be formed. Their focus will be threefold resolving land border disputes, addressing the status of Lebanese prisoners held by Israel and negotiating conditions for Israel's withdrawal from five remaining outposts in southern Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
In a sign of goodwill, Israel has already released five Lebanese prisoners, including a Hezbollah terrorist captured during last year's fighting. Now, U.S. Deputy Middle East Envoy Morgan Ortegas underscored the urgency of the negotiations, stating that Washington looks forward to quickly convening discussions to, quote, "...resolve outstanding issues."
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
For Lebanon's newly formed government, the agreement marks an early diplomatic test, one that could set the tone for its regional posture moving forward. In preparation for the upcoming talks, a high-level quadrilateral military meeting took place in southern Lebanon, bringing together representatives from Israel, Lebanon, the United States, and France.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The meeting, held behind closed doors, was designed to lay the groundwork for negotiations by hashing out key security concerns along the border. A White House official reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to enforcing the ceasefire and ensuring its full implementation, stressing that Washington and its international partners remain dedicated to securing a peaceful resolution.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
And in today's Back of the Brief, the Department of Homeland Security is launching a new Customs and Border Patrol, or CBP, app with a self-deport feature. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The negotiations will build on the 2022 maritime border deal between Israel and Lebanon, which helped to de-escalate tensions over offshore gas fields. Still, while the talks mark a significant diplomatic leap, they offer no guarantees of lasting peace. Hezbollah's entrenched presence in southern Lebanon and Israel's deep-rooted security concerns, well, they remain formidable obstacles.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
However, if successful, the negotiations could significantly reduce the likelihood of future hostilities. That's an optimistic perspective, and for the first time in decades, offer a potential breakthrough in Israel-Lebanon relations. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Shifting stateside, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has revoked the security clearances of dozens of Biden administration officials at President Trump's direction, escalating tensions over access to classified intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Gabbard confirmed the decision in a post on X, stating that she had formally revoked the clearances of former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, former National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and former Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Monaco notably played a central role in prosecuting Trump supporters involved in the 6th of January Capitol insurrection, making her inclusion in the purge especially pointed. Trump had long signaled that multiple officials would lose their security clearances, hinting at the move through a series of executive orders and social media statements since returning to the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Among the names on the list are New York Attorney General Letitia James and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, both of whom spearheaded legal actions, of course, against Trump, including criminal and business-related investigations. Bragg, of course, made history as the first prosecutor to indict a then-former U.S. president on felony charges.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The purge extends well beyond Trump's legal adversaries, though. Also stripped of clearance are former U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic Norm Eisen and former FBI General Counsel Andrew Wiseman. Both have been high-profile critics of Trump, frequently appearing in the media as vocal opponents of his administration.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
We'll begin with an update on the North American trade war, as President Trump sent markets tumbling on Tuesday after announcing new retaliatory tariffs on Canada, only to pump the brakes again on the new duties just hours later.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Now, in line with Trump's decision, former President Biden will no longer receive the president's daily brief. What? The classified intelligence summary. Oh, that president's daily brief. The classified intelligence summary typically provided to former presidents.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
While such briefings have historically continued post-presidency, Biden himself revoked Trump's access back in 2021, setting a precedent that now appears to be coming full circle. Now, to be fair, I will not revoke President Biden's access to our PDB, although it would be appreciated if he'd pony up for the premium access to our podcast. Just a thought.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Gabbard also confirmed that security clearances had been revoked for the 51 former intelligence officials who signed a controversial 2020 letter implying that Hunter Biden's laptop could be Russian disinformation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Trump had signed an executive order on his first day back in office directing their removal, though it remains unclear just how many of them still had active access to classified information. Unsurprisingly, Trump's opponents are framing the move as politically motivated crackdown. I told you it would be unsurprising. Accusing him of wielding national security protocols as a tool for retribution.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Well, that's never been done before. His earlier decision to strip Biden's sparked fierce debate, and now the administration has taken steps to revoke security access for lawyers at firms such as Covington & Burling and Perkins Coie, both of which played key roles in legal battles against him. But Trump's security shakeup isn't just about settling political scores.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
It's also about restoring accountability in a system that, in his view, has been weaponized against him and his supporters. Even some of his former allies are now caught in the crossfire. His first administration's Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, a once loyal Republican who has since emerged as a sharp critic of Trump's foreign policy, also lost his clearance. Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Coming up next in the back of the brief, the Department of Homeland Security has launched a new app. They've got a new app that officials say will allow immigrants suspected of being in the country illegally to report when they self-deport. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
It was another day of back and forth announcements from the White House, which began when President Trump declared his intent to slap a 50 percent tariff on imports of Canadian steel and aluminum, doubling a previously announced 25 percent tariff on the products set to take effect on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Welcome back to the PDB. In today's back of the brief, the Trump administration is revamping a controversial immigration app from the Biden era, adding a feature that encourages migrants living illegally in the U.S. to, quote, self-deport. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Department of Homeland Security launched the new app on Tuesday, which is a repurposed version of the CBP1 app that the Biden administration first introduced back in January of 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Under that program, migrants were able to use the CBP One cell phone app to claim refugee status, which allowed at least 936,000 illegal immigrants, that's almost a million, to apply for asylum from within their home countries before flying to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
Once they arrived in the U.S., the vast majority of migrants were released into the country on parole, allowing them to get work permits and stay in the country for up to two years.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
But that program was shut down through an executive order within minutes of Trump being sworn into office, along with virtually every other Biden-era program that facilitated the influx of nearly 8 million migrants into the U.S. over the last four years. And that's just those that we know about, the known gotaways. Well, that's a whole nother question.
The President's Daily Brief
March 12th, 2025: Trump Slaps New Tariffs On Canada & Security Clearance Crackdown
The White House has now officially rebranded the app, dubbing it CBP Home, in an attempt to accelerate the removal of illegal migrants as they work to secure more resources from Congress to enact Trump's mass deportation agenda. The app contains a self-deportation reporting feature, which lets migrants submit their intent to depart the U.S. to the DHS.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
officials believe that hundreds of these tunnels have been built beneath the border over the years. Since the early 1990s, more than 230 have been officially discovered, most of them in California and Arizona. The areas around San Diego and Nogales in particular have seen the highest concentration of tunnels due to their favorable soil conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
It's Wednesday, 12 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a look at the Trump administration's border crackdown. Now, on the surface, the numbers show real progress. But when you dig into it, get below the surface, the cartels are still finding ways in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
And while authorities continue to find them, many more remain undetected. Some of these tunnels are remarkably sophisticated. Now, we've heard a lot about the tunnel systems running beneath Gaza, but it's important to note that the drug cartels actually have a lot more resources than Hamas. Take the Otemesa Megatunnel. Now, that was discovered in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
The cartel-built passage stretched more than 1,700 feet from Tijuana to a warehouse in Otemesa, California. reaching depths at times of 61 feet. Unlike the crude smuggling tunnels of the past, this one had reinforced walls, a ventilation system, electrical wiring, and even a railroad track to efficiently move the drugs. When authorities finally found it, they seized over a ton of cocaine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
That's a lot of coke. The Otay Mesa tunnel led directly to a warehouse in an industrial park, what's known essentially as a cover-up. Now, cover-ups are a key part of the cartel's smuggling operations. They're seemingly normal buildings, could be storefronts or warehouses or abandoned homes, used to disguise tunnel entrances.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Cartels go to great lengths, of course, to make sure these sites blend in, using trap doors or fake floors, even hydraulic lifts, to conceal the tunnel openings. They're designed, of course, to evade detection for as long as possible, allowing smugglers to move the drugs without drawing attention. And it's not just the gear that's moving through these tunnels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Human smuggling operations are taking full advantage of this underground network. Reports from last year indicated that Mexican cartels were offering VIP smuggling packages for as much as $15,000 to help illegal immigrants enter the US via these tunnels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
One senior Mexican official told USA Today that the La Linea cartel has allegedly been moving around 1,000 VIP migrants every month from Ciudad Juarez into El Paso through its tunnel system. These VIP clients reportedly include individuals who want to avoid detection at all costs, either because they have criminal records or because they fear deportation upon capture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
For law enforcement, well, these tunnels are a nightmare. They're difficult to detect, they're costly to investigate, and constantly involving in sophistication. Unlike surface-level smuggling routes, these tunnels bypass traditional border security measures entirely. U.S. authorities have invested in ground-penetrating radar, seismic sensors, and intelligence operations to locate them,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Well, but the cartels are always adapting, always working to stay one step ahead. After all, they are highly motivated to protect their revenue streams. Coming up next, American Mark Fogel is back on U.S. soil after three and a half years in a Russian prison. I'll have those details after the break. Running a business isn't easy, and I know that firsthand.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
As a business owner, I've seen how managing expenses and finances can turn into a time-consuming headache, with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, Ramp flips the equation. Look, most companies spend 80% of their time on low-value tasks and really only 20% on strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Ramp changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions. Making the switch is effortless. Over 25,000 businesses, that's including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, they trust Ramp. earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Later in the show, American teacher Mark Fogel is back on U.S. soil after spending three and a half years in a Russian prison on drug charges related to a small amount of medical marijuana. We'll bring you the details of his release. But first, the afternoon spotlight. The Trump administration's border crackdown appears to be making a serious impact if the numbers are anything to go by.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Again, ramp.com slash pdb. Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and terms and conditions, as they say, do apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
In a significant victory for the White House, the Trump administration secured the release of Mark Fogle, an American teacher detained in Russia for three and a half years in a prisoner exchange that could signal a shift, could signal a shift in Washington-Moscow relations. Trump personally welcomed Fogle at the White House late Tuesday night, where the teacher arrived draped in an American flag.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Visibly emotional, Fogle expressed his gratitude, stating, quote, Thank you all, and I love our country, and I'm so happy to be back here. Trump, standing beside him, called it, quote, an honor to have played a role in securing his freedom. Fogel, who taught history for nearly a decade at the Anglo-American school in Moscow, where the children of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
diplomats were among his students, was arrested at a Moscow airport back in 2021 on drug charges. Russian authorities charged him with, quote, large-scale drug smuggling. Oh, really? After discovering 17 grams of cannabis in his possession, medication Fogel maintained was prescribed for severe spinal pain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
In June 2022, a Russian court handed him a 14-year sentence in hard labor camp, the same court that had sentenced professional basketball player Brittany Griner before her high-profile release later that year. The deal to bring Fogel home was spearheaded by Trump, special envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, and a team of senior presidential advisers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz described the exchange as, quote, a show of good faith from the Russians and a sign that we're moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine, end quote. While Trump did not disclose whether he personally negotiated with Russian President Putin, a senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
official confirmed on Wednesday that the United States is set to return Russian cybercriminal Alexander Vinnik as part of the trade. Now, Vinnik, a convicted cybercriminal, pleaded guilty last year to conspiracy charges related to the cryptocurrency exchange BTC-E. which US authorities allege laundered over $9 billion in illicit transactions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
The Justice Department maintains that under Vinnick's leadership, the platform became a financial haven for cybercriminals looking to funnel dirty money across the globe. Kremlin mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov declined to identify Vinnick, but confirmed that a, quote, citizen of the Russian Federation had been released in exchange for Fogel and that he will return in the coming days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Trump framed the deal as, quote, very fair and very reasonable. hinting the exchange could contribute to broader diplomacy. Trump stated, quote, there is goodwill in terms of the war, referring to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Addressing Fogel directly, Trump added, quote, you could be a big part of it, actually, because it could be a big, important part of getting the war over with Ukraine, end quote. The president confirmed that another American is expected to be freed soon, though he withheld details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Among those still detained in Russia are American citizen Stephen Hubbard and Russian-American dual citizen Ksenia Karolina. The State Department designated both as wrongfully detained. The execution of the operation was almost as notable as the swap itself.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, who had not previously been involved in U.S.-Russia negotiations, traveled to Russia to escort Fogel home. It was the first known high-level American visit to Russian soil since the war in Ukraine began with Putin's invasion in February of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
According to a report from Fox, the daily average number of known gotaways, that's the illegal migrants who successfully entered the U.S. without apprehension, has dropped to just 132 per day since the beginning of February. Now, that's a staggering 93% decline from the peak numbers seen under the Biden administration, according to a senior Department of Homeland Security source.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
Witkoff reportedly leveraged his Middle East connections, particularly through Qatari intermediaries, to facilitate the exchange. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that while Fogel's release was not directly linked to broader efforts to end the war in Ukraine, it may hint at Moscow's shifting calculus. America's top diplomat stated, "...it's a long way to go between here and there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
It's not going to be easy." Rubio went on to add, "...I do think it's a good sign that the Russians were willing to do something in this regard, and hopefully we can build on that in the days to come." And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 12 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
And of course, to listen to this show ad-free, should you be so inclined, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 12th, 2025: Drug Cartels Using Tunnels To Avoid Detection & An American Returns Home
But while the numbers above ground look promising, below the surface, well, there's another battle playing out, one that's been going on for decades. Mexican drug cartels have been using tunnels to smuggle drugs, people, and weapons into the U.S. for years, and even with enhanced border security, these underground routes, well, they remain a major challenge. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
OpenAI has been looking at restructuring its for-profit division under its non-profit umbrella, but Musk's offer just complicated those plans. Even if OpenAI rejects it outright, the massive bid sets a new valuation benchmark, making any future moves more expensive and difficult to justify. Musk's legal battles with OpenAI go beyond financials.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
He's also accusing the company of a reckless sprint toward artificial general intelligence, AGI. Now, OpenAI, for its part, insists it's still guided by its nonprofit mission, though it's clear that the company is making serious bank off its AI tools like ChatGPT. And then, well, then there's the personal animosity that always plays a role, doesn't it?
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Asked whether Musk is acting out of insecurity, Altman took a swing, saying, quote, Probably his whole life is from a position of insecurity. I feel for the guy. I don't think he's a happy person. End quote. Right? I mean, who could be happy with all those billions? Not to mention your own rocket ships.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
With Musk throwing legal challenges and business maneuvers and now a massive buyout offer at OpenAI, clearly this battle of the billionaire nerds, well, it won't be cooling off anytime soon. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 12 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
And of course, if you're jonesing for an ad-free experience, well, we can make that happen. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
An extraordinary claim coming from Trump administration's top immigration officials today. Now, they say the FBI has been leaking information to sabotage ICE operations. If that's true, and that's if, it's a major breach of trust that could be putting law enforcement and national security at risk. And look at that. I just won today's PDB Statement of the Obvious Award.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
It's Wednesday, 12 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start off today's show with a startling accusation. Top Trump administration officials are pointing the finger at the FBI. claiming it deliberately leaked details of ICE operations to the media.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
As we've covered here on the PDB, there have been multiple reports of high-profile ICE operations being compromised by leaks to the media. In the most recent case, the Los Angeles Times reported on a planned large-scale ICE operation action in LA set to take place before the end of February. The newspaper claims it learned about the operation after obtaining an internal government document.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Now, this wasn't an isolated incident. Just last week, there was another leak, this time about an immigration raid in a Denver suburb. That tip-off allowed members of the Trenderagua gang, or TDA, a violent Venezuela-linked criminal organization, to escape before ICE could take them into custody. Now, top administration officials are pointing the finger directly at the FBI.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Border Czar Tom Holman told Sean Hannity of Fox News that the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security are investigating the leaks. And he said, quote, some of the information we are receiving tends to lead toward the FBI.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Holman also claimed that investigators have identified the person responsible for leaking details of the Colorado operation, saying this individual will not only lose their job and pension, but will also go to jail. Meanwhile, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem echoed the accusation, going even further in her public statements.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
She shared the Los Angeles Times' article on social media, writing, quote, The FBI is so corrupt. We will work with any and every agency to stop leaks and prosecute these crooked deep state agents to the fullest extent of the law, end quote. Now, if, there's that word again, if these accusations are even remotely true, well, it's a massive problem. And here's why.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
First, we should note that it's no secret that U.S. law enforcement at the federal and state and local levels, as well as intelligence agencies, they don't always get along. They compete for resources, they guard their information, and frankly, they don't always trust each other. We saw this dysfunction play out, of course, in the worst possible way before 9-11.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
The CIA, as an example, knew about al-Qaeda operatives with U.S. visas, but failed to share that intel properly with the FBI, which was tracking terrorist threats inside the country. Meanwhile, the NSA intercepted key communications between al-Qaeda members, but failed to flag them properly.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
In short, the intelligence was there, but because agencies were too busy protecting their turf, the dots never got connected. And we all know, of course, that that ended tragically. But this, well, now this current case would be somewhat different. If the FBI really is leaking information to undercut ICE operations, it's not just an interagency turf war or bureaucratic inefficiency.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
It's active sabotage. It means the Bureau wouldn't just be withholding intel from ICE. It would be deliberately handing information over to outsiders in a way that compromises and, frankly, endangers law enforcement. Now, that's not incompetence or miscommunication. That's political interference, a breach of operational security and potentially obstruction of justice.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
And it's a whole new level of dangerous. Because here's the thing. Leaking details of an upcoming law enforcement operation doesn't just let illegal immigrants slip through the cracks. It gives criminal organizations and violent offenders a heads up. It gives them time to arm themselves, to prepare and to disappear. And that doesn't just mean failed arrests.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
It means real risks for the officers on the ground. It means putting the lives of law enforcement at risk, all because someone inside the government is wallowing in their own self-righteousness and decide to play politics. If this is in fact happening, and at this stage, again, it's just if, then the evidence needs to be presented to back up Homan and Noam's accusations and allegations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Now, look, if true, this isn't just a bureaucratic blunder. It's a direct attempt to sabotage immigration enforcement by leaking information that, frankly, could endanger the lives of law enforcement officials involved in the operations. However, the big caveat is, if it's true... Later in the show, Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
They need to come forward with evidence. They can't just make allegations and accusations. You have to back that up for something this serious. But if, in fact, it is correct, then those responsible need to face justice. All right, coming up after the break, VP J.D. Vance prepares for a meeting with Zelensky as Trump announces a $500 billion minerals deal. Plus, the U.N.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
halts aid in Yemen after Houthi abductions of U.N. workers. I'll be right back. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand. As a business owner, I've seen how managing expenses and finances can turn into a time-consuming headache, with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses. Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, Ramp flips the equation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Look, most companies spend 80% of their time on low-value tasks and really only 20% on strategy. Ramp changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions. Making the switch is effortless. Over 25,000 businesses, that's including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, they trust Ramp. earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join RAMP. Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Again, ramp.com slash pdb. Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and terms and conditions, as they say, do apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning now to Europe. U.S. Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Vance is set to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference next week amid growing signs that the Trump administration is recalibrating its approach to Kiev. Zelensky will lead Ukraine's delegation at the annual conference, which kicks off on 14 February. Ooh, that's Valentine's Day. How romantic is that?
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
With Vance also in attendance, I hope they get each other something, the meeting comes as President Donald Trump has floated the idea of engaging directly with both Zelensky and Russian President Putin in a bid to broker an end to the war. Speaking in the Oval Office on Friday, Trump told reporters he, quote, may meet with Zelensky in Washington and also hinted at a conversation with Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Trump stated, quote, I'd like to see that war end, end quote. However, no official plans for a Trump-Zelensky meeting have been announced. Behind the scenes, U.S. officials have been exploring possible diplomatic off-ramps. A Ukrainian delegation met last week at the State Department with Ukraine-Russia envoy General Keith Kellogg.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Vance prepares to meet with Ukraine's Zelensky as President Trump announces a $500 billion rare earth minerals deal. Plus, the United Nations has suspended humanitarian operations in Yemen's Houthi-controlled territory after dozens of UN staff members were abducted by the group. Well, what is the world coming to when an Iranian regime proxy group abducts UN workers? That is shocking.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Now, Trump has repeatedly vowed to end the war, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion, of course, back in February of 2022. As part of a broader shift in strategy, Trump has proposed linking future military aid to Ukraine with access to the country's rare earth minerals. In an interview with Fox News, Trump claimed Ukraine has, quote, essentially agreed to provide the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
with $500 billion worth of these resources in exchange for continued support. Trump continued, stating, quote, Ukraine has tremendously valuable land in terms of rare earth minerals. I want to have our money secured because we're spending hundreds of billions of dollars in Ukraine. making it clear that he expects U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
access to Ukrainian natural resources to be guaranteed, regardless of whether a peace deal with Russia materializes. In a redline statement, Trump added, quote, They may make a deal. They may not make a deal. They may be Russian someday, or they may not be Russian someday. He's really covering his bases. But we're going to have all this money in Ukraine, and I say I want it back, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Zelensky appeared open to such an arrangement, telling Reuters Friday that he supports a reciprocal resource deal with the U.S. in exchange for security guarantees. The Ukrainian president said, quote, if we're talking about a deal, then let's do a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
We are only for it, end quote, though he emphasized that Ukraine was not proposing to, quote, give away its resources, but was willing to enter into a mutually beneficial relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
It's important to note that Ukraine is home to approximately 5% of the world's mineral resources, including rich deposits of titanium, uranium, lithium, and rare earth minerals, all critical for electric motors and national security components. Zelensky warned that Putin is already working to exploit these resources. He stated, quote, Putin is not just grabbing minerals along with the land.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
He's already thinking about how to get other partners in his alliance, that would be North Korea and Iran, and he'll give them access, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Trump, for his part, remains confident in his ability to strike a peace deal, stating, But Zelensky made it clear that Trump must meet with him before engaging with Putin, warning that bypassing direct talks with Kiev would effectively sideline Ukraine in the negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Zelensky stated, "...it's important for people to understand that Ukraine is negotiating, not accepting ultimatums from Russia." Okay, shifting now to Yemen, where the UN has suspended relief operations in the Houthi-controlled Saudi province after the Iran-backed terrorists abducted dozens of UN staffers, further complicating aid efforts in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
In a statement on Monday, the UN condemned the abductions, well, that's good, as, quote, extraordinary, are they? Emphasizing that the Houthis have made it impossible to guarantee, quote, necessary security conditions and guarantees for relief efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
The Houthis, who have a long track record of targeting international personnel, were already holding at least two dozen other UN staffers prior to these latest abductions. The move underscores a broader pattern of aggression by the terror group, who have not only detained foreign aid workers, but have also cracked down on Yemenis, linked to the now-shuttered U.S. embassy in the capital Sana'a.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
In response, the U.N. has halted its operations in Houthi-controlled areas, hoping to pressure the terrorists into releasing the abducted staff and restoring the basic security measures necessary to continue aid work. The organization already suspended all travel into Houthi-controlled zones late last month over mounting security threats.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
The Houthis, entrenched in a decade-long war against Yemen's internationally recognized government, have built their rule on brutal repression. Since seizing Sana'a back in 2014, the Iran-backed terrorists have imprisoned thousands as part of their broader campaign to silence dissent.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
That campaign has only intensified in recent months, with at least 44 people sentenced to death in a wave of crackdowns. And yet, in a calculated move earlier this year, the Houthis released 153 war detainees, an apparent attempt to ease tensions in the wake of the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
Similar prisoner releases in the past have been used as bargaining chips to restart negotiations over Yemen's civil war. But as the Houthis tighten their grip on northern Yemen, their ambitions are reaching well beyond the country's borders. The terror group has openly threatened to launch attacks on Israel if it resumes military operations in Gaza and fails to uphold the ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
And by that, I mean it's not shocking at all. And in the back of the brief, a power struggle in the world of artificial intelligence as Elon Musk makes an offer to buy OpenAI, only to be rebuffed with prejudice by the company's CEO, Sam Altman. It's a billionaire slap fight over one of the most important technologies of our time. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
In a televised speech on Tuesday, the Houthi leader warned, "...our hands are on the trigger and we are ready to immediately escalate against the Israeli enemy if it returns to escalation in the Gaza Strip." All right. Coming up in the back of the brief, a high stakes battle in the world of artificial intelligence between Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. I'll be right back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
In today's Back of the Brief, a major showdown in the world of artificial intelligence. Elon Musk has made a nearly $100 billion offer to buy OpenAI. But CEO Sam Altman, well, he's not biting. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI before walking away back in 2018, has been a vocal critic of the company's direction. He claims it's abandoned its nonprofit roots and is now chasing profits over AI safety.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
To drive the point home, he's even filed lawsuits against OpenAI, accusing it of misrepresenting itself. Now, instead of just competing through his own AI startup, which would be XAI, Musk is trying a different tactic, and that's, well, offering to buy OpenAI outright. His offer? It's a staggering $97.4 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 12th, 2025: Is The FBI Sabotaging The Border Crackdown? & Vance To Meet With Zelensky
But Altman wasted no time in shutting it down, telling Bloomberg TV, Elon tries all sorts of things for a long time. This is the latest, this week's episode. I think he's probably just trying to slow us down." Now, it's a high-stakes fight with serious implications.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Seit Mitte November wurden Kluster von Drohnen über das Staat berichtet, mit Sightings, die sich jetzt in Pennsylvania und New York ausbreiten. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy confirmed that on this past Sunday alone, 49 drone sightings were reported, though he noted that some of those sightings may be duplicates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Murphy described the drones as, quote, sophisticated, adding, quote, the minute you get your eyes on them, they go dark, end quote. Social media is awash, literally awash, with videos of the mysterious, possibly fixed-wing aircraft, intensifying public concern." Murphy convened a briefing with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas while he'll get to the bottom of it, won't he?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
And other federal officials last week to address the issue and the FBI has launched its own investigation of the phenomena. A spokesperson for the Newark FBI office confirmed, quote, We have reports from the public and law enforcement dating back several weeks. Now officials are urging residents to report sightings while they work to uncover the drone's origins.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
In response, the FAA has imposed temporary flight restrictions over key locations, including the Picatinny Arsenal military base, which has reported 11 sightings just since 13 November, and the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster. Although authorities appear to be taking the incident seriously, they have also assured the public there is no immediate safety threat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Now, what sets these drones apart is their size and sophistication, exceeding the capabilities of typical hobbyist or commercial models. While recreational and commercial drone use is legal under FAA regulations in New Jersey, these sightings suggest a different level of technology and purpose, leaving officials and residents questioning their intent. Local leaders are demanding action.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Of course they are. A coalition of 20 New Jersey mayors has called for a full investigation and better communication with residents. State Senator John Bramnick has gone further, urging a limited state of emergency and a ban on drone use until more information becomes available.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Währenddessen hat Präsident Biden, erinnere ihn sich, auf die Drohnen-Aktivität gebrieft, mit der White House bestätigte, dass die Zusammenarbeit zwischen der Homeland Security-Departement und der FBI in der Suche nach dem Flugzeug-Phänomen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Die New Jersey State Police und die Homeland Security-State-Office werden am Dienstag eine geschlossene Briefung auf die Federal Investigation veröffentlichen. Nun, es gibt noch eine interessante Entwicklung dazu.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Ein New Jersey Congressman hat am Dienstag gesagt, dass die Mysteriedrohne über dem Gartenstaat aus Iran kommen und sie von einem Mothership auf dem Ostkosten der Vereinigten Staaten parkiert werden. Congressman Jeff Van Drew said the drones very possibly could be from Iran during an appearance on Fox News Wednesday morning. Van Drew told Fox News, quote, I'm going to tell you the real deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Iran launched a mothership that contains these drones. It's off the east coast of the United States of America. They've launched drones, end quote. Now, Van Drew, the congressman, citing confidential and quote high sources, they may well have been high, also ruled out the possibility that these drones are the work of hobbyists or even US government operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Kickstart your day with the delicious taste of Blackout Coffee. It's family owned, premium coffee, fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Think about that. The beans are in the roaster and then before you know it, well, they're in your mug. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB for 20% off your first time purchase. Es ist Dienstag, 11. Dezember.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
According to the congressman, this could indicate a deliberate and sophisticated operation aimed at surveilling or testing US defenses. Well, okay, just a quick point on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
If the congressman's sources are, quote, confidential, then you would assume he would have already provided this information to federal authorities so they would have it and have been working on it instead of an interview on Fox News. And if Congressman Jeff Van Drew picked up this confidential information as a result of his position and access on Capitol Hill,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Well, then you would assume he wouldn't be authorized to reveal it on Fox News. The congressman's comments are almost as odd as the drones themselves. And by the way, the Pentagon has released a statement saying that there is no Iranian mothership parked off the East Coast. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact. Wisst ihr, dass 60 % der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Jahr in einem Landfall hervorgehoben wird? Denkt daran, 60 %, in einem Jahr, Bob ist euer Onkel, Landfall. Kontrastiert das mit dem Vergangenheit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich leckere Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ansteckend verwendet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. I want to provide an update on Israel's strategic operations inside Syria following the fall of the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
As reports confirm that Israeli ground troops have advanced beyond the demilitarized zone on the Israel-Syria border for the first time in 50 years. That's 5-0. Wie wir vorhin auf dem PDB diskutiert haben, hat Israel Truppen in eine demilitarisierte Bufferzone in den Golan Heights über den Wochenende, nachdem armte Männer die UN-Peacekeeping-Mitglieder attackiert haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Diese Bewegung spürte sofort internationale Kontroversie, mit der UN, Israel zu verurteilen, mit Syrien ein 1974es Verabschiedungsvertrag zu verurteilen, das die demilitarisierte Zone nach dem Yom Kippur-Krieg eröffnete. Of course, Israel could argue that the agreement is no longer in effect, since the Syrian government of Assad, with which they made the agreement, is, well, no longer in effect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Und das ist genau das, was geschehen ist. Israels Offiziere beurteilten, dass wegen des Verlustes des Assad-Regimes, dass sie den Vertrag vorgesehen haben, bis die Ordnung in Syrien gestorben ist und Diskussionen mit ihren neuen Regierern erhoben werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Sie streiten trotzdem, dass ihre Präsenz nur darauf konzentriert ist, die israelische Sicherheit zu schützen und dass extremistische Elemente in Syrien nicht den chaotischen Moment benutzen, um über die Grenze zu schießen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
According to two Israeli sources who spoke with the New York Times, the Israeli military has since moved deeper into Syrian territory, their first known ground entry into the country since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Now, just how deep is unclear, as little details have been released about the nature of their operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
But sources said Israel had taken control of the mountain summit of Mount Hermon on the Syrian side of the border, along with several other areas deemed essential for stabilizing that border region. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said they intend to create a, "...security zone free of heavy strategic weapons and terrorist infrastructures."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Willkommen im PDB-Afternoon-Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Lass uns kurz sprechen. New Jerseys Skies are buzzing with mystery. Frustration grows as drones flood the Garden State, leaving local officials scrambling for answers. Then, for the first time in 50 years, Israel has deployed ground troops into Syria beyond a demilitarized buffer zone
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
Now, as of Tuesday, reports indicate Israeli forces had advanced as far as Bakasim, a village in southwestern Syria, lying just 15 miles from the capital of Damascus, though Israel has not confirmed the activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
But Israel did staunchly deny claims on Tuesday that their forces intended to advance on Damascus, with a military spokesman insisting that Israel, quote, is not interfering with the internal events in Syria, end quote. Die limited ground operations come on top of Israel's historic air campaign across Syria, which began on Sunday in the immediate wake of President Assads downfall.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
While Israel has celebrated the collapse of what had essentially become an Iranian proxy state, there are widespread concerns about the extremist ties of the rebel coalition and Israel is using every tool in their arsenal to ensure Assads military stockpiles don't fall into the rebel hands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
The IDF provided an update Tuesday evening, revealing that over the previous 48 hours, their forces had carried out roughly 480 strikes on strategic military targets throughout the country, destroying most of the Assad regime's strategic weapons stockpiles, including stores of chemical weapons like mustard and VX gas, and decimating the Syrian Navy and Air Force.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
The IDF estimates that roughly 70 to 80 percent of the former Assad regime's strategic military capabilities have now been eliminated in this campaign. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 11 December. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
And word on the street is that to listen to the show ad-free, you can easily become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 11th, 2024: Iranian Drones Over New Jersey? & Israeli Forces Advance Into Syria
in einer Versuchung, ihre Grenzregion von extremistischen Threaten zu verteidigen. Wir werden über die Bedingungen diskutieren, sowie über die neuesten Updates auf Israel's Air-Kampagne in Syrien. Aber zuerst unsere Nachmittags-Spotlight. Mysteriöse Drohnen-Sightings über New Jersey, insbesondere nahe sensibler Militären-Sightings, haben Residenzen und Offiziere für Antworten geblieben.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Start your day off with a great taste of Blackout Coffee. Family owned, this most excellent American business is all about producing premium coffee. Fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB, for 20% off your first time purchase. It's Wednesday, 11 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
A cousin of the accused, who also happens to be a Maryland state delegate, issued a statement on behalf of the family, saying, quote, We only know what we have read in the media. Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi's arrest. We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and ask people to pray for all involved. We are devastated by this news, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Now, Mangione revealed his motive in a brief manifesto, which frankly reads more like a 260-word confession letter. He described health insurance companies as, quote, parasitic and decried corporate greed for driving up profits without improving life expectancy. And of course, you can do all those things without actually killing someone.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The manifesto went on to say that he viewed the killing of Thompson as a symbolic act, calling himself, quote, the first to face corruption and greed with such brutal honesty. Oh, end quote. As of now, Mangione remains in custody in Pennsylvania as extradition proceedings unfold. Perhaps now, I suppose, the remainder of his lived experience will be spent behind bars.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 11 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And if you're hankering for an ad-free PDB experience, well, we can make that happen. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Now, Syrian state television reported on Tuesday that the Coalition of Islamist Rebels have named Mohammed al-Bashir as Syria's new caretaker or interim prime minister. In that role, he'll oversee a transitional Syrian government until March of 2025, when the rebels... hoped to establish a more permanent administration chosen by the Syrian people, and that's according to a report from Bloomberg.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
While an unknown on the international stage, al-Bashir has a long history with the dominant militant rebel group in Syria known as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, which led the 12-day revolt against Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
A former electrical engineer, Al Bashir, has been serving as the head of a quasi-government setup by HTS in 2017 called the Syrian Salvation Government, or SSG, because you have to have an acronym. Headquartered in the Idlib province, the SSG has governed territory in rebel-held areas in northwestern Syria
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
for the better part of seven years, providing assistance to Syrians that were cut off from government services during the civil war. al-Bashir served in a number of ministerial positions over the years before being named the prime minister of SSG last January.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The decision to tap him to lead the transitional government reportedly came after a meeting earlier this week between al-Bashir, HDS leader Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, and the outgoing Syrian prime minister.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Speaking with al-Jazeera following his appointment, al-Bashir said the transitional government will be made up of members of both the previous administration and officials from the SSG in order to provide some stability and, quote, facilitate all the necessary works for the next two months until we have a constitutional system to be able to serve the Syrian people, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Al-Bashir's appointment appears to have brought a fragile sense of stability back to Syria. The capital of Damascus showed signs of a return to normalcy on Tuesday, with banks and shops reopening. But there remain widespread concerns over a return to sectarian violence and a resurgence of extremism, particularly among the international community.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Critically, it remains unclear who will take over from al-Bashir come March and how al-Julani, a former al-Qaeda operative, will position himself within the new power structure. But whatever the new government ends up looking like, it's going to need to build its military back from scratch thanks to a series of preemptive strikes by Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Israel has left little to chance regarding their concerns about the large sea change in Syria, launching some 350 airstrikes on targets across the country since Sunday. The operations are intended to neutralize military assets that Israel wants to keep out of the hands of the Islamist rebels, given their ties to radical extremists.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
On Monday, the IDF targeted chemical weapons caches along with critical missile and air defense systems. Later that day, the IDF confirmed that they had carried out attacks on Syria's naval fleet, with footage showing extensive damage to vessels at two ports on their western coast. They have also taken out an unknown number of weapons warehouses and ammunition depots.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Israeli leaders have said their only motivation is to destroy strategic capabilities that threaten the state of Israel. Additionally, Israel sent troops into a demilitarized buffer zone in the Golan Heights after armed men breached the area and attacked UN peacekeeping forces over the weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The IDF confirmed Tuesday that a limited number of troops were also operating inside Syrian territory, but stressed it was in areas near the border of the Golan Heights. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said the military maneuvers are temporary until an agreement can be reached with Syria's new rulers.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll begin today's show with the latest news from Syria, where a new interim government is taking shape under a relatively unknown figure, Mohammad al-Bashir. This development comes as Israel intensifies its campaign, dismantling what remains of the former President Assad's war machine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Netanyahu said, "...if we can establish neighborly relations and peaceful relations with the new forces emerging in Syria, that's our desire. But if we do not, we will do whatever it takes to defend the State of Israel and the border of Israel."
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
All right, coming up after the break, newly uncovered documents link UNRWA school administrators to Hamas fighters, and Russia reportedly trades Kim Jong-un fighter jets for thousands of his North Korean troops. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Turning our attention to the war in Gaza, the scandal-plagued United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, better known as UNRWA, is back in the spotlight over its ties to Hamas. Records seized from the terror group during Israel's campaign in Gaza and reviewed exclusively by The New York Times
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
revealed that at least two dozen teachers, counselors, and administrators at UNRWA schools across the enclave are members of Hamas or other terror groups. Hamas reportedly used its influence within UNRWA, which administered roughly 288 schools across Gaza before the war began, to foster hatred against Israel and encourage radicalism.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The New York Times report identified 24 employees across 24 different UNRWA schools, mostly principals or deputy principals, who were registered members of Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Even more damning, the records show that at least half of those identified participated in training exercises with the terror groups and were provided with lethal weaponry, including assault rifles and hand grenades. Well, every teacher needs a hand grenade. Nothing to see here folks, just some good-hearted teachers and school administrators trying to help the children.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Despite the UN's many denunciations of accusations made against the agency, its deep ties to Hamas were apparently an open secret inside Gaza. One school principal, who was issued both an assault rifle and handgun by Hamas, has a photo of himself posing in front of a Hamas banner on his Facebook page. Well, that could be considered a clue.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Later in the show, the UN's Palestinian relief agency, UNRWA, is back in the news for its links to the Iranian-backed terrorist group, Hamas. Newly uncovered documents reveal that top administrators at UNRWA schools were, in fact, Hamas fighters. Not that the UN is going to care.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Another educator, according to residents in Gaza, could regularly be seen after school hours patrolling the streets in Hamas fatigues while carrying an AK-47. Well, but to be fair, maybe he was just heading up the after school program for anti-Semites.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The records also confirm past reports detailing the presence of extensive tunnel networks used by Hamas underneath UNRWA schools and facilities, including at the organization's headquarters in the Gaza Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The reporting from The New York Times coincides with the release of a report from the Geneva-based NGO UN Watch, which also revealed, quote, "...high-level UNRWA staff who are complicit with terrorists," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
That report even implicates UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini, showing pictures of him meeting with alleged terror leaders in the years before the 7 October attack on Israel. That's according to Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Echoing the New York Times, the UN Watch report also highlights the influence of Hamas on the curriculum at UNRWA schools, where educators reportedly taught students to, quote, fight back and resist, and to, quote, kill the Jews. Again, those could be clues. Israel has provided written warnings to UNRWA countless times about the extremist ties of their employees, only to be ignored.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The organization did fire nine employees in August over their involvement in the 7 October attacks, a move that Israel said was, frankly, too little, too late. Israeli intelligence previously estimated that some 450 terror operatives in Gaza are employed by UNRWA and that more than 1,000 employees have some type of link to either Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Representatives for UNRWA, of course, meanwhile, claim that Israel is engaged in a targeted campaign to discredit the agency and ultimately shut it down. Responding to the report from UN Watch, a spokesman based in Washington, D.C., implied the accusations were, quote, disinformation meant to, quote, create chaos and divert attention from the political aims to dismantle the agency, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
The spokesman added that reporting of this so-called disinformation is, quote, putting other people's lives in danger, end quote. Well, maybe he's got a point. You certainly wouldn't want to put Hamas terrorists' lives in danger. Officials of the U.N. have said that given the politics of the region, it is next to impossible to guarantee that none of the employees are militants. We can't
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Help that, says the UN. Still, they say the UNRWA remains the best way to provide education and humanitarian assistance to the millions of Palestinians in Gaza. The official said, quote, Hey, if UNRWA doesn't do it, who else is going to teach the kids to hate the Jews? End quote. Okay, well, fair enough. That last quote was made up. But perhaps you get my point.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Okay, turning to the alliance between North Korea and Russia, we now know that Pyongyang is receiving Soviet-era fighter jets from Moscow in a trade for the thousands of North Korean troops the regime has sent in October to bolster Moscow's war effort in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Plus, new developments in the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea, as reports suggest that Russia is supplying fighter jets to Pyongyang in exchange for thousands of North Korean troops.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
According to the head of the Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel Paparo, the agreement includes MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets, first introduced over 40 years ago but still considered, quote, formidable by modern standards These aircraft would bolster Pyongyang's aging fleet, which currently is made up of Soviet-era and Chinese-supplied aircraft
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
This development aligns with Pentagon-confirmed reports that at least 10,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia's Kursk region, where they're positioned as a second echelon behind Russian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Although Admiral Poparo stated that the North Korean troops have not yet engaged in combat, his remarks stand in contrast to Ukrainian President Zelensky's claims that they're already active on the front lines. The military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang extend well beyond aircraft, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
South Korea's defense minister accused the Kremlin of providing advanced air defense missiles to North Korea, while the latter is alleged to have sent thousands of shipping containers of munitions to Russia, replenishing its depleted stockpiles.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
This cooperation, of course, has drawn sharp criticism from the US and its allies, who warned that the partnership could accelerate North Korea's ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs, both of which are heavily sanctioned by the United Nations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Meanwhile, we're getting new reports about what North Korean troops are doing on the battlefield in Russia, and the answer is, well, reportedly, not that much. Reports from Ukraine's National Resistance Center on Monday suggest that North Korea has now stationed thousands of troops at observation posts and checkpoints in the Kursk region.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
It's important to note that while these troops are not directly involved in combat, echoing Admiral Poparo's statement, Ukraine's National Resistance Center reports that their deployment does allow Russian forces to reposition for frontline duties.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Ukrainian officials claim that the North Koreans are operating under Russia's 11th Airborne Assault Brigade and have been tasked with guarding Russian troop concentrations. Adding to the tension, a Ukrainian military intelligence spokesman revealed that separately, roughly 2,000 North Korean troops have been embedded within Russian Marine and Airborne units.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
And in today's Back of the Brief, we'll have the latest on the slaying of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as the man suspected of killing him is fighting extradition from Pennsylvania to New York to face the murder charges. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. As the dust settles in Syria following the overthrow of the Assad regime, the outlines of a new government are beginning to take shape.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, the latest on the killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO, with the suspect now fighting extradition to New York to face murder charges. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
In today's Back of the Brief, the latest on Luigi Mangione, the man now officially charged with murder in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The accused killer has decided to fight extradition to New York after being denied bail in Pennsylvania.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
As he was being taken into the Pennsylvania courthouse on Tuesday, Mangione resisted officers, shouting, quote, This is clearly an injustice and an insult to the intelligence of the American people and their lived experience. Ah, the old lived experience trope. I guess Brian Thompson won't have that opportunity now. Inside the courtroom, the accused killer seemed a bit more docile.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
Dressed in an orange jumpsuit, he sat silently through much of the hearing as his attorney advised against speaking. Mangione only spoke twice, saying, I do, when sworn in, and yes, sir, to the judge when asked if he understood his right to contest arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
December 11th, 2024: Who’s Running Syria’s New Government? & Fighter Jets For Kim
According to CNN, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vowed to ensure Mangione's trial in New York by submitting what's called a governor's warrant. Pennsylvania prosecutors have indicated their intent to cooperate, noting that the charges in New York are, quote, more serious. The Mangione family has expressed shock and devastation over his arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
As a reminder, Trump initially announced a 34% reciprocal tariff on China last week, on top of an existing 20% tariff. But after Chinese leaders responded by announcing a 34% tariff of their own on American goods over the weekend, Trump added an additional 50% levy against China. Are you with me so far?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
It's Wednesday, the 9th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, Trump pumps the brakes on his global trade war, announcing a 90-day pause on most of his reciprocal tariffs. Not so fast, China. The White House is not granting China a reprieve. Quite the opposite, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Then, China continued to dig in their heels, announcing Wednesday that they'll raise the 34% tariff on American-made goods to 84% effective on Thursday. That reprisal appears to have triggered President Trump's decision to single out China from his 90-day reciprocal tariff pause and raise their rate to 125%. Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Prior to Trump's latest tariff announcement, China's finance ministry issued a statement condemning the president's adversarial approach to foreign trade, saying, quote, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
's practice of escalating tariffs on China is a mistake on top of a mistake, which seriously infringes on China's legitimate rights and interests and seriously damages the rules-based multilateral trading system, end quote. Well, that's cute. The statement implies that the Chinese regime has been following the rules.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
As we discussed on Monday's show, it's more than a bit ironic to see leaders of the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, act as if they have any respect for international rules and norms. Regardless, it doesn't appear that China plans to come to the negotiating table anytime soon. In a separate statement, China's Ministry of Commerce said, "...if the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
insists on further escalating its economic and trade restrictions, China, as the firm will and abundant means, to take necessary countermeasures and fight to the end." Well, in that context, I'm not really sure what the end might look like. Officials said they'll only move toward de-escalation if the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
changes its approach and adopts what they called a, quote, attitude of equality, respect and mutual benefit. But the Trump administration also appears resolute, arguing the tariffs are far more damaging for China than for the U.S., Responding in an interview on Wednesday morning, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besson pointed out that China exports five times the number of products to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
than the U.S. exports to China, and that their fragile economy is wholly dependent on maintaining a global trade surplus. He also said that Trump's actions were a necessary correction to current trade imbalances, calling China the, quote, worst offender in the international trading system. Besson continued, quote, It's unfortunate that the Chinese don't want to come and negotiate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
They have the most imbalanced economy in the history of the modern world, and I can tell you that this escalation is a loser for them. The Treasury Secretary added, They are the surplus country. They can raise their tariffs, but so what? End quote. As we recently discussed, Besson has a point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
China's economy has been powered by selling cheap goods for decades, but President Trump's massive tariff throws a major wrench into their system. As expenses mount, Chinese manufacturers will have to either slash their profit margins considerably or hike prices for consumers, which could prompt American buyers to look elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
With China already facing considerable economic headwinds fueled by a debt bubble, high rates of unemployment, and persistently low consumption, the CCP is taking a large risk here by spurning trade negotiations with the U.S. President Trump said Wednesday, quote, at some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
and other countries is no longer sustainable or acceptable, end quote. Coming up next, we'll look at an eye-opening military report that the Biden administration allegedly concealed from the public regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. It's springtime, which means, well, it's grilling time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
And now here's a pro tip on where to get the best beef to throw on that grill. Look no further than Tritail's Beef. Tritail's is the real deal. It's a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, no mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
All their beef is sourced to match the generics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
is hiking their tariff to an eye-watering 125%. Later in the show, we're learning that the Biden administration concealed a congressionally mandated report revealing that several U.S. military service members contracted COVID-19 in Wuhan, China in October of 2019, contradicting the Biden administration's public claims about when the virus started circulating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
USDA prime and choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker here. Well, let's take a spin around the world and see what we got on the economy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Oh, look at that. We've got some tariff wars, some very confusing tariff wars. We've got recession fears, and yes, we've still got some stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Look, in volatile markets, well, like the one that we've got right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand thinking that maybe at some point things will get better. Take control and safeguard your savings. It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
So, ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? That's a good question. And to learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
With an A-plus rating, with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans count on Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. A military report suppressed by the Biden administration reveals that seven American service members may have contracted COVID-19 in Wuhan, China in October 2019, months before the pandemic was officially acknowledged. The report, quietly uploaded to the Defense Department website just last month, was obtained by the Washington Free Beacon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
It confirms that U.S. military athletes who traveled to China for the 2019 World Military Games in Wuhan came down with COVID-like symptoms upon returning stateside. The then-Biden administration had denied that any such cases existed, publicly insisting there was no evidence of infections among American personnel in Wuhan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
That statement was made despite being legally obligated under the National Defense Authorization Act to release the report in a timely and searchable format by mid-2022, which the administration did not do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Though the Pentagon transmitted the two-page document to Congress in December of 2022, it remained hidden from the public until late March of this year, when the Trump administration uploaded it to the Defense Department website dedicated to, quote, quality-of-life issues for military families.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
There, their report was again buried, basically, between unrelated documents about spousal licensing, without any public announcement or health advisory. The recent findings stand in sharp contrast to public statements from Biden-era officials. Then-Pentagon spokesman John Kirby asserted in June of 2021 that the military had, quote, no knowledge of infections among U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
participants in the Wuhan Games. The newly unearthed report, well, calls that claim into serious question. Equally notable, the report also undercuts claims from the Pentagon during Trump's first term that no troops were tested because the event occurred before the official pandemic timeline began. According to the document, the seven afflicted service members
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. The markets are breathing a sigh of relief today as President Trump announced a 90-day pause on his reciprocal tariffs, opting instead to only implement his 10% baseline tariff on all global imports. The notable exception here is, of course, China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
reportedly recovered within six days. Still, while it stopped short of confirming a definitive diagnosis, the report notes that the symptoms they experienced closely resembled those of COVID-19, though it also states that other respiratory illnesses couldn't be ruled out. Perhaps most conspicuous is what the report doesn't say.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
There's no indication of when the Pentagon first became aware that troops may have fallen ill after the Wuhan Games. That critical timeline remains murky, even after the documents release.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
The Games were held just miles from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, where scientists, some funded by American taxpayer dollars under Dr. Anthony Fauci's oversight, remember him, conducted gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Federal agencies, including the FBI, CIA, and Department of Energy, now assess with varying degrees of confidence that the pandemic most likely originated from the Wuhan lab, not a wet market in 2019, as initially and still pushed by Chinese authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Dr. Richard Ebright, a Rutgers University professor and one of the most vocal academic advocates of the lab leak theory, called the concealment of the report a scandal. Ebright stated, "...it is an outrage that the Biden White House and the 118th Congress withheld this information."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Meanwhile, Chinese authorities have long floated the claim that American troops introduced COVID to Wuhan during the games. American officials previously dismissed that claim outright.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
While the precise origin of the virus remains unresolved, believe it or not, this long-buried Pentagon report adds weight to the growing consensus that COVID-19 was already spreading silently in Wuhan long before the global alarm bells sounded. The report now raises questions about how much the Biden administration knew and when. But, you know, it's Washington, D.C.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
So, don't hold your breath for any significant revelations nor consequences. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 9th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you've no doubt seen on all the billboards around town, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 9th, 2025: Trump Slams The Breaks On Tariff War—Except Against China & Bombshell Report Shows Biden's COVID Coverup
Trump had already imposed a 104% trade tax on Chinese imports, which took effect at midnight, but said Wednesday that he would further raise the tariff on China to 125%, effective immediately. The president cited the, quote, "...lack of respect that China has shown to the world's markets and their refusal to negotiate new trade deals."
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Two Chinese nationals fighting alongside Russian troops have been captured by Kyiv's forces, and officials warn that there are likely many more. The incident has raised alarm bells, of course, in Kyiv, as the two Chinese soldiers were captured on Ukrainian territory while engaged in combat in the Eastern Donetsk region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Well, let's take a look around and see what we see out there in the economy. Oh, look at that, tariff wars, recession fears, and yes, some stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets, like the one we've got right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand thinking everything might just work out.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Take control and safeguard your savings. It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Just text PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder so many Americans are trusting Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
In today's Back of the Brief, it appears the Trump administration's escalating global tariff war could claim an unexpected victim, and that would be Hollywood. As I'm sure all our listeners are aware, last week, President Trump announced sweeping reciprocal tariffs on allies and adversaries alike.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
America's third largest trading partner, China, was hit with a particularly large trade tax of 34%, raising the total baseline rate on Chinese imports to 54%. Bah, didn't stop there, did it? The action prompted the CCP to retaliate with a 34% tariff of their own on American goods, which, to the surprise of no one...
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
left Trump steaming, the president quickly hit back, threatening to impose an additional 50% tariff on China by April 9th, which would raise the total burden on Chinese imports, if my math is correct, to a staggering 104%. Now, China is reportedly shifting their tactics.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Instead of just focusing their economic retaliation on American manufactured goods, they have Hollywood's billion-dollar film industry in their sights. According to an exclusive report from The Hollywood Reporter, Chinese officials are considering a full ban on the release of all US-made movies in the country.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Such a move would be a blow to an industry that is still struggling to recover from the damage done by the COVID-19 pandemic, as China represents the world's second largest film market. But a ban in China shouldn't be completely fatal to Hollywood's bottom line. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
studios' earnings in China have already declined dramatically in recent years, as China increasingly pumps out their own domestic-made films. While the 2019 Marvel film Avengers Endgame, for example, made a whopping, I don't use whopping lightly, a whopping $600 million in China upon release. Boy, did they love that movie. The post-COVID landscape has not proven anywhere near as lucrative.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
It's Wednesday, the 9th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off on the battlefields of Ukraine, where reports indicate that Chinese nationals have been captured fighting alongside Russian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Still, every dollar counts for the film studios, of course, and they still rely on the Chinese market as a valuable revenue stream. Warner Brothers, the Minecraft movie, for example, topped the Chinese box office last weekend, pulling in a respectable $14.5 million, representing more than 10% of the international box office haul. Chicken jockey.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
A number of documents were found in their possession, including IDs and bank cards containing personal data, though Ukrainian officials have not said whether they believe the men were acting on orders from Beijing. That's according to a report from Politico. But Ukrainian President Zelensky is demanding answers from the Chinese Communist Party. Well, good luck with that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
But China has long been looking for an excuse to diminish the cultural influence of Hollywood as they try to boost their own domestic film industry, and it looks like the tariff war has offered them the perfect opportunity to cut ties with Tinseltown. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 9th of April.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free and without any tariffs whatsoever, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
His foreign minister summoned China's envoy to Ukraine on Tuesday to provide an explanation, saying it, quote, puts into question China's declared stance for peace and undermines Beijing's credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council, end quote. Hmm, if only there were a clue as to where China stands in regards to Putin's war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
I mean, aside from the CCP propping up his war machine through their significant economic support over the past three years. If there were just other clues. Zelensky said that their intelligence suggests there are, quote, much more than just two Chinese citizens in the occupier's units.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
He added, quote, Russia's involvement of China directly or indirectly in this war in Europe is a clear signal that Putin is going to do anything but end the war. He's looking for ways to continue fighting, end quote. Zelensky called on the US and allies in Europe to hold China accountable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
That's bound to happen, saying the presence of Chinese nationals on the battlefield directly jeopardizes current efforts to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the conflict. As our listeners are likely aware, China has tried to position itself as a neutral mediator between Ukraine and Russia, but has long been accused of covertly, or not so covertly, backing the Russian war effort.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
First, as mentioned, there's China's direct economic support of the Putin regime. Back in February 2022, just days before Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine, China and Russia agreed to a quote, no limits partnership that many say has enabled Putin's aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
This partnership is credited with greatly accelerating the rebuilding and maintenance of Russia's defense industrial complex, filling the gap left by former European trade partners. The CCP has also done everything short of directly supplying weapons systems to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Instead, they've provided computer chips, advanced software, and dual-use technological components that have military applications, including for drones. This support has allowed Putin to rapidly patch holes in the beleaguered military and keep the war machine going. Neither China nor Russia has provided comment on the captured Chinese nationals, though an official with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
State Department called the incident, quote, disturbing. That's a classic State Department statement. They're the first reported POWs from China since the conflict began. And the revelation comes as North Korea continues to send troops to the front lines of the war, and in their case, well, they aren't bothering to hide their participation in the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
In late March, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that roughly 3,000 additional North Korean troops were deployed to the region in January and February, on top of the estimated 11,000 that arrived last year. It's been a bloody affair for the North Korean military, with some 4,000 of the Kim regime's troops estimated to have been killed or wounded so far.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
President Zelensky is sounding the alarm and says there may be more where they came from. Later in the show, a report says that the CIA is weighing whether it can target and kill drug traffickers overseas. The mission? Well, that would appear to be self-evident. Stop the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs before they ever reach American streets.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
South Korean intelligence agencies attribute this staggering casualty count to a variety of factors, including North Korean troops' lack of experience with modern battlefield technologies like drones.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
But Ukrainian officials say the North Korean troops have proven to be an effective tool for the Putin regime, playing a critical role in expelling Ukrainian forces from Russia's Kursk region during a counteroffensive in March. Ukrainian military officials say the North Koreans fight with an intense ferocity and are often ready to die.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Numerous reports have documented cases where North Korean troops opted to kill themselves rather than be captured. One Ukrainian commander recently told ABC News, quote, They do not surrender. I don't remember any cases where we've been able to take them captive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the war in Ukraine is reaching a critical juncture as President Trump continues to press for a ceasefire. But these latest reports from the front lines suggest Putin is likely not negotiating in good faith, ooh, surprise, and is more than happy to keep the war going if he doesn't receive his desired terms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
And that, of course, is what we hear at the PDB referred to as a statement of the obvious. But Putin recently ordered the conscription of 160,000 new troops. That's hardly the move of someone with peaceful intentions. And reports indicate that Russia is currently massing some 30,000 troops in the Donbas in preparation for a major offensive push in the region, potentially within the month.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Coming up next, the CIA considers killing foreign fentanyl traffickers overseas, and Trump's Department of Homeland Security, the DHS, moves to revoke legal status for migrants who entered the U.S. through former President Biden's CBP One app. I'll be right back. Hey, it's Mike Baker here. And it's grilling season. And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef for your grill. Uh-huh.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
You're welcome. It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high-quality beef in the great state of Texas. Of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, this isn't some corporate meat factory, not some mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor, you can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Welcome back to the PDB. The CIA is reportedly assessing whether it can lawfully kill drug traffickers smuggling fentanyl and other deadly narcotics into the US in a move that would escalate the Trump administration's war on cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Plus, Trump's DHS, the Department of Homeland Security, is now telling migrants who legally entered the U.S. using former President Biden's CBP One app to now leave the country immediately. The reversal throws thousands of individuals into limbo. And in today's back of the brief, Beijing may be preparing to strike back at Trump's tariffs by blocking American movies from Chinese theaters.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
According to a CNN report, the agency is pouring over legal frameworks and operational risks tied to lethal covert action drawing from anonymous officials and individuals briefed on the matter.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
It's important to note that while President Trump has not issued a directive to kill drug smugglers, the mere existence of the review signals serious interest in using intelligence tools and force to combat the opioid crisis and dismantle cartel networks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
As our regular PDB listeners will recall, these deliberations come on the heels of a February designation that classified eight major Latin American cartels, including six from Mexico, as foreign terrorist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
That designation opened up sweeping counterterrorism powers, typically reserved for groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS, allowing the government to pursue cartel leaders through covert operations, intelligence missions, and financial sanctions. Trump laid the political groundwork in a State of the Union address back in early March, declaring, quote, It's time for America to wage war on the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
That rhetoric has gained traction among Republicans in Congress, some of whom are now openly advocating for lethal measures. During a House Armed Services Committee hearing last week, Representative Derek Van Orden stunned top military officials by asking why the US isn't, quote, killing Chinese drug traffickers who are fueling the fentanyl trade.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Citing as many as 300,000 American deaths per year linked to overdoses, Van Orden argued that striking the traffickers directly could serve as a powerful deterrent. For now, the U.S. military lacks legal authority to use lethal force against traffickers. However, the CIA, operating under the framework provided by Title 50 of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Code, allows the president to authorize covert action without congressional approval or public disclosure. Should Trump greenlight the directive, lethal missions could fall to the CIA or be coordinated with elite Joint Special Operations Command units. According to the American think tank Atlantic Council, such a campaign would represent the most aggressive U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
posture since the early years of the War on Terror. As we previously discussed on the PDB, the CIA is already flying surveillance drones over Mexican airspace, with Mexico City's blessing. While these flights are currently limited to intelligence collection, officials say their scope could rapidly expand. Meanwhile, the U.S. military footprint along the southern border continues to swell.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Nearly 4,000 troops are now deployed, and that's an increase of about 1,500 since Trump took office in January. Trump has historically leaned heavily on covert tools in his counterterrorism strategy, ordering drone strikes and special forces raids throughout his first term and now in his second.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Analysts believe a similar playbook could be aimed at narco-terrorists, this time in America's backyard. All right, staying stateside, the Trump administration has begun revoking legal protections for nearly one million migrants who entered the US under a Biden-era program, demanding that they leave the country immediately or face steep financial penalties.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
For background, the migrants, many of whom hail from Central America and Mexico, were allowed temporary entry through the CBP One app in an initiative central to President Biden's strategy of expanding legal and migration pathways and curbing unlawful crossings. From January 2023, more than 900,000 individuals entered the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
through the app and received two-year work authorizations under a presidential authority known as parole. That protection is now being rescinded to safeguard national security, and that's according to the Department of Homeland Security, DHS.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
In a statement Monday, DHS revealed that Biden's use of parole authority, more than any president since its creation in 1952, had, quote, further fueled the worst border crisis in U.S. history. The CBP1 program was officially scrapped for new entrance on President Trump's first day back in office, leaving thousands of would-be migrants with scheduled appointments stranded in Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Oh, no, they might not be able to see Minecraft, a shift that could cost Hollywood billions. China is the second largest market of moviegoers on the planet. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll start today with some surprising news from the front lines of the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
Now the administration is targeting those already in the U.S., issuing termination notices and directing recipients to leave the U.S. voluntarily. While the exact number of affected migrants wasn't disclosed, DHS confirmed that notifications had been sent urging individuals to, quote, self-deport using the now renamed CBP Home app under Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
One such message, reviewed by the Associated Press, was sent to a Honduran family and read, quote, it's time for you to abandon the U.S. In parallel, the administration has dismantled several other immigration pipelines. Last month, it shut down a separate parole pathway that had allowed more than 530,000 nationals from Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua and Venezuela to legally fly into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
with a financial sponsor. That program is set to expire on the 24th of April. Meanwhile, temporary protected status, known as TPS, is also on the chopping block. DHS recently announced plans to dismantle TPS protections for 600,000 Venezuelans and 500,000 Haitians.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
However, a federal judge has temporarily paused the Haitian rollback and part of the Venezuelan one, shielding approximately 350,000 people for now. But beyond the policy rollbacks, the administration is preparing to implement sweeping enforcement protocols. Migrants who remain in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
after receiving final deportation orders could be fined $998 per day, retroactively for up to five years, leading to possible penalties in excess of $1 million per person."
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
The move resurrects a little-used clause from a 1996 law that had gone dormant until Trump revived it during his first term back in 2018 Internal documents reviewed by Reuters reveal DHS intends to pursue the fines in full with help from the Department of Justice's Civil Asset Forfeiture Division Emails obtained by the outlet show plans to seize property from those who fail to pay
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
President Trump has emphasized that deporting migrants with final removal orders is a top administration priority Roughly 1.4 million people in the US fall under that category Still, questions remain over execution A memo from Customs and Border Protection warned that implementing the fines would require hiring at least a thousand new paralegal specialists and overhauling internal systems that are currently unprepared to handle such enforcement
The President's Daily Brief
April 9th, 2025: Chinese Fighters Captured In Ukraine & CIA’s New War on Fentanyl
For now, no start date for the fine collection has been set. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, China is reportedly weighing a ban on U.S. film releases in response to new tariffs. The move could cut Hollywood off from one of its most lucrative international markets. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
When asked about that possibility, Trump said, "...I'm not going to commit to that. It might be that you'll have to do something. The Panama Canal is vital to our country." He added, "...we need Greenland for national security purposes." So, you ask yourself, why is the president-elect so focused on Greenland and the Panama Canal?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
It's Wednesday, 8 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, President-elect Donald Trump gave one of his trademark press conferences on Tuesday when he spoke about his intent to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal, saying he would not rule out using military force to seize the territories.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
While it's impossible to know the president-elect's full thinking on the matter, the simple answer likely lies with the threat posed by the expansionist-minded regimes in China and Russia. Greenland sits on vast deposits of rare earth minerals, oil, and gas, and is positioned near crucial global trade and military arteries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
The supply of rare earth minerals is of particular importance as they're used in everything from phones to electric cars and military equipment. China has been vying for dominance of Greenland's natural resources in recent years, while also pursuing expanded shipping routes through the region's waters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Russia, meanwhile, has recently reopened dozens of Soviet-era military bases in the Arctic region, as tensions with the West deteriorate due to Putin's war in Ukraine. Between China and Russia, Trump argues that the US needs Greenland to deter potential threats and ensure America's top adversaries don't end up controlling the strategically important Arctic waters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
While highly autonomous, Greenland is still technically a part of Denmark, which governs foreign and security policy on the island. The U.S. has a decades-old treaty with Denmark granting U.S. access to an Arctic base in southern Greenland, which hosts an airfield and advanced radar and missile detection systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
But Trump has cast doubts on the legitimacy of Denmark's claim over their former colonial territory. Trump's national security team has reportedly already held preliminary discussions on how to open negotiations with Greenland and Denmark once he returns to office. At the press conference, Trump said, quote, I'm talking about protecting the free world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
You look outside, you have Chinese ships all over the place. You have Russian ships all over the place. We're not letting that happen, end quote. Now, turning to the Panama Canal, the top concern there is, well, also China. The American-built canal has been solely controlled by Panama for 25 years after the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
returned the Panama Canal zone to the country back in 1979 during Jimmy Carter's administration. and ended joint partnership in controlling the strategic waterway back in 1999. Its economic importance to America is hard to overstate, as roughly 40% of U.S. container traffic relies on that vital waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
In 2021, roughly 73% of all vessels traversing the canal were traveling to or from American ports. Trump feels the US gave away the canal to Panama for nothing and that China has now moved in to vie for control. Panama established diplomatic relations with China in place of Taiwan in 2017, and Beijing has since undertaken significant infrastructure developments near the waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Officials with US Southern Command have expressed concern over China's growing activity in the region, particularly their potential influence on two ports on either side of the canal that could enable it to influence canal operations. The ports are operated by Hutchinson Ports, that's a division of C.K. Hutchinson Holdings, that's one of the world's largest port operators.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
It's important to note that no direct links have been identified between C.K. Hutchinson, a Hong Kong and Cayman Islands business, and the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP. But the concern is obviously the potential for the CCP to exert influence over a Hong Kong-based company, even one with significant Western ownership and investment, which includes BlackRock and Vanguard.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
There's also fears that China could introduce surveillance technology into the canal's infrastructure to monitor U.S. naval and commercial movements. Additionally, and this may be a key point, Trump has argued that Panama is charging America too high a price for ships passing through the canal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
We'll discuss the strategic importance of both areas and why President-elect Trump is so focused on bringing them under American control. I remember actually that Thomas Jefferson got the same sort of reaction back in the day during a press conference when he announced his plans for the Louisiana Purchase. Then...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Despite the media's typical pearl-clutching over Trump's comments, some current and former Trump advisors told the Wall Street Journal that his comments are meant as a negotiating tactic and shouldn't be taken at face value. They said his threats on Greenland are meant to secure U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
access to rare earth minerals over China, while his threats against Panama are designed to secure lower prices for U.S. ships sailing through the canal. A former senior national security advisor to Trump said, quote, There is this idea that our number one priority is the defense of the hemisphere and that China and Russia are coming into our backyard.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
You have to see Greenland and Panama in that context. Coming up, multiple wildfires fanned by hurricane-force winds are tearing through Los Angeles County, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Multiple wildfires, fanned by unrelenting winds, are tearing through Los Angeles County, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate as their homes get engulfed by the inferno. But first, our afternoon spotlight. President-elect Donald Trump might have his eye on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Hurricane-force winds are fueling three catastrophic wildfires across Los Angeles County, forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee their homes as firefighters struggle to contain the raging infernos. The Palisades fire erupted near the upscale Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Tuesday morning, rapidly consuming a minimum of 3,000 acres.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the acreage could, quote, rise drastically as flames spread through homes and businesses along the Pacific Coast Highway. As of now, roughly 30,000 residents have been told to evacuate their homes. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire erupted near Pasadena on Tuesday night, scorching over 2,200 acres and placing over 32,000 residents under evacuation orders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Compounding the chaos, embers carried by the winds have sparked at least a dozen additional spot fires. In northern Los Angeles County, the Hearst Fire also erupted Tuesday night, ballooning to 500 acres in just four hours. Investigators are still probing the causes of these fires.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Relentless winds, with gusts reaching 60 to 80 mph and up to 100 mph in higher elevations, are creating extreme fire conditions, of course. Southern California's prolonged drought, when they've received less than one-tenth of an inch of rain since May, has only exasperated the crisis, prompting red flag warnings across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Notably, the winds have also grounded the firefighting aircraft, leaving crews on the ground to battle flames without aerial support. In Pacific Palisades, scenes of chaos unfolded as residents fled the advancing inferno. Abandoned vehicles clogged the narrow canyon roads, forcing some to escape on foot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Emergency crews struggled to clear paths for fire trucks using bulldozers, but gridlock hampered efforts to reach critical areas. Video from the Pacific Coast Highway reveals the extent of the destruction, with entire stretches of homes and businesses reduced to ashes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
The Los Angeles Fire Department issued an unprecedented call for off-duty personnel to report, underscoring the strain on resources as the fire's rage unchecked. Governor Gavin Newsom, who visited scenes of the Palisades fire, declared a state of emergency and mobilized over 1,400 firefighters to combat the escalating crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Newsom told reporters, quote, emergency officials, firefighters, and first responders are all hands on deck to do everything possible to protect lives, end quote. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed to CNN, quote, a high number of significant injuries among residents who failed to evacuate in time have been recorded.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
expansion, saying at a press conference on Tuesday that he's dead serious about acquiring both the Panama Canal and Greenland to strengthen America's strategic national security interests. Trump gave the remarks as a delegation of aides and advisors, including his son Donald Trump Jr., traveled to Greenland on Tuesday to make inroads on the issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
Several firefighters have also sustained burn injuries as flames advanced toward Malibu, further straining resources. More than 13,000 structures are currently under threat from the Palisades fire. The fire department officials report that approximately 1,000 structures have already been destroyed. Despite their efforts, containment, well, remains out of reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 8 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, as you've probably already heard from family and friends, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Till then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 8th, 2025: Trump Suggests US Could Take Greenland, Panama Canal By Force & Multiple Wildfires Tear Through Los Angeles County
With just two weeks to go until he returns to the Oval Office, Trump is already testing geopolitical norms as he looks to expand America's global sphere of influence, according to a report from the Associated Press. During the press conference, Trump suggested he could even use military force to seize control of both Greenland and the Panama Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
In today's Back of the Brief, Iran's use of the death penalty surged in 2024 with 901 executions, as the regime wields the death penalty as punishment and a tool of oppression, raising alarm among human rights advocates, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
On Tuesday, the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights decried the wave of executions as an affront to human dignity, imploring Iran to impose a moratorium on capital punishment. Well, I'm sure that will do it. Maybe you could add a harshly worded memo and get the job done completely.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
It's actually a significant development, as most international airlines suspended service to the country after the Syrian civil war kicked off back in March of 2011. Qatar Airways was the first major airliner to respond to the news, announcing that flights to Damascus had resumed on Tuesday for the first time in nearly 13 years.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Turk stated, quote, It's high time Iran stemmed this ever-swelling tide of executions, calling for systemic reform to address the issue. Every now and then, you just have to look at what the UN does and think, do they actually live in the real world or not?
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Amnesty International and other watchdog groups corroborate the crisis, placing Iran as the world's second highest executioner behind China, where reliable data, of course, is elusive. Tehran claims the death penalty targets heinous crimes such as murder, drug trafficking, and sexual violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Yet activists argue that the regime has increasingly wielded it as a tool of political repression, silencing dissent and instilling fear. This harrowing trend gained momentum after nationwide protests erupted in 2022 and 2023, following the death of Masa Amini in police custody.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
The UN Rights Office revealed that while many executions in 2024 stemmed from drug-related offenses, a significant number targeted dissidents and individuals connected to those protests. The scope of repression extends further. According to the Norway-based Iran Human Rights Group, at least 31 women were executed in 2024, reflecting a broader pattern of societal repression under the regime.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
December alone saw a sharp spike, with approximately 40 individuals executed in a single week, a pace that human rights organizations, including the Human Rights Activist News Agency, confirmed, despite Tehran's refusal to release official data. The 901 executions recorded in 2024 represent the highest annual total in Iran since 2015.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
It's Wednesday, 8 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we begin in Syria. As the country struggles to return to normalcy, Iran has largely withdrawn, signaling a major setback for the Iranian regime's regional ambitions. We'll have all the details ahead.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Congratulations, you've beat your old record, when a minimum of 972 people were executed. After a brief decline following reforms to Iran's anti-narcotics laws in 2017, execution rates have risen sharply since 2022. A U.N. spokeswoman described the trend as, quote, exceptionally high and deeply concerning, end quote. Oh, deeply concerning.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
calls for Tehran to abolish a death penalty grow louder and continue to be ignored as human rights organizations urge reforms. Yet for now, the regime's unrelenting execution campaign, well, it does serve as a grim reminder of its determination to suppress dissent and consolidate power. All right. That, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 8 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is very easy. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was easy. I'm Mike Baker. And I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Following the news, Jordan's flagship carrier also announced that flights to Syria would resume this week.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
While there are still concerns about the stability of the new government, of course, which is being led by the Islamist group known as HTS, the rebels appear eager to open their doors back up and normalize ties with their neighbors, particularly now that Iran's stranglehold over the country appears to have been broken.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Speaking of Iran, according to an exclusive report from our friends at the Wall Street Journal, the mullahs have pulled out nearly all of their forces from Syria in the aftermath of the rebel victory over Assad, once their strongest ally in the Middle East. The news represents a significant blow to the Iranian regime's regional strategy for projecting power and dominating the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
It marks the collapse of a years-long effort by Iran to use Syria as a central hub for their activities of their once powerful axis of resistance, which has been devastated by Israel over the past year. Leaders in Tehran had poured billions of dollars into this effort, sending thousands of military personnel and allied fighters to Syria after the bloody civil war broke out again in 2011.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Notably, Syria served as a strategic base of operations for the IRGC's, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' elite Quds Force, which would coordinate the activities of proxy groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis from inside Syria, providing Iran with some diplomatic cover. It also provided a land bridge for smuggling large amounts of weapons to Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Additionally, Iranian-backed armed groups inside Syria have launched attacks on U.S. forces in the region and aided in attacks on Israel over the past year. At the height of their activity in Syria, Iran was believed to have at least 10,000 IRGC members stationed in the country who controlled some 55 military bases. But an unnamed senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
official said Tuesday that virtually all members of the Quds Force have now fled back to Iran and the militia groups that they once armed have disbanded. When asked if the Iranians were completely out of Syria, the State Department's top Middle East official simply said, quote, pretty much, yes, it's extraordinary, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Adding to the Iranian regime's embarrassment, the hasty evacuation of their personnel forced them to leave behind a significant amount of military equipment and weapons. Hmm, sounds like the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, doesn't it? Now, some of this equipment was reportedly destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, while much was captured by the HTS rebels. While U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
officials told the Journal that Iran will likely attempt to re-establish its forces across the region, those plans may prove untenable given their weakened position and HTS's hostility toward the mullahs. They view Iran as a major regional threat, and keeping Tehran from rebuilding its military presence in the country is one of their top priorities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
HDS rebel leader Ahmed al-Shara, formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Jalani, previously said that by deposing Assad, his forces had, quote, set the Iranian project in the region back by 40 years, end quote. Still. Concerns remain, largely revolving around the stability of Syria's new rebel-led government.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Shira has pledged to shift away from militia-style governance and to create a new government that features broad representation for Syria's many ethnic and religious factions, though he's also said elections will likely not be held for many years.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
It remains to be seen whether Shira's government can unify a fractured nation and address demands for accountability while also preventing deepening sectarian divisions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Andrew Tabler, a former director for Syria at the National Security Council, told the Journal that while the situation in Syria is a cataclysmic failure for Iran, "...how disastrous will depend on whether Syria stays in one piece. They could find a way back in, thanks to sectarian divisions that remain largely unresolved under the new regime." All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Later in the show, trouble for Ukrainian President Zelensky. His approval ratings have plummeted to their lowest point since the Russian invasion began, as doubts continue to grow among Ukrainians.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Coming up after the break, Ukrainian President Zelensky faces his lowest approval rating since Russia's invasion. Plus, the latest from South Korea, where rival government forces are locked in a standoff outside the presidential compound. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Plus, the latest from South Korea, where an ongoing standoff between rival government forces continues outside the presidential compound as the nation's impeached president remains inside, refusing to comply with detention and search warrants.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Turning to the war in Ukraine, as the brutal conflict continues to drag on, it appears President Zelensky is beginning to lose the confidence of his people. A survey released on Tuesday by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology found that Ukrainians' trust in Zelensky has plummeted, dropping from roughly 90% back in March of 2022 to just 52% as of this December.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
It's a significant shift for a leader who enjoyed widespread popularity following Russia's invasion of Ukraine back in February of 2022, even drawing comparisons to Winston Churchill when he chose to remain in Kiev amid Russia's initial aerial bombardment.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
But as uncertainty grows over the future of the war and whether Western allies will continue to provide the necessary aid to sustain their defense, Ukrainians are growing increasingly skeptical of Zelensky's leadership. The figures reportedly began to drop precipitously in 2024 as Russian forces broke the battlefield stalemate and began a slow and bloody advance in Ukraine's eastern provinces.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Now, according to the poll, 39% of Ukrainians say they actively do not trust Zelensky, a staggering increase from just 7% back in March of 2022. The executive director for the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, pointing out the obvious, said the weakening of trust in Zelensky may jeopardize his future potential and wait as a public figure on the global stage. Yeah, you think?
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
He warned that the evaporation of the public's trust could also deal a quote critical blow to the institution of the presidency in Ukraine. As his internal support erodes, Zelensky is attempting to balance his pledge to never bend to Russian aggression with President-elect Donald Trump's calls for peace talks in 2025.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump is intent, it appears, on bringing the war to an end and may use Ukraine's reliance on the U.S. as a way to pressure Kiev into making concessions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
And in today's back of the brief, a new United Nations report reveals an alarming rise in executions in Iran last year, including about 40 in a single week in December. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
According to a report from the Wall Street Journal in early December, Trump's senior national security advisers favor a, quote, carrot and stick approach to bring Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table, advocating boosting military aid to Kyiv if Russian President Putin refuses to engage and cutting off support to Ukraine if leaders in Kyiv appear to balk at participating in discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Trump himself has floated ceding large parts of Ukraine's eastern territories to Russia, areas that Moscow's forces currently occupy, as well as blocking Ukraine from joining the NATO alliance for an extended period.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Zelensky, for his part, has shown an openness to aspects of Trump's proposals, saying he would be willing to consider temporarily ceding territories, but only if Ukraine is offered NATO membership. It's worth noting that a diplomatic solution may be increasingly favored by the Ukrainian people after nearly three years of war.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
A poll conducted by Gallup in the fall found that roughly 52% of Ukrainians would like to see their country negotiate an end to the war as soon as possible. With Trump's return looming ever larger and public support declining inside his own borders, Zelensky finds himself in an increasingly precarious position as he enters the new year.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
And his legacy, well, may hinge on just how he responds in the coming months. All right. Shifting to the ongoing political crisis in South Korea, impeached President Yun Suk-yeol remains defiant, refusing to surrender to detention and search warrants, ensuring a standoff between rival government forces outside his presidential compound.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Yun, whose impeachment by parliament in mid-December temporarily stripped him of presidential powers, has faced intense scrutiny since declaring martial law earlier that month during what appeared to be a routine political impasse. Yoon's decree sent shockwaves to the nation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
The declaration involved deploying troops to surround Parliament, an unprecedented move that opposition lawmakers described as an attempted rebellion. Yun defended his actions as a necessary response to what he described as legislative obstructionism by the opposition-dominated parliament. However, the move fueled fierce debate over executive overreach and led to accusations of rebellion.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
We'll begin with an update out of Syria, where some semblance of normalcy appears to be returning to the war-torn nation following the overthrow of Iranian-backed dictator Bashar al-Assad in early December.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
lawmakers acted decisively, forcefully lifting the martial law decree just hours after it was enacted, leaving Yoon politically isolated and legally vulnerable. The Constitutional Court now faces a pivotal decision whether to permanently remove Yoon from office or reinstate him, a judgment that could significantly reshape South Korea's political landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
The crisis deepened last week when a dramatic standoff unfolded between the anti-corruption agency, leading a joint investigation with police and the military, and Yun's presidential security forces. On Friday, an estimated 150 investigators and officers attempted to breach the barricades surrounding Yoon's residence to detain Yoon for questioning.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
However, they were met with a barricade of vehicles and resistance from 200 members of the Presidential Security Service. The confrontation, which lasted over five hours, ended without the investigators gaining entry. The agency has now suggested it might resort to more forceful measures to detain Yoon.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
While the initial warrants against June expired on Monday, an extension was secured on Tuesday, leaving the timeline for his detention uncertain. Yun's lawyers have mounted a counteroffensive, filing complaints against the anti-corruption agency's chief prosecutor and the 150 investigators alleging illegal actions during the attempted detainment.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
The chief of the Presidential Security Service defended his team, stating they're legally obligated to protect the incumbent president and rejecting accusations of acting as Yun's private army. Yoon, for his part, has vowed to, quote, fight to the end against efforts to oust him.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
His actions have sharply divided public opinion, with supporters praising his resistance and critics condemning his overreach. The standoff is emblematic of South Korea's fraught political history, where multiple presidents have often faced impeachment, arrest or imprisonment. As South Korea grapples with this ongoing crisis, the Constitutional Court's decision, of course, looms large.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
The outcome could test the resilience of South Korea's democracy and its commitment to the rule of law, marking a pivotal moment in one of Asia's leading democracies. OK, coming up in today's back of the brief, a new U.N. report reveals Iran carried out a record number of executions last year, triggering alarm among human rights groups. I'll have more on that when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Officials from the rebel coalition now governing the country announced that international flights in and out of Syria's main airport in Damascus would resume this week and that Syria was now ready to begin welcoming visitors from all over the world.
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
January 8th, 2025: Iran Retreats From Syria & Zelensky’s Approval Crisis
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Trade Representative Jameson Greer will meet in Geneva, Switzerland, this weekend with Chinese economic czar Qi Lifeng to break the ice on the subject of mutual de-escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The apparent U-turn by China, which until now has publicly refused negotiations unless the US unconditionally drops its tariffs, comes as the communist regime's export-dependent economy, well, begins to buckle, marked by factory shutdowns and mass layoffs. That's according to our report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The Geneva talks, which will run from May 9th through the 12th, are expected to cover possible reductions to Trump's 145% tariffs and Beijing's 125% retaliatory tariffs, as well as potential exemptions for specific product categories critical to both the U.S. and Chinese economies. But don't expect a major breakthrough.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Financial analysts say the talks will likely only serve as a starting point for more negotiations, which many expect will drag on for several months or even upwards of a year. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday, the Treasury Secretary said, "...my sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal. But we've got to de-escalate before we can move forward."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
He added, quote, we have a shared interest that this isn't sustainable, and 145%, 125% is the equivalent of an embargo. We don't want to decouple, he said. What we want is fair trade, end quote. For their part, Chinese officials have said their participation in the talks is not a sign of them caving to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
pressure, but based on a consideration of global expectations, China's interests, and appeals from American businesses and consumers. At a daily press conference on Wednesday, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry stated that Beijing's "...position of firmly opposing U.S. abuse of tariffs has not changed." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
They added, if the United States wants to resolve the issue through negotiations, it must face up to the serious negative impact of unilateral tariff measures on itself and the world. While China's statements are certainly geared at downplaying expectations for the summit, global investors appeared more optimistic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The news drove stock markets in the US, China, and Hong Kong higher on Wednesday, rekindling hopes that some economic relief is finally in sight. So, why the U-turn on negotiations from China? Well, as we've discussed earlier this week, China's massive factory sector has so far borne the brunt of the economic standoff, with factory activity contracting at its fastest pace in 16 months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Major global banks have now cut China's full-year growth forecast to around 4%. That's well below Beijing's official target. And Goldman Sachs recently estimated that some 16 million jobs across Chinese industries are now at risk. China's export orders have also hit their lowest levels since the worst days of the COVID lockdowns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The severe hit to China's economy has already prompted the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, to begin quietly exempting a host of US-made products from their 125% retaliatory tariffs. While China is not publicly acknowledging the exemptions, they are substantial, applying to roughly $40 billion in goods, or nearly a quarter of all Chinese imports from the US this year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Still, the impact on China's domestic economy has sparked major protests across the country, with thousands of disgruntled workers taking to the streets in recent weeks to demand back pay and to challenge layoffs linked to the wave of factory closures.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
In one of the more extreme examples, construction workers in a northeast province recently climbed onto rooftops and threatened to jump unless they were paid. But the pain may also soon set in for U.S. businesses and consumers. The International Monetary Fund recently slashed growth forecasts for the U.S. Cargo volumes into the U.S. have fallen by as much as 60%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And most American businesses will need to restock by mid-May. And major retailers have warned consumers to brace themselves for higher prices and empty shelves. All right, coming up next, the latest on India's deadly airstrikes inside Pakistan early Wednesday as the two nuclear-armed rivals hedge closer to a major conflict. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Now, you likely know me as a former CIA dude, a businessman, and host of the incredibly popular President's Daily Brief podcast. But I'm also a bit of a fashion guru. It's true. Guys turn to me all the time for style advice. And that's when I tell them about the great company True Classic. True Classic has one mission. It's to make sure guys look good and feel even better.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And they've nailed fit, feel, and price across your entire wardrobe. Not just tees, but hoodies, jeans, activewear, everything you need to level up your everyday style. But True Classic isn't just about great clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Their brand DNA is built on being highly intentional in everything they do, from creating high-quality essentials to delivering five-star customer service to giving back to the communities. Every detail is done with purpose. True Classic offers a fit that's snug where you want it and relaxed where you need it. No weird bunching. Ooh, nobody needs bunching. No awkward tight spots.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
You don't need those. Just a clean, effortless fit that works. Nobody, I mean nobody, needs weird bunching. Forget overpriced designer nonsense. Skip the cheap throwaways. True Classic delivers premium essentials built for real life. Grab yours at Target or Costco, or just head to trueclassic.com slash pdb today. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about fitness. That's important, right? Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that is great news. And studies prove that strength training does more to burn fat than just cardio alone. Plus, as we age and we're all aging, strength training is critical to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And this is important. You want to be consistent with your workouts. You want to make it easy to find time to work out regularly. And the best way I've found to do that over the years is to work out at home. And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about. As an example, Jacked Up Fitness offers their commercial-grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Now, it's the ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full-body workout right in your own spare room or your garage. It's equipped with a cable crossover system and integrated 200-pound weight stack and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform hundreds of exercises. Look, everything that you used to do at the gym, you can now do at home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
It's Wednesday, the 7th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, U.S. and Chinese officials are set to meet this weekend for the first direct trade talks since the tariff war began last month, though experts caution there's likely a long road ahead before a new deal is reached.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And if you're new to strength training, well, their Get Jacked Up program includes full-body video workouts led by celebrity fitness trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram. Simply press play and follow along. It's that simple. No more excuses. Look, I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and I got to tell you, it's fantastic. The construction is excellent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The quality is amazing, solid and smooth, just like the best commercial gym systems. And there's no more worrying about finding time to actually get to the gym or whether it'll be crowded when you get there and you'll have to stand around, you know what I'm talking about, waiting for benches or systems, machines, hardware.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Look, visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program. I'm telling you, it's worth it. And use promo code Baker, B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. We're learning new details about India's airstrikes inside Pakistan early Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Islamabad has denounced the operation as an act of war after at least 31 people were killed, marking one of the most dangerous escalations between the nuclear-armed rivals in years. As we discussed on today's PDB, the strikes, dubbed Operation Sindor, lasted just 25 minutes and targeted nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
The Indian military said the targeted sites were linked to the Islamist terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. New Delhi holds Lashkar-e-Taiba responsible for last month's grisly attack in the India-administered part of Kashmir, which left 26 Indian tourists dead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
According to the Indian Defense Ministry, the strikes destroyed what it described as launch pads, weapons stockpiles, and Islamic terrorist recruitment centers used to facilitate cross-border terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
India's foreign secretary told reporters that intelligence indicated, quote, "...further attacks against India were impending," prompting what the military called a, quote, "...measured, responsible, and non-escalatory response." The military added that, quote, only known terror camps were targeted and the munitions selected were calibrated to reduce civilian casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Islamabad disputes that account. Pakistani government officials claimed just six sites were hit, not nine, and dismissed the existence of any terrorist infrastructure in the areas struck. They said 26 people were killed on Pakistani soil, including civilians, and accused India of attacking mosques in regions along the shared border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Another seven people reportedly died in Pakistani-controlled Kashmir during retaliatory artillery exchanges. India, meanwhile, reported its own casualties from Pakistani shelling but did not provide figures. Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif condemned the strikes, saying they, quote, violated Pakistan's sovereignty and vowed a, quote, measured but forceful response.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
He claimed Pakistani forces shot down five Indian aircraft, though that figure has not been independently confirmed. Indian and Pakistani media outlets did report that at least two Indian aircraft were downed, one in India and another near the line of control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
An Indian defense official later confirmed three aircraft had gone down, though investigations into the causes and the exact number of jets remain ongoing. Indian Prime Minister Modi has yet to issue a public statement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Notably, just minutes before the operation commenced, the Indian Army posted a video to X showing troops in combat formation with the caption of, quote, ready to strike, trained to win. International reaction has been swift. President Trump called the situation a, quote, shame and urged both countries to show restraint.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed that message, stating he was in direct contact with counterparts in New Delhi and Islamabad. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both sides to exercise maximum military restraint.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Later in the show, we'll have the latest on India's deadly airstrikes inside Pakistan early Wednesday. The strikes marked the most dangerous escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals in decades. But first, today's PDB Afternoon Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And as with so many India-Pakistan flashpoints before, it remains unclear whether Wednesday's strikes mark the start of a sustained military campaign or remain a limited exchange between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 7th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, which, you know, you can do, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk dieting and weight loss, right? Oh, dieting and weight loss, everybody's favorite topic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
Look, are you a yo-yo dieter? That's what they call it. You know what I mean? You diet, you lose weight, but then you gain it all back. Well, studies show that that type of behavior can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. Breaking free of your yo-yo diet pattern is a main reason that doctors created Lean. That's L-E-A-N. Lean is a supplement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
It's not an injection, and you don't need a prescription. The science behind Lean is impressive. Its natural ingredients target weight loss in three powerful ways. Lean helps maintain healthy blood sugar, it helps control appetite and cravings, and it helps burn fat by converting fat into energy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
If you're tired of losing weight and gaining it back and want to lose meaningful weight at a healthy pace, Lean was created for you. Let me get you started with 20% off when you enter code PDB20 at TakeLean.com. That's code PDB20 at TakeLean.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 7th, 2025: China Caves, Agrees To Trade Talks With US & The Fallout From India's Strike On Pakistan
It appears that trade tensions between the US and China are beginning to thaw as Beijing and Washington agree to take the first steps towards finding a resolution to the crippling tariff war. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant announced Tuesday that he and senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
And if you're new to strength training, well, their Get Jacked Up program includes full-body video workouts led by celebrity fitness trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram. Simply press play and follow along. It's that easy. No more excuses. Look, I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and it is fantastic. The quality, the construction is excellent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It's solid and smooth, just like the best commercial gym systems. And there's no more worrying about finding time to actually get to the gym, or whether it'll be crowded when you get there and you'll have to stand around waiting for benches or hardware. Visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
And use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, just like you would think, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about dieting and weight loss. I know, everybody's favorite topic, right? Now, are you a yo-yo dieter? You know what I mean by that. You diet, you lose weight, but then you gain it all back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Now, studies show that that type of behavior can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. Breaking free of your yo-yo diet pattern is a main reason that doctors created lean. Now, lean is a supplement. It's not an injection and you don't need a prescription. The science behind lean is impressive.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Its natural ingredients target weight loss in three powerful ways. Lean helps maintain healthy blood sugar. It helps control appetite and cravings and helps burn fat by converting fat into energy. So if you're tired of losing weight and gaining it back and you want to lose weight meaningfully at a healthy pace, Lean was created just for you.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Let me get you started with 20% off when you enter code PDB20 at TakeLean.com. That's code PDB20 at TakeLean.com. In today's Back of the Brief, it appears that a dangerous confrontation between Israel and Turkey was narrowly avoided last week amid Jerusalem's bombardment of targets in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
and end their disruption of one of the world's most vital shipping lanes. That's according to a report from Reuters. Trump said the Houthis capitulated due to America's intense bombing campaign against the terror group, which has struck over 1,000 Houthi targets since it began back on March 15th.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
As we covered on Friday, Israel's air force bombed an area adjacent to Syria's presidential palace in Damascus overnight last Thursday in what leaders in Jerusalem called a clear warning to Syria's new Islamist-led government to prevent further bloodshed against the country's minority Druze community.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It turns out, however, that during the strikes, Turkish and Israeli fighter jets were operating in the same airspace, according to a report from the Jerusalem Post. Given the tense relationship between Israel and Turkey, the encounter could have quickly devolved and sparked conflict between the two regional powers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
But Turkish F-16s conducting reconnaissance flights in the area were able to send warning signals to the Israeli jets using their electronic warfare systems, alerting Jerusalem to their presence. Brief radio contact was then made between the aircraft, allowing both sides to narrowly avoid what could have been a calamitous confrontation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
And how many times have you heard anybody say calamitous confrontation? As a reminder, since the fall of Assad late last year, both Ankara and Jerusalem have moved quickly to shape Syria's future. Turkey is backing President Ahmed al-Sharra's Islamist government and hoping to establish permanent military installations inside Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Israeli leaders, meanwhile, remain deeply mistrustful of the new Sunni Islamist government, particularly given al-Sharaa's past as a former al-Qaeda operative. They've been conducting airstrikes targeting the former Assad regime's military infrastructure and armaments to prevent them from falling into the hands of the extremists.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It's Wednesday, the 7th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with a big development in the Middle East. President Trump says that the Houthis have capitulated, agreeing to stop attacks on ships in the Red Sea. But, you may ask, is the threat really over?
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
They've also called the Turkish presence a, quote, danger to Israel and accused Ankara of trying to convert Syria into a de facto protectorate. Additionally, Israel has carved out a demilitarized zone in southern Syria near the Golan Heights to protect their border from Islamist extremist groups and have repeatedly warned Syria's rulers from deploying forces south of Damascus.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
But to ward off potential conflict, Israeli and Turkish officials held technical talks last month in Azerbaijan to establish a de-escalation mechanism and prevent, quote, undesirable incidents. That's what we're calling them nowadays, undesirable incidents.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
A rough mutual agreement was established with both sides promising to keep communications channels open in a desire to preserve regional stability, even as both nations work to impact the future direction of the war-torn nation. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 7th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, and you may have heard this, reportedly the White House is set to make a big announcement during President Trump's upcoming trip to the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
I suspect, but, well, can't confirm, that they plan to announce that as of today, the PDB's YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, has officially gone over the 100,000 subscriber mark. Mm-hmm, you heard me correct. On behalf of the entire PDB team, I just want to say thank you to all for supporting the President's Daily Brief. The bar is now open. Let the festivities begin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The president told reporters in the Oval Office that the military campaign left the group reeling and that they told the U.S., quote, they don't want to fight anymore. Trump said, quote, they said, please don't bomb us anymore and we're not going to attack your ships. And I will accept their word, he said, and we are going to stop the bombing of the Houthis effective immediately.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
They say they will not be blowing up ships anymore, end quote. Hmm. Following Trump's remarks, officials in Oman confirmed the breakthrough, saying they had mediated the ceasefire in recent days. People familiar with the matter told CNN that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, who's been leading nuclear negotiations with Iran, worked to broker the agreement with the Houthis through Oman over the past week in the hopes of building momentum for a new nuclear deal with the Iranian regime. According to the Omani foreign minister, the understanding between the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
and the Houthis not to attack each other will ensure, quote, freedom of navigation and the smooth flow of international commercial shipping Secretary of State Marco Rubio subsequently described it as an important development, saying the goal of the U.S. bombing campaign was always to stop attacks on global shipping and restore freedom of navigation in the region
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
As we've extensively covered here on the PDB, since Hamas launched its terror attacks on Israel back on the 7th of October in 2023, the Houthis have carried out at least 145 attacks on commercial vessels and 174 attacks on US military ships in the Red Sea and Suez Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Their attacks have rattled global trade, driving up shipping costs and disrupting critical supply chains across the world Some 70% of global trade traffic is now diverting around South Africa to avoid Houthi attacks near the Suez Canal So a halt to hostilities by the Houthis would bring welcome relief to global trade. But is the danger really gone?
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It's worth noting that the response from the Houthis to Trump's announcement was, well, somewhat contradictory. A spokesman for the political wing of the Houthis claimed they had not conceded defeat and made no concessions to the U.S., instead saying America had retreated after realizing, quote, it is in a losing battle.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Separately, the head of the Houthis Supreme Revolutionary Committee simply said the Houthis would be evaluating the Trump administration's halt of, quote, aggression against the terror group. Critically, Trump's remarks and the statement from Oman made no mention of the Houthis' relentless attacks on Israel and whether they agreed to stop those provocations as well.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
But the head of the Houthi's Supreme Political Council later said their attacks against Israel would continue. He reportedly said, "...to all Zionists from now on, stay in shelters or leave to your countries immediately, as your failed government will not be able to protect you after today." That's not exactly the rhetoric of a group that plans to lay down their arms.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
As we've been closely tracking this week, Israel mounted a wave of retaliatory strikes against the Houthis on Monday and Tuesday after a Houthi missile attack on Sunday, which punched through Israeli air defenses and detonated inside Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport's perimeter and injured several people.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
On Tuesday, Israel struck key infrastructure used in Houthi tunnel construction and weapons smuggling, including Sana'a International Airport in Yemen's capital. Following the strikes, Houthi officials promised more attacks, saying they would, quote, meet escalation with escalation. So, is the US leaving Israel to fight the Houthis on their own?
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
At this time, it remains unclear, but according to our report from the Jerusalem Post, Israeli leaders were blindsided by Trump's announcement, which was not officially communicated beforehand.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Separately, we should also note that it's unclear if Britain, which has participated in attacks on the Houthis alongside the US, has also approved the tentative ceasefire agreement, or if they were left in the dark, much like Israel. And I think we've also learned just how many times one person can say hooties in an article. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Well, I'm glad you asked. We'll have those details. Later in the show, India launches airstrikes against Pakistan. Keep an eye out on this developing situation, by the way. Attacking nine sites in response to the terrorist attack in Kashmir. Because, of course, what the world needed was more tension and conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Coming up after the break, India launches strikes on Pakistan and new reports that a surprise move by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blindsided the White House. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, you likely know me as a former CIA dude, a businessman, and host of the insanely popular President's Daily Brief podcast. But I'm also a bit of a fashion guru. It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Guys turn to me all the time for style advice. And that's when I tell them about True Classic. Now, True Classic has one mission, to make sure guys look good and feel even better. They've nailed fit, feel, and price across your entire wardrobe, not just tees, but hoodies, jeans, activewear, everything you need to level up your everyday style. But True Classic isn't just about great clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Their brand DNA is built on being highly intentional in everything they do. From creating high-quality essentials to delivering five-star customer service to giving back to the communities, every detail is done with purpose. True Classic offers a fit that's snug where you want it and relaxed where you need it. No weird bunching or no awkward tight spots. Just a clean, effortless fit that works.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
And nobody, frankly, I mean nobody, needs weird bunching or awkward tight spots. Forget overpriced designer nonsense. Skip the cheap throwaways. True Classic delivers premium essentials built for real life. Grab yours at Target or Costco or head to trueclassic.com slash pdbtoday. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB. Late last night, India launched its largest-ever peacetime missile strike against Pakistan, dramatically raising the strikes between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Plus, just days into President Trump's second term, reportedly, a surprise order from his new defense secretary, Pete Hegseth... halted multiple U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The strikes come in direct retaliation for last month's terrorist attack in Kashmir, which killed 26 Indian civilians. In an operation dubbed Operation Sindor, Indian armed forces targeted nine sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
According to an official statement from the Indian military, they hit terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorists attacks against India have been planned and directed. Altogether, they claim nine sites were targeted.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The statement emphasized the strikes were, quote, focused, measured, and non-escalatory, specifically noting that no Pakistani military facilities were attacked. India launched the missiles from within its own airspace, ensuring that no Indian aircraft crossed into Pakistani territory. Following the announcement of the campaign, the Indian Army posted on social media, quote, Justice is served.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Jai Hind. Jai Hind is a patriotic Hindi phrase commonly used in India, which translates roughly to victory in India or long live India. On the Pakistani side, authorities confirmed that the strikes caused casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
At least three people were reportedly killed and another 12 injured in a city known as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, the terrorist organization believed responsible for those brutal April attacks in Kashmir. In response, Pakistan vowed retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
A spokesperson for Pakistan's armed forces warned via social media, quote, Pakistan will respond to it at a time and place of its own choosing. It will not go unanswered. The temporary pleasure of India will be replaced by enduring grief, end quote. In a post on X, Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif called the strike an act of war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
weapons shipments to Ukraine, catching the White House, reportedly, completely off guard And in today's back of the brief, a close call over Damascus Israeli and Turkish fighter jets narrowly avoided a confrontation during overlapping operations in Syrian airspace But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin with a major development out in the Middle East, where the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
He declared, quote, the enemy will never be allowed to succeed in his nefarious objectives, end quote. Additionally, the Indian Army has confirmed that Pakistan has opened artillery fire along the heavily contested line of control in Kashmir, heightening concerns about further escalation between the nuclear-armed rivals.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Reacting to the developments, President Trump addressed the situation briefly, saying to reporters, It's a shame. I just hope it ends very quickly. Yesterday's strikes signal a significant escalation between India and Pakistan, underscoring, of course, the delicate balance of power and the volatility in the region. Okay, moving stateside. Roughly one week into President Trump's second term,
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
A surprise order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth grounded 11 military cargo flights that were bound for Ukraine, reportedly without the knowledge of the president or top national security advisers, sowing confusion among allies and officials. The order, delivered verbally from Hegseth's office via the Pentagon's Joint Staff to U.S. Transportation Command ,
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
halted weapons shipments already authorized by Congress during the final months of the Biden administration The flights, loaded with artillery shells and other munitions, had been scheduled to depart from Dover Air Force Base in Delaware and then Air Base in Qatar, with final routing through a logistics hub in Poland
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The freeze followed a 30 January Oval Office meeting where Hegseth, reportedly encouraged by anti-interventionist aides, floated a draft memo urging a pause in aid to gain leverage with Moscow Three sources familiar with the meeting said Trump declined to issue any formal directive halting aid and was unaware of the SecDef's subsequent action
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Nonetheless, the verbal order was issued shortly thereafter. According to internal Pentagon records reviewed by Reuters and multiple sources familiar with the situation, the move triggered a wave of confusion across Kiev, Warsaw, and Washington. Frantic calls from European and Ukrainian officials began on the 2nd of February, demanding clarification.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
Inside the White House, Pentagon, and State Department, senior officials reportedly scrambled to determine whether the disruption signaled a broader policy shift or a unilateral misstep. By the time flights resumed on the 5th of February, well, the damage was done.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The White House told Reuters that Hegseth was executing what it described as a standing informal directive to reevaluate Ukraine assistance. But the administration has not explained why the order was issued without informing key departments or why it was quickly reversed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt downplayed the confusion, stating, quote, The bottom line is the war is much closer to an end today than it was when President Trump took office. Transcom initially estimated the cancellations cost the Pentagon over $2 million. That figure was later revised down to $1.6 million after one of the 11 flights incurred no charge.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
The brief halt exposed deeper fractures inside the administration's national security ranks, where decisions with global implications were made absent interagency coordination. Then-National Security Advisor Mike Waltz is said to have personally intervened to reverse the halt once its scope became clear. Ukrainian officials described the White House response as vague and at times dismissive.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
One told Reuters the miscommunication was waved off as, quote, internal politics. Behind the scenes, several of Hegseth's advisers aligned with the America First foreign policy movement were quietly drafting proposals to scale back U.S. support for Ukraine and redirect focus toward countering China.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
On 15th of April, though, several of those aides were escorted from the Pentagon after being accused of unauthorized disclosure of classified information. The February freeze was followed weeks later by a formal announcement on the 4th of March when the White House declared an official pause in military aid to Ukraine. Are you confused yet?
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It's worth noting that while the Trump administration has since recently approved new military aid packages, no new Ukraine assistance policy has been formally announced. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, a near miss in Syrian skies. Israeli and Turkish warplanes reportedly came dangerously close to a clash near Damascus. More on that when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
and Yemen's Houthi militants have reportedly reached a breakthrough ceasefire agreement. Now, in a surprise announcement, President Trump said Tuesday that the U.S. will stop bombing the Houthis in Yemen effective immediately after the Iranian-backed group allegedly consented to stop attacks on U.S. vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about fitness. It's important, right? Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that is great news. And studies prove that strength training does more to burn fat than just cardio alone. Plus, as we age, strength training is critical to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
And, and here's important information, you want to be consistent with your workouts, right? You want to make it easy to find time to work out regularly. And the best way I've found to do that, well, is to work out at home. And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about. As an example, Jacked Up Fitness offers the commercial-grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 7th, 2025: Red Sea Deal Announced After Houthis ‘Capitulate’ & Hegseth’s Surprise Order
It's the ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full-body workout right in your own spare room or garage. It's equipped with a cable crossover system, an integrated 200-pound weight stack, and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform hundreds of exercises. Everything you need to do at the gym can now be done at home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
On the foreign policy front, Trump touted his use of tariffs to reshape America's economic relationship with our allies, asking the American people to bear with any economic turbulence that the policies may cause in the short term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
It's Wednesday, 5 March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with President Trump's address to Congress last night. Did you catch that? Where he declared that the U.S. is, quote, reclaiming the Panama Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
He also signaled his willingness to sign a minerals deal with Ukraine to accelerate an end to the war with Russia, and vowed to bring peace to the Middle East by expanding the Abraham Accords from his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
But I want to focus in on the President's remarks regarding the Panama Canal, which he's long said he intends to take back from the Panamanian government, citing the threat of China's growing influence at the canal's ports. For some context, the American-built canal has been solely controlled by the Panamanian government for 25 years, after the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
ended its joint partnership in controlling the strategic waterway back in 1999. On Tuesday evening, Trump said, quote, To further enhance our national security, our administration will be reclaiming the Panama Canal, and we've already started doing it. He continued, quote, We didn't give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we're taking it back, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Now, Trump highlighted a deal announced Tuesday led by the American asset firm BlackRock and a consortium of investors, which have close ties to the White House, to place the canal's ports under U.S. control. The deal, valued at $22.8 billion, will see Hong Kong-based conglomerate C.K. Hutchinson, which operates two of the four major ports at the canal's entrances,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
sell their stake to the group of U.S. and Swiss investors. That's according to a report by NBC News. Under the terms of the tentative agreement announced Tuesday, the U.S.-led consortium will gain control of 80% of C.K. Hutchinson's subsidiary, Hutchinson Ports, which operates 43 ports in 23 countries around the world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
They'll also acquire 90% of Panama ports, which operates the Balboa port on the Pacific side of the canal and the Cristobal port on the Atlantic side. Sources familiar with the potential sale said the White House and members of Congress were briefed on the matter earlier on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
While the Chinese firm CK Hutchinson denied that their move to sell had anything to do with politics, Trump touted it Tuesday night as a major victory, implying it was a result of diplomatic pressure exerted by his administration. As a reminder, the economic importance of the canal to America is hard to overstate. Roughly 40% of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
container traffic relies on the vital waterway, with roughly 70% of all vessels traversing the canal either traveling to or from American ports. But Trump feels the U.S. gave away the canal to Panama for nothing and that China had moved in and essentially captured the strategic trade route.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
It's worth noting that Panama established diplomatic relations with China in place of Taiwan in 2017, and Beijing quickly undertook significant infrastructure developments near the waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Officials with US Southern Command have long expressed concern over China's activity in the region, particularly their stake in the two ports covered by BlackRock's acquisition, warning that it could enable the Chinese Communist Party to influence canal operations. There were also concerns that China would introduce surveillance technology into the canal's infrastructure in order to monitor U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
His statement comes as we learn that the asset manager, BlackRock, has struck a billion-dollar deal to place the canal's ports under U.S. control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
naval and commercial movements. While Panama has rejected accusations that China essentially controls the canal, they did agree to abandon their agreements with Beijing under China's Belt and Road Initiative, following a visit from Secretary of State Marco Rubio in early February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
That decision, condemned by leaders in Beijing, made Panama the first Latin American country to leave China's vaunted global infrastructure development project and appears to have opened the doors for U.S. investment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Coming up next, reversing another Biden-era policy, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Tuesday that the Trump administration has officially redesignated the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels of Yemen as a foreign terrorist organization. I'll have those details when we
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Later in the show, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Tuesday that the Trump administration has officially designated the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels of Yemen as a foreign terrorist organization, reimposing a label that former President Biden had lifted during his administration. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The State Department has officially designated Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, fulfilling one of President Trump's foreign policy pledges upon taking office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the long-expected decision on Tuesday, making clear that the United States, quote, will not tolerate any nation or entity that engages in business with the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Since Hamas launched its terror attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, the Houthis have carried out over 100 attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea, threatening, of course, a vital artery for global trade. In his statement, Rubio emphasized,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
that the designation is a crucial step in countering terrorist activities, stating, quote, today's action demonstrates commitment to protecting our national security interests, the safety of the American people, and the security of the United States, end quote. Rubio added that the designation carries severe financial and legal penalties for any entity engaging with the terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
The Iranian-backed Houthis have long been a destabilizing force in the region. After seizing Yemen's capital Sana'a in 2014, the Iran proxy entrenched themselves in a civil war that has devastated the country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
While they remain heavily dependent on Tehran for weapons and logistical support, American intelligence assessments suggest that the Houthis operate with a degree of autonomy, particularly in maritime warfare, something that has made their Red Sea attacks even more unpredictable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Trump formally reinstated the Houthi's terrorist designation in January, reversing a Biden administration policy from 2021 that sought to facilitate humanitarian aid to Yemen. In an executive order, Trump justified the move by stating that the Houthi's actions, quote, threatened the security of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
the safety of our closest regional partners, and the stability of global maritime trade." His decision, however, comes at a moment of growing volatility. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump has repeatedly floated the idea of removing Palestinians from Gaza in a reconstruction plan contingent on a fully implemented ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
That proposal provoked a furious response from the Houthi leader, who delivered a televised threat against both the U.S. and Israel, vowing retribution. In response, U.S. military officials are debating how best to neutralize the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
Some advocate for a targeted counterterrorism strategy, pinpointing key terror operatives behind recent attacks, while others push for a broader military campaign aimed at dismantling the group's infrastructure. For now, US forces continue protecting commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea from further Houthi aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
We'll begin today with President Trump's address to a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening, where he touted his administration's rapid early moves to rein in government and reshape the geopolitical landscape. The speech largely focused on the Trump administration's achievements stateside, touching on his blitzkrieg of executive actions over the past six weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
The question is whether the US will escalate its confrontation with the terror group and how far it is potentially willing to go. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday afternoon, 5 March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, should you be interested in doing so, well, you can do it simply. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See how simple? I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
the record drop in illegal migrant encounters at the US border, efforts to overhaul the federal workforce and cut fraud, and his quest to unleash American energy by slashing the regulatory state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 5th, 2025: The US 'Reclaims' The Panama Canal & White House Designates Yemen's Houthis A Foreign Terrorist Organization
He framed his actions thus far as a, quote, common sense revolution, proclaiming, quote, America is back, though the speech drew regular jeers from Democrats, though that's surprising, some of whom walked out of the chamber in protest.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Aber wenn die Firma auf ihre Vermutungen folgt, wird dieses Investitionen einen der größten konsequenten Veränderungen in der High-Tech-Manufacturing in Jahrzehnten bedeuten. Alright, coming up next. As campus protests flare up again, President Trump is threatening to cut federal funding for any school that allows illegal demonstrations. The details coming up. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
In today's Back of the Brief, American universities that fail to crack down on antisemitism and curtail violent protests could soon face the wrath of the federal government and see their federal funding dry up. On Tuesday, President Trump vowed to strip federal funding for any college or university that allows what he called, quote, illegal protests to run rampant on their campuses.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
The president also threatened to essentially revoke visas and deport foreign students involved in violent demonstrations. That's according to a report from The Guardian. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, quote, all federal funding will stop, and he put that in capitals, for any college, school or university that allows illegal protests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Und in heute's Back of the Brief. As protests flare up again on college campuses nationwide, President Trump is threatening to cut federal funding for any school that allows illegal demonstrations. We'll examine what he said and what it could mean. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. The latest trade battle is officially underway.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Agitators will be imprisoned or permanently sent back to the country from which they came. American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested. The president added, quote, no masks. And that again was all in caps. Thank you for your attention to this matter, end quote. Well, that's a polite way to end a text.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Trump's comments came just one day after multiple federal agencies announced that they would be reviewing more than 50 million dollars in government contracts and grants with Columbia University. Over there, quote, "...ongoing inaction in the face of relentless harassment of Jewish students.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Pro-Israel groups have long been calling on the federal government to do more to protect Jewish students from rampant antisemitism after pro-Palestinian protests spread across dozens of college campuses just last spring."
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
As we recently discussed on the PDB, protests once again erupted at Columbia University in New York City last week, with masked students taking over a building at Columbia's Barnard College for several hours. During their occupation, students reportedly assaulted a school employee who tried to leave the building, sending him to the hospital.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
The group, which hid their identities behind headscarves and masks, well, that's very brave, was led by members of Colombia's Chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine, who declared, quote, long live the student intifada on their social media account.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
After the Trump administration launched their review of Columbia's grants on Monday, the school hastily issued a statement promising to work with the White House to ensure all their students feel safe on campus. Officials at Columbia said they are, quote, fully committed to not losing federal funding. No, that's not what they said.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
They said, quote, fully committed to combating antisemitism and all forms of discrimination. And we are resolute that calling for promoting a glorifying violence or terror has no place at our university. Endquote. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 5 March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
And of course, as you no doubt heard already from friends and family, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
With new tariffs in place against Canada, Mexico and China, President Trump is taking a hard-line stance on trade. But beyond the geopolitical maneuvering, these tariffs, well, they do have real consequences for American consumers. From groceries to electronics to cars, prices are set to rise, potentially reshaping household budgets across the country.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Of course, the big question is, are the tariffs temporary? And if so, well, how temporary? Given the pace of change and activity coming out of the White House, don't be surprised if the tariffs are gone by the end of the week. As a reminder, on Tuesday, President Trump imposed 25% tariffs on most imports from Mexico and Canada, with Canadian energy imports subject to a 10% tax.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
He also doubled duties on Chinese goods to 20%. The US now is the largest importer of foreign goods, with those targeted countries making up America's top three global suppliers, meaning that nearly 2.2 trillion, that's with a T, in annual trade could be impacted. And that's according to an analysis from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Economists are already warning that the trade measures will likely spike the price of an array of consumer goods, putting significant strain on Americans that have already been battered by years of rising inflation. Supporters of the tariffs argue, it's a necessary move to protect American industries and to counter unfair trade practices.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
But it's important to understand the costs, including potential price hikes and retaliatory measures from trade partners. Now that economic retaliation came swiftly from Canada and China, with Canada slapping an immediate 25% tariff on nearly 30 billion dollars worth of American goods, with more to come by month's end.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
China imposed a new 15% tariff on US exports of chicken, wheat, corn and cotton, while adding a 10% levy on US sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Mexiko is also expected to follow with retaliatory tariffs, though officials said those measures would not be announced until Sunday. So, what does all this mean for the American consumer?
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
With more than 40% of all US imports coming from Mexico, Canada and China, some economists have estimated that Trump's tariffs could cost the average US household some $830 a year. They say the first place where these tariffs will be felt will likely be at the gas pump, as the US relies on Mexico and Canada for critical energy exports, such as crude oil, petroleum and gas and coal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Consumers in the Northeast could see gas prices jump by as much as 20 to 40 cents per gallon within the next one to three weeks, while the Midwest and Great Lakes regions could see an increase of 5 to 25 cents per gallon. That's according to economists who spoke with CBS News.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
The tariffs will also likely be felt in short order at the grocery store, as the sector already runs on thin profit margins. The US imported more than $45 billion worth of agricultural products from Mexico and $40 billion from Canada just in 2023 alone, including fruit and vegetables, beef, pork, grains, potatoes, canola oil and alcohol products.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
In fact, Axios reports that a stunning 63% of vegetable imports and 81% of beer imports came from Mexico in 2023. Meaning, well, you may want to stock up your pantry and mini-fridge sooner rather than later. You thought that pandemic-era hunt for toilet paper was bad. Just wait till you can't find beer.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
In addition to groceries, a large portion of common household items like machinery, furniture, footwear, clothing and textiles come from China, so expect price hikes in those areas as well.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
If businesses pass along half or more of the financial burden of the tariffs to consumers, prices on groceries and household items could increase by an average of roughly 1.6%, varying widely, of course, depending on the product. It's according to an analysis by the Atlanta Federal Reserve.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Preiswerte auf andere Sektoren, wie Elektronik und Autos, werden für mehrere Monate nicht wahrgenommen werden, aber die Vergrößerungen könnten schmerzhaft sein. Autos sind besonders verantwortlich, given their complex supply chains. Fahrzeuge crossen oft US-Border sechs bis acht Mal während der Assemblage. meaning they could be taxed multiple times.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
It's Wednesday, 5 March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. New tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China just went into effect. So, you ask yourself, what does that mean for your wallet? And how long might they be in effect?
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Industry analysts say the average vehicle price could rise by as much as $12,000 for some models, an increase that threatens to crash consumer sales for domestic manufacturers. Dann gibt es Konsum-Elektronik, wie Laptops, Tabletten, Gaming-Konsolen und Smartphones, die fast exklusiv von außen importiert sind, mit ca. 41% aus China.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Ökonomisten erwarten große Preisvergrößerungen in diesem Sektor, obwohl die Estimaten dieser Zeit sehr breit sind. All that said, how much costs rise will depend on whether businesses absorb some of the additional burden or adjust their supply chains before passing the expenses on to consumers. Whether Trump's trade gambit will pay off long term is really anyone's guess.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
But for now, consumers would be wise to brace for higher prices. And stock up on beer. All right. Coming up next, reports say the U.S. may turn to Russia to broker a new Iranian nuclear deal, plus a $100 billion investment in U.S. chip production. Why it's not just about the economy, but also national security. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Welcome back to the PDB. The United States' latest diplomatic gamble could position Russia as a potential mediator in discussions with Iran over a new nuclear deal. That's a development that raises questions about Washington's shifting strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
The revelation, first reported by Bloomberg, follows a series of visits by Russian officials to Iran during the Israel-Hamas war, in which Iran, of course, launched multiple ballistic missile attacks against Jerusalem. Die Zeitung dieser Initiative ist bemerkenswert. Iran's Foreign Minister has just resigned, and Iran's President has downplayed any active discussions with the US.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Meanwhile, Russia, long a key partner of the Iranian regime, deepened its strategic ties with the Islamic Republic, from backing the former Assad regime in Syria to acquiring Iranian drones for use in its war against Ukraine. But by stepping into the role of nuclear deal broker, Moscow appears to be maneuvering itself into an even more complex position on the global stage.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
This development comes as tensions between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky continue to escalate, culminating in a temporary suspension of all American military aid to Ukraine just on Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
That decision has prompted speculation among analysts about a broader geopolitical recalibration, one in which Washington's backing for Ukraine takes a backseat, while Russia plays a role in steering Iran toward renewed nuclear negotiations. Es wäre nicht die erste Zeit gewesen, dass Moskau von solch einer Dynamik profitierte.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Well, we'll take a look at what the tariffs could mean when it comes to the prices you pay for stuff. And that's not the sort of sentence that you would get from some pipe-smoking highbrow economist. Later in the show, a major curveball in Middle Eastern relations. Reports say that the US could turn to Russia to help broker a new Iranian nuclear deal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Während der Obama-Administration war Russlands Einwohnung wichtig, um den 2015en Iran-Nuklear-Verein zu sichern. Damals kapitalisierte der Kremlin Washingtons Fokus auf Iran, nur um sich zu drehen und natürlich die Invasion von der Ukraine 2014 zu starten. Die Frage ist nun, ob die Geschichte sich wiederholt oder ob die Trump-Administration etwas ganz anderes versucht hat.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Anders als in den vergangenen Negotierungen scheint Trumps Ansatz breiter zu sein. Seine Regierung priorisiert die strategische Wettbewerb mit China und besucht, ob es, zumindest temporär, mit Russland auf wichtigen Themen verabschieden könnte. Doch Skepsis bleibt. Würde Washington von so einer Verhandlung profitieren, oder würde es einfach Moskau mehr Wettbewerb geben?
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
One major uncertainty is whether Tehran is even willing to engage in new talks. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has long harbored deep distrust of Washington, particularly after Trump's first term saw the U.S. withdraw from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and imposed the Maximum Pressure Sanction Strategy. That's a policy that Trump has since reinstated, now in his second term.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
From the Iranian regime's perspective, Russian broker talks could be less about diplomacy and more about extracting concessions while maintaining its nuclear program as a bargaining chip. If Washington sees de-escalation with both Iran and Russia as a means of pivoting its foreign policy focus away from the Middle East and Europe, it may view a potential deal as a strategic win.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Such a shift would mark a stark contrast from Trump's first term, which saw heightened tensions, of course, with the Iranian regime. At the same time, Russia may be angling for its own advantage, and when I say may, of course I mean they are, using the diplomatic maneuver to negotiate a more favorable ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
By presenting itself as an intermediary in nuclear talks, Moscow could be signaling a willingness to engage in a grand bargain of sorts, one that tempers hostilities in Ukraine while securing gains for them elsewhere. Speaking of Russia, I wanted to follow up on a story that we brought you yesterday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
The Pentagon is pushing back against claims that it has halted offensive cyber operations against Russia. They're saying, uh-uh, we didn't do that. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has not issued any orders to cancel or delay cyber operations targeting Russian assets, according to a senior defense official. The official emphasized that no stand-down directive has been given and that U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
cyber operations remain active. Cyber-Security Experts had warned that any pause in offensive operations would be a strategic gift to Moscow, potentially weakening US leverage in both cyber and conventional military engagements. But for now, the Pentagon insists that there has been no shift in policy. We'll keep an eye on that. Okay, turning stateside.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
In a shift that could redefine the global semiconductor industry, President Trump announced that the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, known as TSMC, will commit a $100 billion investment to expand US chip production. The investment follows an already pledged $65 billion commitment that spanned 2020 to 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Dieses neue Rundum von Finanzierung wird die Konstruktion von drei weiteren Semiconductor-Fabrikationen, zwei advanced packaging facilities und ein cutting-edge research and development center in Phoenix, Arizona, bankrollen. Trump, geflankt von TSMC-CEO am Montag in der White House, hat den Deal verabschiedet. Oh, er hat ihn verabschiedet.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Rumor has it that Russian delegations have made multiple visits to Iran during the past year and a half. Plus, the chip company, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, is committing 100 billion, that's with a B, dollars to expand chip production in the US. Now, it's a huge investment, obviously, with big implications, not just for the economy, but also for national security.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Man hört das Wort nicht so oft, aber es ist ein gutes Wort. Ansonsten, ich verabschiede mich. Der Präsident hat den Deal verabschiedet, als Beweis der amerikanischen ökonomischen Dominanz und Selbstreliance. Er nennt es eine, Quote, «tremendige Bewegung der stärksten Firma der Welt».
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Trump glaubt, dass die Erweiterung bis zu 25.000 hochwertige Jobs erzeugen wird, die die USA als große Spieler in der Nutzung von Semikonduktern solidifizieren. Nicht zu erwähnen, Tausende, Tausende von Tausenden von Bauern in den nächsten vier Jahren.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Das neueste Investment baut auf die wachsende Präsenz der TSMC in den USA, die mit ihrem initialen Arizona-Fabrikation-Plan-Erkennung im Jahr 2020 begonnen hat. Seitdem hat die Firma drei Pflanzen auf dem Ort gegründet, mit massiven Produktionen beginnend im Jahr 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Das neu geplante R&D-Zentrum ist erwartet, die Entwicklung nächster-Generation-Semikonduktoren zu fördern, die Chips sind, die wichtig sind für Technologien wie Apple und Nvidia. Government incentives have played a role in luring TSMC's stateside. The Biden administration awarded the company's Arizona subsidiary a $6.6 billion Chips Act grant in 2024, helping to finance the facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
But Trump made clear that this latest investment, this $100 billion investment, would move forward without any additional government subsidies. Stattdessen ist TSMC erwartet, ca. 40 Billionen in Kapitalausgaben für 2025 zu erzielen, die einen wichtigen Teil an US-Operationen richten. Der Move ist mehr als nur ein ökonomischer Windfall.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
Es ist eine strategische Rekalibrierung mit nationalen Sicherheitsmöglichkeiten. Semiconductor sind die Hintergründe, natürlich, der modernen Technologie, die alles von der Artifizierten Intelligenz bis zu den Verteidigungssystemen steuert.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
By shifting more of its most advanced production away from Taiwan, TSMC is bolstering America's supply chain resilience and reducing reliance on a region at growing risk of conflict with China. Taiwan currently produces about 90% of the world's most advanced chips, with TSMC alone responsible for the bulk of that output.
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
US-Officials have long warned that any disruption, whether through military conflict, economic pressures or trade restrictions, could cripple key industries and defense capabilities. Bringing more of that production on shore, they argue, is an insurance policy against geopolitical instability. And they're not wrong. Still, the transition won't be painless. Producing semiconductors in the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
March 5th, 2025: Food, Cars & Tech: Here's What You'll Pay More For Under The New Tariffs & The Unlikely Iran Deal Broker
ist, wie man sich vorstellt, deutlich teurer als in Taiwan. Viel der Arbeit an TSMC's existierenden Fabrikationen kommt von taiwanischen Arbeitern, und die Firma hat bereits amerikanische Kunden höhere Preise bezahlt, um Kosten aufzusetzen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Now, Iran has long been trying to assassinate Trump and former national security officials from his first administration over the 2020 killing of Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani. The Justice Department confirmed in November that they had thwarted an active Iranian assassination plot against Trump in the weeks leading up to the presidential election.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
It's Wednesday, 5 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, we'll look at a press conference from President Donald Trump where he warned Iran that he's left instructions for their total obliteration if they move to assassinate him.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Given the ongoing threat, Trump said he's already left instructions for Iran's destruction in the unlikely event that the mullahs succeed. When asked about the threats on his life from Iran and its proxies, Trump said, "...that would be a terrible thing for them to do. Not because of me. If they did that, they would be obliterated. That would be the end. I've left instructions, he said.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
If they do it, there won't be anything left." Despite his fiery rhetoric, while signing the quote, maximum pressure executive order, Trump also said, quote, hopefully we're not going to have to use it, though he didn't elaborate on what that meant.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Then, on Wednesday morning, Trump dramatically softened his stance, saying in a post on Truth Social that he wants to immediately start working on a new nuclear deal with the Iranian regime that would allow the country to, quote, peacefully grow and prosper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Trump stated, quote, reports that the U.S., working in conjunction with Israel, are going to blow up Iran into smithereens are greatly exaggerated. And he used all caps for are greatly exaggerated. I would much prefer a verified nuclear peace agreement. Trump added, quote, we should start working on it immediately and have a big Middle East celebration when it's signed and completed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
God bless the Middle East, end quote. Now, Iran has not yet responded to the whiplash-inducing turnaround by Trump. However, earlier on Tuesday, their foreign minister slammed Trump's actions to reimpose energy sanctions, claiming his maximum pressure campaign would fail, while also denying that Iran is seeking a nuclear weapon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
But reports suggest that the mullahs of Tehran are eager to take the diplomatic route with Trump, as they see him as an existential threat to their significantly weakened regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Coming up, the Trump administration is moving to shake up the Central Intelligence Agency, the CIA, offering buyouts that would provide full pay and benefits for eight months to all employees in exchange for their resignations. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
He later walked back his aggressive rhetoric and said he's eager to strike a new nuclear deal with the mullahs. That'll keep the regime guessing. Then, the White House is moving to shake up the CIA, the Central Intelligence Agency, offering buyouts that would provide full pay and benefits for eight months to employees in exchange for their resignations. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
The CIA is offering buyouts to its entire workforce in a move that, well, aligns with President Trump's broader push to shrink the federal government and reshape the intelligence community. Announced Tuesday, the offer gives CIA employees the option to voluntarily resign in exchange for roughly eight months of pay and benefits.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
The offer mirrors a similar buyout extended to over 2 million civilian federal workers last month, though national security personnel were previously exempt. What remains unclear is whether the agency will adhere to the same Thursday midnight deadline set for other federal agencies for employees to accept the offer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Despite the buyout offer, career coaches specializing in federal employment say that interest currently remains low. Employees are wary of whether they can take new jobs during the payout period or if they'd be eligible to return to government service under a future administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
In the meantime, hiring has been frozen and conditional job offers are under review to ensure that they align with the agency's shifting priorities under newly confirmed CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Under Ratcliffe's leadership, the agency is expected to turn its focus toward the Western Hemisphere, shifting attention to nations not traditionally viewed as adversaries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
among the priorities, ramping up operations against Mexican drug cartels, which were designated as terrorist organizations by Trump on his first day in office, and reportedly engaging in espionage efforts aimed at giving Trump leverage in trade negotiations. According to an aide to Ratcliffe, this could include spying on Mexico's government during ongoing trade disputes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Trump administration officials have made no secret of the broader purpose behind the buyouts, framing them as more than just a downsizing effort. The administration sees them as a way to push out those unwilling to align with Trump's agenda. A CIA spokesperson described the move to the New York Post as an effort to, quote, infuse the agency with renewed energy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Well, that's one way to put it. During its confirmation hearing last month, Ratcliffe pledged to make the CIA more aggressive in both espionage and covert operations, particularly against China and international drug cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
Ratcliffe stated to lawmakers, quote, to the brave agency officers listening around the world, if all of that sounds like what you signed up for, then buckle up and get ready to make a difference, adding, quote, if it doesn't, well, then it's time to find a new line of work, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
For now, it remains unclear whether other intelligence agencies within the 18-agency intelligence community will follow suit with similar buyout programs. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, 5 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
And of course, as you may already know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
President Trump has offered competing visions, to say the least, for future relations with Iran, issuing fresh military threats against the regime while also saying that he's eager to negotiate a new nuclear deal. As we discussed on this morning's PDB, Trump issued an executive order Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
reinstating his maximum pressure strategy against Iran, which aims to prevent the mullahs from obtaining a nuclear weapon and aims to cripple their oil exports through aggressive sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 5th, 2025: Trump Threatens To 'Obliterate' Iran & CIA Offers Buyouts To Entire Workforce
During the signing ceremony for the executive order, Trump also sent a shot across the bow, warning that if Iran carries out his assassination, his national security team will ensure that the Islamic regime is completely obliterated. And that's according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, from the road, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
And in today's back of the brief, the new administration continues to slash the federal US workforce as over 20,000 employees take a buyout deal with more resignations expected in the coming days. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Die ersten Flugzeuge sind abgeflogen. Unabhängige Migranten, die in Trumps neuestem Krackdown verhaftet wurden, werden nun an die Guantanamo Bay gesendet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Laut The Wall Street Journal haben bereits zwei Flugzeuge diese Woche die Reise gemacht, einer von Fort Bliss, Texas, mit ca. einer Dutzend Leuten. But this isn't just a one-off move. Trump has long considered Guantanamo as a major holding site for those caught crossing the border illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
He said the facility could hold as many as 30,000 people and that number could climb if the administration moves forward with expansion plans. Über den Wochenende kamen US-Mitglieder an die Basis in Südwest-Cuba, um sich vorbereiten zu lassen für die erwartete Einfluss der Betroffene.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Und obwohl Guantanamo eine militärische Installation ist, ist es nicht der Pentagon, der diese Operation durchführt. Es ist die Homeland Security, die den Einsatz führt. Verteidigungsminister Pete Hegseth gab ein bisschen Aufmerksamkeit in die Gedanken der Regierung in einer Interview mit Fox News, die Guantanamo als ein, Quote, wichtiges Element für Ausstattungen und Mass-Deportationen zu nennen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Er erklärte, dass, wenn ein illegaler Immigrant nicht sofort zurück nach seinem Heimatland oder sogar zu einem Interim-Destination zurückkehren kann, wird er in Guantanamo als, Quote, Transit-Hub gehalten. Wie wir schon erwähnt haben, ist es nicht das erste Mal, dass die USA Guantanamo so verwendet haben.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Im ersten Jahrhundert der 1990er-Jahre verurteilte die Clinton-Administration Tausende von haitianischen Migranten dort. Zu dem Zeitpunkt war das Gebäude mit über 45.000 Leuten. Es ist auch wert zu bemerken, dass es während der Biden-Administration Berichte gab, dass Offiziere Guantanamo als Migranten-Haltungsort 2022 verwendet haben.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Aber Gitmo ist nicht die einzige Stelle, die die Trump-Administration für große Migrantentrennung sucht. Darf ich Ihnen El Salvador vorstellen? Das ist richtig, das Land El Salvador. Staatssekretär Marco Rubio, der aktuell auf einem diplomatischen Besuch in Zentralamerika ist, hat gerade erklärt, dass El Salvadores Präsident Nayib Bukele eine überraschende Offerung gemacht hat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Bukele sagt, er sei bereit, Kriminelle, die von den USA in seinen Ländern verhaftet wurden, in seine Gefängnisse, und nicht nur Salvadoraner. Laut Rubio sind das Kriminelle von jeder Nationalität, sogar amerikanische Bürger. Richtig. Bukele beurteilt, gefährliche Kriminelle zu nehmen, die USA-Bürger und legalen Residenzen sind, die sie in El Salvador's massiven hohen Sicherheitsstätten halten.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Rubio beurteilt korrekt, dass die Beurteilung, Quote, außergewöhnlich und unvorhergesehen ist. Bukele hat später klargestellt, dass er nur über verurteilte Kriminelle spricht und dass El Salvador sie als Ausgabe für eine Fee besitzen würde. Oh, na gut, da bist du. Nämlich die Ausgabe von Teilen des US-Prisensystems. Und es gibt keinen Zweifel, dass sein Land die Infrastruktur hat, um das zu tun.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Unter Bukele's leadership, El Salvador has built one of the largest mega prisons in Latin America, the Terrorism Confinement Center, which can house 40,000 inmates. Of course, there are some major legal and constitutional hurdles when it comes to sending US citizens to foreign prisons. Yeah, you might suspect that's the case.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
But whether this is just a diplomatic gesture or a serious policy discussion, it's another sign of just how aggressively Trump is moving to reshape America's approach to illegal immigration. Alright, coming up after the break. President Trump revives his maximum pressure campaign on Iran and faces backlash from Arab nations over his suggestion to empty Gaza. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
ExpressVPN reroutet 100% deines Vertrags durch sichere, encrypted Servern, sodass dein ISP deine Browsing-Historie nicht sehen kann. Weil all dein Vertrag durch ihre Servern fließt, wissen Internet-Service-Betreiber jede einzelne Website, die du besuchst. Weißt du das? Und sie halten an dieser Information. Und weißt du, dass in den USA ISPs legal die Information an Advertisern verkaufen können?
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Das ist wahr. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
It's Wednesday, 5 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. This morning coming to you from an undisclosed location, apparently in an airport lounge, somewhere on my way out to the Middle East. It's back to playing Where's Waldo. Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
The White House has made it official. The maximum pressure campaign on Iran is back. On Tuesday, Trump signed a presidential memorandum reinstating the aggressive policy aimed at stopping Tehran from getting a nuclear weapon and cutting off its main source of cash, which of course would be oil exports. The goal is to drive Iranian crude sales down to zero.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Dieser Weg kommt, als Trump sich vorbereitet, mit dem israelischen Bundespräsidenten Netanyahu zu sprechen. Keine Überraschung da. Netanyahu war einer der größten Händler von Trumps ursprünglicher maximalen Druckstrategie. Und jetzt, mit der Rückkehr der Politik, macht die White House klar, dass Dinge in den letzten vier Jahren sehr anders werden werden.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Unter Präsident Biden wurden iranische Ölexporte zu ihrem höchsten Niveau in Jahren gestiegen. Mit der damaligen Regierung nahm sich ein weiteres Hand-auf-Gesetz ein. Teheran konnte einige ihrer Wirtschaften wiederentwickeln und ihre Proxien über den Mittleren Osten weiterentwickeln. Das ändert sich jetzt alles, wie man vermuten könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Ein White-House-Offizier hat den Reuters erzählt, dass Trumps Direktiv den US-Bescheidschef beurteilen soll, um maximale ökonomische Druck zu beurteilen, was Tougher-Sanktionen bedeutet, tiefer Befreiung und ein All-Out-Effort bedeutet, um die Finanzen von Iran auszuschöpfen. Und wenn die Geschichte eine Beleidigung ist, dann ist der iranische Regime auf eine schwere Reise.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Während des ersten Termins von Trump hat seine Druckkampagne Iran sehr hart getroffen. Die USA haben über 26 Runden von Sanktionen eröffnet, die mehr als 970 iranische Individuen und Entitäten betrachten. Das Ziel war es, die Wirtschaft von Iran zu zerstören, ihre Öl-Renten zu zerstören und ihre Zugang zu internationalen Banken zu blockieren. Und es funktionierte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Irans Wirtschaft tankte, die Inflation steigte, und sogar die Fähigkeit des iranischen Regimes Terrorproxys zu fundieren, wie Hezbollah, Hamas und die Houthis. Nun, das war ein ernsthafter Wettbewerb. Einer der größten Bewegungen damals war, dass Trump den IRGC, den Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, als eine fremde Terrororganisation bezeichnete.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Das war die erste Zeit, dass die USA das Label auf eine staatliche militärische Kraft geschlagen haben. Diese Bezeichnung machte es einfacher, nach den finanziellen Netzwerken von Iran zu gehen und zerstörte ihre Fähigkeit, international zu arbeiten. Und natürlich hat die IRGC ihre Finger in jeder Kante der iranischen Ökonomie.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Aber wenn die White House erwartet, dass Tehran dieses Mal einfach überrollt, dann könnten sie in einen Kampf kommen. Iranian State-controlled media wasted no time in responding, calling Trump's move futile and insisting that sanctions, quote, cannot bring the country to its knees, nor will they be able to do so in the future, end quote. Okay, steckend mit dem Mittleren Osten.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Die neue US-Administration schlägt auf die Vorstellung, dass die Palästinenser, die in Gaza leben, zu stabileren Ländern in der Region zurückkehren sollten, während das Enklave wieder gebaut wird, was einen wichtigen Rückzug von arabischen Nationen ermöglicht. Trump glaubt beruflich, dass selbst wenn der aktuelle Ausbruch zwischen Israel und Hamas hält,
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Wir fangen heute mit Amerikas abhängigen Krackdauer auf illegalen Migranten an, als die ersten Deportationsfliege nach Guantanamo Bay beginnen und El Salvador´s Präsident erfordert, US-Deporteure zu besitzen, egal ob sie Bürger sind, in seiner Nationen-Megaprison.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Reconstruction in the battered enclave will take far longer than the three to five year period envisioned by the previous Biden administration. Trump believes that realistically the Gaza Strip will remain a wasteland for at least the next 10 to 15 years and that an alternative plan for the Strip's people is needed. That's according to administration officials who spoke with the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Mit diesem in der Hand, ist Trump auf eine Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie in einer Art und Weise, dass sie
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Anonymous White House official told the Post, "...President Trump looks at the Gaza Strip and sees it as a demolition site. He sees it as impractical for it to be rebuilt within three to five years and thinks it's inhumane to force people to live in a land such as that with unexploded ordnance and rubble."
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
The White House argues that temporarily relocating Gazans will quote provide dignity for the Palestinian people and said Trump is reaching out to Arab partners and Israel to come up with creative solutions to address the challenge.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
During his first week back in office, Trump suggested that Jordan and Egypt take in some of Gazas more than 2 million residents, though he didn't elaborate on how the process would work at the time. But Arab nations are not thrilled with the proposal, to say the least.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Citing concerns about long-term demographic changes in the region, the foreign ministers of Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE sent a joint letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this week, strongly opposing any plans to displace Palestinians from the enclave. Endquote. Endquote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Sie sehen auch, dass Trumps Plan in den Händen der weitrechten Regierenden in Israel spielt, wie Idemar Ben-Gvir, der seiner Position als Minister der Nationalen Sicherheit letztendlich über seine Opposition zu dem Israel-Khamas-Zweifel-Verein verabschiedet ist.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Ben-Gvir und andere Alliierten haben lange für die permanenten Übertragung der palästinensischen Bevölkerung von Gaza zu anderen arabischen Ländern gezwungen, mit einem Auge darauf, den Gaza-Strip in Israel zu füllen, um den Khamas von ihren Kräften zu rekonstruieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Arabische Offiziere bemerken, dass während Trump gesagt hat, dass die Rückkehr von Gaza unabhängig sein würde, hat er es nicht klar gemacht, ob die Gazaner ein Recht haben würden, an einen späteren Zeitpunkt zurückzukehren. Für den Moment sind Details über Trumps Strategie für Gaza noch sparsam.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Später im Show wird Präsident Trump für einen Showdown mit Iran gegründet, der geplant ist, ein Memorandum zu signen, um seine maximale Druckkampagne gegen die islamistische Nation zu verstärken.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Und sie hingen natürlich auf Israel und Hamas, die sich in der vorgelegten dritten Phase ihres fragilen Ausbruchsvertrags befinden, welches beinhaltet, einen komprehensiven Reconstruction Plan für Gaza zu lancieren, der von den Vereinigten Nationen überwiesen wird. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief. The Trump administration continues to cut down the federal workforce in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
as over 20,000 employees take a buyout, with more departures expected in the coming days. I'll be right back. In today's back of the brief, President Trump's campaign to slash the federal workforce is now in full swing, with a major deadline looming for government employees to voluntarily leave their positions in exchange for eight months of severance pay.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
As you recall, last Tuesday the Trump administration proposed a buyout offer for all federal employees who don't want to return to in-person work. Etwas, das von einem der vielen Exekutiven Ordnungen, die Trump verabschiedet hat, während seiner ersten Woche im Büro geöffnet wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Die White House erhielt durch September 30 Vollkost und Benefiz an alle Arbeitnehmer, die einbezogen wurden, sofern sie den Deal am 6. Februar akzeptieren. Laut Senior-Administrationen, die mit Axios am Dienstag gesprochen haben, haben rund 20.000 föderale Arbeiter bereits die Offer akzeptiert. Das ist ein Niveau, das rund 1% des totalen föderalen Arbeitsmarktes betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
But the Trump administration is hoping that by the deadline on Thursday, some 5-10% of those on the federal payroll will choose to accept the exit package. One White House official told the New York Post, "...we expect more to come.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
I can tell you the 20,000 number isn't current, the number of deferred resignations is rapidly growing, and we're expecting the largest spike 24-48 hours before the deadline." Die Kaufausgabe ist für mindestens 2,3 Millionen bayerische Mitarbeiter verfügbar.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Und wenn die White House ihre Zielgruppen schießen kann, dann glauben sie, dass die Verringerung in Kraft die Kosten von knapp 100 Milliarden Dollar schützen könnte. Aber die legalen Fragen bleiben natürlich, mit Kritik der Kaufausgaben, die argumentieren, dass sie illegal sind.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Außerdem gibt es mehr Ausgaben von Trumps Empfehlung, Gaza zu öffnen, mit den arabischen Nationen ein gemeinsames Lettern zu publizieren, das sollte es tun, die Opposition zu irgendwelchen Bemühungen, die Palästinenser zurückzuentwickeln, auszusprechen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Es ist auch wichtig zu bemerken, dass die jährliche Anstrengungsrate für föderale Arbeiter rund 6 Prozent ist, also ist es noch nicht klar, wie viele Individuen, die letztendlich die Offer akzeptieren, bereits geplant haben, zu verlassen. Und das, meine Freunde, ist der Präsident's Daily Brief für Dienstag, 5 Februar.
The President's Daily Brief
February 5th, 2025: Guantanamo Opens For Business & Trump Restores ‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran
Wenn Sie Fragen oder Kommentare haben, Vorschläge, polizistische, natürlich, oder humoristische Anekdoten, bitte schicken Sie mich an pdb.atthefirsttv.com. Und falls Sie sich denken, ich liebe den PDB, aber würde einen Ad-Free-Experienz lieben, dann werden Sie einfach ein Premium-Mitglied des Präsident's Daily Briefs, wenn Sie pdbpremium.com besuchen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets. Speak with the experts at Patriot Gold today. Now, they've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row, and I'm here to tell you that's a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Wednesday for December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. I want to give you a one-week update on the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, which was announced last Tuesday. The update is that, well, the ceasefire is off to a rocky start. Ooh, there's a surprise. Here's what we know. Families on both sides of the border, Israeli and Lebanese, who fled during the 14 months of fighting, have started to return.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
But for many, they've come back to homes that are, well, no longer there, either destroyed or heavily damaged during the conflict. The Lebanese military, a critical pillar of the ceasefire agreement and yet the least effective military element in the region, has deployed troops to southern Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Their mission is to enforce the ceasefire by ensuring Hezbollah withdraws its forces north of the Latani River. That's a key demarcation line south of which Hezbollah is prohibited from operating under the terms of the agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
However, the violence has not completely stopped Cross-border strikes by both Israel and Hezbollah have continued, albeit on a smaller scale The Israeli Air Force has carried out several airstrikes in recent days These strikes targeted Hezbollah operatives not just in southern Lebanon, but also north of the Latani River Adding to the tension, Israeli drones flew over Beirut on Sunday for the first time since the ceasefire was announced
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Israeli officials said these operations targeted areas where Hezbollah was violating the ceasefire by moving weapons, and they were meant to prevent direct threats. Israel notified the United States in advance about some of these strikes. On the Lebanese side, officials claim that Israel has violated the ceasefire more than 50 times since it went into effect last week. And then there's Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
On Monday, the militia launched two mortar shells at Israel Defense Forces, the IDF, positions along the border. It was the first Hezbollah attack since the ceasefire began. They claimed the move was a, quote, "...defensive warning strike on an Israeli military position and retaliation for Israeli violations."
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The IDF responded swiftly, carrying out a series of strikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon shortly thereafter. Now, the Lebanese government, well, they're not the only ones claiming Israel has violated the terms of the ceasefire. According to Israeli media, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Special Envoy Amos Hochstein has also accused the Jewish state of breaching the agreement, as have French diplomats who are part of the international oversight body. Hochstein has reportedly sent a message urging Israel to uphold their end of the bargain.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Now, despite Hochstein's private misgivings, White House spokesperson John Kirby tried to reassure the public, stating on Monday that, quote, sporadic strikes were expected. He emphasized that there's been a dramatic reduction in violence and that, overall, the ceasefire is holding. He also added that the monitoring mechanism is in full force.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
All right, coming up next, Syrian insurgents capture four new towns near Hamas, while incoming President-elect Trump delivers a stark warning to Hamas, declaring that there will be, quote, hell to pay if American hostages are not released before he takes office. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the BDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we begin with an update on the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. After just one week, it's already showing cracks and faces the risk of unraveling.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Shifting our focus now to Syria, where insurgents have captured four new towns early Tuesday, pushing them closer to the central city of Hama. This marks a significant gain for the insurgents who are now just six miles away from Syria's fourth largest city.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The offensive is part of a broader campaign that has already seen large portions of Aleppo and southern Idlib province fall into opposition hands. Several towns were seized in fierce battles, with opposition forces claiming to have killed 50 government troops in the process.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
An HTS member declared that their objective is to push beyond Hama, moving south and eventually reclaiming the entirety of Syria. However, government forces backed by heavy Russian and Syrian airstrikes are not standing idly by. State media reports that Syrian troops have managed to recapture the village of Kaneser, which sits along a key route leading to Aleppo.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Reinforcements are being sent to bolster their positions in the Hama province as the clashes continue. This escalation in Syria comes against the backdrop of a call for diplomacy from Turkey's President Erdogan, a major backer of the insurgents. Erdogan has urged the Assad regime to engage in a, quote, genuine political process to avoid further deterioration of the situation.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Yet with airstrikes pounding opposition held areas and insurgents making steady advances, well, peace talks seem far off. Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll is mounting. The Norwegian Refugee Council has warned of food shortages and rising civilian casualties as thousands of families are displaced by the renewed fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The council's regional director for the Middle East and North Africa issued a stark warning that this escalation could drag Syria back into, quote, the darkest days of its nearly 14-year-long conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
To the east, a separate front saw the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF, claim to have captured seven villages from pro-government fighters Syrian state media, however, disputes these claims, asserting that the attacks were repelled The contested villages are near a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
military base close to the Iraq border, adding, well, yet another layer of complexity to the conflict Oh, that's good, that's what we needed We needed more complexity in the conflict The war in Syria, now in its 14th year, has claimed an estimated half million lives. That would be 500,000 lives.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
With insurgents advancing, government forces countering, and civilians caught in the crossfire, well, we can expect that toll to continue to climb in the coming weeks and months. All right, moving on to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The United States announced a $725 million military aid package signaling an effort to bolster Kiev's defenses as its troops await a potential shift in policy under incoming President-elect Donald Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Now, to be fair, anyone who doesn't base their foreign policy strategy on hopes and dreams can't be surprised if the ceasefire doesn't hold up. Sorry to sound cynical. Later in the show, an update from Syria, where insurgents continue to advance, capturing four new towns in their push toward the central city of Hama. Plus, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The package, unveiled Monday by the State Department, includes counter-drone systems, munitions for high-mobility artillery rocket systems, those would be the HIMARS, and anti-personnel landmines aimed at slowing Russian and North Korean ground forces in the Kursk region of Russia. Don't forget those North Korean forces bolstering the Russian troops.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
While Ukraine has long pressed for longer range HIMARS munitions, specifically the Army Tactical Missile System with a range of approximately 190 miles,
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
It remains unclear whether these missiles are part of the package Their inclusion would mark a significant escalation in Ukraine's ability to strike deeper into Russian territory This aid comes at a pivotal moment President Biden has pledged to exhaust the roughly $7.1 billion in Congress-approved military aid from the Pentagon stockpiles for Ukraine before his administration ends on 20 January.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The White House believes that reinforcing Ukraine's defenses is critical as its forces face mounting challenges in Kursk. On the ground, Ukrainian soldiers describe Well, let's put it this way, dire conditions. Russian bombardment and harsh winter weather have taken a toll. Now, four months into their offensive, Ukrainian forces at this point are in retreat.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Russia has reclaimed approximately 200 square miles in October alone. And notably, Ukrainian troops have lost 40% of the territory that they initially seized in Kursk inside of Russia. One Ukrainian soldier told the BBC in November, quote, this trend will continue, adding, quote, that it's only a matter of time.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Another soldier admitted that the key is not to capture, but to hold. And with that, we're struggling. This effort to hold as much territory as possible comes from President Zelensky's proposal last week that Ukraine would consider temporarily ceding Russian-occupied territories in exchange for NATO-style security guarantees.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
As we covered Monday, Zelensky's proposal comes as reports suggest that Trump's team is exploring a peace deal that would freeze the front lines, impose a ceasefire, and increase U.S. military aid, among other guarantees. Orders from Kiev are clear. Hold on to as much territory as possible until President-elect Trump takes office.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Zelensky, towards the end of November, acknowledged the stakes, stating, quote, I am sure that Putin wants to push us out by January 20. It's very important for him to demonstrate that he controls the situation, but he does not control the situation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
The potential outcomes of the war hinge on Ukraine's ability to maintain its front lines and position in Kursk within Russia until the U.S. administration changes hands. Ukrainian commanders are committed to holding out, quote, as long as it is feasible from the military point of view, recognizing that their resistance can shape the trajectory of the war once Trump enters the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, Trump makes an interesting suggestion for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during this past weekend's meeting at Mar-a-Lago. I'll have those details when we come back. In today's Back to the Brief, we're getting more details about that high-level meeting between President-elect Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
According to sources, Trump suggested that if Canada can't address trade and border security concerns, well, it might as well become the 51st state. Oh, I bet that went over well. For background, Trudeau showed up in Mar-a-Lago last Friday, hoping to smooth things over after Trump threatened to slap a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods on day one of his presidency.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
is sending off a new military aid package to Ukraine as the nation's exhausted troops are told to hold on and wait for Trump. And in today's Back of the Brief, new details emerge from the recent meeting between President-elect Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, including a surprising moment where Trump suggested that Canada should become the 51st state. I kid you not.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Although the meeting was originally described by Trump and Trudeau as, quote, very productive, well, new details have emerged. The president-elect accused Canada of failing to stop the flow of drugs and illegal immigrants, claiming that people from over 70 countries are crossing into the U.S. And he ripped into the $100 billion trade deficit he says that Canada is racking up.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
According to two sources seated at the table, Trump's Canadian statehood ultimatum was made, well, with a mix of humor and seriousness. The sources, paraphrasing the conversation, say the prime minister warned that Trump's tariff threats would, quote, kill Canada's economy. Trump reportedly suggested that Trudeau swap his prime minister title for governor.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
meaning he suggested that Canada become the 51st state of the U.S. A source told Fox News that someone at the table joked that Canada would make a very liberal state, which got a laugh, until Trump upped the ante, suggesting that Canada could become two states, one liberal and one conservative.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Sources report that Trudeau laughed nervously, yeah, I imagine that was true, probably wondering if this was a meeting or an audition for The Apprentice, Trade Wars edition.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
While the room reportedly filled with chuckles, and who doesn't love a good chuckle, Trump made it clear he expects Trudeau to fix the trade deficit and border security issues by Inauguration Day, or those tariffs will be implemented. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, 4 December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Now, look, if you have any questions or comments, please, and I mean this, reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as many of you have probably already heard, to listen to the show ad-free, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It could not be any simpler. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
December 4th, 2024: Lebanon Ceasefire On The Verge of Collapse & Syrian Rebels Continue To Advance
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
The cartel is a major trafficker of the deadly opioid fentanyl, as well as methamphetamine, and also engages in large-scale human trafficking. The cartel rapidly expanded throughout the 2010s and has since garnered a reputation as one of the most violent criminal groups in Mexico, and that frankly is no small feat given the competition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
It's Wednesday, the 2nd of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, we'll look at the latest findings from the Mexican government's investigation into a cartel-operated ranch that authorities have dubbed a, quote, extermination camp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Their rise to power was marked by a sharp increase in homicides, disappearances, and the discovery of mass graves in the region. The extermination ranch was originally discovered last September, but local officials are accused now of engaging in a cover up on behalf of the cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
In March, after the highly publicized findings of the local volunteers, Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum intervened, directing the state attorney general's office to take over the investigation. Through that investigation, we've learned more about how the cartel recruits new members, and as you might imagine, the findings are disturbing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
While the cartel engages in the targeted recruitment of ex-military and police forces to make up their primary force, they also rely on the forced recruitment of locals, who are then trained in their violent techniques at locations such as the Jalisco Ranch, according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
So far, investigators have identified at least 60 social media pages linked to the cartel offering fake job opportunities with weekly salaries well above the national average. They're intended to lure desperate locals into their criminal enterprise. But by the time recruits realize that they've been duped, well, they're forced to gunpoint to join the cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
One recruit told authorities that hopeful applicants for the fake job postings would be told to meet at a bus station in Guadalajara before being taken to the Jalisco Ranch, where they were trained with weapons and in torture techniques.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
The young recruits would reportedly be forced to take part in the torture and killing of victims, and if they refused, well, they themselves were beaten, tortured, and killed. Now, despite the revelations, it's important to note that the cartel still enjoy the support of locals and the protection of corrupt regional authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
At least three police officers in Jalisco have been arrested since March due to their suspected involvement in disappearances at the ranch. It's hard to overstate, and it's actually hard to understand also, the loyalty that locals feel towards the cartel and its leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Just last weekend, El Mencho drew renewed attention after his image was projected on a big screen at a regional music festival in Jalisco, drawing cheers from the crowd. Scheinbaum, along with Jalisco's governor, condemned the display, and the Jalisco state prosecutor's office said they'd open an investigation into the incident. Well, that should do it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
But such displays of respect are, frankly, not uncommon, and they underscore the deeper hold that cartels can have on local populations, often by cynically using their drug profits to paint themselves as benevolent protectors of the poor.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
In December, for example, Mexican prosecutors launched an investigation after videos circulated showing a sign at a local Christmas fair thanking El Mencho for giving holiday gifts to children. Well, isn't that special? The findings from the extermination camp investigation come as Mexico faces continued economic pressure from the Trump administration to crack down on the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Later in the show, Israel has announced a major expansion of their military operations in Gaza, outlining plans to seize large areas of the Gaza Strip to annex into Israel's security zones. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin today south of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
In recent months, the Mexican government has stepped up enforcement, dispatching 10,000 troops in early February to cartel strongholds along the border and hundreds more to Sinaloa State, the main hub for fentanyl trafficking. A series of high-profile arrests, drug seizures, and fentanyl lab busts have followed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Officials recently said they've made nearly 1,000 arrests since the crackdown began and seized nearly as much fentanyl in the last five months as they did the entire previous year. Coming up next, Israel has announced a major expansion of their military operations in Gaza, outlining plans to seize large areas of the enclave. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Well, let's take a look around at the economy. What do we see? Well, right now we see tariff wars, recession fears, and some stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets, like the one that we have right now, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans trust Birch Gold to safeguard their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Israel on Wednesday announced a sweeping expansion of its renewed ground campaign in Gaza, vowing to seize large areas of the enclave and incorporate them into controlled security zones. In a statement, Defense Minister Israel Katz said the expanded offensive aims to, quote, crush and cleanse Hamas and dismantle its terror infrastructure in the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
He added that mass evacuation orders of Palestinians would continue in areas where Israeli forces are operating. Katz issued a blunt appeal to Gaza's population to, quote, act now to eliminate Hamas and return all the kidnapped, calling it the only viable path toward ending the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
border with a new look at the operations of one of Mexico's deadliest drug cartels as new details from an investigation into a ranch used for mass killings reveal the tactics employed by the cartel to recruit new members. We recently brought you the story of the Izaguirre Ranch in the western Mexico state of Jalisco.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
His words reflect an increasingly hardened tone from the Israeli government and, come as entire neighborhoods around Rafah now lie empty following repeated IDF evacuation orders. Local Palestinian radio reports that the city is nearly abandoned. Katz stops short of disclosing whether the planned territorial seizures are temporary or part of a permanent annexation plan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
However, as we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, Israeli officials say the IDF could occupy up to 25% of Gaza in the coming weeks. Such a maneuver would mark the largest redrawing of Gaza's map since Israel's withdrawal from the territory back in 2005. As our regular listeners are aware, the current ground push resumed in mid-March after a two-month ceasefire collapsed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
During the first phase of that truce, 33 Israeli hostages were freed in exchange for approximately 1,800 terrorists and Palestinian prisoners. Israel, obviously, continues their demands for the immediate return of the 59 remaining hostages. Of those, just 24 are believed to be alive, and that would include American-Israeli Eden Alexander.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Negotiations with Hamas, stalled after the terror group, refused to release half of those hostages as a condition for extending the ceasefire. Prime Minister Netanyahu has reiterated that talks will now only proceed, quote, under fire of airstrikes and ground operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Meanwhile, Katz confirmed last month the formation of a new directorate inside the Defense Ministry tasked with facilitating what he called the, quote, voluntary emigration of Palestinians from Gaza. That directorate's work appears to mirror proposals floated by President Trump back in February aimed at relocating the enclave's approximately 2.3 million people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Katz emphasized that the current military operations are, quote, fully coordinated with the Trump administration. The plan has, not surprisingly, drawn swift international condemnation. Human rights organizers and United Nations officials have blasted it as ethnic cleansing, a charge that Israel denies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Regional powers like Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia have already condemned Israel's escalating offensive, warning that it risks igniting a wider conflict. Katz's announcement represents more than just an operational update. It's a recalibration of Israel's endgame.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
By laying the groundwork for potential long-term control over parts of Gaza, the Defense Ministry appears to be carving out a new post-war reality, one in which a permanent Israeli military presence could be inevitable. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Wednesday, the 2nd of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
If you have any questions or comments, and hopefully you do, well, just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Of course, word on the street is that to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Last month, a group of volunteers searching for their missing loved ones uncovered what authorities have called an extermination camp. On the ranch, authorities discovered underground cremation ovens, burned human remains, and more than 700 personal items scattered across the property, suggesting a disturbingly high number of victims.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 2nd, 2025: The Disturbing Way Mexico's Deadliest Cartel Recruits New Members & Israel's Plan To Seize Parts Of Gaza
Officials say the ranch was run by the New Generation Jalisco Cartel, which first emerged in the early 2010s, after its members split from the Sinaloa Cartel. The Jalisco Cartel is led by Nemicio Rubén Oceguera Cervantes, better known by his alias, El Mencho.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
soldiers who were killed during a training exercise last week in Lithuania have been recovered. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
In today's Back of the Brief, we have a sad update out of Eastern Europe, where the bodies of four U.S. Army soldiers killed during a training exercise in Lithuania last week have been recovered.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
They were reported missing on March 25th near Lithuania's border with Belarus after they didn't return from a tactical training mission involving an M-88 Hercules vehicle, which is essentially a giant armored tow truck.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The following day, search teams discovered the 70-ton vehicle submerged in a swamp, leading investigators to conclude that the four soldiers became trapped inside the vehicle when it sank, according to a report from the New York Times. But authorities refrained from officially confirming their deaths until their bodies were found.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
An extensive international search and recovery effort followed, involving hundreds of personnel from the U.S., Lithuania, Poland, and Estonia. Removing the vehicle from the muddy bog proved to be particularly difficult and heavy equipment was subsequently brought in to dredge the swamp. Divers, dogs, and drones with ground-penetrating radar were then deployed to help locate the soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Rybakov, a trusted foreign policy advisor to Vladimir Putin, said Tuesday that while Moscow is taking American ideas on how to end the war in Ukraine, quote, seriously, really, are they? The current proposals from the Trump administration remain unacceptable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
On Monday, the bodies of three of the four U.S. soldiers were recovered after authorities extracted the vehicle. The body of the fourth member of the team was found on Tuesday, bringing the week-long search to a sad conclusion. The four soldiers were part of the Army's 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, based out of Fort Stewart in Georgia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The Army released the identities of the three soldiers recovered on Monday, They were all 25 years old or younger and served as M1 Abrams tank system maintainers. Officials have not yet disclosed the identity of the fourth soldier, as his family is still in the process of being notified. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Army and Lithuanian authorities said they're still working to determine the official cause of the accident, though the early indication is that the vehicle had inadvertently driven off the road and into the swamp during the course of the exercise. Major General Christopher Norrie, the commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said Tuesday, "...this loss is simply devastating.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
These men were honored soldiers of the Moran Division. We're wrapping our arms around the families and loved ones of our soldiers during this incredibly difficult time." We should note that U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
and NATO forces stationed in Eastern Europe have significantly increased military drills in the years since Russian President Putin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, particularly in the Baltic region due to its proximity to Belarus. Belarus, of course, is a critical ally of Moscow. In a statement, the White House said the tragedy was, quote, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
It's Wednesday, the 2nd of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And, yes, back on the road somewhere. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Wednesday, the 2nd of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And if you're wondering what the show sounds like without ads, well, go ahead and indulge yourself. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Rybakov said they don't go far enough to address Russia's long-term strategic concerns and fail to take into account what he claims are the underlying causes of the conflict. That's according to a report from the New York Post. Now, one could argue that the underlying cause of the conflict is that Russia invaded Ukraine in an attempt to take over a sovereign nation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
It's just the latest sign that the road to peace will likely remain a long and difficult one as the Trump administration struggles to bridge the divide between Moscow and Kyiv. Rybakov said, quote, We take the models and solutions proposed by the Americans very seriously. Uh huh. But we can't accept it all in its current form.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
As far as we can see, he said, there's no place in them, meaning the proposals, today for our main demand, namely to solve the problems related to the root causes of this conflict. It's completely absent and that must be overcome, end quote. While Rybakov did not elaborate on Russia's specific demands, we can reasonably infer based on past statements and past demands from the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
First, Moscow has consistently ruled out the idea of a temporary break in hostilities, arguing that it would only serve the interests of Ukraine and their NATO allies, allowing Kiev to replenish their arsenals. Putin has said he will only accept a comprehensive accord that ensures a lasting peace.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Putin has also previously insisted that any ceasefire must include Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and withdrawing from four Russian-occupied regions that make up nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory. And as we pointed out here on the PDB,
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
A significant amount of the critical minerals that have been discussed during that so-called minerals deal, well, a significant amount of those in Ukraine actually are located in the 20% of the Ukrainian territory currently held by Russia. Additionally, Putin has repeatedly rejected proposals for a European coalition of peacekeeping troops in Ukraine to enforce a potential ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
First, the Kremlin is slapping down President Trump's proposals for ending the war in Ukraine, which they say are unacceptable in their current form, suggesting that peace talks between Moscow and Washington, well, may have stalled.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
That's something that Ukrainian President Zelensky has said is a necessary security guarantee to deter future Russian aggression. For Russia, NATO's presence in Eastern Europe is really at the heart of their long-term strategic aims. During the first round of bilateral talks between Russia and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
in late February, the Kremlin reportedly demanded the full withdrawal of NATO forces from the alliance's eastern flank. Oh, is that all they wanted? Putin has long sought the withdrawal of NATO forces, of course, from former Soviet and communist bloc countries. as it would obviously help restore Moscow's sphere of influence in Eastern Europe. While that demand was flatly denied by U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
negotiators at the time, analysts say that it appears that Putin is digging in his heels in an attempt to make the U.S. reconsider its position. An analysis published Monday by the Institute for the Study of War think tank concluded that Russia wants to, quote, stall efforts toward a general ceasefire and extract additional concessions from the West, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Well, not exactly a statement of rocket science. I'm not sure if you need to be a think tank to come up with that statement, but it's still true nonetheless. But Trump remains adamant that both sides must agree to a ceasefire before more substantive negotiations are held on specific terms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The remarks from Russia's deputy foreign minister are just the latest setback for the Trump administration in their quest for an end to Putin's war. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Trump administration brokered a very limited ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev last week that, well, in theory, halts attacks on energy sites and ensures the safety of shipping in the Black Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
While Russia claims to be adhering to the moratorium on energy-related strikes, Ukraine says Russian forces have continued to target their energy infrastructure. Moscow has also stalled implementation of the Black Sea Agreement, demanding the U.S. first lift sanctions leveled against the Putin regime at the onset of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Additionally, as we discussed on yesterday's show, Putin has ordered the conscription of 160,000 new troops. And you could argue that's hardly the move of someone with peaceful intentions. Zelensky accused the Kremlin of making a, quote, mockery of our partners' efforts to advance a peace agenda. And it would appear President Trump may at this point grudgingly agree with that assessment.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Later in the show, tension between the US and Iran continues to heat up as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, reportedly mauls strikes against a critical US military outpost in response to President Trump's threats to bomb their nuclear sites. Plus, China launches a major military drill. Oh, things are just peachy keen all around the world, aren't they?
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Trump said Sunday that he's getting, quote, pissed off by the Kremlin's attempts to stall negotiations and will consider imposing new sanctions on Russia's oil trade within the next month if he feels Moscow is actively seeking to undermine his efforts. But the Kremlin seems content with the status quo.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
A prominent Russian foreign policy advisor to the Kremlin was recently quoted as saying, quote, the continuation of the war, which we are slowly but surely winning, is in our interest, especially considering that the main sponsor, the U.S., seems to be backing out. Why should we rush in a situation like this? End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Now, let me just repeat that for anyone who's been wondering about Putin's intentions. The Kremlin advisers said the continuation of the war, which we are slowly but surely winning, is in our interest, especially considering that the main sponsor, the U.S., seems to be backing out. Why should we rush in a situation like this? All right. Coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Iran reportedly considers strikes against a critical U.S. military outpost in response to President Trump's threats to bomb their nuclear sites. Plus, China launches a major military drill off Taiwan's coast and calls the Taiwanese president a parasite in their latest escalation in the South China Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
You know, it's really nice to see peace and calm and stability and civility just breaking out all over the world. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, let's take a look around and see what we see. I'll tell you what we see. We see tariff wars, we see recession fears, and we see some stubborn inflation. It's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
In volatile markets like right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take control and safeguard your savings. It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold?
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans trust Birch Gold to help safeguard their savings.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Again, text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB. Iran's military leaders are reportedly weighing a preemptive strike on the U.S.-UK military base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, warning they may act before it's used as a launch pad for attacks on the Islamic Republic. Someone should probably advise the mullahs that that wouldn't likely end well.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
As I'm sure our regular listeners are aware, tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated sharply since the return of Trump to the White House. In February, the president reimposed his maximum pressure campaign, reviving efforts to cut Iran's oil exports to zero and forestall any path toward nuclear armament.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
For background, Trump withdrew from the 2015 Iranian nuclear accord during his first term, citing the agreement's failure to permanently block Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Since retaking office, he's pressed for what he describes as a, quote, verified nuclear peace agreement, one that would dismantle Iran's nuclear program entirely in exchange for the phased lifting of sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
On Sunday, Trump issued a pointed warning to the mullahs, pledging, quote, bombing the likes of which they've never seen before should the regime reject a new nuclear agreement. Tehran, in turn, refused direct negotiations and continues pushing for the reinstatement of the original deal on terms more favorable to themselves.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
China launches a major military drill off Taiwan's coast and calls the president a parasite in their latest escalation. That would be the Taiwanese president. Analysts warn the move is intended to send a message to the Trump administration that they won't back down on their territorial claims. And in today's Back of the Brief, a tragic update out of Lithuania, where the bodies of four U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who retained sole authority to authorize the construction of a nuclear weapon, issued his own warning on Monday, saying, quote, if they commit any mischief, they will surely receive a strong reciprocal blow, end quote. Now, that brings us to the Diego Garcia base.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
As we've discussed here on the PDB, Diego Garcia, located on the British-controlled Chagos Islands, has long served as a cornerstone of American and British power projection in the Indian Ocean. The island was instrumental during the Gulf War and later in the early stages of the War on Terror. Satellite imagery reviewed just last week confirms that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
is currently moving a significant number of military assets to the base, including several B-2 Spirit stealth bombers capable of penetrating sophisticated air defense systems and delivering precision payloads. According to The Telegraph, an Iranian official disclosed that top commanders have been urged to, quote, launch preemptive strikes on the island and its base.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The official added that some Iranian military leaders advocate for missile launches, quote, not with the intent to hit anything, but to fall into the water to send a clear message to the Americans. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, also issued broader threats this week. One Iranian brigadier general ominously said, quote, the Americans have at least 10 bases in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
They're sitting in a glass house. That's a reference to the more than 50,000 U.S. troops stationed across the Middle East. A second commander noted that Iran's naval forces are capable of targeting U.S. sea assets. Moscow, well, they've also stepped into the diplomatic fray on behalf of their despotic pals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Russia's deputy foreign minister issued a blunt warning on Tuesday that any American strike on Iranian nuclear facilities would have, quote, "...catastrophic consequences." He condemned the Trump administration's ultimatum-driven approach and offered Russia's assistance in mediating a new nuclear agreement. Isn't that swell? Yes, because Putin's Russia is all about peace and harmony.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Turning to Taiwan, China launched new military drills surrounding the island from three directions on Tuesday, in what state media framed as punishment for what it calls separatist actions by, quote, parasite President Lai Ching-deh.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The operations, carried out by the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command, unfolded to Taiwan's north, south and east and were described as a comprehensive test of combat readiness. According to Chinese officials, the drills simulated blockades, joint air-sea strikes and intercept missions, precisely the tactics that Beijing would rely on in the event of a full-scale invasion.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Taiwan's defense ministry tallied a total of 71 military aircraft, including drones, and 21 naval vessels operating around the island, with one group escorting the Shandong aircraft carrier positioned roughly 200 nautical miles east of Taiwan. Taipei, for its part, did not stand idle. Taiwan scrambled fighter jets, dispatched naval vessels, and activated its missile defense systems in response.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The Defense Ministry issued a sharp statement warning that, quote, we must ensure that they don't turn these drills into actual combat, underscoring the seriousness with which Taiwan is treating the maneuvers. Lai's administration condemned the maneuvers outright, describing Beijing as, quote, a troublemaker bent on destabilizing the region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Yet the military dimension was just one element of Beijing's pressure campaign. Accompanying the drills was a torrent of propaganda aimed squarely at humiliating Taiwan's leadership. In one video titled Shell, President Lai is depicted as a green bug held aloft by chopsticks over a flaming map of the island. You're welcome for that visual.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
soldiers who were killed during a training exercise last week near the Belarusian border have been recovered. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin today with another update on the war in Ukraine as the Kremlin pushes back on President Trump's peace proposals, suggesting that diplomatic talks between Moscow and Washington may have stalled.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The video labeled Lai as a, quote, parasite, hollowing out the island due to his separatist actions and deepening alignment with the U.S. Another production dubbed Subdue Demons and Vanquish Evils opens with a warrior soaring through clouds before cutting to PLA jets streaking over imagined battlefields.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Additional videos featured missile trajectories zeroing in on Taipei and computer-generated strike overlays that left, frankly, little to the imagination. The escalation comes nearly a year after similar war games that were staged last May, days after Lai's inauguration.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Tensions have only accelerated since March when Lai unveiled a sweeping set of 17 counterintelligence laws targeting Chinese infiltration, branding Beijing as a, quote, foreign hostile force. China, for its part, insists that the exercises are, quote, legitimate and necessary. That's a refrain often employed to justify military maneuvers under the guise of national defense.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Unsurprisingly, the U.S. weighed in on the alarming activity. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt reiterated Washington's position, stating the U.S., quote, opposes any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force, end quote. Though familiar, the language carried added weight considering the worsening U.S.-China relations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The drills also coincided with a regional tour by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who used stops in Tokyo and Manila to emphasize deepening military ties across East Asia and to issue pointed warnings about China's increasingly provocative behavior.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
Intriguingly, Chinese state media noted that the drills did not receive a formal code name, unlike previous operations such as Joint Sword or Eastern Storm, suggesting a deliberate attempt to normalize such activities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 2nd, 2025: Russia Rejects Trump's Peace Plan & Iran Mulls Strikes On Key US Military Outpost
The Global Times, a state-run outlet often used to telegraph Beijing's intentions, portrayed the operation as a calibrated show of strength that's aggressive enough to send a message, but restrained enough to avoid jeopardizing upcoming trade talks with Washington. All right, coming up in the back of the brief. The bodies of four U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
And then, of course, there was what else? A fentanyl crisis in the United States that has to date killed more Americans than all those Americans who died in every war from World War II until now. And let's see, what else can we have for 2024? Again, I told you, I didn't want to bum you out. Political upheaval in a variety of countries around the globe. And of course, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
It's Wednesday, the 1st of January. Look at that, 2025. Here we are. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Coming to you today from, oh look, another airport somewhere in the United States. Okay, let's get briefed. Well, congratulations to us all, right? We've managed to survive 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
election that saw the return of Donald Trump in the U.S., there was violence and chaos in Haiti that has left that country in shambles, then the list keeps going, doesn't it? The increasing proliferation, let's not forget that, of disinformation by a host of state actors, as well as the rise of AI-enabled deepfakes designed to sow discord, distrust, and division.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
And those are just some of the year's more significant developments. It was, as they say, a year to remember. And so, we approach 2025 perhaps with a bit more trepidation than hope. If this past year is any indicator, well, the new year will be a doozy. Hmm, doozy, which is not a term that you hear all that often, frankly. Fair enough. Maybe we can go with a humdinger.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
It was a humdinger of a year or a barn burner. Regardless, you get my point. Now, it's unlikely that 2025 will somehow deliver a year of peace, of calm, of civility. On this first day of the new year, though, it doesn't seem like any exit ramps are within view for the major global conflicts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Putin, for instance, doesn't seem interested in legitimate negotiations despite the growing loss of Russian life and damage to his economy. Hamas and their puppet masters in Iran seem to have scuttled the latest ceasefire talks, The new rebel leaders of Syria are implying that democratic elections may be several years in the distance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Afghanistan and Pakistan are ramping up hostilities, while Kim Jong-un is ramping up his anti-West rhetoric. It's hard to picture peace somehow breaking out just because we've made it to another year. And yet, well, the new year does always bring the possibility of change, the potential for something better. That's, I suppose, just the human condition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
We want to imagine that we've learned lessons from the past year, that this new year will bring a better version of ourselves. Look, we all make New Year's resolutions. Mine is to be less cynical. Maybe yours is to subscribe to our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief. Look at that, a few hours into the New Year, and I'm already shilling for our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Anyway, point being, the world survived a pandemic, look, just a handful of years ago, and we've survived this past year of escalating conflicts. And to be honest and pragmatic, the world has seen much tougher times in the past. So we could justifiably step into 2025 knowing that the world is resilient, that in the moment, things may appear as bad as they've ever been.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
But stepping back, taking a breath and putting things in context, I suppose, we can also see that we have the ability to withstand more than we imagine. And maybe, just maybe, we can figure out a way to learn from the past, to not repeat mistakes, to be better. Okay, or not. Damn, there I go being cynical. So much for my resolution.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Regardless, as we head into 2025, you can count on the PDB every day to tell you what's what on the world stage. I do sincerely want to thank you, all of you, for being a part of the PDB community as we work to bring you the key stories that should be on your radar and with a minimum of opinion and guff. Frankly, we hate guff and pontification here at the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Seriously, the entire PDB team, even our modestly compensated interns, are very appreciative of your support. The goal, as you know, is to bring you the globe's critical events and developments without telling you how to think about them. That, my friends, is up to you. And that is the PDB for today, the first day of 2025. Here's to a happy, a safe, and a successful new year for all of you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Now, not to completely bum you out, as they used to say back in the day, but let's do a quick recap of the year. A third year of the Ukraine conflict, imposed on the world by Vladimir Putin's vainglorious vision of reconstituting the Soviet Union in some fashion. There was that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, well, you know the drill. Stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
And then the Middle East, of course, in conflict, thanks to the Iranian regime and its Revolutionary Guard Corps with their ring of proxy puppets, all sharing a vision of the destruction of Israel. Then, of course, the toppling of the Assad regime in Syria after 50 plus years of a brutal family dynasty propped up, of course, by Moscow and Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB New Years Message 2025
Then there was increased tensions in the Taiwan Strait as Xi Jinping's China, repeatedly demonstrated their ability to surround Taiwan during a series of increasingly large military exercises. And let's not forget Kim Jong-un in North Korea, with North Korea sending thousands of their soldiers to die on the battlefields of Ukraine in exchange for cash, oil, and weapons technology from Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Well, there's that word again. Trove is now officially the PDB word of the day. Officials with the Treasury are staying tight-lipped regarding details about what documents were obtained, possibly because they don't know yet, but describe the hack as a, quote, major cybersecurity incident.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
It's Tuesday, 31 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. And it would, of course, be the last PDB of 2024, might I add, because, as I think you probably already know, it's New Year's Eve. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, state-backed Chinese hackers have executed another major breach of sensitive U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Upon learning of the breach on December 8, officials at the Treasury Department quickly notified the FBI, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and other members of the intelligence community who began investigating the incident and working to determine the overall impact of the hack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
In a letter to lawmakers, officials said all available evidence at this time suggests the cyber attack was orchestrated by, quote, a China state-sponsored advanced persistent threat actor, end quote. China, of course, quickly denied the allegations, there's a shock, which they called a baseless smear. But the incident comes as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
continues to grapple with the fallout from another Chinese cyber espionage campaign known as Salt Typhoon, which compromised U.S. telecommunications companies earlier this year in what officials have described as one of the worst hacks in American history. It's almost like the past complaints and harshly worded memos from the U.S. government haven't changed the CCP's behavior.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
That breach, which was first discovered in October, has still not been fully remediated, meaning that the hackers may still be active inside America's telecommunications systems. As a reminder, Salt Typhoon's sophisticated campaign targeted U.S. telecom giants, including Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen, creating backdoors into the company's systems and exposing the data of millions to agents of the CCP.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
The hackers cast a large, sweeping net, collecting not only metadata related to call records, but also live phone calls related to specific targets such as high-profile American political leaders. The significance of the threat, well, it's hard to overstate. As you may recall, in October, the hackers are believed to have breached the personal cell phones of President-elect Donald Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, and successfully intercepted the audio of a conversation involving an unnamed advisor to Trump's campaign. On Friday, the White House provided a brief update on the situation, revealing the number of telecommunications companies confirmed to be impacted by the hack had now risen to nine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Earlier this month, senior officials with the FBI urged Americans to start using encrypted messaging apps for their private communications in order to stay hidden from the CCP-backed hackers as the authorities continue to work to purge the group from the networks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Coming up, the Taliban issues two new decrees, further curtailing the rights of Afghan women, expanding their campaign of what's called gender apartheid. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
networks, this time stealing a trove of documents from the U.S. Treasury Department. Then, we'll look at the latest crackdown by the Taliban on women in Afghanistan, part of their intensifying campaign to erase women from public life under their system of what is called gender apartheid. It seems like just yesterday when the Taliban were promising to protect women's rights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Taliban is continuing its war against women in Afghanistan, banning residential buildings from having windows that overlook spaces where women work, such as courtyards, kitchens, or wells. Yes, I can see what they're getting at.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
That could be the downfall of any society, being able to observe women drawing water from a well. The foreclaws decree from the Taliban Supreme Leader posted Saturday on X by a Taliban spokesman demands that existing windows be obstructed to prevent what it calls, quote, obscene acts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Municipal authorities are now charged with enforcing the decree, ensuring compliance with new construction and compelling homeowners to modify existing structures. Homeowners are urged to block these views themselves ostensibly to quote, avoid nuisances caused to neighbors, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
This decree is just the latest in the campaign that the UN has unequivocally labeled, quote, gender apartheid, a systemic erasure of women from public life that has intensified since the Taliban's return to power back in August of 2021. The ban on visible workspaces for women comes as part of a broader crackdown that has already stripped Afghan women of many fundamental rights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Girls are barred from pursuing education beyond primary school, women are denied access to public spaces like parks, and most forms of female employment have been outlawed. When the Taliban initially announced the suspension of post-primary education for girls, they framed it as a temporary measure to ensure a, quote, safe environment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
In tandem with the latest decree, the Taliban's Ministry of Economy announced Sunday that all national and foreign non-governmental organizations or NGOs employing women will be shuttered, closed, if they fail to comply with the regime's directives. This policy builds on a prior suspension of female NGO employees justified by the Taliban under claims of violations of Islamic dress codes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
A senior UN official warned that these measures are dismantling critical humanitarian efforts in a country where aid is a lifeline for millions. The UN also documented increasing obstruction of aid work for both male and female staff, exasperating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Adding to the growing list of restrictions, a law enacted in August, as we reported here on the PDB, prohibits women from singing or reciting poetry in public and discourages them from speaking loudly outside their homes. You really can't make this up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Local media, meanwhile, have ceased broadcasting female voices altogether, further muting their presence in Afghan society and continuing, of course, their march towards the Stone Age. While the Taliban insist that Islamic law guarantees the rights of men and women, their claims are increasingly hollow, of course, in the face of their actions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
The regime has touted the issuance of nearly 9,000 work permits for women since its takeover, framing this as evidence of its commitment to women's rights. Yet the narrative, of course, is starkly contradicted by the lived experiences of Afghan women whose freedoms have been systematically dismantled under Taliban rule.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
Of course, anyone who actually believed that the Taliban would protect women's rights could be accurately classified as a certified moron. But first, our afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with a significant cyber breach of the US Treasury Department by a state-sponsored Chinese hacking operation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
The Taliban maintains that these measures are designed to uphold social norms and public safety, denying that they obstruct aid agencies or interfere with operations. Yet, Afghan women now live behind increasingly restrictive measures, physical, social, and metaphorical. Their voices reduced to whispers now at best, and their presence erased from public life.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 31 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget, we'd love to hear from you. Send us your New Year's resolutions also to pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
And as we wrap up 2024, I do want to thank you for taking a bit of time out of each of your days to tune in to the President's Daily Brief. You've consistently made the PDB one of the top news podcasts in all of podcast land. I wish you all a very happy, safe, and successful 2025. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 31st, 2024: Chinese Hackers Breach US Treasury & The Taliban's Campaign Of 'Gender Apartheid'
That's just the latest in a recent string of infiltrations linked to the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP. The hackers reportedly compromised the digital keys of a third-party software service provider to gain access to the Treasury Department's systems, which then allowed them to remotely tap into the desktop computers of Treasury employees and steal a trove of unclassified documents.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Coming up in the back of the brief, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is reportedly crafting plans to complicate life for Donald Trump as the U.S. president-elect prepares to take office. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un pledged to pursue the, quote, toughest anti-U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
policy, setting the stage for heightened tensions just weeks before President-elect Trump returns to the White House. During a five-day meeting of the ruling Workers' Party that ended on Friday, Kim referred to the United States as, quote, the most reactionary state with an unwavering anti-communist agenda. How about that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Kim ironically lambasted the U.S.-South Korea-Japan security alliance as a, quote, nuclear military bloc for aggression, underscoring his regime's view of Washington's policies as inherently hostile.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency, Kim outlined a series of measures aimed at bolstering North Korea's defense posture, including advancements in military technology and morale building within the armed forces. Hmm. I don't think that sending thousands of his troops to Ukraine to serve as cannon fodder for Putin is going to do much for the morale.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The regime leader stopped short of elaborating specific details about the promised anti-U.S. policy. Kim's latest rhetoric against the U.S. unfolds against a backdrop of escalating military and diplomatic tensions. As we've been tracking on the PDB, North Korea has tightened its alignment with Russia, supplying Moscow, of course, with troops and conventional weapons for its campaign in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
This still blossoming romance between Kim and Putin raises alarms, of course, that Russia is reciprocating with advanced military technology, potentially bolstering North Korea's nuclear arsenal. The timing of Kim's statements coincides with a difficult diplomatic landscape, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Since the collapse of nuclear talks in 2019, relations between Washington and Pyongyang have worsened, with North Korea ramping up missile tests and the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying joint military exercises that Pyongyang denounces as invasion rehearsals.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Further complicating matters, Russia and China consistently blocked US-led efforts to tighten UN sanctions on North Korea, providing Pyongyang with opportunities to circumvent those sanctions. And as Trump prepares to return to the White House, the question is, well, can his previous rapport with Kim Jong-un lead to a revival of diplomacy of sorts?
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Trump's first-term summit with Kim temporarily eased the tense exchanges that had characterized their relationship. But the talks, of course, ultimately collapsed over disagreements on denuclearization. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 31 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And here's a thought.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Oh, so the invading regime that's carried out a three-year war against a neighboring country and is currently losing upwards of 1,500 Russian soldiers a day in the conflict isn't satisfied. Well, that is a shame. As a reminder, Trump began outlining his plans for bringing the war in Ukraine to a quick conclusion in an interview with Time magazine earlier this month.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
As 2025 sits there lurking in the wings, well, do me a favor and send along your New Year's resolutions. Send them to pdbatthefirsttv.com. We'll put together one of our Ask Me Anything episodes and highlight the top resolutions from the PDB community. No doubt, I suspect one of the most popular resolutions for the coming year will be to subscribe to our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
It's Tuesday, 31 December, which, as you may have heard, is New Year's Eve. We're on the cusp of 2025. And what are the odds that the new year could be as wacky as 2024? Probably pretty good odds. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
It's just a thought. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's that simple. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
While there are apparently multiple ideas being floated by Trump's advisers at this time. They include proposals to block Ukraine from joining NATO for at least 20 years, temporarily ceding portions of Ukrainian territory to Russia, and deploying a European-led coalition of ground troops in Ukraine to keep the peace.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
While no official proposals have been communicated to Moscow by Trump's transition team, Lavrov told reporters on Monday that the Kremlin doesn't like what they've heard so far. Again, what a shame.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Lavrov said, quote, We're not happy, of course, with the proposals made by members of the Trump team to postpone Ukraine's admission to Ukraine for 20 years and to station British and European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
He claimed Trump's plan amounts to freezing hostilities along the current lines of engagement and transferring further responsibility for confronting Russia to the Europeans.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Lavrov countered by calling for the incoming Trump administration to pursue, quote, reliable and legally binding agreements that would eliminate the root causes of the conflict and seal a mechanism precluding the possibility of their violation, end quote. Yeah, not quite sure what all that means.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Basically, Russia has no interest in participating in a more limited ceasefire that would allow Ukraine to eventually pursue NATO membership and potentially put them on a path towards regaining their lost territory.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The remarks come in the wake of an end of year address given by Russian President Putin, who claimed he was ready to participate in possible peace talks with Trump once he returns to office. But Putin also said that any deal must be long-lasting and listed a litany of preconditions, including that any negotiations should be based on the failed Istanbul talks from 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
As a reminder, those talks produced a draft treaty that would prohibit Ukraine from ever joining NATO, bar them from hosting foreign weapons, require sweeping reductions in their military forces, and have Kiev officially cede Crimea and parts of the Donbass region to Russia. Oh, and Putin also said he wants a pony. At the time, Ukrainian officials rejected the one-sided proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
There's a surprise. And President Zelenskyy continues to maintain his stance that NATO membership is the only viable path towards peace. He's shown an openness to aspects of Trump's proposals, including temporarily ceding Russian-occupied territories to Moscow and hosting a European peacekeeping coalition, but only if Ukraine is given security guarantees from the NATO alliance.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
But Lavrov said Monday that Russia would never accept Ukraine's membership into NATO, even in return for territorial concessions. He also expressed doubts that Trump would be able to bridge the divide within the US and among European allies regarding the war and successfully restore diplomatic relations between Russia and America.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Lavrov said, quote, Even if Trump tries to relaunch bilateral ties, he'll have to swim against the stream, considering the current bipartisan consensus on the policy of deterring Russia. We'll see what happens next, he said. If the Americans respect our interests, our dialogue will be gradually renewed. If not, everything will remain as it is, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
We'll start today with reports that the Kremlin has turned down critical parts of a peace deal pitched by Donald Trump and his incoming administration. We'll have those details later in the show. We'll shift our focus to Gaza, where hopes for a ceasefire and hostage deal have seemingly gone up in smoke again.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Meanwhile, President Biden is using his final days in office to boost financial and military aid to Ukraine, announcing on Monday another package of weapons transfers. This latest package is worth an estimated $2.5 billion and includes longer-term supplies of air defenses, thousands of artillery rounds, thousands of rockets, and hundreds of armored vehicles.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The Biden administration has now approved nearly $5 billion in aid for Ukraine since Trump's reelection in November, fearing that Trump may significantly reduce or cut off support once he takes office.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Zelensky praised the move from the Biden administration and stressed the need for continued military support from Kyiv's Western allies, saying, quote, every additional supply from our partners means more saved lives, end quote. Coming up next, we'll head to Gaza, where a ceasefire and hostage deal appears to have collapsed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
And Israel reveals its role in the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Plus, we've got new details about the operation that took out Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh as Israel, for the first time, admits its role in the assassination. And in today's Back of the Brief. Oh, look, we're wrapping up 2024, and it's the return of Little Rocket Man. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has announced plans to adopt strict anti-U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Hopes for a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza have crumbled once again, with Western officials warning that the conflict will likely drag on at least until President-elect Trump returns to office later next month.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
As you may recall, just two weeks ago, many believed that a truce was imminent after Hamas reportedly yielded to some of Israel's key demands for a ceasefire, including agreeing to allow Israeli forces to remain in Gaza temporarily.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
But Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu reportedly told a group of ministers on Sunday that negotiations with the Iranian-backed terror group were once again stuck after Hamas went back on their promises and hardened their stance. And that's according to a report from the Jerusalem Post. Sounds like Hamas's puppet masters in the Iranian regime aren't much interested in a ceasefire arrangement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The terror group has reportedly returned to demanding a permanent end to the war as conditional for any deal, which would necessarily include the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Netanyahu reportedly told his ministers that the situation was now, quote, less optimistic, adding that it appears the group, quote, does not want there to be a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Anonymous American and Israeli officials told the Times of Israel the chances of mediators finding a way to bridge the divide before Trump's January 20th inauguration were now extremely low.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
It's not immediately clear what exactly would change regarding the stalled talks after Trump gets sworn in, but the president-elect vowed earlier this month that there would be, quote, all hell to pay for Hamas if they do not free the remaining hostages by the time that he takes the oath of office. As a reminder, Israeli officials say there are 96 hostages remaining in Gaza, although...
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
that at least 30 are thought to be deceased. But Hamas reportedly doesn't even know where all the hostages are located. They claim that they'll be in a better position to provide accurate information on the hostages once there's a ceasefire. In the meantime, Israel is keeping Hamas on the back foot.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The IDF launched a military raid on Friday at a major hotel in northern Gaza, where they carried out one of their largest single arrest operations since the war began. The hospital was described as Hamas's last bastion in the north, doubling as a shelter for hundreds of terror operatives who were using it to hide from Israeli airstrikes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Hamas claimed that 50 were killed in the operation, including hospital staff, and surprisingly, some international media ran with the story without bothering to fact-check Hamas. Well, that is shocking. Usually, the international media does a terrific job of fact-checking before running with the story.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
A subsequent update from the IDF revealed that while 19 terror operatives were killed in the two day raid, there were no known civilian casualties. The IDF actually managed to evacuate 600 civilians and another 95 patients, caregivers and medical personnel from the hospital. during their two-day operation.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
The IDF also arrested some 240 alleged terror operatives, including at least 15 who directly participated in the brutal 7 October attacks, along with several prominent commanders of Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Some of the militants allegedly attempted to pose as medical staff to evade capture, while others tried to escape on stretchers and in ambulances.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Notably, the director of the hospital was also detained on suspicion of leading a double life as an operative for Hamas. Inside the hospital, the IDF reportedly found stores of weapons, including grenades, handguns, ammunition, and other military equipment. The patients, meanwhile, were transferred to a nearby hospital where the IDF provided fuel, generators, and other medical equipment.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
measures in the weeks leading up to Donald Trump's inauguration. Hmm. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President-elect Trump has perhaps been dealt a setback regarding his hopes for a quick compromise with the Putin regime to end Russia's war on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Officials with the IDF said while they're still conducting some limited operations near the hospital, they've successfully disrupted Hamas's efforts to regroup and will soon wind down their campaign in the area. But whether the loss of their last refuge in northern Gaza will encourage Hamas to come back to the negotiating table with concessions, well, that remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
And, of course, depends on what the Iranian regime and the IRGC wants Hamas to do. Okay, sticking with Israel, I want to mention a story that we didn't cover over Christmas. For the first time, Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed last Monday the country's involvement in the July assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Katz's remarks, delivered at a commemoration event for local security officers, broke months of speculations about Israel's role in the meticulously planned covert mission. The assassination targeting Hadia, who was the leader of Hamas's political wing, occurred during his visit to Tehran for the inauguration of Iranian President Mossad possession.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
To avoid disrupting that event, Israeli operatives delayed the mission until after the inauguration. The operation's details, as reported by The New York Times, reveal the extent of Israeli intelligence capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
A bomb planted well in advance with precise knowledge of Kanye's accommodations, the heavily secured regime-run guesthouse controlled by Iran's IRGC, was remotely detonated in the early hours, killing him instantly. Compounding Katz's revelation, a Channel 12 report Thursday shed new light on the fragility of the operation's success.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
An unexpected technical glitch in the guest house's air conditioning system prompted Kanye to temporarily leave his room, raising fears among Israeli operatives that he might relocate to a different site. This would, of course, have rendered the mission impossible, and Hanye would have inadvertently prevented his death.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Ultimately, repairs to the system by Guesthouse staff, how helpful of them, lured Hanye back to his quarters, sealing his fate. Katz used the commemoration event to contextualize the assassination within Israel's broader regional strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Comparing the operation to strikes targeting other militant leaders, such as Yahya Sinwar and Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah, Katz declared, quote, We will strike the Houthis' strategic infrastructure and decapitate its leaders, just as we did to Khanyeh, Sinwar, and Nasrallah in Tehran, Gaza, and Lebanon, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Now, as we've covered on the PDB, the death of Khanye forced a rapid restructuring of Hamas's leadership. Yahya Sinmour, previously the military chief, briefly assumed the political mantle before his own demise during a surge in Israeli counterterrorism operations in Gaza this past October.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov rejected proposals on Monday that have recently been floated by Trump and members of his national security team on how to achieve a lasting peace in Eastern Europe, saying the Kremlin was, quote, not satisfied with numerous elements of the president-elect's plans, That's according to a report from Newsweek.
The President's Daily Brief
December 31st, 2024: Russia Rejects Trump’s Peace Deal & Hamas Chief Assassination Details
Additionally, Iran's proxy Hezbollah in Lebanon saw its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, killed in a September Israeli airstrike. Katz's comments also come during intensifying hostilities between Israel and the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, a conflict underscoring the ongoing shadow war between Jerusalem and Tehran. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
As we've been covering here on the PDB, Russia has been waging a campaign of sabotage against allies of Ukraine across Europe since the war began, with attacks escalating in 2024. Russia's shadow campaign involves arson attacks, espionage, cyber attacks, targeted assassinations, and the sabotage of critical infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
It's Monday, 30 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Okay, fair enough. Once again, it's the late afternoon bulletin. You could possibly even call it, depending on where you are, the early evening bulletin, but that's beside the point. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
It's aimed at destabilization, spreading panic among the European public, and sowing doubts about supporting Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
There has been a particular rise in what are called kinetic acts in recent months, such as the suspected sabotage of vital undersea power and data cables, or a plot by Russian agents, first reported in early November, to plant explosives aboard cargo planes bound for the US and Canada.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Apathorite, the NATO official, warned that any one of these acts could end up triggering a broader regional conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Though it occurred before the war began in Ukraine, he also pointed to an attempt by the Kremlin to kill a Russian double agent and his daughter in the UK back in 2018, which involved using a large batch of Novichok chemical weapon that could have potentially killed thousands of people. Of course,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
That attempt on Sergei Skripal and his daughter was just one in a long string of targeted assassinations against Putin's enemies abroad over the years. Another, of course, was the infamous killing of Alexander Litvinenko, who died from polonium poisoning in London. The NATO official said, quote, What really worries me is that one of these attacks will break through in a big way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
There's a real prospect of one of these attacks causing substantial numbers of casualties or very substantial economic damage. He added, quote, End quote. Apatherai said that NATO's 32 member states were already in what he described as a, quote, boiling frog situation. Now, I'm not sure if the term boiling frog translates well across all languages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
He noted that Russian attacks have increased in a way that would have been, quote, utterly unacceptable five years ago, but said the alliance has, well, frankly, gotten used to it, creating a climate that he called, quote, very dangerous. Nordic countries are particularly vulnerable and are already on high alert for potential Russian sabotage of power cables, wind turbines, and gas pipelines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
As we reported last Friday, an oil tanker from Russia's Shadow Fleet suspected of cutting an undersea power cable and several internet cable lines on Christmas Day on the Baltic Sea is currently under surveillance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
In an effort to not be caught flat-footed by future Russian aggression, NATO is working to update its strategy on hybrid warfare, first written back in 2015, to clearly outline what type of attacks would end up triggering a full-scale military response from the alliance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Apathorite said, "...what we need to do now is be clearer among ourselves and then decide how we communicate that also to the Russians, that there are no-go areas." Well, he's not the only one growing concerned about the current status quo.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Senior officials in Kyiv are warning that Russia may escalate its hybrid warfare tactics beyond covert acts of sabotage and that NATO must do more to deter Moscow's belligerence before it's too late. On Sunday, the head of Ukraine's presidential office said, "'Impunity breeds permissiveness. This is the moment that requires strong decisions and strong actions.'"
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
First, senior NATO officials have issued a stark warning about the growing threat posed by the Kremlin's shadow war against Ukraine's Western allies, which they say risks triggering a wider conflict. Then, Syria's de facto leader announces it could be years before elections are held, dashing hopes for democracy in the near term for the war-torn nation. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Coming up, it looks like hopes for democracy, at least in the short to mid-term, in Syria might be fading, as the nation's new de facto leader indicates it could be years before elections are held. We'll discuss the implications when we return. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Bad news for anyone who was hoping democracy would be coming to Syria anytime soon, as de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharah outlined a roadmap that could delay elections by as much as four years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
In an interview Sunday with a Saudi state-owned outlet, Sharab, who leads the Islamist group HTS, provided the most detailed timetable yet for Syria's political future since the group's ousting of the Assad regime earlier this month. The HTS leader revealed that drafting a new constitution alone could take three years, with significant changes expected within a year of its completion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
As part of the reform process, Schirra pledged a shift away from militia-style governance, announcing that HTS would dissolve during a national dialogue conference, stating, quote, a country cannot be run by the mentality of groups and militias, signaling a potential pivot towards governance by state institutions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
The National Dialogue Conference, according to Shira, would feature broad representation from Syrian society and include votes on pivotal issues such as parliamentary dissolution and constitutional reforms. While this pledge has been welcomed by many, it does frankly little to alleviate concerns among minority groups in Syria wary of an Islamist-led government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Western nations, while celebrating Assad's removal, of course, share these concerns, watching closely to see whether Shira's promises of inclusivity will translate into action. In the interview, Shira emphasized that Syria's strategic ties with Russia would remain a cornerstone of its foreign policy. Interesting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Moscow, which provided Assad asylum after his downfall, continues to maintain a military presence in the country, including a couple of bases of significant strategic value to Moscow. Shira hinted that the future of these bases would be subject to negotiation with the new leadership in Damascus, a point echoed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who confirmed ongoing discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
We'll begin in Europe, where NATO leadership is sounding the alarm on Moscow's escalating campaign of hybrid warfare against Kiev's Western allies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
In a surprising diplomatic overture, Shara expressed optimism about the incoming administration of President-elect Trump. The HTS leader suggested that Washington might lift sanctions on Syria following visits by senior U.S. diplomats earlier this month who confirmed the removal of the $10 million bounty that had been placed on him, a reversal that signals a potential thaw in relations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
In response to a question regarding neighboring states' concerns over Islamist groups, Shiraz stated, quote, we will not work on exporting the revolution. We want to manage the phase with the mentality of the state and not revolution, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
However, Shiraz's vision of a redefined domestic and international standing for Syria remains, well, aspirational at best, as the lengthy timeline for elections and constitutional reform underscores the challenges of rebuilding a fractured nation from the ashes of a 50-year-long brutal family dynasty and a 13-year-long civil war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 30 December. Look at that. We are almost finished with 2024. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And... If your New Year's resolution is to listen to the PDB without ads, well, we're here to help. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
James Apatheride, Deputy Assistant Secretary General of NATO, warned Sky News in a recent interview that there is a, quote, real prospect for an unconventional attack by Russia against the alliance, such as an act of sabotage or arson that could result in mass casualties and put NATO on a path to war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Look at that. Keeping you informed and helping you with your resolutions all at the same time. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 30th, 2024: NATO's Stark Warning Over Moscow's Hybrid Warfare & Hopes For Democracy Dashed In Syria
Apatherai, who is leading efforts in the alliance to better track and deter so-called hybrid attacks, said NATO members must communicate clear red lines and response scenarios to the Putin regime to prevent a broader clash from erupting in Eastern Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
In a striking reversal from last year, Homan said known gotaways at the border, that is, migrants who've dodged apprehension and made their way into the U.S., have dropped a staggering 96% over Trump's first 100 days. Homan underscored the implications for American citizens, saying Monday, "...when 96% less people are coming across the border, how many children aren't dying making that journey?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
It's Tuesday, the 29th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, we turn to the U.S. southern border for a look at where the Trump administration's efforts to curb illegal migration stand after the president's first 100 days in office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
How many women and children aren't being sex-trafficked into the country? How many known and suspected terrorists aren't making it into this nation?" Encounters and apprehensions at the border have also rapidly plummeted to the lowest levels in recorded history under the Trump administration. In March, for example, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Customs and Border Protection reported fewer apprehensions for the entire month than were logged in just the first 48 hours of March 2024 under former President Biden. Specifically, total border encounters numbered at just over 11,000 in March, with CBP averaging only about 232 a day. That's a more than 95% plunge compared to March 2024, when Border Patrol agents recorded 137,400 apprehensions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
The drop-off since Trump's return has been significant as roughly 106,000 encounters were reported in October 2024 and roughly 61,000 in January just before he took office. By February, migrant encounters had plummeted to roughly 11,700 and the declines appear to be accelerating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
An analyst at the Center for Immigration Studies recently noted, quote, You have to go back to 1968 to find a year in which there were fewer than 100,000 southwest border apprehensions, and even then it was close at 96,641. In other words, he said, the southwest border is more secure today than it has been since at least the Johnson administration. So, what's behind the massive decline?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Well, good question. As a reminder, on his first day in office, President Trump declared a national emergency at the U.S. southern border, effectively shutting down all border crossings and deployed thousands of troops to assist border agents in curbing the flow of migrants and drugs. He then reinstated the Remain in Mexico policy, which requires asylum claimants to remain outside the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
while their cases are reviewed. He expanded border agents' authority to conduct rapid deportations and deployed military planes to facilitate migrant removals. The administration also ended a number of refugee and parole programs that allowed millions of migrants to enter America and be released into U.S. cities with work permits and the right to stay in the country for up to two years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Additionally, Trump ended the Biden-era catch-and-release policy that allowed apprehended illegal migrants to go free inside U.S. borders. Hohmann also touted the administration's ongoing Operation Tidal Wave, the largest deportation operation in American history. As of early April, ICE agents have arrested more than 113,000 individuals and deported more than 100,000.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
While that number is lower than the millions that Trump pledged to deport during his presidential campaign, White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said Monday that it was a, quote, sign of things to come, suggesting plans to ramp up expulsions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
To accelerate their deportation efforts, the White House also announced a new executive order on Monday aimed at potentially cutting off federal funds to sanctuary cities. It directs the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security to identify jurisdictions where local officials have refused to comply with the federal immigration crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
The move sets the stage for more legal showdowns with cities and states that argue Trump's efforts to use federal funds as a weapon to compel their cooperation is unconstitutional. During the press conference on Monday, Levitt said, quote, It's quite simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Later in the show, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and his Liberal Party won Canada's national election on Monday, pulling off a surprising political comeback over a Conservative opposition that was leading in the polls by a wide margin just months ago. The Liberal Party will retain control of Parliament at a time of rising tensions with US President Trump over trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Obey the law, respect the law, and don't obstruct federal immigration officials and law enforcement officials when they're simply trying to remove public safety threats from our nation's communities, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
While the Trump administration's efforts remain controversial among Democrats and left-leaning media, it does not appear that the White House has any plans on softening their hardline immigration agenda. Coming up next, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and his Liberal Party won Canada's national election on Monday, pulling off a shocking political comeback over the Conservative opposition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I'm pleased to announce that it's grilling season, right? You probably noticed that and you've probably already taken the cover off your grill. And now I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to put on that grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
And of course, I'm talking about Tritale's Beef. Look, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory. It's not a faceless corporation. It's a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman. There's no mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
USDA Prime & Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, They've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker here. Listen, you've probably heard about the trade wars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
I'm sure you've heard about the tariffs, right? It's all kind of thrown the global economy into chaos. Now, potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, frankly, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there is a silver and also a gold lining that I think some people have missed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
And what I mean by that is that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. So while the new policies are triggering some significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first step is very simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA with no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
But not to worry, things should calm down once Canada is the 51st state. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin today with an update on President Trump's sweeping immigration crackdown and where things stand at the southern border after his first 100 days in office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canada's Liberal Party have pulled off an impressive political comeback, winning a fourth consecutive term and retaining control of Parliament amid rising tensions with President Trump over trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Carney, a two-time central banker who succeeded Justin Trudeau back in January, led the Liberals to a resurgence after months of trailing badly in the polls. Fueled by a wave of nationalistic backlash to President Trump's calls for Canada to become America's 51st state and his sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, Carney's campaign pulled off a turnaround that few thought possible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
In reality, Trudeau's resignation was really the key factor that allowed Carney to win. The conservative candidate, Pierre Poliev, had based much of his campaign, and early lead, on the country's frustration and loathing of Trudeau. When he exited, Poliev lost his foil.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
As of Tuesday morning, the Liberals were leading with 168 parliamentary seats, just shy of the 172 needed for a full majority in Canada's 343-seat House of Commons. The Conservative Party appeared poised to remain the official opposition, with a total of 144 seats. And the backlash to Trump's overtures was swift.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Canadians canceled American vacations en masse, boycotted American goods, and flooded polling stations in record numbers, with more than 7 million casting early ballots before Election Day even arrived. As Carney and Poiliev hit the campaign trail, Trump framed his annexation proposal as an economic renaissance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
He slapped steep tariffs on Canadian exports and repeatedly dangled the idea of absorbing Canada into the U.S. In one of his most baited remarks, Trump insisted that the U.S. could no longer quote, subsidize Canada unless it became an American state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Then, on Election Day on Monday, Trump doubled down, hinting in a post on Truth Social that he himself was on the ballot, urging Canadians to vote for a leader who would quote, quadruple their industries with zero tariffs or taxes, contingent of course on Canada agreeing to statehood. Trump wrote, quote, Look how beautiful this landmass would be.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Free access with no border, all positives with no negatives. Hmm. Poiliev quickly fired back, telling Trump to stay out of Canada's elections and declaring that, quote, Canada will always be proud, sovereign and independent, and we will never be the 51st state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Carney, who won his riding or electoral district in Ottawa, is the first prime minister to represent the Canadian capital since the country's first prime minister. Former Liberal deputy prime minister and finance minister Chrystia Freeland, whose resignation back in December triggered Trudeau's departure, also won re-election in her Toronto district.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
As PDB listeners are likely aware, President Trump made securing the U.S.-Mexico border a top priority after returning to office following the influx of a record 8 million undocumented migrants into the U.S. over the last four years of the Biden administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
And when Carney took to the stage early Tuesday morning to deliver his victory speech, he wasted no time sending a pointed message to Washington. He stated, quote, our country will never yield to the U.S., vowing to, quote, represent everyone who calls Canada home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Though the liberals fell short of a full majority, their ability to form a government marks a surprising turnaround for a party widely written off just months ago. Back in January, when Trudeau resigned, the conservatives were crushing the liberals in the polls, leading by as much as 26 points nationally, and many analysts predicted a full collapse of the liberal party.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Former Liberal Justice Minister David Lamedi put it bluntly on CTV, quote, We were dead and buried in December. Now we're going to form a government. But even with the political comeback sealed, Carney now faces a long and brutal road ahead. Canada is still grappling with a worsening cost of living crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
Trump's tariffs remain a sledgehammer over an economy where more than 75% of exports go south to the U.S., And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 29th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, still on the road, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 29th, 2025: Trump Slams The Border Shut In First 100 Days & Canada's Liberal Party Pulls Off Historic Election Comeback
On Monday, border czar Tom Homan touted the administration's success at turning the tide on the previous administration's lax border policies, pointing to a historic drop in illegal crossings, according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, the Pentagon lifts the curtain on its air war in Yemen. Over 800 targets struck from command centers to weapons stockpiles. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, you've heard about tariffs, right? And the trade wars. And you know that all that has thrown the global economy into chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. Well, frankly, you know, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you there's a silver lining that I think most people have missed. And it's also a gold lining, frankly, because what I mean is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Now while the new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. In today's Back of the Brief, the Pentagon has issued their first official update on ongoing military operations against the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen. So, you ask, how are U.S. efforts to diminish the group's capabilities to disrupt global trade going so far? Well, I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
China retaliated by placing a 125% tax on US goods. The impact on China has been swift and significant. Chinese warehouses are reportedly filled with unsent goods, and operations at two of China's most critical ports for trade have slowed to a crawl. Now, Chinese manufacturers are beginning to pause production entirely and shut down factories as they scramble to find new buyers for their goods.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
According to an announcement issued by U.S. Central Command, American airstrikes have hit more than 800 targets since the campaign, dubbed Operation Roughrider, kicked off on March 15th.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Officials said that over the past six weeks, they've taken out multiple command and control facilities, air defense systems, advanced weapons manufacturing facilities, and advanced weapons storage locations, according to a report from The New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The degraded weapons stockpiles include anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as drones, which have all proved critical to the Houthis' relentless attacks on commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Officials for Central Command, which oversees Middle East operations, also said that the military strikes have, quote, "...killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders, including key figures in charge of the terror group's missile and drone operations."
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The report did not disclose the names of any of the deceased Houthi leaders, however, or address reports about the number of civilian casualties. Officials added that Operation Roughrider would "...further disintegrate Houthi capabilities as long as they continue to impede freedom of navigation."
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
It's Tuesday, the 29th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with the ongoing tariffs brouhaha or kerfuffle, although I'm not sure if the Chinese language has a word for kerfuffle or brouhaha. But I do know that the US tariffs are taking a real toll on the Chinese economy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, since Hamas launched its terror attacks on Israel back on 7 October 2023, the Houthis have carried out at least 145 attacks on commercial vessels and 174 attacks on U.S. military ships in the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Their attacks have rattled global trade, driving up shipping costs and disrupting critical supply chains across the world.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Some 70% of global trade traffic is now diverting around South Africa to avoid Houthi attacks near the Suez Canal. Officials with U.S. Central Command said, quote, We will continue to ratchet up the pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
While the Trump administration's campaign has impeded the Houthis' ability to operate and appears to have slowed down the frequency of their attacks, the group has proved resilient, particularly thanks to Iran's ongoing support. On Monday, officials with the Houthis said they were undeterred by U.S. strikes and vowed to continue their attacks in Middle East waters.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 29th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please just reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. Very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Start your test today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
That's according to a report from CNBC. Currently, the most severely impacted factories are those that are making toys, sporting goods, and low-cost dollar store type goods, though every sector is beginning to feel the crunch.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
An analyst with the Shanghai-based consulting firm Tidal Wave Solutions told CNBC, quote, I know several factories that have told half of their employees to go home for a few weeks and stopped most of their production. While not large-scale yet, it is happening in the key export hubs of Yiwu and Dongguan, and there is concern that it will grow.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
He added, "...there is hope that tariffs will be lowered so orders can resume, but in the meantime companies are furloughing employees and idling some production." Financial analysts warn that for small businesses in China with only several million dollars in resources, the massive tariffs are already unbearable and will likely force them to shutter permanently.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
To mitigate their losses, some manufacturers are turning to new markets to try and fill their orders, though they said it will take time to build those up. Major Chinese tech companies on orders from the CCP are also exploring ways to help exporters redirect their goods to the domestic market.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
One company, Baidu, is helping at least several hundred Chinese businesses launch their own domestic e-commerce channels to fill the void left by American consumers. Another e-commerce company, JD.com, has pledged to buy nearly $30 billion worth of Chinese goods intended for export, with the goal of reselling them within China.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
But those efforts offer only limited relief as the nearly $30 billion pledged amount accounts for only 5% of the more than $520 billion worth of goods exported by China to the U.S. last year. In an interesting development, some Chinese firms are reportedly racing to open U.S. factories to bypass the tariffs altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
One small business owner operating in eastern China said he's been scrambling since early April to arrange shipping and obtain U.S. work visas so that he can open a facility in Dallas, Texas. He told the South China Morning Post, quote, The U.S. accounts for nearly 95 percent of our orders. It's not a market we can afford to lose.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Now, Chinese manufacturers covering everything from petrochemicals to printed mugs have reportedly been doing the same in recent weeks in an increasingly desperate attempt to keep their businesses afloat. But the pain may also soon set in for U.S. businesses and consumers. The International Monetary Fund recently slashed growth forecasts for the U.S., China, and most other countries.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Cargo volumes into the U.S. have fallen dramatically, with Bloomberg analysts estimating a roughly 60% decline. Most American businesses will need to restock by mid-May, and major retailers like Target and Walmart have warned customers already to expect higher prices and empty shelves.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Analysts predict major supply shortages that could trigger layoffs across retail sectors as well as trucking and logistics. But there may be some relief in sight. As we recently discussed, reports emerged last week that China has quietly granted some American imports exemptions from its 125% tariffs and is considering lifting other levies on items critical to certain Chinese industries.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The exemptions reportedly cover aspects of the aviation, pharmaceutical, semiconductor, and industrial chemicals sectors. Still, Treasury Secretary Scott Besson said Monday that while those exemptions showed encouraging progress, it's up to China to take more meaningful steps to de-escalate the trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Trump, meanwhile, relented somewhat from his hardline stance against China last week, saying he planned to be, quote, very nice to the communist regime and that he was confident the U.S. and China would soon reach a, quote, fair deal. But on Monday, Chinese officials once again denied that any official talks were taking place and accused the U.S. of using trade to bully the world.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Chinese factories are reportedly shutting down production lines and hunting for new customers as orders dry up. We'll have those details. Later in the show, the world's worst-kept secret is now official. North Korean soldiers are on the battlefield alongside Russian troops. I know, shocking. With President Putin offering his appreciation for their efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
All right, coming up after the break, North Korean troops are officially fighting for Russia. Putin and Kim Jong-un officially acknowledged what the entire world already knew. And the Trump administration is reportedly quietly laying the groundwork for new talks with Kim Jong-un. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, the temps have warmed up, the cover's off the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
It's grilling season, ladies and gentlemen, and I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to put on that grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. Generations of family raising high-quality beef in the great state of Texas. Of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales is not some corporate meat factory, some faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
It is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman or no mystery with Tri-Tales. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
As we say—hey, come on, you can say it with me— Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed, and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged, and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's Bamboo Sheet Set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker compound, and it is absolutely true. Designed to restore, refresh, and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth Risk-Free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
For the first time, North Korea has officially confirmed that it deployed troops to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Just another example of the bromance between Pyongyang and Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
In a report issued by state-run KCNA, North Korea's military claimed its soldiers helped Russian forces, quote, completely liberate the western Kursk border region, acting under a direct order from Kim Jong-un.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The deployment, KCNA said, was carried out under the terms of a mutual defense treaty signed by Kim and Russian President Putin in June of last year, pledging joint support in the event of, quote, aggression against either nation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Plus, inside the Trump administration's discreet efforts to restart talks with North Korea, including the possibility of another face-to-face meeting with Kim Jong-un. And in today's Back of the Brief, the Pentagon is releasing new details about the extent of the US military's air campaign in Yemen, hammering more than 800 targets in just six weeks. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia's front lines was, well, frankly, no secret, with South Korean and Western intelligence agencies long reporting that Pyongyang had dispatched thousands of soldiers to support Russia's war effort just last fall. But this does mark the first time that North Korea has officially fessed up to its involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Kim himself weighed in, according to KCNA, calling the troops, quote, heroes and representatives of the honor of the motherland, framing the mission as a historic display of loyalty and sacrifice.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The state-run report went further, hailing the fighting in Kursk as proof of a, quote, alliance and brotherhood between the two nations and promising that the, quote, friendship proven by blood would continue to deepen. Certainly, it's been proven by the blood of the North Korean soldiers that have reportedly been cannon fodder for counteroffensives in the Kursk region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Notably absent from the triumphant tone was any mention of what will happen to the North Korean soldiers afterward or whether they'll ever return home. U.S. officials reacting to the confirmation said Pyongyang must now bear responsibility for helping to prolong the war. Meanwhile, the human cost of North Korea's intervention has been, well, staggering.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Western officials told the BBC that at least 1,000 North Korean troops out of roughly 11,000 deployed have been killed over the past three months.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Military experts say North Korea dispatched units from what it calls its Storm Corps, its so-called elite force, which frankly is elite in name only, operating under outdated Soviet-era tactics and outfitted with obsolete gear.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
A former British Army tank commander was blunt in his assessment earlier this year, describing them as, quote, barely trained troops led by Russian officers who they don't understand. In other words, as mentioned, cannon fodder. Still, numbers do matter.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Ukraine's top military commander warned that the sheer size of the North Korean force, combined with aggressive Soviet-style tactics aimed at overwhelming defenses, has created serious pressure on the front lines. Ukraine does continue to contest Russia's claim, though, of full control over the Kursk region. In Moscow, the Kremlin had its own official praise.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
In a formal statement on Monday, Putin expressed, quote, deep gratitude to North Korea for its assistance. Speaking through a state-run news agency, Putin praised the deployment as an act of, quote, solidarity, justice, and genuine camaraderie, personally thanking, quote, comrade Kim Jong-un and lauding the, quote, leadership and people of North Korea for their contribution.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The confirmation of North Korean boots on the ground from Pyongyang marks a milestone in the evolving relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang, one that's been reshaping the battlefield realities in Ukraine. Okay, shifting to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The Trump administration has begun quietly evaluating options to restart dialogue with North Korea amid mounting concerns over the regime's accelerating nuclear advancements. According to a senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
official and three sources familiar with the matter, while nothing is imminent, President Trump has made it clear that he's eager to reconnect with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, potentially face-to-face. Behind the scenes, his national security team is laying the groundwork for a possible diplomatic reboot. But for now, North Korea sits relatively low on Trump's immediate foreign policy agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Between the escalating tariff war with China, the conflict between Israel and Hamas, and ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran, well, there's little bandwidth left for little Rocket Man. Still, Trump officials admit the regime's nuclear progress over the past four years under the Biden administration has made renewed engagement not just desirable, but urgent.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Behind closed doors, administration officials have been huddling with think tank experts, current officials, and former diplomats working to map out various scenarios for a new Trump-Kim meeting.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
The State Department has engaged with outside experts, with one major topic on the table being the identification of new North Korean interlocutors, given that nearly every regime official who handled diplomacy with Washington during Trump's first term has since been purged or sent for re-education. That sounds pleasant.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
We'll begin with the ongoing fallout from the US-China trade war, which appears to be rapidly destabilizing the communist regime's export-dependent economy. As you likely know by now, the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, and Washington are locked in a bitter trade dispute triggered by President Trump's imposition of a 145% tariff on most of China's exports.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
In a sign of preliminary diplomatic activity, the Swedish ambassador to North Korea, who represents U.S. interests in Pyongyang, visited Washington last week for consultations. A source familiar with the visit said the meeting centered on taking the temperature regarding possible re-engagement with North Korea. The senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
official told Axios, "...we are convening agencies to understand where the North Koreans are today. We're evaluating, diagnosing, and talking about potential avenues." Meanwhile, Trump's personal interest in Kim hasn't exactly cooled.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
A senior fellow at the American think tank Brookings Institute pointed to Trump's, quote, many positive statements about Kim over the past six months as a clear signal that the president remains keen to rekindle contact. And according to a former senior U.S. official, it wouldn't take much to jumpstart talks. A single letter from Kim, they said, could trigger rapid movement toward a new summit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
But even if dialogue resumes, the playing field, well, looks very different this time around. While previous negotiations aimed at full denuclearization, multiple sources say that Kim is now deeply entrenched and unlikely to even entertain giving up his nuclear arsenal. North Korea's nuclear status is now enshrined in its constitution and woven into the Kim family legacy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
Now, if talks shift toward arms control or even de facto recognition of North Korea as a nuclear weapon state, the regime might be more willing to engage. But that shift would come at a steep price. Such an acknowledgement could trigger deep unease among regional U.S. allies like South Korea and Japan, who could be pushed closer toward developing their own nuclear deterrence.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
And this time, Trump's team knows that they're negotiating from a weaker hand. North Korea's capabilities have surged. China, once pivotal in applying pressure on Pyongyang in Trump's first administration, well, they've shown little interest in playing ball this time. And the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea have further realigned the playing field. The senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 29th, 2025: Factories Shutting Down In China As Tariff War Bites & North Korea’s Dirty Secret Confirmed
official admitted, quote, we're in a much worse situation today, placing the blame squarely on the Biden administration for allowing North Korea's nuclear program to advance unchecked. While Trump appears open to reigniting diplomacy, this time, any path forward will be steeper, riskier, and more uncertain than the history-making summits of his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
It's Tuesday, 28 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, we'll begin at the US southern border, where US Border Patrol agents came under fire on Monday from suspected members of a Mexican drug cartel as a group of migrants attempted to enter the US illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The footage reportedly showed the four men walking along a riverbank and seeking cover from the drone in shrubs. Several were seen repeatedly aiming their weapons directly at the drone. While authorities were unable to apprehend the gunmen, no injuries were reported to the border agents.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The incident comes as the Trump administration marches forward with their efforts to curb illegal immigration and fortify the southern border. Now, as we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Trump administration has already shut down all crossings along the US-Mexico border, effectively suspending access for migrants seeking asylum in the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Refugee and parole admissions have also been suspended, and Trump has ended the Biden-era catch-and-release policy that allowed apprehended illegal migrants to go free inside US borders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Border authorities have also been granted expanded enforcement powers under a process called, quote, expedited removal, which allows the deportation without a court hearing of any migrant who can't prove that they've been in the U.S. for longer than two years. Collectively, the aggressive policies are already having a significant effect on illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
According to an analysis by Fox News, illegal migrant encounters have dropped by 35% over the first week of the Trump administration when compared to the final days of the Biden administration. Meanwhile, officials with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, revealed Monday that they've already arrested at least 3,552 migrants living illegally in the U.S., including roughly 1,179 on Monday alone. The targeted arrests are currently unfolding in sanctuary cities across America, with authorities prioritizing illegal migrants with a criminal record or who have been deemed a potential threat to public safety.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Coming up, President Trump signed an executive order Monday ordering the Pentagon to begin building a new comprehensive air defense system for the U.S. that's modeled after Israel's Iron Dome system. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Later in this afternoon's episode, we'll discuss President Trump's plans to build a new comprehensive air defense system for the U.S., modeled after Israel's Iron Dome system. But first, our afternoon spotlight. With President Trump's crackdown on the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. On Monday evening, President Trump signed an executive order directing the Pentagon to begin the immediate development of an Iron Dome-style missile defense system.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The system modeled after Israel's successful Iron Dome, which, of course, has been instrumental during its conflicts with Iran-backed proxies and in its direct engagements with Iran, is designed to counter a range of threats, from ballistic to hypersonic to cruise missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The system development plans to incorporate space-based and other intercept technologies, leveraging recent advances in missile defense capabilities. While the US has never faced a missile attack of this nature, the White House argues that the threat has been looming for decades. Citing the 2002 US withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the evolving capabilities of adversaries,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The Trump administration framed the initiative as long overdue, as the executive order states, quote, official U.S. homeland missile defense policy has remained only to stay ahead of rogue nation threats and accidental or unauthorized missile launches, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Trump's push for an American Iron Dome system builds on promises made during his 2024 campaign, where he pledged to create a, quote, state-of-the-art missile defense shield made in the USA.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
Addressing the 2025 House Republican members' conference dinner in Florida on Monday, Trump emphasized the urgency of the endeavor, declaring, quote, we protect other countries, but we don't protect ourselves, end quote. This marks a dramatic pivot for U.S. defense priorities. Despite providing over $2.6 billion in funding for Israel's Iron Dome since 2011, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
has not pursued a similar system domestically until now. Trump's directive evokes comparisons to President Ronald Reagan's Cold War-era strategic defense initiative, commonly known as Star Wars. While Reagan's program failed due to technological limitations, Trump asserts that advances in, quote, phenomenal technology, as demonstrated by Israel's system, now make a comparable U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
southern border in full swing, the drug cartels that helped facilitate the migration crisis have started violently lashing out at American border agents. On Monday, four suspected members of a Mexican cartel were captured on video opening fire on U.S. Border Patrol agents who were attempting to stop a group of migrants from entering the U.S. illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
defense system feasible. During his campaign, Trump vowed that by next term, we'll build a great iron dome over our country. And he framed the project as both a national security imperative and an opportunity to bolster domestic manufacturing. The timing of the executive order, coinciding with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's first day on the job,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
underscores the Trump administration's commitment to modernizing military capabilities in line with the Republican Party's 2024 platform to, quote, ensure our military is the most modern, lethal, and powerful force in the world, end quote. While ambitious in scope, the executive order does leave critical details unanswered, including budgetary constraints and project timelines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
But despite these uncertainties, Trump's executive order does represent a clear effort to reshape the nation's defense posture. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 28 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
And don't forget, not that I'd let you, but if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief, by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The incident unfolded in broad daylight around 1.30 p.m. along the southern border near Fronten Island, Texas, which is unofficially known as Cartel Island. That's due to the high level of criminal activity seen in the area. And that's according to a report from Fox News. The suspected cartel members opened fire just as a group of migrants attempted to cross the Rio Grande.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 28th, 2025: Mexican Cartel Gunmen Open Fire On Border Agents & Trump Orders Pentagon To Build US 'Iron Dome'
The migrants were reportedly stopped and border agents promptly returned fire on the cartel members, sending the heavily armed gunmen running for cover. The agents subsequently deployed a drone to track the four gunmen, who officials said were spotted, quote, fleeing Mexico due to a military presence and seeking refuge on an island between the US and Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
In today's back of the brief, we've got some good news for American service members who were given the boot from the military for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Under an executive order signed by President Trump on Monday, all American troops dismissed by the Pentagon over the vaccine will be immediately reinstated with full back pay and benefits.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The order also requires that those impacted by the vaccine mandate are restored to their prior rank. That's according to a report from Fox News. The action makes good on a key campaign promise from Trump, who had long vowed to rehire the axed service members and offer them an apology on behalf of the government, arguing that they had been, quote, unjustly expelled.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Defense Secretary, newly confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, made the same pledge during his recent confirmation hearing, saying that he stood by Trump's promise. For context, the U.S. Armed Forces instituted a vaccine mandate for all military personnel in August of 2021 under the orders of then President Joe Biden.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
While most of the EU's 27 member countries were on board with the sanctions renewal, there were concerns that they could lapse before the January 31st renewal deadline over protests by Hungary, according to a report from Reuters. As a reminder, under EU regulations, all 27 member countries must unanimously vote to renew these restrictions every six months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
While the vast majority of active duty service members received the vaccine, some 8,400 troops were forced out of the military for refusing to take the shot. The mandate was dropped in January 2023, but those who previously refused were not reinstated. Instead, the Biden administration told those impacted by the mandate to reapply for service. Oh, that's nice.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Though only 43 of the more than 8,000 affected troops elected to return to service under President Biden's leadership. The issue turned into a major headache for the Biden administration and became a rallying point for Republicans fed up with government overreach linked to the pandemic.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Last year, more than 200 active and retired service members signed an open letter demanding that the Biden administration hold U.S. military leaders accountable for the vaccine mandate, arguing that it caused irreparable harm to service members and their families. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 28 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Now, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, well, that's a simple thing to do. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
It's Tuesday, 28 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we're starting in Moscow and some bad news for President Vladimir Putin as the European Union extends its sanctions against Russia, raising fresh questions about the cracks that appear to be forming in Russia's economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
But Hungarian leaders have been seeking assurances regarding their energy security ever since the war in Ukraine broke out. And by broke out, I mean when Vladimir Putin's military invaded and were blocking the latest sanctions renewal talks in an attempt to leverage energy concessions from Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Specifically, Hungary wanted EU leadership to persuade Ukraine to resume gas transits from Russia to Europe, claiming that EU sanctions on Russia had caused some $20 billion in financial damage to the Hungarian economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who, by the way, maintains a close relationship with Putin, had also requested that the EU consult with the Trump administration on the sanctions before moving forward, arguing it was time for a sanctions-free relationship between Europe and Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
But President Trump, who has himself threatened the Putin regime with fresh sanctions over the war in Ukraine, did not back the Hungarian position, leaving Orban with little room to maneuver. Still, EU leadership offered an olive branch to Hungary, issuing a statement on Monday pledging to continue conversations on moving oil through Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The statement, which was reviewed by Reuters, said the EU's executive body was ready to involve Hungary and Slovakia in the process, and came after Ukrainian President Zelensky said that he was willing to sign a contract to move gas from Azerbaijan to Europe using Ukraine's existing pipeline infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The official pledge from the EU was enough to move the needle with Hungary, allowing the sanctions renewal to proceed. Kajikhalas, the EU's foreign policy chief, underscored the importance of maintaining maximum economic pressure on Russia, stating, "...this will continue to deprive Moscow of revenues to finance its war. Russia needs to pay for the damage that they are causing."
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Indeed, it's hard to overstate the economic decline that the war in Ukraine has caused in Russia. The Putin regime is currently grappling with persistently high inflation, labor shortages, and interest rates that are sitting at an historic high of 21%.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Their manufacturing and services sectors are also struggling to stay afloat as costs skyrocket and consumer demand softens due to the soaring inflation, which was measured, frankly, at 9.5% last year. The sanctions from Europe and the U.S. have further strained Moscow's finances, isolating them from critical foreign markets. Russian exports to the U.S., for example, have
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
dropped from $29.6 billion in 2021 to just $2.9 billion in 2024. Moscow is now hemorrhaging cash just to keep their war effort going, spending a record 16.3 trillion rubles, or around $148 billion, on the war effort in 2024. Now, that's a staggering figure, representing more than 8% of Russia's GDP and 41% of its total budget.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
According to Kremlin sources that spoke to Reuters, these metrics have Putin feeling anxious about the Russian economy's long-term prospects. An angered Putin reportedly scolded senior economic officials and Russian business leaders during a meeting in December over declines in private investment. Well, he certainly wouldn't want to have to blame his own wartime adventurism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
But business leaders themselves are growing frustrated with the Putin regime over high interest rates. According to the sources, there is now a growing band of Russian elites who are pushing for Putin to seek a negotiated settlement to the war to alleviate their economic troubles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Now, we should note that the Kremlin has tried to paint a rosy picture of the Russian economy, of course they have, citing robust exports of oil, gas, and minerals despite Western sanctions, as well as increases in their budget revenues as compared to 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
But international economists have questioned the Kremlin's numbers, saying the real story, including true GDP growth and inflation rates, is likely being suppressed by the Kremlin's propaganda machine to support their narrative that the Russian economy is stable. Well, I for one am shocked that Putin might be fudging the numbers.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Later in the show, we'll return to the Middle East, where Hamas has announced that eight of the remaining 26 hostages set to be released as part of the ongoing ceasefire are dead. Plus, President Trump is reportedly considering an asylum deal with El Salvador, allowing the U.S. to deport migrants there, even if they're not Salvadorans.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
He seems like, I don't know, such a transparent, honest sort of despot. Now, what this means for potential peace negotiations is, of course, anyone's guess, but the financial walls do appear to be closing in on Putin. President Trump has said arrangements are currently underway to set up a meeting with Putin, though a timetable remains unclear. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Coming up after the break, Hamas announces the tragic deaths of eight hostages set to be released. And President Trump eyes an asylum deal with El Salvador that could send non-Salvadoran migrants there. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Hamas has, for the first time, confirmed that eight of the 26 Israeli hostages set for release under the first phase of the ongoing ceasefire agreement, well, are deceased. According to a spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Hamas's disclosure aligns with Israeli intelligence assessments.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Under the first phase of the ceasefire, scheduled to conclude in early March, Hamas is to release 33 Israeli hostages, while Israel will free nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Subsequent ceasefire negotiations are expected to address the release of remaining hostages and establish broader conditions for a lasting peace contingent on the withdrawal, of course, of IDF forces from Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
As we've been tracking on the PDB, the truce remains tenuous and has already been tested. Over the weekend, Israel postponed the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating the agreement by withholding the release of a high-priority female civilian hostage.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Mediation efforts led by Qatar resolve that standoff, resulting in the release of the woman and two other hostages by Friday, with three additional captives freed on Saturday. As of now, thousands of displaced Palestinians are returning to northern Gaza via the Netzarim corridor.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
However, among those held still captive is Kafir Bibas, a two-year-old kidnapped just shy of turning nine months old during Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks. His case has captured international attention. While all other child hostages were released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners during a one-week ceasefire in November 2023, the Bibas family never emerged from Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
And finally, in today's back of the brief, the president fulfills a campaign promise with a new executive order reinstating service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Hamas said in a statement that the toddler, along with his mother and five-year-old brother, perished in an Israeli airstrike. Despite the report from Hamas, Israelis hold out hope for the family's safe return. As the ceasefire unfolds, another contentious issue emerged.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
President Trump's proposal to relocate Gaza's displaced population, an estimated one and a half million people, to Egypt and Jordan. As we covered on Monday's PDB, Trump described the plan as a potential temporary or long-term solution to address Gaza's humanitarian crisis, stating, quote, we just clean out that whole thing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Now, Trump claims he's pressed both Jordan's king and Egypt's president to accommodate large numbers of Palestinian refugees, a move that he frames as essential, given over 90% of decimation to Gaza's housing infrastructure. However, Trump's plan faces resistance, as you might expect. Egypt and Jordan worry that Israel would never allow the Palestinians to return to Gaza if they are made to leave.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Currently, Jordan houses more than 2 million Palestinian refugees. Meanwhile, Egypt remains skeptical about the security implications of transferring Palestinians to the Sinai Peninsula, which borders Gaza, as a risk of expanding the conflict. Despite the resistance, Trump, however, has leverage over Jordan. The debt strapped U.S. ally relies heavily on American foreign aid.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Jordan received over $1.6 billion in 2023, much of it for security forces and budget support. As we recently reported on the PDB, the State Department froze all foreign aid worldwide, leaving just military assistance to Israel and Egypt untouched. This action could potentially be bargaining leverage to pressure Jordan into compliance to accept Palestinian refugees in return for U.S. aid.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Trump's proposal has also drawn significant international and domestic backlash. Germany, along with other EU nations, rejected the idea, asserting that Gaza's population, quote, must not be expelled. European Arab leaders emphasized the enduring instability in Gaza stems from the lack of viable political resolution. Well, there's a statement of the obvious. Even Trump's allies appear divided.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham dismissed the relocation plan as impractical, urging continued dialogue with Middle Eastern leaders to identify feasible alternatives. As the ceasefire progresses and debates over Gaza's future intensify, the stakes for regional stability remain high.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
European leaders are putting the financial screws to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, who is reportedly growing increasingly concerned over the fragile state of Russia's wartime economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Both the success of the hostage exchanges and the broader resolution of Gaza's political crisis are pivotal to securing a durable resolution to the decades-long conflict, if one actually exists. Okay, turning to U.S. domestic issues. The Trump administration is reportedly negotiating a safe third country agreement with the government of El Salvador.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The agreement would reroute asylum seekers to the Central American nation as part of President Trump's promised crackdown on illegal immigration. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the policy would enable U.S. immigration officials to deport migrants regardless of their country of origin to El Salvador, where they would be required to seek asylum instead of in the United States.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
This marks a revival of Trump's earlier effort to broker a similar deal during his first term with Guatemala, an initiative that ultimately collapsed and was rescinded under then-President Biden. Now, this resurgent plan underscores Trump's determined stance on restricting immigration and fortifying border security through aggressive measures.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Central to the success of this initiative is the cooperation of the Salvadoran president, Nayib Bukhali, a leader whose hardline anti-gang measures, including mass incarceration campaigns targeting criminal groups like MS-13, earned him both widespread acclaim and scrutiny.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The sources confirmed Trump and Bukele discussed bolstering cooperation on immigration enforcement and tackling transnational criminal networks during a recent phone call. Among their focal points was Venezuela's Trendro Agua gang, or the TDA. The gang captured national headlines last year, becoming notorious for its extortion, smuggling, and violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The group has been a growing concern for the Trump administration, which has sought to designate TDA as a terrorist organization. As we previously reported on the PDB, Trump's directive to begin the designation process came just hours after his inauguration, signaling his intent to escalate efforts to dismantle the gang's U.S. web of operations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
The European Union voted Monday to renew its wide-ranging sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine, keeping existing sector-based bans on trade with Moscow intact, while also ensuring that more than $200 billion worth of seized Kremlin assets remain frozen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has pledged to prioritize curbing mass migration, is slated to visit El Salvador in early February as part of a broader Latin American tour aimed at solidifying the agreement and other immigration initiatives. Rubio's visit, set to begin later this week, underscores the importance of Bukele's government as a strategic ally in Trump's immigration agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
These efforts are part of a larger Trump administration strategy to tighten U.S. borders through a combination of physical and policy barriers. The administration has already reinstated the, quote, remain in Mexico policy, which requires asylum claimants to remain outside the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
while their cases are reviewed, expanded border agents' authority to conduct rapid deportations, and deployed military planes to facilitate migrant removals. Notably, active duty troops have been sent to construct additional barriers along the border, and Trump's emergency declaration has unlocked substantial resources to bolster enforcement capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
If implemented, the safe third country agreement would add another layer to Trump's immigration overhaul, effectively externalizing asylum responsibilities to partner nations. Yet the plan is not without hurdles, including potential legal challenges and diplomatic resistance. Whether this initiative will actually withstand scrutiny at home and abroad, well, that remains uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
January 28th, 2025: Is Russia’s Economy Cracking? & Hamas Hostage Tragedy
But for now, the Trump administration appears to be standing firm in its push to reshape the U.S. immigration landscape. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, the president signs an executive order to reinstate service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, fulfilling a key campaign promise. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
In a post to Truth Social, Trump said von der Leyen called him personally to request the delay, writing, quote, He added that she was ready to begin talks, quote, Now, speaking to reporters, Trump said von der Leyen made clear that she wanted, quote, serious negotiations. Trump continued, quote, July 9th was the date she requested and I agreed to do that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
She said we will see if we can work something out, end quote. Now, von der Leyen, for her part, confirmed the outreach in a post to X, calling it, quote, a good call, and said Europe was, quote, ready to advance talks swiftly and decisively. A European Commission spokeswoman added Monday that both sides had agreed to fast-track negotiations and stay in close contact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Now, it's a diplomatic breather, which of course is, well, not the same as a trade deal. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump had set a 1st of June deadline for the sweeping tariffs, citing what he called years of lopsided trade policy, regulatory hostility, and structural imbalances favoring Brussels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
The president's warning of a 50% across the board penalty was aimed at bringing Brussels quickly to the table. In previous Truth Social posts, Trump accused the EU of manipulating monetary policy, imposing punitive taxes on American companies, and using its value-added tax structure to tilt trade unfairly. The president pegged the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
trade deficit with the EU bloc at roughly $250 billion a year, calling it, quote, totally unacceptable, and warned that without serious reform, a blunt force tariff was the only viable countermeasure. The warning came just days after a May 18 trilateral meeting between Vice President J.D. Vance, von der Leyen, and the Italian Prime Minister, where trade talks reportedly broke down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Administration officials now say the tariff threat served as a pressure tactic, an unmistakable message to Brussels to bring more urgency to the negotiating table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Treasury Secretary Scott Besson drove that point home in an interview with Fox News, stating, quote, "...the EU has a collective action problem," adding that it's 27 countries being represented by one group in Brussels, and some of the feedback we've been getting, he said, is that the underlying countries don't even know what the EU is negotiating on their behalf.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And while Trump has long criticized the EU as a structure designed to, quote, take advantage of the U.S., the recent flurry of contact between Washington and Brussels, well, signals at least the potential for a reset. Now, whether those talks yield a breakthrough or simply postpone a trade war by six weeks, well, of course, that remains to be seen. Coming up next, Trump calls Putin, quote, crazy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And now he's eyeing new sanctions. So the question is, is Washington finally getting serious about punishing Moscow? I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, there's an important global summit coming up. It's of BRICS nations, and it's going to be held in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
The bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes Russia and China and Iran, India, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling their effort the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And while the transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself... How can you help protect your hard earned dollar savings? Well, let me suggest that you check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Birch Gold can help you move your hard earned dollar savings into a tax sheltered IRA in precious metals. Just claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. It's that simple. With an A-plus rating, with a better business bureau, and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. Mike Baker here. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to report that it's now officially grilling season. That's right. Time to fire up the grill. And look, if your grill could talk, it would probably say something like, hey, maybe stop throwing supermarket mystery meat on me. Right. That's probably what it would say.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
That's why I'm getting my beef from Tri-Tales Beef. Let me tell you about this company. Tri-Tales Beef is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's a family-run. It's not some big-box meat factory. And their business is all about delivering pasture-raised, delicious, grain-finished black Angus beef right to your front door. And right now, for the Memorial Day...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
They're knocking $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. And when you head over to trybeef.com slash pdb, well, they'll toss in two free flat iron steaks. No strings, no middlemen, just delicious cuts of beef delivered right to your door. So stock up the freezer, get ready to grill like you mean it, and treat your grill and your taste buds with a little respect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In the latest sign of deepening tensions between Washington and Moscow, sources inside the White House are now saying that President Trump is seriously considering a new round of sanctions against Russia. That would mark a significant shift, of course, after months of hesitation and reluctance to up the pressure on the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
It's Tuesday, the 27th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start today's show with a tactical pause from President Trump. He's hit the brakes on his 50% tariff threat against Europe after a personal call from European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Details on the proposed sanctions are still murky. According to reporting in the Wall Street Journal, the measures likely wouldn't target that would not target Russia's banking sector. But other penalties are being discussed, meant to pressure Putin into agreeing to a ceasefire deal that Ukraine and its allies have long supported.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
That proposal would halt fighting for 30 days, and Russia, up to this point, has rejected it consistently. Trump's apparent change in tone comes after a weekend of massive Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine. Attacks were launched Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night, killing at least 29 people and wounding dozens more, including civilians in Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
As we reported on Monday, the president blasted Putin this past weekend, writing on Truth Social that the Russian president has, quote, gone absolutely crazy. He went on to accuse Putin of needlessly killing a lot of people. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov fired back, accusing President Trump of, quote, emotional overload.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Still, if Trump decides to move forward with sanctions, there's no shortage of support in Congress. A bipartisan bill co-sponsored by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democrat Richard Blumenthal would slap a 500% tariff on goods imported from any country that buys Russian oil, gas, uranium, or other products. That bill already has 81 co-sponsors in the Senate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
On the House side, the pressure is also building. Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon wrote on X, Peace talks are having zero effect on Putin. His goal is to dominate Ukraine and he won't stop until he realizes he cannot win. The U.S. and allies must arm Ukraine to the teeth, sanction Russia to the max, and confiscate the $300 billion in overseas Russian assets."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And on that point, the point of arming Ukraine, the Europeans may be gearing up to take matters into their own hands. With President Trump signaling that he may scale back direct U.S. involvement in the war, multiple European nations are reportedly preparing to ramp up arms purchases from American defense contractors. According to Bloomberg, the working theory is simple. If Trump won't send U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
weapons to Ukraine, Europe will. But there's one problem. Europe currently lacks the stockpiles and production capacity to sustain Ukraine's war effort on its own. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 27th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
And if you get the chance, check out our YouTube channel. It's at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
Later in the show, a sign of deepening tensions between Washington and Moscow as reports emerge that Trump is now seriously considering sanctions against Russia after months of hesitation and reluctance. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 27th, 2025: Trump Puts EU Tariffs On Hold & Eyes Sanctions On Putin
In a temporary reprieve from trade tensions, President Trump has granted a six-week pushback on his proposed 50% tariff on all European Union imports to July, following a call from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The shipyard's manager wasn't detained, but was reportedly hauled in for questioning. Now, this is a rare public acknowledgement of military failure from Pyongyang, one that analysts say underscores how seriously Kim is taking his naval expansion program. Just last month, the regime celebrated the successful launch of its first destroyer, calling it a technological breakthrough.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
That vessel is reportedly capable of carrying modern and possibly nuclear missiles. South Korean officials believe Russian assistance likely played a role in its construction. And when they say likely, they mean, yes, Russian assistance played a role in its construction. For Kim, these warships are, well, frankly, more than just hardware.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
They're propaganda tools meant to showcase North Korea's growing military might and its defiance of the U.S. and regional allies. So, when one of them ends up listing in the harbor like a wounded whale, well, somebody's got to fall on their sword, or a lot of people. Still, North Korea claims the damage isn't serious. State media insists the destroyer will be repaired in just 10 days.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
But outside observers are skeptical, oh, calling that timeline overly optimistic, if not outright propaganda. Either way, one thing's clear. In a country where appearances are everything, this wasn't just a naval failure. It was seen as a personal slight, an insult to little Rocket Man. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 27th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
It's Tuesday, the 27th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We begin in Gaza, where Hamas just pulled a diplomatic sleight of hand, announcing support for a ceasefire proposal that the U.S. never actually made. We'll break it down.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
There's a problem. Hamas was trying to pull off, what do they call it in Arabic? The old razzle dazzle, or maybe that's Farsi. I'm not sure. As it turns out, the deal that Hamas said it was agreeing to, well, never existed. Shortly after Hamas made its announcement, Witkoff responded publicly and forcefully.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
In a statement to Axios, he said, quote, What I have seen from Hamas is disappointing and completely unacceptable. An unnamed Israeli official quoted by Reuters was even more blunt, saying, quote, No responsible government could accept such an agreement. So you say to yourself, what's going on here? And, in fact, is the old razzle-dazzle how they say it in Arabic.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Some analysts believe this was a deliberate move by Hamas, an attempt to present themselves as reasonable negotiators while putting public pressure on Israel and the U.S. It also may have been, frankly, a stalling tactic. As we reported yesterday, Israel's ground invasion is escalating rapidly. Every regular army infantry and armored brigade has now been deployed inside Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
We're also learning more about the Israeli military's long-term objectives in the enclave. On Sunday, Israeli commanders announced a plan to take control of 75% of the Gaza Strip within the next two months. The goal is to corner Hamas into just a sliver of the territory, about a quarter of the Gaza Strip, and eventually eliminate the group's ability to operate altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
As that military plan unfolds, Israel is simultaneously rolling out a new US-backed aid distribution system inside Gaza. According to Israeli officials, the new system will involve four aid complexes, three in southern Gaza and one in the center, where hundreds of American contractors will assist in distributing supplies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Under the plan, each Palestinian family would be required to send a representative to one of the aid centers every five days to receive assistance. But the system is, as you might imagine, already drawing criticism. The UN, well, they're never shy about criticizing anything, and other international aid groups have refused to participate.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Hmm, that doesn't sound very humanitarian, arguing that the plan is too dangerous. They say it forces civilians to travel through a war zone for food and that it compromises their neutrality since Israel is controlling the aid. The rollout comes after a months-long blockade that led to severe shortages of food, fuel, and medicine in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
That blockade has led to widespread condemnation of Israel, including by some of its European allies, some of which are calling for sanctions against the Netanyahu government. All right, coming up after the break, new revelations about the UK quietly funding Hamas through UNICEF, and a battlefield boost for Ukraine as Western allies lift restrictions on strikes inside Russia. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, you may have heard about this upcoming summit, but it's important and it's worth paying attention to. In July, there's going to be a global summit of the BRICS nations, and it's going to be held in Rio de Janeiro, which sounds very posh, doesn't it?
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The bloc of emerging superpowers, including China and Russia, India and Iran, while they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, of course, bringing down the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
And while this transition won't happen overnight, well, it does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, well, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? I'd like to suggest one thing you could do is visit with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Later in the show, a new investigation reveals that the British government may have been quietly funneling millions to Hamas through, well, UNICEF. Plus, a big win for Ukraine. Germany, France, the UK, and the US are all giving Kyiv the green light to strike deeper inside Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the BDB. In a bombshell Israeli news report, backed by internal documents from the UK, the British government has knowingly funneled millions in aid to Hamas-controlled ministries in Gaza through UNICEF. On Saturday, Israel's Channel 12 revealed that the UK is not only a top source of private donations flowing to Hamas,
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
through Muslim charities, but has also channeled millions in taxpayer-funded aid through UNICEF, despite the agency's direct partnerships with Hamas-run ministries in Gaza. The cornerstone of the report is a classified 2022 document from the British Consulate General in Jerusalem titled, UK Humanitarian Support in the Occupied Palestinian Territories for Fiscal Years 2022 to 2026.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
In it, the UK Foreign Office acknowledges the reputational risks of partnering with Hamas-controlled ministries. Yet, as Watchdog Group NGO Monitor notes, funding approvals continued all the same. The report goes further, signaling out London as what Israeli defense officials now call, quote, Hamas's financial capital in the West.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
One Channel 12 journalist put it even more starkly, stating, quote, Britain is one of the three leading countries in the world, the other two being Muslim countries, in the volume of donations flowing from it to Hamas. The journalist added that, quote, more than a quarter of non-state funding for the terrorist organization comes from the British Isles.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
At the heart of the controversy is UNICEF's cooperation with Gaza's Ministry of Social Development, known as MOSD, because, of course, we all love an acronym, which at the time was headed by senior Hamas official Ramzi Hamad. Hamad fled to Lebanon just weeks before the 7 October terror attack, how brave of him, and later issued a public defense of the attack.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
By October the following year, he was openly calling for Israel's annihilation. Anne Hertzberg, legal advisor for NGO Monitor, told Channel 12 that UK government funds were routed through UNICEF, which then worked directly with MOSD.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
She stated, quote, the British government is giving millions of pounds to the UN and especially to UNICEF, which works with the Ministry of Social Development in Gaza. She, of course, noted that the ministry is controlled by Hamas. Despite the UK's stated awareness of these ties, funding to UNICEF surged.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
And in today's Back of the Brief, heads are starting to roll, we knew they would, in North Korea after Kim Jong-un's prized new warship failed to launch in spectacular fashion. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll start things off today with a bit of a confusing situation out of the Middle East, which of course means business as usual.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Hertzberg pointed out that the UK gave nearly 5 million pounds to UNICEF in 2023 and over 23 million in 2024. But when asked how much of that money was funneled into MOSD linked programs, she conceded, quote, Well, we're not sure because it's not fully transparent. Oh, well, that's because Hamas controls those funds.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The British Embassy in Israel responded with a strongly worded statement on X, calling the Channel 12 investigation, quote, irresponsible. And irresponsible? Well, what might be irresponsible is giving tens of millions to Hamas. I don't know. It's just me being churlish. and claiming that, quote, the UK government has never funded Hamas or affiliated ministries.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
But Hertzberg rejected the rebuttal outright, saying, quote, instead of calling it irresponsible, give us information. Her organization's report concluded that British officials, quote, appear more concerned about the UK's image than about the dangerous implications of lax counterterror financial policy. NGO Monitor also flagged a broader pattern of opacity from the UK Foreign Office.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
And yes, I did say opacity. Is it opacity? I don't know. In 2021, the department reportedly refused to comply with a Freedom of Information request regarding funding for the Norwegian Refugee Council. It's an Oslo-based NGO that works closely with the MOSD and has drawn sharp criticism in Israel for what some describe as legal activism masquerading as humanitarian aid.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Hertzberg characterized the situation as a textbook failure of international aid oversight. She added that everyone has known for years that, quote, Hamas is taking this money to build tunnels and store weapons and that UNRWA was taken over by Hamas. Yet, they just continued to let the money flow seemingly without any safeguards, end quote. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Shifting to Germany, the country has said that the US, France and the United Kingdom have lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine, clearing the way for Kyiv to strike military targets inside Russian territory. The announcement made yesterday by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the WDR Europa Forum in Berlin marks a major shift in Germany's Ukraine policy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
It also opens the door for the long delayed delivery of Taurus long range cruise missiles to Ukrainian forces. Merz stated, quote, There are no more range limitations for weapons delivered to Ukraine, neither from the Brits nor the French, nor from us, not from the Americans either.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
That, he said, means Kiev can now defend itself and strike back against military infrastructure deep within Russian territory. For months, Kiev has pleaded for the Taurus missile system. It's a German-designed missile with a range exceeding some 300 miles and a warhead powerful enough to obliterate Russian command centers, supply routes, and ammo depots far behind the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
President Zelensky voiced that he had, quote, more than hope that Berlin would finally hand them over. While Mertz stopped short of confirming the transfer, his intent was clear. He pledged that Germany would, quote, do everything to support Ukraine militarily.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The chancellor also indicated that the future arms deliveries would be kept largely confidential to avoid tipping off Moscow to changes in Ukraine's toolkit. The policy reversal marks a sharp departure from the stance of the previous Social Democratic Party government under Olaf Scholz, which consistently blocked Taurus deliveries over fears of escalating tensions with nuclear-armed Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
On Monday, a Palestinian official claimed that Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire proposal supposedly brokered by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. According to the official, the deal included a 70-day truce the staged release of 10 living Israeli hostages, and the return of several bodies. Five captives would be released at the start of the ceasefire, with the other five released on the final day.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Merz, whose center-right Christian Democrats now lead a coalition with the center-left Social Democratic Party, had previously signaled openness to the move, but only in alignment with Germany's allies. that alignment now appears firmly in place. Both the U.K. and France have already provided Ukraine with Scalp or Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
has quietly eased limitations on Ukrainian use of U.S. weapons near the Russian border. As our longtime PDB listeners will know, back in November of 2024, then-President Biden authorized limited Ukrainian strikes inside Russia's Kursk region using U.S.-supplied long-range weapons. The decision reportedly came in response to the deployment of North Korean troops to the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The shift underscores a broader recalibration of European security posture as the war grinds on without a clear path to a ceasefire. What was once deemed escalatory, such as striking Russian territory with NATO provided arms, is now being reframed as an essential component of Ukraine's right to self-defense. Not sure if the Russians will see it that way.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, Kim Jong-un is out for blood after that embarrassing ship launch last week. Remember that? With news that at least four officials have been taken into custody over the incident. Well, there's about to be some headroom there at the North Korean military. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to report that it is now officially grilling season. Right. Time to fire up the grill. And listen, if your girl had a voice, it would probably tell you something like, hey, maybe stop throwing supermarket mystery meat on me. Yeah, that's probably what it would say. Now that's why I get my beef from Tri-Tales Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
Look, Tri-Tales is a legitimate family run ranch in Texas, fifth generation ranch, not some big box meat factory. They deliver pasture raised, grain finished, black Angus beef right to your front door. Now, right now, for the Memorial Day weekend and beyond, they're knocking $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
And when you head over to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll toss in two flat iron steaks for free. No strings, no middlemen, just delicious cuts of beef delivered right to your door. So stock the freezer, get ready to grill like you mean it, and treat your grill and your taste buds with respect. That's trybeef.com slash pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
In today's Back of the Brief, Kim Jong-un is tossing his teddy out of the crib again. And in North Korea, well, that means heads are rolling, possibly literally. Following the humiliating failure of a naval destroyer launch last week, North Korean authorities have detained four officials, according to state media.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The destroyer, only the second of its kind for the North Korean Navy, was meant to be a centerpiece of Kim's push to modernize his naval fleet. But during the launch ceremony in the northeastern part of Chongjin, attended by Kim himself, by the way, the vessel lost its balance, toppled over, and partially sank. Satellite imagery confirms the embarrassment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
The warship now lies on its side, draped in blue tarps with part of its hull submerged. Kim didn't mince words afterwards. He blamed the botched launch on what he called, quote, criminal negligence and a criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
In response, North Korean media announced that four officials were detained, among them Ri Hyung-sun, vice director of the Munitions Industry Department in the ruling Workers' Party. He reportedly admitted that he was, quote, greatly responsible for the disaster, also arrested the chief engineer, the head of the Hull Construction Workshop, and the deputy manager for administrative affairs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 27th, 2025: Hamas Pulls A Ceasefire Bait-And-Switch & Western Green Light for Ukraine
It also reportedly called for a partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli jails, many of them serving lengthy sentences. Now, it sounded like a major breakthrough, the kind of deal that could pause or even end one of the most brutal conflicts in the region in recent memory. But, well, there's always a but, isn't there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Well, that doesn't sound like a National Security Advisor thing to do. Just hours before the administration began their bombing campaign on the 15th of March against the Houthi militants of Yemen. Did you get added? I'm just curious. I mean, I didn't get added to the chat group. And frankly, I'm feeling a little left out here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
It's Tuesday, the 25th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
According to the report from Goldberg, the group included Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Waltz, and others, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe. In the messages published by The Atlantic, Hegseth, Vice President Vance, and other officials debated their plans to launch airstrikes against the terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
In messages Goldberg withheld from publication, he alleges that Hegseth also disclosed, quote, operational details of forthcoming strikes on Yemen, including information about targets, weapons the U.S. would be deploying, and attack sequencing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Well, as you might imagine, the report sent shockwaves throughout the Capitol, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, along with Pentagon officials, expressing concerns about the judgment of those involved. Oh, look, they've come to a bipartisan agreement on something.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
It was not immediately clear if the specifics discussed by Hegseth were officially classified, though experts note that such plans often are and are at least kept secret to protect personnel and operational security, according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Others called it an extraordinary breach of American national security and questioned whether the actions violated the Espionage Act governing the handling of classified information as the conversations took place on a commercial app outside the secure government channels that would traditionally be used for war planning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Former national security officials told the New York Times that the use of a commercial app was particularly irresponsible given ongoing Chinese hacking efforts. It's worth noting that government officials often use Signal for organizational discussions, though we should also stress that the app is vulnerable to hacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
First, the Trump administration is in hot water over an explosive report from the Atlantic, which revealed the publication's editor-in-chief was accidentally added to an encrypted group chat on the private messaging app Signal, where more than a dozen top Trump officials discussed sensitive military plans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
The White House and National Security Council subsequently confirmed the authenticity of the chat, though disputed the Atlantic's account of what was discussed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Secretary Henseth lashed out at Goldberg on Monday, calling him a, quote, "...deceitful and highly discredited so-called journalist," alluding to his reporting on the Russia collusion investigation as well as a highly disputed report that alleged Trump once criticized veterans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
He added that the characterization of the messages was incorrect and stated flatly that, quote, "...nobody was texting war plans." Mike Waltz arguably drew the most amount of scrutiny as it was through his phone number that Goldberg was added to the chat group. On Tuesday, President Trump defended Waltz, saying it appeared a staffer for Waltz who had Goldberg's number made the mistake.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Trump said, quote, Michael Waltz has learned a lesson and he's a good man, end quote. He also backed up the statements from Hegseth, saying that the mistake had, quote, no impact at all on the operations against the Houthis and did not put any sensitive military information at risk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Trump expressed full confidence in his national security team, saying the incident was, quote, the only glitch in two months and it turned out not to be a serious one, end quote. Well, look at that. Only one glitch in a couple of months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt later said that no classified material was sent to the thread, but said the National Security Council is investigating how Goldberg's number ended up in the group chat. Still, congressional Democrats and critics of the Trump administration are acting furious over the ordeal, with many calling for the president to fire Waltz and Hexeth to resign.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Seriously, you should never let a crisis go to waste. Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer, who's frankly never met a camera that he's now willing to leap in front of, called it one of the most stunning breaches of military intelligence he's ever seen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Democrat members of the Senate Armed Services Committee said they'd be intensely investigating the matter, not just investigating, but intensely investigating. Look, it's been a while since Democrats have had anything to cheer about, so their glee and their rush to the cameras to announce that the sky has fallen shouldn't be a surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Republican lawmakers, well, they were more muted in their criticism, but many still expressed concerns and said they'd be looking into the incident on a bipartisan basis. In a statement about the incident, a spokesman for the National Security Council framed the conversations as a, quote, demonstration of the deep and thoughtful policy coordination between senior officials, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Well, I wonder if he was referring to the deep and thoughtful criticism of NATO allies being tossed around in the group chat by some of the participants. The spokesman added, quote, The ongoing success of the Houthi operation demonstrates that there were no threats to our service members or our national security, end quote. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
OK, look, setting aside the partisan outrage, which is really the fuel that powers Washington, D.C., and the Trump administration's downplaying of the situation, the reality is top U.S. government officials in highly classified positions dealing with highly classified information on a regular basis should be using their NSA-approved and provided comms devices to conduct any remote discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Later in the show, after meetings with officials from the Trump administration in Saudi Arabia, Russia and Ukraine have tentatively agreed to a limited maritime ceasefire to ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Signal and similar apps are discrete and more secure than an open line to be sure, but they are vulnerable to hostile actors, and, in today's world, there are a number of hostile actors out there with hostile intent. You want to create a party line to talk about military strikes or to slag off our European allies? Eh, use the Securecoms that are there for just that purpose.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Coming up next, after meetings with officials from the Trump administration in Saudi Arabia, Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a limited maritime ceasefire proposal that would ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea. Well, Russia has sort of agreed. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look around the world. What do you see?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Well, I mean, right now you see tariff wars, some recession fears, stubborn inflation. I mean, it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets like the one that's right now, well, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. That's not what you should do. You should take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. Now, they've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or a 401k into an IRA in physical gold. And so, ask yourself this question. Is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Text PDB, that's as in President's Daily Brief, PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold. And you can too. It's easy. Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing can feel impossible, but with Stash, well, it's not just possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals, or if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can opt into their award-winning expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings sit around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Make those savings work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com slash PDB to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures. That's get.stash.com slash PDB. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and SEC Registered Investment Advisor.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
President Trump is downplaying the alleged leak of sensitive military plans by senior administration officials on an encrypted group chat that included a journalist. The conversations took place during the run-up to the Pentagon strikes against Yemen's Houthi militants, but Trump said the disclosures are being blown out of proportion and didn't put any military operations at risk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Investing involves risk and the offer is subject to terms and conditions. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
In what may be movement toward a broader ceasefire, the U.S. announced Tuesday it had brokered parallel agreements with Ukraine and Russia aimed at securing safe navigation in the Black Sea and instituting a mutual freeze on strikes against energy infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
The Trump administration, eager to demonstrate progress on its campaign pledge to end the war swiftly, adopted a dual-track diplomatic approach, pushing limited highly specific truces as building blocks for a more comprehensive peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
The maritime and energy ceasefires are, at this stage, the clearest indication that Washington could be inching toward a negotiated off-ramp to the three-year-old conflict. But Moscow is still keeping one hand on the brake.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made clear that the Kremlin has no intention of locking itself into compliance without further guarantees and, more specifically, significant financial sanctions relief. In addition, in an address on Russian state television, Lavrov said Russia would only consider the maritime deal binding if Washington explicitly orders President Zelensky to uphold it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Lavrov stated, quote, the guarantees can only be the result of an order from Washington to Zelensky and his team to do one thing and not the other, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Kyiv, for its part, confirmed that it had signed on to both the maritime and energy infrastructure agreements, but Ukraine's defense ministry warned that it would view any unauthorized Russian naval movements in the Eastern Black Sea as a breach, resulting in grounds for immediate retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
As part of the arrangement, the US also agreed to facilitate the expansion of Russian grain and fertilizer exports, nodding to a long-running Kremlin grievance that Western sanctions have choked off its agricultural sector.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
The move appears designed to replace the defunct Black Sea Grain Initiative, which had enabled Ukraine to export over 30 million tons of grain before Moscow unilaterally pulled out in 2023. Well, that deal fell apart because Moscow at the time unsuccessfully demanded additional financial sanctions relief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Now, to bring you up to speed, the Trump administration suffered a major embarrassment on Monday when Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg revealed that he was inadvertently added to a group chat on the private messaging app Signal that included more than a dozen top Trump officials. He was allegedly accidentally added by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
As we reported here on the PDB, President Trump last week proposed a 30-day ceasefire in what was an idea welcomed in principle by Kyiv. But Russia quickly responded with a list of demands, including that Ukraine abandon its NATO bid and cede control of four Russian-occupied regions in Ukraine, effectively forcing U.S. diplomats back to the drawing board.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Since then, the strategy has shifted to more incremental gains. While Trump has struck an optimistic tone about the diplomatic gains, European allies, well, they remain wary. There are growing fears in Brussels that the White House may be moving too quickly, making side deals that could inadvertently compromise NATO's long-term security posture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
Talk of freezing battlefield lines or cutting side arrangements outside the NATO framework has raised alarms among Kiev's European backers. Zelensky has repeatedly warned that any agreement involving territorial concessions would amount to betrayal and has questioned whether Russian President Putin can be trusted to honor even the most basic terms of any peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
For now, the Black Sea and energy ceasefires remain tentative but symbolically important. Whether they hold will depend on Washington's ability to walk the tightrope between Ukraine's concerns and Russia's demands. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 25th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at PDB at TheFirstTV.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 25th, 2025: LEAKED! Trump Officials Text Houthi War Plans To Journalist & Russia, Ukraine Agree To US Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire
And of course, as the old saying goes, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
While diplomatic sources in Brussels told the outlet that the discussions were, quote, delicate, they claimed that EU officials thought China's inclusion might help convince Russia to agree to the concept of a peacekeeping coalition. That's a proposal that Moscow has thus far rejected.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
But later on Monday, Chinese officials issued a strong denial of the report, claiming that the report had no basis in reality. That's according to Politico. Speaking to reporters, a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry said, quote, I would like to emphasize that the reports in question are completely untrue and China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Well, that begs the question, what is their position? China, well, has long tried to position itself as a neutral mediator between Ukraine and Russia, sending envoys to both countries throughout the course of the war. But, well, they've never condemned the invasion by Putin or even formally called the conflict a war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
And last year, they even pushed a peace proposal for Ukraine that was universally rejected by the West for granting Russia major portions of Ukrainian territory while asking for little in the way of concessions from the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
And, well, despite their efforts to paint themselves as a moderating influence on Putin, their unwavering economic support of Moscow does seem to betray their claims of neutrality. The Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, has been instrumental in propping up Putin's economy in the face of international sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
It's also worth noting that over the course of the war, the CCP has done everything short of directly supplying weapons systems to Russia. Instead, they have provided computer chips, advanced software, and dual-use technological components that have allowed Putin to patch holes in his military and keep his war machine chugging along.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 25th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's very, very easy. Just become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
It's Tuesday, the 25th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. In today's spotlight, the Trump administration is dialing back its sweeping tariff plan. Remember that?
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
trading partners. as well as targeted duties of 25% on specific sectors, such as automobiles, lumber, and pharmaceuticals. Well, with just over a week to go before the big announcement, President Trump is walking back those threats. While White House officials say that the 2nd of April will still bring new global tariffs on a targeted set of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
trading partners, they'll likely be far less harsh than previously thought, and that's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Instead of going after all U.S. trading partners, administration sources told the Journal that the focus will now be on the roughly 15 percent of nations with persistent trade imbalances. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant called this group the, quote, dirty 15.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
It doesn't have quite the ring as the Dirty Dozen does it, which was a fantastic movie Anyway, while the White House has not issued an updated list of the targeted nations It will almost certainly include China, Taiwan, Japan, and a host of countries in the European Union But President Trump also teased Monday that certain nations may be granted exemptions And that the industry-specific tariffs will likely be shelved entirely for the time being
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Meanwhile, the fate of the oft-delayed 25% tariff on all goods from Mexico and Canada, also set to take effect on the 2nd of April, remains uncertain. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, quote, I may give a lot of countries breaks. It's reciprocal, but we might be even nicer than that. He added that, quote, I'm embarrassed to charge them what they've charged us.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Still, the president left plenty of room for speculation, warning that while the U.S. may take less than what other nations are charging, whatever he decides to tax the dirty 15, quote, will be substantial. Trump has previously framed the planned reciprocal tariffs as a necessary correction to what he describes as longstanding trade imbalances. The principle is, well, straightforward.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
If another country holds high taxes on American imports, the US will respond in kind, imposing import taxes on foreign governments at the same rate. The goal, Trump argues, is to level the playing field and incentivize companies to manufacture in the US.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
But economists have warned that such an aggressive and confrontational approach to foreign trade could have devastating financial consequences for the U.S. and our allies, and risks sending global economies spiraling into a recession.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Ever since Trump began his tariff campaign by hitting Canada and Mexico and China with limited trade taxes earlier this year, markets have been jittery, to say the least. They were further rattled when Trump imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum from all U.S. trading partners back on the 12th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Originally set to take effect on the 2nd of April, the trade measures are now expected to target fewer nations and fewer sectors, with some potentially escaping the hit entirely. We'll have those details. Later in the show, widespread protests are rocking Turkey after the arrest of Istanbul's mayor and, coincidentally, Erdogan's top rival.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
A stock sell-off since the beginning of March has wiped out nearly all the gains made in the aftermath of Trump's victory in the November presidential election. And J.P. Morgan's chief economist recently revised their economic forecast, warning there is now a 40% chance of a U.S. recession occurring sometime this year.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
But so far, Trump has largely shrugged off those concerns in public remarks, arguing that in the long term, tariffs will boost the government's coffers and help revitalize manufacturing in America. Still, his softer tone on Monday suggests the potential economic fallout of the policies is being taken more seriously behind closed doors. But he's not backing down entirely.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Separate from the potential reciprocal tariffs, Trump announced on Monday that he'll charge a 25% tariff on any country that buys oil or gas from Venezuela. Unlike his broader tariff agenda, this economic penalty appears designed to increase pressure on Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro, as well as China, which is the country's largest buyer of crude oil exports.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
The tariff will add to existing duties, meaning that China will now be facing 45% tariffs on certain goods traded with America. Crude futures jumped slightly on the news, and analysts said the measure would likely trigger a short-term rise in the price of oil, though the impact is not expected to be too severe.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
While there's still plenty of uncertainty ahead, and much could change between now and next Wednesday, markets rallied across the board Monday on the news that the White House may dial back plans for global economic retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
All right, coming up next, mass protests erupt in Turkey after the arrest of Erdogan's top rival, and Egypt puts forward a new Gaza ceasefire deal, with Hamas reportedly on board. I'll be right back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing, well, it can feel impossible. But with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals. Or, well, if you just want to sit back and watch your money go to work, you can opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings sit around. Make your money work harder for you. Go to Get.Stash.com slash PDB to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchases and to view important disclosures. That's Get.Stash.com slash PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and SEC registered investment advisor. Investing involves risk and the offer is subject to terms and conditions. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
More than 1,000 people have been arrested and detained in Turkey amid the country's ongoing political crisis triggered by the arrest of President Erdogan's chief political rival last Wednesday. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the unrest reached a boiling point on Sunday after popular Istanbul mayor Ekrem Emomolu was formally jailed pending trial.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
With unrest spilling into the streets for a fifth straight night, over 1,000 demonstrators have already been detained. Well, Erdogan's business motto is actually, if you can't beat them, arrest them and then beat them.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
That move sparked mass protests in Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir for nearly a week now, with crowds swelling into the hundreds of thousands, despite a ban on public gatherings. Riot police responded with force, deploying rubber bullets and tear gas and pepper spray in a failed bid to clear the streets.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
The country's interior minister confirmed that 1,133 people had been taken into custody between Wednesday and Sunday. The minister claimed the demonstrators were attempting to, quote, terrorize our streets and said 123 police officers had been injured, with authorities seizing acid, fireworks, Molotov cocktails and knives.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Erdogan has doubled down, characterizing the unrest as a, quote, movement of violence and laying blame at the feet of the opposition Republican People's Party, known as the CHP. His government insists the judiciary is acting independently, denying that Imamoglu's arrest was politically motivated. But observers, both inside Turkey and abroad, are unconvinced.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
The charges leveled against Imamoglu running a criminal organization, accepting bribes, extortion and bid rigging are being read by many as a thinly veiled attempt to sideline the mayor from the 2028 presidential race. Imamoglu, who has since been transferred to a prison west of Istanbul, released a statement rejecting what he called, quote, unimaginable accusations and slanders, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
A request to add terrorism charges was reportedly denied, but the mayor remains in custody alongside 47 others, including several top aides and two district mayors. The scale of the protests have been described as the largest since the 2013 Jesse Park movement, with demonstrators standing against the systematic erosion of democratic institutions under Erdogan's leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Many have taken to wearing face coverings to avoid identification, citing fears of government reprisal Despite the heavy-handed police crackdown, the unrest has shown no signs of abating Demonstrations have been reported in at least 55 of Turkey's 81 provinces, which is more than two-thirds of the country suggesting a groundswell of public frustration that could prove difficult to contain
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Over the weekend, the CHP proceeded with its presidential primary, formally endorsing Imamoglu as its sole candidate despite his imprisonment. The party says a nationwide solidarity campaign has already drawn more than 13 million participants through public signature drives and local events.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Plus, a new ceasefire proposal is on the table Egypt has put forward a plan to halt the fighting in Gaza And this time, Hamas is reportedly on board And in today's Back of the Brief An update to a story that we brought you yesterday China's foreign ministry is pushing back hard On claims that it plans to send troops to Ukraine As part of a peacekeeping force Calling the reports, quote, completely untrue But first, today's PDB Spotlight
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
In a post on X, the jailed mayor struck a defiant tone, writing, quote, that ballot box will arrive and the nation will deliver a slap to the administration it will never forget, end quote. The question now is whether Erdogan's government will escalate its response or will look for a path toward de-escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Okay, shifting now to Egypt, where Cairo is putting forward a new ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas, one that's reportedly received U.S. backing, along with a cautiously optimistic response from the Iranian proxy. The proposal follows Israel's decision last Tuesday to resume ground and air operations in Gaza, ending a fragile two-month lull in fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
According to security sources speaking with Reuters, the plan would see Hamas release five Israeli hostages per week, including American Israeli Eden Alexander, while Israel pauses military action for several weeks and reopens humanitarian corridors into the enclave. From there, the proposal transitions into phase two of the original ceasefire framework that was brokered in mid-January.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
That next phase includes a permanent ceasefire, a sweeping release of all remaining living male hostages, civilians and soldiers alike, and a reciprocal release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners by Israel. Crucially, Cairo's plan includes a timeline for full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza with U.S. guarantees to see it through.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Now, the security sources say Washington has greenlit the plan and Hamas has, quote, responded positively. But the picture from Jerusalem is murkier. An Israeli official told the Times of Israel the government had not been briefed on any new Egyptian proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Instead, Israeli leadership is still pushing Hamas to accept a more narrow, American-backed offer dubbed the Witkoff proposal, named after President Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. That plan would have extended a temporary truce through the 19th of April, during which Hamas would release five hostages in exchange for a larger number of Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Unlike Cairo's offer, however, the Witkoff proposal notably omits any commitment to Israeli withdrawal from the enclave. Israel had agreed in principle to the Witkoff framework, but countered with a demand for 11 hostages rather than five, a condition the Tehran backed terror group rejected.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
If Hamas refuses to bend, an Israeli official warned, quote, We will keep increasing the pressure until Hamas breaks, adding that a further, quote, widespread ground campaign could follow. The warning heeds rhetoric from Prime Minister Netanyahu's hardline coalition members that advocate for the removal of Palestinians from the Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
As we reported last week, Netanyahu renewed ground operations in northern and southern Gaza with a warning that all future negotiations will now take place, quote, under fire unless Hamas accepts Israel's terms. Currently, 59 hostages remain in Hamas custody, 58 of them taken during the 7 October 2023 terror attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Both sides, of course, blame one another for derailing the shift to phase two of the January deal. Those 42 days of the ceasefire saw the release of 30 living hostages and the return of the bodies of eight others. Israel, in return, released nearly 2,000 prisoners and terrorists during phase one. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Coming up next in the back of the brief, China's foreign ministry issues a firm denial over reports that it plans to send peacekeepers to Ukraine, dismissing the claims as, quote, completely untrue. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a brief minute to talk about protecting your assets in the face of uncertainty. Look, just take a peek around what's happening.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
Tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation. These are reasons why gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets, like the one right now, well, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take control and safeguard your savings. That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So, here's a question. Is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, text PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
We'll begin with an update on the global tariff war as the Trump administration signals they plan to significantly narrow the scope of previous planned levies to take effect next week. As a refresher, April 2nd has been touted by President Trump as America's, quote, Liberation Day. He was set to mark the moment that his administration imposed a global regime of reciprocal tariffs on all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. In today's Back of the Brief, an update on reports that China is considering putting boots on the ground in Ukraine in a peacekeeping capacity should Moscow and Kyiv reach a ceasefire accord.
The President's Daily Brief
March 25th, 2025: Trump Pumps The Breaks On Tariffs & Chaos On The Streets In Turkey
As we discussed on Monday morning's PDB, the German newspaper Die Welt claimed that China was mulling plans to join British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's proposed coalition of the willing in order to enforce the terms of any potential truce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Das Konzept erzeugt eine interessante Möglichkeit. Könnten private Entitäten verabschiedet werden, um Kartell-Operationen zu zerstören, Drogen-Schiffen zu unterbrechen und diese kriminellen Organisationen zu zerstören, so wie konventionelle Kräfte das nicht können? Die Idee stammt aus der Macht des US-Kongressen, um so genannte Marken- und Repräsentationen zu eröffnen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Dies sind offizielle Regierungs-Autorisationen, die privaten Bürger ermöglichen, zu schießen und fehlende Wesen oder Aspekte zu besiegen. In essence, it's a legal way for individuals to become pirates on a specific mission. And really, who hasn't wanted to be a pirate at some point in their lives? I mean, the clothes, the rum, the parrot. As long as the parrot has a sense of humor, I suppose.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Nun, die Anwendung von Privatierern im Armkrieg ist nicht genau eine neue Idee in der US-Historie, sie wurde einfach nicht so oft gemacht. Sie spielte eine große Rolle während der amerikanischen Revolution und der 1812er-Wahl.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Damals, mit einer kleinen Armee, die nicht mit den Briten kombiniert war, hat die US-Gewerkschaft Mark-Leitungen veröffentlicht, die private Schiffshändler ermöglichten, Schiffshändler zu schießen. Während der Revolution zerstörten diese Privatierer britische Supply-Line und bedrohten den Parlament, um den Krieg zu beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
In der 1812er-Wahl führten sie über 1.300 britische Schiffe, verursachten signifikante ökonomische Schäden und helfen, die Briten an die Negotiationsstelle zu drücken. Die Idee, Privatisten gegen die Kartelle zu nutzen, ist eine neue Idee. But it's been floated a number of times recently, with one of the most vocal proponents being Utah Senator Mike Lee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
He suggested that Congress could issue letters of marque and reprisal to authorize private security firms to intercept cartel operations, especially those involving drug shipments or human trafficking across the border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Senator Lee sagte, dass diese Privatierinnen und Prieten sich darauf konzentrieren, Suppeillenzen zu zerstören, High-Value-Targete zu erzeugen und Kartell-Assets wie Boote, Fahrzeuge, Geld und Gold zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Und das Konzept ist aufmerksam, mit einem Opinionsbuch von Professor Glenn Reynolds aus der University of Tennessee, das gestern in den New York Post publiziert wurde, in dem er die Potenzial der Privatierinnen und Prieten in der Kampf gegen die Kartelle diskutiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
So, you think to yourself, this might seem like a wild idea, but allowing privateers to target drug cartels could offer several potential benefits. For one, it could expand enforcement capabilities by supplementing US military and law enforcement efforts with highly motivated, privately funded operators.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Zudem könnte es eine mehr kosteffekte Lösung sein, da Privatier ein preisbasiertes System haben können, die Kartell-Assets, Drogen-Schiffen und offizielle Finanzen besitzen, anstatt nur auf Taxifahrer-Dollar zu relyingen. Natürlich gibt es offizielle Probleme mit diesem Aspekt der Idee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
aber es könnte auch eine unvergessliche dezentralisierte Gefahr für Kartelle erzeugen, die sie gegen nicht-Government-Aktoren verteidigen, die mit verschiedenen Taktiken und Regeln von Engagement arbeiten. Another advantage is that privateers could bypass the bureaucratic constraints that slow down government forces. What?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Are we saying that there are bureaucratic constraints within the operations of government? Allowing them to pursue cartel targets across borders with fewer political and legal limitations. And lastly, it could serve as a deterrent, possibly, raising the risks and costs for cartels, potentially making drug trafficking a less lucrative enterprise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
However, before you get too excited and you start rummaging through your closet for that old Halloween costume eyepatch and puffy shirt, well, there are some obvious pitfalls. For starters, much of the cartels booty, and yes, this is the first time we've ever used the word booty on the PDB, well, that booty consists of illicit goods like drugs and contraband.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
This means privateers wouldn't be able to sell what they seize for profit, which of course undermines the traditional incentive structure of privateering. There are also legal and ethical concerns. Private actors operating with government approval might blur the line between law enforcement and vigilantism, raising questions about accountability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Additionally, there is a risk that this approach could escalate violence. There is definitely that risk, as cartels could retaliate aggressively against privateers. Potentially leading to more chaos than less. International law could also come into play as privateers targeting cartel assets across borders could spark diplomatic conflicts. And finally, well, there's the danger of corruption.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Privateers might abuse their power, engage in criminal activities or get co-opted by the very cartels that they're meant to fight. So, while the concept of using privateers against drug cartels is definitely unconventional, it is an idea that's being floated as perhaps another option for fighting cartels, given the growing challenges in combating these criminal organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Up next, the EU, the European Union, scrambles to authorize a billion-dollar arms package for Ukraine at an emergency summit scheduled for next week. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom. Frankly, you wouldn't do that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Es ist Dienstag, 25. Februar. Willkommen bei der PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt. Lass uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst einmal, könnte die Vereinigten Staaten zu Privatisten zu bringen, um den Kampf gegen die Drogenkartelle in Südamerika zu bringen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. Every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, encrypted Tunnel zwischen Geräten und Internet schaffen. Denkt daran. Seine Encryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu hacken. Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für Instant Protection.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for US customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. As the United States shows signs of stepping back in its support of Ukraine, European leaders are doubling down, setting the stage for an emergency summit next week to hammer out a new military aid package as Kyiv enters its fourth year of war against Russia, going on four years now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
We'll explore the unconventional idea that's being floated in some corners of Congress and the potential dangers of a return to legal piracy. Later in the show, as the US appears to step back in its support of Ukraine, European leaders are doubling down, announcing plans to authorize a billion-dollar arms package for Kyiv at an emergency summit scheduled for next week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
On Monday, Kaya Kalas, the EU's chief diplomat, confirmed that European foreign ministers had reached broad consensus on a new initiative to arm Ukraine. But key details, well, they remain unresolved. Kalas stated, "...the details, especially the numbers, will be decided and discussed at the extraordinary European summit on March 6th."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
While no firm figure has been set, the EU has already provided 21 billion in military aid annually since Russia's invasion in 2022. That's a benchmark that many diplomats argue must be increased. The underlying concern is clear. Without sustained Western backing, Ukraine may be forced into territorial concessions that could further embolden Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Kallis beurteilt, dass Europa die Ukraine in einer, Quote, Stärkungsposition vermitteln muss, um einen unrechtlichen Friedensvertrag zu vermeiden. Der kommende Summit kommt, als die Zerwärmungssprache zwischen Washington und Moskau weitergeht, aber notierend, die Ukraine und die EU-Nationen auslösen, leaving European leaders to question, whether their interests are being sidelined.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
But European unity on the issue is far from guaranteed. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, one of Russian President Putin's staunchest allies in the bloc, fiercely opposed further armed shipments, claiming they will, quote, prolong the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Orbán's government has repeatedly used its veto power to block key EU aid measures, forcing European leaders to explore workarounds in order to neutralize Budapest's obstructionism. Across the Atlantic, President Trump's escalating criticism of Ukrainian President Zelensky has deepened European anxieties, that's putting it mildly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Leaders are concerned that Washington could pressure Kyiv into accepting a ceasefire that could favor the Kremlin's territorial gains. Despite Orban's resistance, several European nations have wasted no time ramping up their support.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
On Monday, Nordic and Baltic leaders released a joint statement pledging to bolster Kyiv military capabilities, warning that the war's outcome will have, quote, fundamental and long-lasting effects on European and transatlantic security, end quote. As part of the new push, the EU is preparing to send Ukraine nearly 4 billion in March, while the UK is committing close to 5 billion dollars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Canada, for its part, has pledged 25 armored vehicles, 4 F-16 simulators and 5 billion dollars in frozen Russian assets. Other aid from EU member states is expected to push into the billions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Dementsprechend hat Dänemark, die sich über Russlands Aggressionen beschäftigt, einen dramatischen Aufstieg in ihren Verteidigungsspenden erklärt, mit einem zusätzlichen 7 Billionen Dollar in den nächsten zwei Jahren. Der dänische Verteidigungsminister hat bemerkt, dass Europa massiv wiederherrschen muss, um von Moskau zukünftige Threats zu beurteilen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
As European leaders work to finalize their next steps, Ukraine remains at a pivotal crossroads. Due to the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Moscow, combined with Trump's skepticism of Zelensky, well, the EU sees the upcoming summit as a crucial test of whether they can fill the void. If US support for Ukraine continues to wane.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 25 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget, if you're thinking to yourself, I love the PDB, but would really love an ad-free version, well, it's simple. Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 25th, 2025: Could The U.S. Use Privateers To Fight Cartels? & Europe Pledges Billions More For Ukraine
Aber zuerst, heutes Abend-Spotlight. Heute nehmen wir einen näheren Blick auf eine interessante Frage. Könnte die USA sich zu Privatisierenden, zu Kampf-Drug-Kartellen, bewegen? Und eine andere Frage, wann war das letzte Mal, dass man das Wort Privatisierende gehört hat? Während das Privatisieren traditionell armen Schiffen beteiligt hat, die Schiffen in der Wartezeit in den Krieg konzentrieren,
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 25 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And just in case you didn't get the memo, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then... Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Plus, China's Navy is flexing its muscles in the Pacific and conducting live fire drills that have New Zealand and Australia on edge. And in today's Back of the Brief, Spanish authorities take down a major South American-run sex trafficking ring. Another reminder that their criminal networks operate far beyond the Americas. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Following a tumultuous week in relations between Washington and Kyiv, President Zelensky is signaling that he's willing to do whatever it takes to secure a peaceful resolution to Russia's war on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
As I'm sure our listeners are aware, last week President Trump sent shockwaves across Europe after he called Zelensky a, quote, dictator without elections, implied that Ukraine started the war, and said the Ukrainian leader,
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
The message caused international uproar, particularly among NATO allies, as you might imagine, who accused the President of peddling Russian propaganda and marginalizing a critical regional ally. Well, Zelenskyy appears to have taken the attack in stride, telling reporters on Sunday that he wasn't offended, though he noted that a true dictator would have been offended.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
To prove the point, Zelenskyy said he stands ready to give up his power in exchange for a peaceful settlement to the war, or for assurances that Ukraine will be granted access to the NATO alliance. He added that he would depart, quote, immediately if necessary. Zelenskyy erklärte, dass er bereit ist, die NATO-Memberschaft zu handeln, wenn es solche Bedingungen gibt.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Kommentare kamen an der Ehe des dritten Jahrhunderts der Russische Invasion von der Ukraine, in nur einer Woche, nachdem US-Affiziere bilateral Diskussionen mit Moskau in der saudischen Stadt von Riyadh ausgeschlossen haben, was die Repräsentanten von Kyiv und NATO ausgeschlossen hat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Gespräche haben die Gefühle gestärkt, dass die Trump-Administration die Ukraine aus dem Negotiationsprozess völlig auslösen könnte und sich zu einem Versammlungsausschuss auslösen würde, das russische Interessen verfügt. But the frosty tensions between Washington and Kyiv, well, appeared to be thawing, at least somewhat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
During an online meeting of the group of seven, or G7, on Monday, Zelensky and Trump spoke over the phone in an effort to bridge their divide. While the pair likely didn't fully bury the proverbial hatchet, Zelensky described it as, quote, very good conversation and expressed optimism that the U.S. would continue to maintain its support for Kyiv, trotz des Trump-Gesetzes in Moskau.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Zelenskyy hat seine Anrufe zu einem Face-to-Face-Meeting mit Trump geäußert, und sagt, dass es wichtig ist, dass sie zusammenkommen und auf der gleichen Seite sind, bevor ein potenzieller Verteidigung zwischen Trump und Putin stattfindet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Zelenskyy hat geäußert, dass sie auf einen potenziellen Deal aufgetreten sind, um den US-Präferenten Zugang zu Ukrainens rarer Erde-Mineralien zu bieten, obwohl Details darüber, was dieser Deal enthalten ist, noch nicht klar sind. Letzte Woche provokierte Zelenskyy Trumps Wunsch, einen initialen US-Vorschlag über kritische ukrainische Ressourcen öffentlich zu verweigern.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Zelenskyy sagte, dass der Vorschlag Kiew mit irgendwelchen US-Sicherheitswahrnehmungen verfehlt hat, etwas, das er argumentiert, kritisch ist, um eine, Quote, reiche Frieden in der Region zu erreichen. Aber es scheint, dass beide Seiten jetzt nahe an einem Deal sind, das diese Sorgen beantworten wird, zumindest laut unserer Berichterstattung von The Hill.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Trump for his part signaled on Monday that he could meet with Zelensky imminently to finalize an agreement. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump said, quote, I will be meeting with President Zelensky. In fact, he may come in this week or next week to sign the agreement, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
US-Afficials have argued that such a deal would be mutually beneficial, as it would give the US a powerful strategic incentive to provide long-term security guarantees for Kyiv to deter future Russian aggression. Trump has also said it would serve as a viable way for the US to recoup the money spent on military assistance for Ukraine since the war began.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
While nothing is finalized, Treasury Secretary Scott Besant said Monday that negotiations on a minerals deal were now at the, quote, one yard line. Alright, coming up next, a senior Hamas official now says he wouldn't have supported the October 7th attacks if he had known the fallout. Oh, plus China's Navy flexes its muscles with live fire drills that have New Zealand and Australia on alert.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB. A top Hamas official has publicly admitted that had he foreseen the full scope of consequences, he would not have supported the 7 October 2023 terror attacks on Israel. Now, this rare admission comes as ceasefire negotiations remain fragile, as disputes over prisoner releases threaten to reignite the war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
It's Tuesday, 25 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And apparently back on the road again. So I apologize for the constant shifting of the backdrop. I'm not sure whether that's considered professional or unprofessional, but it's the way that it is.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Seit Monaten haben Hamas-Führer stetig die Terror-Attacken verteidigt, die ca. 1.200 Israele getötet haben und die Erhöhung von ca. 250 Flüchtlingen geführt haben. In Bezug darauf hat Israel eine langweilige militärische Kampagne gegen die Iran-gelegte Terrorgruppe gestartet, die jüngere Hamas-Affiziere eliminiert und viel mehr des Enklaven zum Rebellen reduziert.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Trotz Israels militärischer Reaktion hat die Hamas-Führung bis jetzt, bis jetzt, vielmehr durch ihre Entscheidung gestanden.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Aber in einer Interview mit den New York Times hat Moussa Abou Marzouk, der kutterbasierte Vorsitzende des Hamas-Foreign-Relations-Winges, ermutigt, dass er, wenn er die Ausgabe von Israels Verletzung erwartet hätte, es wäre, wie gesagt, unmöglich gewesen, dass er die Terroroperation unterstützen würde.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Um ehrlich zu sein, wenn er jetzt diesen Wunsch regiert und wirklich schlecht über die Zerstörung in Gaza fühlt, vielleicht könnte er und die anderen Top Hamas-Führung, zumindest diejenigen, die noch lebendig sind, ihre Billionen von Dollar donatieren, die sie seit Jahren von der Organisation ausgezaubert haben, und sie an den Reconstruction-Effort geben. Das ist nur ein Gedanke.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Notabel war, dass Abu Marzouk nicht informiert wurde über die spezifischen Pläne für den 7. Oktober, sondern dass Hamas' politische Führung den breiteren Ziel des Angriffes auf Israel beigetragen hatte. Seine Aufmerksamkeit führte Spekulationen über Bedingungen innerhalb der Hamas-Führung. Während Abu Marzouk scheint Regret über den Fall des Angriffes zu erkennen ,
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Hardline-Figuren, insbesondere die, die mit Hezbollah und Iran verbunden sind, bleiben enttäuscht in ihrer Verteidigung der Terror-Operationen. Die Zeitung eines Statements ist, naja, weit von unerlässlich.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Ausstattungsverhandlungen haben einen Unfall erreicht, mit Hamas, die nicht mehr in weitere Diskussionen mit Israel beteiligt ist, bis Israel ihre Vermutung erfüllt, über 600 palästinensische Gefühle zu lösen. Wie wir am Montags-PDB berichtet haben, hat Israel den letzten Gefängnisverlauf nach der Handlung von zehn israelischen Flüchtlingen gedelte, sechs lebendig und vier tot.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Israels Offiziere beurteilen Hamas, dass sie Verbrechen durch schreckliche Handlungsserven und die Verbrechung von Gefangenen für Propaganda darstellen. In response Hamas lashed out, calling Israel's decision a, quote, blatant violation of the deal and warning that talks will not proceed unless the agreed upon terms are met.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
The White House has backed Israel's move, calling it an appropriate response to Hamas' quote, barbaric treatment of hostages. With the first phase of the ceasefire set to expire on Saturday, uncertainty, well, obviously looms.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
President Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to the region this week in a last-ditch effort to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and secure the release of additional hostages. So far, Hamas has released 25 living Israeli hostages and four dead, with another four bodies scheduled for handover on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
In total, 33 Israeli hostages are set to be exchanged for roughly 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. But Hamas has made it clear that no further talks will take place unless the prisoner releases proceed in full. For now, the ceasefire hangs by a thread. Whether Abu Marzouks remarks signal a deeper shift within Hamas or a calculated ploy to sway negotiations remains an open question.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Coming to you today from, oh look, another airport lounge somewhere in the continental United States. Das sind alle die Hinweise, die ich euch gebe. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
But with hostages, prisoners and fragile diplomacy at stake, the coming days will determine whether war resumes or if peace holds. Okay, turning to the South Pacific. China's Navy conducted two unprecedented live fire drills last week, sparking security concerns from New Zealand and Australia as Beijing flexes its growing military reach.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
The exercises involving three People's Liberation Army or PLA Navy warships die China's growing firepower, including long-range missile systems that analysts say signal Beijing's ambitions to operate far beyond its traditional maritime sphere. New Zealand's Defense Minister Judith Collins called the drills a significant escalation, citing the fleet's advanced weaponry as a cause for concern.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
On Monday, Collins stated in a Radio New Zealand interview, quote, the weapons they have are extremely capable. One has 112 vertical launch cells and has a reported anti-ship ballistic missile range of 540 nautical miles. Die Geräte haben nicht nur die Verteidigungsoffiziere abgerissen, sie haben auch die kommerzielle Luftfahrt zerstört.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Luftfahrtwarnungen, die normalerweise einen halben oder vollen Tag oder einen vollen Tag vorhanden sind, kamen mit nur ein paar Stunden Aufmerksamkeit, die Passagiere zu verringern, mitten im Flugzeug. Die Last-Minute-Advisory brachte Kritik aus Australien, mit dem Bundespräsidenten Anthony Albanese bestätigte, dass China, Quote, hätte mehr Aufmerksamkeit gegeben.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Nun, das ist nicht genau eine scharfe Aufmerksamkeit. A New Zealand Navy frigate shadowed the Chinese flotilla, which was last seen roughly 280 nautical miles east of Tasmania. The presence of a Type 055 destroyer, that's the PLA Navy's most powerful surface combatant, underscored the growing operational confidence of Beijing's naval forces.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Wir beginnen heute mit einem wichtigen Statement von Ukrainer Präsident Zelenskyy, der sagt, dass er bereit ist, unter den richtigen Bedingungen zurückzukehren, während Präsident Trump signalisiert, dass er nächste Woche mit dem ukrainischen Leiter treffen kann. Wir haben diese Details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Ein maritime security expert described the site of a fully armed PLA Navy combat flotilla this far south as quote unusual, noting that China's shift from near seas operations to far seas training is part of its broader strategy to establish itself as a true blue water navy capable of operating across open oceans. Beijing's naval ambitions have expanded dramatically over the past decade.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
What started as regional dominance in the South China Sea has evolved into anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden, naval exercises in the Indian Ocean and now live fire drills deep in the South Pacific. While still trailing the US Navy in global reach, China is aggressively working to close the gap. Wahrscheinlich hat Beijing den Ausbruch von Australien und Neuseeland verabschiedet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Ich habe dir gesagt, dass das wahrlich sein würde. Mit dem chinesische Verteidigungsministerium verurteilt beide Nationen, dass die Drillen hochgeheizt werden und unvergleichbare Angelegenheiten erzielt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
In der Zwischenzeit hat die chinesische Staatsmedien verdoppelt, um die westlichen Nationen zu bemerken, dass die PLA-Navi in ihren Flächen ist, als Beijing seine militärische Erweiterung fortsetzt. According to the Pentagon's latest assessment on Beijing's military, China now boasts the world's largest naval fleet, with over 370 ships and submarines.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Under President Xi Jinping, the PLA Navy's rapid build-up is aimed at securing key maritime interests, protecting overseas assets, and directly challenging US naval dominance in strategically vital sea lanes.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
While China maintains that its operations adhere to international law, the growing presence of PLA warships in traditionally western-aligned maritime zones is sure to heighten tensions with Australia, New Zealand and of course their western allies. Alright, next up.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
A major sex trafficking ring with ties to South America has been dismantled in Spain with dozens arrested and dozens of victims rescued. I'll have that story in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Starte deinen Test noch heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de. In today's Back of the Brief. If you thought that South American transnational gangs were just a problem in the US, well, think again.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
später in der Show, eine seltene Aufmerksamkeit von einem Senior Hamas-Offizier, der jetzt sagt, er hätte die Oktober 7. Angriffe nicht unterstützt, wenn er die Auswirkungen gekannt hätte, was natürlich bedeutet, dass, wenn Hamas keine negativen Auswirkungen hatte, dann wäre er in Ordnung gewesen, mit der Tötung von 1.200 Frauen, Kindern, älteren Menschen und Männern und über 250 Verbrechern.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Authorities in Spain announced Sunday the bust of a staggeringly massive sex trafficking ring led by two Colombian women and a Spanish man, who are accused of abducting more than 1,000 women over the past year, mostly from Colombia and Venezuela.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Polizei hat eine Anzahl von 48 Anwälten verhaftet, während einer Reihe von Rädern über den Wochenende auf acht Gebäuden, insbesondere drei Brothels, die fast 50 Anwälte der kriminellen Unterkunft retteten. Das ist laut einem Bericht des deutschen Outlet DW. Die Frauen wurden beruflich von Südamerika nach Spanien über das letzte Jahr verhaftet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
mit der Vermutung, stetige Arbeiten in den Klinik- und Künstlersektoren zu machen. Aber als sie vorbeigekommen sind, wurden sie stattdessen in schmutzige Clubs ausgestattet, als Bordern oder Hostels, wo sie täglich verhaftet wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Polizei sagte, die Frauen seien alle Stunden gezwungen, unter permanenten Videoverwaltungen zu arbeiten, und würden nur für weniger als zwei Stunden pro Tag draußen lassen. Während der Räder haben die Polizei mehrere Waffen, ca. 150.000 Euro in Geld, konfisziert und eine Bankkarte geschlossen, die in Höhe von fast 1 Millionen Dollar bezahlt wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Sie haben auch drei Strip-Clubs geschlossen und ein Total von 17 Gebäuden mit der transnationalen Gang verabschiedet. Sechs der Verletzten, insbesondere die drei Ringlehrer, sind aktuell in Präsentation. Die anderen 42 Verletzten wurden im Nachhinein verhaftet. Sie betreffen die Landwirtschaftsführer und Taxifahrer, die die Frauen zwischen den verschiedenen Orten schüttelten.
The President's Daily Brief
February 25th, 2025: Zelensky Says He’s ‘Ready’ To Resign Under Certain Conditions & A Rare Admission From Hamas
Die Behörden sagten, dass sie das transnationale Traffiknetz entdeckt haben, dank anonymer Tipps, die auf einer dedizierten Polizei-Hotline gelegt wurden. Sie sagten, dass sie im letzten Jahr Tausende Bürger-Komplikate über die Gangs-Aktivität erhalten haben, die unnötige operative Informationen bieten, die die Wochenende-Räder möglich machten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
As Winston Churchill once said, and you know I do love to quote Winston Churchill, we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Your individual efforts, they may not solve the world's current conflicts, but they'll make a difference in your part of the world. And frankly, that's a start.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
It's Tuesday, 24 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. This week, coming to you from somewhere in the Far East. East Asia, actually. My life is essentially one continuous game of Where's Waldo. Now, for hundreds of millions of folks around the world, today is Christmas Eve.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
I also wanted to take a moment to thank the millions of you who have made the President's Daily Brief a part of your daily routine. We are very grateful for the PDB community. And as 2024 comes to a close, we look forward to working hard throughout 2025 to bring you the news, with a minimum of punditry and pontification. We'll give you the facts. You decide what to think about them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
And that's the President's Daily Brief for Christmas Eve 2024. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back on 26 December. Until then, and from somewhere in East Asia, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
But whether you celebrate Christmas or not, I wanted to take the opportunity to wish you all a very happy holiday season. No matter how you celebrate this time of year, I wish you peace and happiness and joy. Let's not forget joy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
To be fair, the world right now may seem like it's on fire, conflicts across the globe, human suffering, political turmoil, a lack of civil discourse that at times pits family members against each other, but we've seen worse and we have weathered worse. The primary objective here is to keep things in context.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
It's important to know what's happening in the world, considering the world seems to be constantly shrinking and we're all more interconnected than ever before. But this time of year, as Christmas and New Year's approach, well, it's a time tailor-made for reflection. Take the opportunity this holiday season to reflect on what really matters. Family, friends, and others whom you don't even know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Christmas Message 2024
Everything else is frankly just a bonus. Take the time to tell the people you care about that, well, that you care about them. Do something selfless for someone else. Volunteer with a church or community group. Get outside your comfort zone and make a difference.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Und es ist fähig, Heizung für über zwei Sekunden nach der Detonation oder ungefähr 15-mal länger zu erzeugen. als eine traditionelle TNT-Explosion. Sie erzeugt dies, indem sie das sogenannte Magnesium-Hydrid befestigt, ein solides Material, das für die Versorgung von Hydrogen auf viel höheren Ebenen als konventionelle pressurisierte Tanks ermöglicht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Wenn getriggert wird, entsteht eine furchtbare chemische Reaktion, die Hydrogen-Gas erzeugt, das sich in einen bestehenden Inferno erzeugt. Nun, das alles klingt sehr freundlich, nicht wahr? Nach unserem Bericht vom South China Morning Post. Dieses Entwicklung schafft ein Gerät, das konventionelle Explosionen entworfen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Die Bombe macht all das ohne die Bedürfnisse für nukleare Materialien, damit natürlich die Bedingungen unter den aktuellen internationalen nuklearen Vertretern vermeiden. Diese nächste Generation Hydrogen-Bombe wurde beruflich von Forschern mit der China State Shipbuilding Corporation entwickelt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Sie ist ein wichtiger Spieler im Entwicklung von untergewachsenen Waffen und sie wurde letztlich in einem Feld-Experiment getestet, obwohl es nicht klar ist, wann der Test stattfand.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Describing the weapon, a research scientist that led its development said, "...hydrogen gas explosions ignite with minimal ignition energy, have a broad explosion range, and unleash flames that race outward rapidly while spreading widely. This combination allows precise control over blast intensity, easily achieving uniform destruction of targets across vast areas."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
The researchers note that unlike conventional blasts, which produce extremely high-pressure shock waves that cause massive collateral damage, the new device has a controllable chain reaction and a weaker overall blast force, meaning that it could be deployed in a more precise way. So, you ask yourself, what are its potential applications?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
According to peer-reviewed studies of the weapon test published in the Chinese-language Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance, oh, it was a bad time, I guess, to cancel my subscription to Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance, the bomb has directed energy potential, able to project intense heat over a large area.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Die Wärme ist stark genug, um durch zerstörte Fahrzeuge, Gebäude und sogar fortifizierte Bunker zu brennen, damit es eine potenziell entzündende Werkstatt für urbanen Krieg ist. Das ist natürlich die Art, die China kämpfen könnte, wenn sie eine vollständige Invasion von Taiwan eröffnen. Es könnte auch für z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
strategische Routen, zerstörte Straßen oder für kritische Infrastruktur wie Energiestationen oder Kommunikationshubs verwendet werden, so ein Bericht von der Economic Times.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Um es einfach zu sagen, ermöglicht die Bombe die Möglichkeit, spezifische Bereiche mit bestehendem Herd ohne indiskriminierend eine breite Bereiche zu zerstören, ermöglicht das chinesische Militär, präzise Schüsse auf eine Große Anzahl von hochwertigen Tätigkeiten zu erzeugen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Aber außerhalb ihrer spezifischen militärischen Anwendungen sagen AnalystInnen, dass China das Gerät als Mittel für psychologische Krieg gegen Taiwan und andere Gegner relyinge. Egal, wie es verwendet wird, ist die Bombe ein bedeutender Schritt nach vorne in Chinas Militärtechnologie, besonders in der Bereich energiebasierter Waffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Bis zum letzten Mal wurde Magnesiumhydrate, der wichtigste Komponente der Waffe, nur in kleinen Quantitäten bei Forschungslernen produziert. Aber früher dieses Jahres hat China eine neue Magnesiumhydrate-Pflanze in der nordwesten Provinz geöffnet, die es bemerkt hat, 150 Tonnen jährlich zu produzieren. Das öffnet natürlich die Tür für große-scale Entwicklung.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
While its potential use in next-generation explosives is obviously disturbing, Chinese researchers claim the technology can also be harnessed for powering submarine fuel cells or extended drone missions. They say it's all part of China's effort to integrate clean energy solutions into its military. Ah, that's what it's all about. It's all about going green.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
But the breakthrough comes at a time, of course, when tensions in the South China Sea are rapidly intensifying, with China orchestrating regular military drills around Taiwan and issuing threats against the island democracies president over his perceived support of the Taiwanese independence movement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Coming up next, President Trump blasts media reports that he's looking to replace Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth as, quote, fake news. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, as you know by now, tariffs, you know the trade wars, they've basically thrown the global economy into some chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. Aber ich glaube, dass es eine Silber- und eigentlich eine Silber- und Goldlinie gibt, die die meisten Menschen vermisst haben. Sie sehen, Präsident Trump hat die Gold- und Silber-Bullion aus den steigenden Tarifen spezialisiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Und während diese neuen Policien signifikante finanzielle Chaos triggern, hat die Administration die Möglichkeit behauptet, sich in teure Metalle zu diversifizieren. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birchgold Precious Metals Specialist. Look, the first step is very easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Die Plattform, die wir vor Shopify verwendet haben, hat regelmäßig Updates gebraucht, die teilweise dazu geführt haben, dass der Shop nicht funktioniert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birchgold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Es ist Donnerstag, der 22. April. Willkommen bei der PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. China zeigt sich zuerst mit seinen neuesten Waffenverlusten mit den steigenden Tensionen zwischen den USA und Taiwan. Und es hat ernsthafte Bedeutungen für die Zukunft der modernen Kriegsfähigkeit. Wir haben diese Details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers. Text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Nun, schau, ich weiß, dass du das weißt, aber ein Handgun oder irgendeine Waffe für Selbstverdienung, es kommt mit seriösen Verantwortung und du musst es sowohl sicher und verfügbar sein, wenn es am meisten zählt. Nun, das ist es, was Stopbox USA mit ihrem Stopbox Pro zu lösen setzte. Es ist eine Lockbox, die dir instantan Zugang zu deinem Feuerwerk gibt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Keine Elektronik, keine Kugeln oder Codes sind benötigt. Das 5-Button-Locking-System reagiert auf deine einzigartige Input. Es ist für Muskelmerzen gebaut, also denkst du nicht, du reagierst. Schau, ich habe ein Stopbox Pro zu Hause und es ist ein exzellentes Stück Kitsch. Es ist extrem gut gemacht, es ist sicher und es ist einfach zu benutzen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Mit dem Stopbox Pro musst du die Sicherheit für die Geschwindigkeit nicht handhaben. Dein Feuerarm bleibt sicher und immer in Berührung. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. And this spring they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The White House is slamming an NPR report claiming that President Trump is looking to replace Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling it fake news and doubling down on Trump's unshakable support for his Pentagon chief. The NPR report, published on Monday, cites a lone anonymous U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
official who claims the White House has begun sounding out potential replacements for Hegseth amid mounting scrutiny over his use of encrypted messaging apps to discuss military operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt waste no time punching back, posting on X that the NPR piece was, quote, total fake news based on one anonymous source who clearly has no idea what they're talking about, end quote. The administration's rapid response team, I did not know that they had a rapid response team, did you?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Later in the show, an update on the latest Signal-Chat-Scandal involving Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, as President Trump blasts media reports that he's looking to replace his Pentagon Chief as, quote, fake news. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Well, they backed her up, branding the story as, quote, wrong and part of what it called a broader campaign to smear Trump's national security team.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Präsident Trump selbst, als er am Montag in der White-House-Easter-Egg-Roll gesprochen hat, hat die ausgeschlossenen Medienreporten, kritisch für Hegseth, als, Quote, nur ein Verlust von Zeit, wiederholend, dass der Verteidigungssekretär seinen vollen Unterstützung hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Die Blutung folgt einem Wochenende-Report in den New York Times, das erklärte, dass Hegseth eine zweite Privat-Signal-Chatgruppe benutzt hat, diese, die seine Frau, seinen Bruder und seinen persönlichen Anwalt, inklusive US-Airstrikes in Jemen diskutiert hat, die Iran-gebackene Houthi-Terroristen konzentrieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Die Erklärung kommt nur über einen Monat nachdem der Chef-Editor der Atlantik beurteilt hat, dass er zu einem anderen Signal-Thread verabschiedet worden ist, der von National-Security-Advisor Mike Waltz hergestellt wurde, um in Jemen unverzichtbare Angriffe zu koordinieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Obwohl die Trump-Administration behauptet, dass keine klassifizierte Information in einer Chatgruppe geteilt wurde, hat der Fallout den Pentagon aufgeräumt. Viele jüngere Offiziere sind in den letzten Wochen ausgestiegen. Einer der berühmten Ausflüge ist der ehemalige Pentagon-Vorsitzende John Eliot, der die internen Verletzungen auf Hegseths Schultern festgelegt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
In einem politischen Op-Ed am Wochenende hat Eliot das Departement der Verteidigung als in einem Zustand von, Quote, Auslösung beschrieben. Hegseth verurteilt den Medien, dass er anonymisierte Gerichte verweigert, um politische Punkte zu zählen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Er sagte den Rednern, was für eine große Überraschung, dass ein paar Leaker verabschiedet werden und plötzlich ein paar Hits aus dem gleichen Medien kommen, die den russischen Hoffnungen verweigert haben. Despite the mounting criticism, potential internal unrest and renewed questions about unsecured communications, the White House's message or narrative remains consistent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
The attacks are politically motivated, the reporting is bogus, and the SecDef isn't going anywhere. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 22nd of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I do hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free, of course, that is perfectly doable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Alright, let's talk Maha. Have you heard about that? Make America healthy again. Look, here's the thing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
At the end of the day, the most important things in life are good health, family and of course time. Getting into shape and staying in shape, encouraging physical fitness and good health with your family and being consistent and having enough time during your busy day to actually work out. Well, that's why I'm excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and his team at Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Wir beginnen mit einem erheblichen neuen Waffenabbruch aus China, wo Forscher für das kommunistische Regime eine non-nukleare, hydrogenbasierte Bombe getestet haben. Das Abbruch-Explosivgerät, das reportedly nur vier und eine halbe Pound wiegt, kann einen bestehenden Feuerball erzeugen, der Temperaturen von 1.800 Grad Fahrenheit übernimmt. Das ist heiß.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Look, Don's an amazing entrepreneur, and he and his team at Jacked Up Fitness have created a great home fitness company that you've got to check out. Now, one of their products, their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro, has everything you need for a full-body workout at home. I've just had a Power Rack Pro installed at my house, and I can't say enough good things about it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
The construction and quality are incredible. Frankly, much better than a lot of the machines you see at a professional gym. Die Kabel-Crossover-Systeme, die integrierten 200-Pound-Weight-Stacks und die Smith-Maschine erlauben dir, Hunderten von Übungen zu machen. Im Grunde alles und alles, was du mit dem Gym tun kannst.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 22nd, 2025: China Unveils Devastating New Hydrogen Bomb & White House Doubles Down On Support Of Embattled Pentagon Chief
Und wenn du neu an Krafttraining bist, gibt es ihr Get-Jacked-Up-Programm mit vollen Körper-Video-Werkungen. Einfach drücken und folgen. Das war's für heute. Bis zum nächsten Mal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Obwohl die neue Vorschläge wiederum nicht sagen, dass sie dort nicht bleiben können. A senior State Department official was quick to frame the new plan as merely a, quote, list of potential options, not a finalized blueprint. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that if no progress is made in the coming weeks, the US could pull out of its mediation role entirely.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Trump for his part remained upbeat on Sunday, telling reporters, quote, I hope they make a deal this week. But if history now is any guide and recent ceasefires are any indication, well, Kiev may find itself staring at the same battlefield lines and the same hard choices by week's end. Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Pete Hegseth's Signal-Scandal doesn't seem to be going away, but President Trump says he's standing by his defense chief. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Ich weiß, dass ihr das wisst, aber ein Handgun oder irgendeine Waffe für Selbstverdienung kommt mit einer ernsthaften Verantwortung, richtig? Ihr wisst das.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Ihr braucht es, um sowohl sicher als auch verfügbar zu sein, wenn es am wichtigsten ist. Das ist das, was Stopbox USA mit dem Stopbox Pro umgesetzt hat. Es ist eine Lockbox, die dir instantan Zugang zu deiner Waffe gibt. Keine Elektronik, keine Türen oder Kode benötigt. Das 5-Button-Locker-System reagiert auf deine einzigartige Input.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
And in today's back of the brief, as a second signal scandal surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth grows, President Trump steps in to defend him. Aber zuerst, heute's PDB-Spotlight. Wir beginnen mit einem Update auf die US-China-Verhältnisse, die in den Träumen von Präsident Trumps Terrorwahl gegen das Kommunistische Regime weiterhin zerstört sind.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Es ist für Muskel-Memory gebaut, sodass du nicht denkst, sondern reagierst. Ich habe ein Stopbox Pro zuhause und lass mich dir etwas sagen, es ist ein exzellentes Kissen, extrem gut gemacht, sicher und einfach zu verwenden. Mit dem Stopbox Pro musst du die Sicherheit nicht für die Geschwindigkeit handhaben. Dein Feuerarm bleibt sicher und immer in Berührung. Für nur eine kurze Zeit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Nicht nur bekommst du 10% von deiner ganzen Anlage, wenn du den Code PDB an stopboxusa.com nutzt, sondern sie geben dir auch einen kostenlosen Buy-One-Get-One für ihren Stopbox Pro. Das ist richtig. 10% aus und ein kostenloses Stopbox Pro, wenn du den Code PDB an stopboxusa.com nutzt. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk Maha.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Have you heard about that? Yeah, and make America healthy again. Okay, look, at the end of the day, the most important things are good health, family and of course time. You get getting into shape and staying in shape, encouraging physical fitness and good health with your family and being consistent and having enough time during your busy day to actually work out.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Das ist der Grund, warum ich aufgeregt bin, mit Don Mastrangelo und seinem Team an der Jacked Up Fitness zu arbeiten. Aber ihr kommerzielles Power Rack Pro hat alles, was es braucht, um ein Vollkörper-Workout zu machen. Ich habe gerade ein Power Rack Pro installiert in meinem Haus und ich kann nicht genug gute Dinge darüber sagen. Die Konstruktion und die Qualität sind unglaublich.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Ehrlich gesagt, ist es viel besser als die meisten der Maschinen, die man in einem professionellen Gym sieht. Die Kabel-Crossover-Systeme, integrierte 200-Pound-Weight-Stacks und die Smith-Maschine erlauben dir, hunderten von Exercisen zu machen. Im Grunde alles und alles, was du im Gym tun kannst.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Und wenn du neu zu Strength-Training bist, gibt es ihr Get-Jacked-Up-Programm mit vollen Körper-Video-Workouts. Einfach drücken und folgen. My boys and I have been hitting the Power Rack Pro hard since it got set up the other day and it stands up to the toughest workouts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Frankly, my problem will be keeping my sons and their teammates off the system long enough each day so I can get my own workouts done. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program. And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code BAKER. Look, no more excuses. Get busy. Go to getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
In today's Back of the Brief, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remains under fire, following revelations that he used a second signal chat group to discuss military operations. But President Trump has made one thing clear. He's standing firmly behind his Pentagon chief, which is a safer place to stand, considering all the arrows being fired at Hegseth currently by the Democrats and the media.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Speaking to reporters at the White House Easter Egg Roll on Monday, Hegseth dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, calling them, quote, anonymous smears from disgruntled former Pentagon officials. He stated, quote, I've spoken with the President and we are going to continue fighting, adding he and the Commander-in-Chief are on the same page.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Berichter, die mit dem Thema bekannt waren, sagten ABC News, dass der zweite Chat-Grupp im März genutzt wurde, um Details über einen imminenten US-Strike auf Houthi-Positionen in Jemen zu vermitteln. Der Parallel-Signal-Chat-Grupp wurde von Hankseth gegründet während seines Konfirmationsprozesses.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Präsident Trump, als er über die Kontroversie gefragt wurde, brachte keine Kritik ab und sagte den Reporterinnen und Reportern, hier gehen wir wieder, nur ein Verlust von Zeit. Trump prahlt Hankseth, er sagte, er tut einen tollen Job, fragt die Houthis, wie er es tut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Und in ihrer neuesten diplomatischen Vertretung haben die Bezirke in Beijing am Montag Sanktionen gegen einige US-Kongressmitglieder, Regierungsbeamte und Leiter von amerikanischen non-regionalen Organisationen, NGOs, geimpft. Obwohl sie nicht genau spezifizieren, wer sie targetieren. Diesmal zählt China's Anger auf das, was sie genannt haben, quote, egregious behavior on Hong Kong-related issues.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt struck a similar tone during a Monday appearance on Fox & Friends, calling Hegseth, quote, phenomenal at leading the Pentagon and reiterating the, quote, the President stands strongly behind Secretary Hegseth.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Levitt also echoed the Pentagon Chiefs line of attack, accusing former Pentagon officials of orchestrating a smear campaign and praising Hegseth for cracking down on internal leaks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
She stated, quote, the administration and the president have taken a very strong stance against anyone who leaks, continuing, quote, especially sensitive and classified information that can put our troops and our warfighters at risk. Which may or may not include operational details about planned strikes against Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
But the mounting criticism from democratic lawmakers on X has turned Hegseth into a lightning rod. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer unleashed fiery posts calling for Hegseth's firing. Well, now, to be fair, unleashing fiery partisan posts is kind of Schumers signature move. It's almost his raison d'etre. That's French for don't get between Chuck Schumer and a TV camera.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
But for now, Trump's unwavering support to mute the partisan noise makes one thing clear. No shake-up at the top of the Pentagon appears to be on the horizon. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 22nd of April. Look, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
And of course, as you've probably read on the super secret signal chat group that I set up, where we relay classified stuff, you can listen to the show ad-free by becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. It's simple. Just visit pdbpremium.com. And as I mentioned earlier in the show, don't forget, please, check out our YouTube channel, AdPresident's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Das ist, wie ein Bericht von der Associated Press. The action followed sanctions imposed by the US in March on six Chinese and Hong Kong officials over their alleged involvement in what the Trump administration described as quote, transnational repression and other activity that threatens to further erode the city's autonomy. Well, here's a hint. Hong Kong doesn't have any autonomy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
A spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, quote, China has decided to impose sanctions on US congressmen, officials and NGO leaders who have performed poorly, oh, on Hong Kong-related issues. The spokesman added, quote, any wrong action taken by the US side on the Hong Kong-related issue will be met with resolute and reciprocal counteraction by the Chinese side, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
For some background, US officials have grown increasingly concerned in recent years over human rights issues regarding Hong Kong, particularly attempts by the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, to crack down on pro-democracy activists. Hongkong ist eine spezielle administrativen Region von China, die in Theorie, mhm, in Theorie, eine Art Autonomie von der mainlanden Regierung hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Aber diese Freiheit wurde signifikant erodiert, lasst uns nur sagen, erhoben, sollen wir? Seit den historischen Pro-Demokratie-Protesten, die in 2019 durch die Stadt geflogen sind. Wiederum, es ist alles Windeldressing. Die CCP erlaubt nicht, eine Art Autonomie zu haben, wenn es um Hongkong geht.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
In 2020 haben die CCP-Führer eine kontroversielle National-Security-Law geimpft, um die Anti-Gewerbe-Proteste zu beheben, und die Behörden in Hongkong haben später die Lage verwendet, pro-Demokratische Führer zu verurteilen und Aktivist-Gruppen und Medien-Outlets zu verhindern.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Während die Legislative Assemblee Hongkongs einmal eine starke pro-Demokratische Kontingente hatte, wurden viele aus dem Offizier oder sonst wo verhaftet unter der National-Security-Law in den Jahren nach den 2019-Protesten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Die lokalen Wahlgesetze wurden im Jahr 2021 überholt, um nur die chinesischen Patrioten in der Stadt aufzuhalten, weiter die Regierung der Stadt mit den CCP-Führern auf der Mainlandseite zu verabschieden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Mit dieser legislativen Dominanz waren die Gesetzgeber der CCP leistungsvoll und konnten die neuen nationalen Sicherheitsmaßnahmen im März 2024 schnellen, die ihre Kräfte weiterentwickeln, um die, die sie als Dissidenten bezeichnen, aufzuhalten. Das zeigte sich in der Zeit von der damaligen Biden-Administration.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Mondays Statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry accused the US of interfering in the affairs of Hong Kong and violating international law principles. That's the Chinese regime accusing somebody of violating international law principles by issuing the sanctions in March, calling the actions, quote, despicable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Frankly, it's cute that the CCP protests about the violation of international law principles.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Turning to the ongoing trade war, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce issued a statement on Monday, warning other countries, listen to this, this is very interesting, warning other countries against striking new trade deals with the US that undermine Beijing's economic interests, according to a report from The Hill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
CCP officials promised economic retaliation against any country that does not heed this warning. Ooh, bully much? Though they did not elaborate on what that might look like. As I'm sure you're all aware, earlier this month, President Trump hit China with a 145% tariff on most of their exports, though certain Chinese products are now subject to tariffs as high as 245%.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
China retaliated by placing a 125% tax on US goods and has vowed to stand their ground and, quote, fight to the end. Despite the significant economic fallout already hitting the communist regime's export-dependent economy, it does not appear US and Chinese officials would be coming to the negotiating table anytime soon. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Now, before we go to the break, I want to give a quick plug for our YouTube channel, at Presidents Daily Brief. Hopefully you've had a chance to visit. We're quickly closing in on 100,000 subscribers. And if you haven't checked it out yet, well, now's the time. Please do.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
You can watch full video episodes of the show and catch our weekly program, the PDB Situation Report, with even more in-depth analysis and interviews. Hit subscribe and help us cross that 100,000 mark. When we hit 100,000, I'll jump in the RV and drive to each and every one of your homes to deliver a fruit basket and we could take selfies.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
It's Tuesday, the 22nd of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with China. And it seems that the Chinese regime, for whatever reason, is a bit testy. Beijing just sanctioned multiple members of Congress and top US officials...
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Okay, to be fair, that's probably not going to happen, but we will come up with some entertaining ways to celebrate 100,000 subscribers. And thank you very much. Alright, coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Hamas reportedly is recruiting thousands of youths, or jutes, as Joe Petsche said in My Cousin Vinny, to rebuild its fighting force, while the Trump administration floats a last-digit peace deal to Ukraine that recognizes Crimea as Russian and blocks NATO membership. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, you've probably heard about the tariffs, right? The trade war?
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
It's thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But, I'm here to tell you... dass es eine Silber- und Gold-Linie gibt, die ich denke, dass manche Menschen verpasst haben. Sie sehen, Präsident Trump hat spezifisch Gold und Silber-Bullion von den steigenden Tarifen verabschiedet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Und während die neuen Policien signifikante finanzielle Chaos triggern, hat die Administration die Fähigkeit, sich in prekische Metalle zu diversifizieren. Also, wenn Sie sich um Ihre Verschuldung interessieren, ich ermutige Sie, eine gratis Konsultation mit einem Berchgold-Präkische-Metalle-Spezialisten zu haben. Look, the first step is very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Was auch immer du dich interessierst, hat Fast Growing Trees dich geschlossen, um dein Lieblingsjahr direkt zu deiner Tür zu bringen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Es ist eine tolle Firma, die dir helfen, dein Outdoors oder dein Indoors mit einer großen Anzahl an Pflanzen und ohne die Zeit und Träume von Besuchern zu besuchen. And this spring they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Hamas is resorting to the recruitment of Gaza's youth to replenish their numbers after having their ranks devastated by Israel over the past 18 months of war. Palestinian sources, who recently spoke to a Saudi-owned outlet, revealed that Hamas' Al-Qassam-Brigades haben offensichtlich 30.000 junge Menschen aus dem ganzen Gaza-Bereich eingereist, um in ihre Terroristen-Bataillons zu treten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
in a new tit-for-tat move over what it's calling, quote, egregious behavior on Hong Kong-related issues. Hmm, we'll have those details. Later in the show, Hamas steps up efforts to refill its depleted ranks, reportedly recruiting some 30,000 youths into its militant wing, including untrained miners. Plus, in what appears to be a last-ditch effort to end the war,
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Nun, es ist nicht ganz klar, wann die Begründung stattfand, und natürlich haben die Zahlen veröffentlicht, aber die Nachrichten sagen, dass die neuen Mitglieder bereits an Geheimdiensten-Kampfen und Guerillawahrfehr-Taktiken trainiert haben, insbesondere die Operation von Anti-Tank-Missilen und IEDs, so ein Bericht der Zeitung Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Die Forschung hat jedoch bemerkt, dass die neuen Rekruten keine spezialisierten militärischen Fähigkeiten mehr als das, was sie in ihrer grundlegenden Training erhalten. Aber es schlägt einen massiven Einfluss an neuen Kämpfern auf, wenn das richtig ist, und Follis berichtet, dass die iranische Back-Terror-Gruppe 15.000 weitere Kämpfer im Januar rekrutiert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Trotz ihrer Belohnung, Minoren zu rekrutieren, um ihre Räume zu erneuern, hat die Gruppe noch nicht so viel Mannschaft, wie sie es vorher hatte, bevor sie ihre brutalen 7 Oktober-Attacken auf Israel eröffneten, die den Krieg eröffneten. Ihre militärischen Ressourcen bleiben auch sehr zerbrochen. Aufgrund der Fortschritte ist Hamas auf der Laufzeit auf Long Range Missiles und Drohnen unterwegs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Sie haben sich auf Recyclingwaste aus unbeschlossenen IDF-Munitionen versorgt, um grundbasierte Explosiven und andere improvisierte Geräte herzustellen. Aber Hamas' Probleme stoppen nicht dort. Wie wir letzte Woche diskutiert haben,
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Israel's renewed military offensive and tightened aid restrictions since the ceasefire collapsed in mid-March have helped choke off the group's access to cash, leaving them unable to pay many of their terror operatives and fighters. In der Zwischenzeit, während Hamas versucht, sich zu regruppieren, ist Israel weiter mit offensiven Operationen in Gaza voranzubringen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Am Samstag hat die IDF erklärt, dass sie rund 150 Hamas-Targete in einem Versuch gestärken, die Infrastruktur der Terrorgruppen weiter zu zerstören, sowohl oben als auch unter dem Boden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Auf der diplomatischen Seite, naja, so wie es ist, bleiben Israel und Hamas an einem Abstand über Termine für einen neuen Ausstieg, mit Hamas, der letzte Woche die neuesten Israel-Vorschläge verweigert hat, zu ihrer Anfrage für eine komplette israelische Rückkehr aus Gaza zu halten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
In einer Rede am Sonntag hat der israelische Premierminister Netanyahu wiederholt, dass er den Krieg nicht beenden wird, bis Hamas erledigt wird und die restlichen israelischen Flüchtlinge zurückgekehrt werden. Als Erinnerung, der israelische Regierung glaubt, dass 24 der restlichen 59 Flüchtlinge, die im 7. Oktober 2023 in den Enklave geblieben wurden, noch wohnen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Netanyahu sagte, ich werde nicht zu Mördern zurückkehren. Wenn wir zu ihren Anforderungen einstehen, werden wir alle unglaublichen Erfolge, die wir erzielt haben, verlieren. Okay, wir gehen weiter.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
In einem möglichen Letzten-Dich-Effort, um die Krieg in der Ukraine auf einen Halt zu bringen, hat die Trump-Administration Kiew eine vertraute Friedensvorschläge gegeben, die die Mappe des oberen Europas reshapen würde, indem sie Russland über die Crimea erinnert und die Ukraine aus NATO auslöst. Es ist im Grunde eine Vorschläge, die die Anforderungen des russischen Präsidenten Putin beobachten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Das Dokument, das der Wall Street Journal berichtet hat, wurde den ukrainischen Offizieren während einer Beratung in Paris am 17. April geliefert. Es beschreibt einen Ausstieg auf den aktuellen Frontlinien, errichtet eine Bufferzone rund um die Zaporizia-Nuklear-Pflanze und beantragt, dass die Ukraine ihre NATO-Ambitionen formal verlassen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
A formal response from Kyiv is expected this week during trilateral talks with US and European officials in London. If the sides reach an alignment, the plan could then be passed on to Moscow. If adopted, the proposal would mark a seismic reversal in American foreign policy. Since Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea, Washington has refused to recognize the Kremlin's claims.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
2018 hat der damalige Staatssekretär Mike Pompeo denutiert, dass Putin die Krimi als eine Verletzung eines, wie er es bezeichnet, bedrohlichen internationalen Grundsatzes der territorialen Souveränität beurteilt hat. Das ist eine Position, die später von dem Kongress verabschiedet wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Aber jetzt scheint die White House, die russische Kontrolle über die Peninsule akzeptieren will, als die Realität für den Preis der Frieden. Nun, ich möchte darauf hinweisen, dass das Dokument keine Anmerkung von der ursprünglichen Anerkennung von Russlands Anerkennung an die besetzten Bereiche, die es aktuell hält, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson und Zaporizhia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Dies sind Territorien, die Moskau teilweise besetzt, aber sie wurden im Jahr 2022 angekündigt. Dann wiederum, das Dokument ruft nicht einen russischen Truppenabschluss aus diesen Regionen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
The Trump administration has presented Ukraine with a confidential peace deal that would recognize Crimea as Russian, give Russia essentially the land they currently occupy inside Ukraine and block NATO membership. In exchange, Ukraine gets, uh, well, that's not really clear.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Außerdem handelt es sich nicht um Ukraine's long-term security guarantees However, American officials have reportedly reassured Kyiv that Western military support would continue Well, that should be very reassuring The plan doesn't require Ukraine to cut in troop numbers or rule out future deployments of European forces
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Vielleicht die größte geopolitische Explosion, die Vorschläge, die die Ukraine aus NATO auslösen würden. Ein Non-Start-Up für Kiew und ein langer Wettbewerb für Moskau. Seit dem ersten Tag hat der Kremlin die NATO-Expansion als eine rote Linie als Provokation und eine zentrale Bedeutung für ihre Invasion bezeichnet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
The plan also calls for placing the Zaporozhetsia nuclear facility under direct American oversight. In a March phone call with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Trump touted the idea as the, quote, best protection for the site. Zelensky later confirmed the conversation, but clarified that any U.S. role would be limited to that facility, not Ukraine's broader nuclear infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Von dem, was wir aktuell wissen, scheint der Kremlin enttäuscht zu sein. Nun, natürlich, das könnte sein, weil, zumindest aus frühen Berichten, der Vorschlag die primären Anforderungen Moskau einlädt. Mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov begrüßte die US-Statements am Montag, bestätigte, dass Ukraines NATO-Exzession, quote, aus der Frage ist, und sagte, quote, etwas, das uns satisfiziert. Nun, das ist schön.
The President's Daily Brief
April 22nd, 2025: Beijing Now Targeting Members Of Congress & Hamas Recruits Kids
Der US-Push for Peace folgt einer Veranstaltung im letzten Monat in St. Petersburg zwischen Trumps Special Envoy Stephen Witkoff und russischer Präsident Wladimir Putin. Dort hat Witkoff den US-Support für Russlands Begründung der vier östlichen Regionen als den wichtigsten Weg nach einem Ausbruch gelegt, um die neue Vorschläge der Regierung zu komplizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Der 88-jährige Franzis wurde mit severem Bronchitis und Pneumonien in beiden Lungen im Februar verheiratet, aber er ist inzwischen zurückgekehrt zu seinen Aufgaben, obwohl er sich in einem Rollstuhl befindet. Franzis hat die 1,3 Billionen Katholiken der Welt für mehr als eine Dekade geleitet und seine Tod hat nun die Prozesse vorgelegt, seinen Nachfolger zu wählen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
The College of Cardinals, currently totaling 135, will begin preparations for a conclave, likely to convene in the coming weeks inside the Sistine Chapel to elect the 267th Pope. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 21st of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
We're beginning to learn more about Saturday's nuclear talks in Rome between the US and Iran and what the next phase of negotiations could look like. While the finer details of the second round of negotiations have not been released, a senior White House official said the talks were productive and are heading in a positive direction.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Iranian officials were similarly optimistic, describing the latest meeting as a step forward that opens the door for more substantive negotiations. A third round of discussions are now slated to take place later this week in Oman. That's according to a report from the Times of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Like the first round of talks back on the 12th of April in Oman, Saturday's discussions in Italy were mostly conducted indirectly, with Omani intermediaries passing messages between both parties. However, reports indicate that at some point, Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragshi spoke face to face.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
A Trump administration official thanked their Omani partners for facilitating the talks and told the Times of Israel, quote, Today in Rome, over four hours in our second round of talks, we made very good progress in our direct and indirect discussions, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
The Iranian Foreign Minister echoed those sentiments, telling Iranian state media, "...it was a good meeting and I can say that the negotiations are moving forward." Araghchi vaguely added that, "...this time we managed to reach a better understanding on a series of principles and goals."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
He said that expert-level meetings are now slated to begin on Wednesday in Oman, which will provide, "...the opportunity to start designing a framework for an agreement." Notably, the Iranian Foreign Minister said both sides had agreed that it was time to move on from the framework of the 2015 nuclear deal that was known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
That agreement collapsed in 2018 after President Trump, in his first term, withdrew the U.S. over concerns that Iran was not adhering to their commitments, and he reinstated sweeping sanctions on Iran under his maximum pressure campaign. Iran will diese Sanktionen unvergesslich entfernen, während sie einen nuklearen Programm behaupten, dass er nur für zivilistische Gründe ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Wegen der großen Herausforderungen muss es immer noch geklärt werden. Es ist unklar, wie diese Reihe von Negotiierungen, um die nuklearen Ambitionen von Iran zu beenden, von den Termen der Obama-Era JCPOA unterschieden werden. Just last week, for example, Aragchi declared that the question of uranium enrichment was, quote, non-negotiable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Witkow responded by insisting that any final arrangement must see Iran's nuclear infrastructure dismantled in its entirety. But Omani officials appeared hopeful that they can bridge the remaining divide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Omans foreign minister confirmed on Sunday that they'll be hosting the third round of talks later this week and said they, quote, aimed to seal a fair, enduring and binding deal, which will ensure Iran is completely free of nuclear weapons and sanctions and maintaining its ability to develop peaceful nuclear energy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Now, while those may sound like lofty ambitions, Oman's foreign minister said that given the momentum of the talks, quote, now even the unlikely is possible. Still, the talks are obviously at a delicate stage, and President Trump continues to warn that military options remain on the table, should Iran fail to continue negotiations in good faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Am Anfang der letzten Woche hat Trump es klar gemacht, dass er keine Verlängerungen oder Verlängerungen beurteilen wird. Er hat den Rednern erzählt, dass das iranische Regime kein nukleares Waffen haben kann, indem er sagt, dass wir, wenn wir etwas sehr hart machen müssen, es tun.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
In der Zwischenzeit, als die Uhr klingelt, ein Deal zu versichern, wird Iran weiterhin sein nukleares Programm aufbauen. Das Regime ist noch immer Uranium zu 60 Prozent Purity, weit über den zivilen Energiebedürfnissen und gefährlich nahe an Waffen-Grad-Leveln.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Letzter Donnerstag hat die International Atomic Energy Agency, oder die IAEA, einen Bericht geöffnet, der bestätigt, dass Iran rund 605 Pound von Uranium mit bis zu 60 Prozent erzeugt ist und fast alle Komponenten besitzt ist, um eine Bombe zu verbinden. Hmm. If only we had some clues. Well, let's see. They've got 605 pounds of 60% enriched uranium.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
They're nearly all the components necessary to assemble a bomb. And they continue to refuse access to key facilities. What could it all mean? Coming up next, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is once again in the headlines for reportedly sharing sensitive information about ongoing US military operations in Yemen in a group chat from his personal phone. I'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
It's Monday, the 21st of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Okay, fair enough. It's the PDB Late Evening Bulletin this time around. I apologize, but sometimes travel schedules have a tendency to get screwed up. That would be the case today. So, better late than never. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Ich weiß, dass du das weißt, aber ein Handgun oder irgendeine Waffe für Selbstverdienung kommt mit einer ernsthaften Verantwortung. Du musst es sowohl sicher als auch verfügbar sein, wenn es am wichtigsten ist. Das ist das, was Stopbox USA mit dem Stopbox Pro umgesetzt hat. Es ist eine Lockbox, die dir instantan Zugang zu deinem Feuerwaffen gibt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Keine Elektronik, keine Kugeln oder Kodes sind notwendig. Das 5-Button-Locksystem antwortet zu deiner einzigartigen Input. Es ist für Muskel-Memory gebaut, also denkst du nicht, du reagierst. Schau, ich habe ein Stopbox Pro zu Hause und es ist ein exzellentes Stück Kitsch, extrem gut gemacht, sicher und einfach zu benutzen. Mit dem Stopbox Pro musst du keine Sicherheit für Speed handeln.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Dein Feuerarm bleibt sicher und immer in Berührung. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you probably have heard about those. They've thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
But there is a silver lining that I think some people have missed. And it's not just silver, it's also a gold lining. Und das ist, weil Präsident Trump spezifisch Gold- und Silber-Bullion von den steigenden Tarifen verabschiedet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Während die neuen Policien einen bedeutenden finanziellen Chaos auslösen, hat die Regierung die Möglichkeit behauptet, sich zu diversifizieren in zwei wertvolle Medaillen. Schau, wenn du dich um deine Erhöhungen interessierst, ich ermutige dich, eine kostenlose Konsultation mit einem Berchgold-wertvollen Medaillen-Spezialisten zu haben. The first step is easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, I'm happy to report the weather's warming up and that means, of course, it's grilling season. And here's a pro tip.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
I'm about to tell you where to get the best beef to put on the grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. Look, it's generations of family raising high quality beef in der großen Stadt Texas. Und natürlich spreche ich von Tri-Tales-Beef. Tri-Tales ist keine Corporate Meat Factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Tri-Tales ist eine fünfte Generation Texas-Ranch, wo die Pflanzen auf der Pflanzenschale aufgewachsen sind, die Gräne fertiggestellt und aufgewachsen sind. Sie handeln das Bier auf dem Ort und schicken es direkt zu der Tür. Es gibt keine Mittelmänner, es gibt kein Mysterium hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor, you can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. Das ist trybeef.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Wir fangen mit dem neuesten Update an den diplomatischen Gesprächen zwischen den USA und Iran an. Die Trump-Administration sagt, sehr guter Erfolg, das sind ihre Worte, wird gemacht. Und das iranische Regime sagt, sie arbeiten daran, ein neues Framework für einen nuklearen Deal zu designen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right? When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve. You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now. Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Welcome back to the afternoon, well, okay, this time around it's the late evening bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is once again facing scrutiny after revelations that he used a second signal chat group, this time on his personal phone, to share sensitive information about ongoing US military operations in Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
The disclosure, first reported by Reuters on Sunday, marks the second known incident involving unsecured communications at the highest levels of national security and has intensified concerns over the Trump administration's handling of classified information.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
As our regular PDB listeners will recall, the earlier breach involved the Atlantic's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg being mistakenly added to a signal thread created by national security advisor Mike Waltz. Und das beinhaltete Hegseth. Und es war, um kovidierte Schüsse auf Houthi-Targeten in Jemen zu koordinieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Nun, das allein war natürlich ein großer Fehler und Waltz akzeptierte die Blame für den Verlust. Nun hat sich die Aufmerksamkeit zu einem Parallelsignal-Chats geändert, der während des Konfirmationsprozesses von Hegseth erschienen wurde und den Defensivteam Huddle genannt wurde. Das ist ein faszinierender Name.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Es war ursprünglich mit einem kleinen Kreis von vertrauten Insidern vorgesehen, insbesondere seiner Frau, seinem Bruder und dem legalen Vorsitzenden. But a source close to the matter told Reuters that the chat later became a conduit for real-time operational updates. Oh, here, honey, did I tell you about the operational updates for the attacks on the Houthis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Später im Show ist US-Defensivminister Pete Hegseth wieder in heißem Wasser, nach frischen Erlebnissen, dass er eine zweite Signal-Chatgruppe verwendet hat. Die Signal-Gruppe hat sich wie Hotcakes auf seinem persönlichen Telefon ausgedrückt, um sensiblen Informationen über die aufwändigen US-Militäraktionen in Jemen zu diskutieren. Aber zuerst, heutes Abend-Spotlight, oder spätabends-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Including flight schedules for F-A-18 Hornet missions targeting Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists. Krüchlich wurde der Chat auf Hegseths persönlichen Telefon ausgerüstet, um Fragen zu beantworten, was die Schwierigkeit von sensiblen Daten betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Rund eine Dutzend Menschen hatten Zugriff auf den Gruppen, einige von denen, wie Hegseths Bruder, ein Vorsitzender der DHS, Positionen außerhalb der Department of Defense Chain of Command besitzen. Diese letzte Verbrechung kommt nur Tage nach einer breiteren internen Leak-Erfahrung, die die Ausstrahlung von einigen hohen-Level-Affizienten getriggert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Dan Caldwell, Hegseths nächster Vorsitzender und der Pentagon-designierte Punktmann im originalen Signal-Chat, wurde vor der letzten Woche aus dem Gebäude verabschiedet. Und zwei weitere Anwesende, Hegseths Chef-Deputat Darren Selnick und Chef-Defensiv-Secretär Steve Feinbergs Chef-Deputat Colin Carroll, wurden auch am Freitag ausgelöst.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Fallout on Capitol Hill, as you can imagine, has been blistering. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X, quote, We keep learning how Pete Hegseth put lives at risk. Hegseth must be fired, end quote. Iraq War veteran and Senator Tammy Duckworth echoed that sentiment, posting, quote, Hegseth must resign in disgrace. Oh, not just resign, but she said resign in disgrace, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
But inside the Pentagon, the pushback has taken on a defiant tone. Sprecher Sean Parnell hat den Aufruhr als politisch verurteilt verabschiedet, indem er sagte, dass die Medien, die Trump hassen, weiterhin mit dem Zerstören von jemandem, der an Präsident Trumps Agenda beteiligt ist, besetzt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Dennoch, der Schaden kann bereits gemacht werden, weil der wachsende Skandal die Verletzungen der US-Militäroperationen in der Region beschädigt, und Hegseths Fähigkeit, Vertrauen in die Klinik zu gewähren, ist weiterhin in Frage. All right. Before we go, we need to acknowledge the passing of a major global figure this morning. Of course, the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Edition | April 21st, 2025: US Touts 'Very Good Progress' On Iran Nuclear Talks & Hegseth Back In Hot Water Over Second Signal Group Chat
Vatican Administrator Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement, "...dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Hey, it's Mike Baker here. If you're keeping score at home, I am still in the Middle East on an epic trek through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Five riders, ten camels, and a remarkable support team. While I'm away, Mike Slater is here to guide you through the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
The images were a stark reminder that despite all the military might that Israel deployed in Gaza, its stated war goals, destroying Hamas and replacing it with alternative governance, remains unrealized.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Gershon Baskin, a former Israeli hostage negotiator, described the situation as a, quote, slap in the face to Israel, highlighting the limited impact that the military campaign may have had on Hamas's core structure. The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, has paused one of the deadliest conflicts in recent Middle Eastern history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Over 47,000 people in Gaza have been killed since October 2023, following Hamas's deadly attack on Israel, which killed over 1,200 Israelis. While the truce allows for hostages and prisoners to be exchanged, it also raises pressing questions about Gaza's governance in the aftermath, something the PDB has been highlighting extensively since the start of this 15-month conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Now, it's important to point out that the Israeli officials argue the high civilian casualties are because Hamas fighters embedded themselves within the population, and their quick reappearance seems to back that up. Many Hamas members reportedly stashed their uniforms and weapons, laying low until the ceasefire gave them the chance to come back out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Under the ceasefire terms, Hamas police are tasked with maintaining law and order, overseeing displaced Palestinians, and coordinating aid deliveries. Aid groups, including the United Nations, report that the humanitarian situation is slowly improving, with more supplies entering Gaza than at any time during the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
However, observers warn that Hamas' continued presence complicates reconstruction efforts and future stability. Many Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the foreign minister, maintain that a permanent peace is impossible as long as Hamas remains in power. Meanwhile, discussions about Gaza's future governance have intensified.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
The Palestinian Authority, ousted by Hamas in 2007, has expressed willingness to assume control but faces resistance from Israel and skepticism from Palestinians. Hamas, for now, continues to hold a monopoly on force. Israel estimates that before the war, Hamas had up to 30,000 fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Though Israel claims to have killed over half, the group continues to reorganize under the leadership of Mohammed Sinwar. That's the brother of Yahya Sinwar, the slain former leader of Hamas and architect of the October 7th attacks. As rebuilding begins, the future of Gaza, and whether it remains under Hamas' rule, remains highly uncertain. Quick programming note before we take a break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
The great Mike Baker, he's going to be back behind the microphone a little earlier than expected. He's returning to host the PDB starting tomorrow morning, and he'll bring you all the details of his adventure in the Saudi desert. I won't be here behind the microphone, but I'll definitely be listening. Thank you for letting me fill in these last few days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Coming up after the break, in another reversal of Biden policy, President Trump has returned the nation of Cuba to the list of state sponsors of terrorism. More on that after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Thanks, Mike. It's Tuesday, 21 January 2025. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. First, as the ceasefire in Gaza takes hold, Hamas has flooded the streets with thousands of its fighters in a major show of force, demonstrating that they will remain the dominant power in the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Just hours into his presidency, Donald Trump reinstated Cuba to the list of state sponsors of terrorism, overturning a late-term decision by then-President Joe Biden. The swift action underscores Trump's commitment to a hard-line stance towards the communist island, mirroring policies from his first term that unraveled Obama-era detente.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
As we reported last week on the PDB, Biden's removal of Cuba from the terrorism list coincided with Havana's Vatican-mediated agreement to gradually release over 500 political prisoners detained following the mass anti-government protests of July 2021. For now, it remains unclear whether Cuba will continue prisoner release in light of Trump's policy reversal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Republican lawmakers fiercely criticized Biden's decision, citing what they view as insufficient scrutiny of the Cuban regime's role in harboring individuals linked to terrorism and its destabilizing activities in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Incoming Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was just confirmed today unanimously by the Senate, a Cuban-American and staunch critic of Havana's leadership, foreshadowed the reinstatement during his confirmation hearing last Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
We'll discuss Israel's reaction and what the terror groups continue to hold over the enclave means for the fragile truce. Later in the show, in a quick reversal of Biden policy, President Trump has returned the nation of Cuba to the list of state sponsors of terrorism. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
When Monday's announcement came, Rubio lauded it as a necessary response to Cuba's ongoing harboring of Colombian guerrilla commanders, whose peace negotiations with Bogota collapsed over the weekend due to accusations of war crimes. This breakdown, which we reported earlier today on the PDB, further reinforced the rationale for Trump's actions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
In tandem with this terrorism designation, the Trump administration reimposed restrictions on Cuban government linked entities, barring them from participating in certain financial transactions under U.S. law. These measures, initially introduced during Trump's first term, had been rolled back under Biden, marking another flashpoint in the partisan tug-of-war over Cuba policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Cuba's communist leadership wasted no time in responding to Trump's actions. Their president condemned the move, describing it as, quote, an act of arrogance and disregard for truth. The country's foreign minister echoed this sentiment on X, asserting that the policy would inflict harm, but would not, quote, subdue the firm determination of our people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
It's important to note that Trump opted to preserve one key element of Biden's Cuba policy, the suspension of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. This provision allows Cuban exiles to sue Havana for property that was confiscated after Fidel Castro's 1959 revolution, which has been sparingly used primarily by multinational corporations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
While the administration has yet to articulate a justification for the policy shift, Republicans frame it as a corrective to Biden's perceived leniency. Trump's actions set the stage for a renewed era of antagonism between Washington and Havana in the years ahead. And that is the PDB Avenue Bulletin for Tuesday, 21 January. Thank you again for letting me fill in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Mike Baker will be here bright and early tomorrow morning. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater from the podcast Politics by Faith and host of the morning show on Sirius XM Patriot. Mike Baker, I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay safe. Spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
I want to start today's show by bringing to your attention a Wall Street Journal report that details how in the first hours following the start of the ceasefire agreement with Israel, Hamas has quickly moved to reassert its control over the Gaza Strip. As Israeli troops withdrew, Hamas's forces re-emerged, taking to the streets in a highly visible display of authority.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 21st, 2025: Hamas Reasserts Control Over Gaza & Trump Reverses Biden Policy With Cuba Crackdown
Thousands of armed and uniformed militants paraded through Gaza, flashing victory signs to cheering crowds, showing that despite months of conflict, Hamas remains the dominant power in the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Hey, Mike Baker here. I'm currently on an epic camel trek through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. 700 miles in about four weeks, all to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. And if you're wondering, well, there are very few comfortable ways to sit on a camel. Now, while I'm away, my good friend Mike Slater is stepping in to keep you informed here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Speaking to supporters at a rally on Sunday, Trump pledged swift action, starting, quote, By the time the sun sets Monday, the invasion of our country will have come to a halt. The 47th president's rhetoric signals a return to the hardline measures that defined his first administration, with national security and immigration enforcement at the forefront of his policy agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
And that is the president's daily brief for Tuesday, 21 January. To listen to this show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the president's daily brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater, filling in for the great Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay safe. Spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
During a televised meeting of Russia's Security Council on Monday, Putin offered his congratulations to Trump on his return to office, specifically praising the president's desire to re-establish direct diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Russia, which were severed following Putin's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
It was a marked departure from the Kremlin's stance back in early November when they refused to congratulate Trump on his victory, citing what they described as the U.S. 's unfriendly stance towards Moscow, according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Putin said he was now ready to engage with the Trump administration on the subject of reining in nuclear arms and ending the war in Ukraine, though he qualified his statements, warning that Russia's territorial gains in eastern Ukraine must be accepted by the West if they want talks to get off the ground.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Putin said, quote, We see the statements by the newly elected president of the United States and members of his team about the desire to restore direct contacts with Russia. We also hear his statements about the need to do everything possible to prevent World War III. We of course welcome this attitude and congratulate the elected President of the United States of America on taking office.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Relations between the U.S. and Russia have, of course, significantly deteriorated over the last three years, falling to their lowest level since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis due to Russia's war on Ukraine. But Trump's return has fostered a cautious sense of optimism in international circles that the two global powers can begin mending fences
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Tackling the issue of Ukraine will be easier said than done for President Trump. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Trump has previously stated that he could end the war within 24 hours of assuming office. Though he walked back those lofty ambitions earlier this month, telling reporters he hoped to resolve the conflict within six months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Separately, retired General Keith Kellogg, Trump's nominee for special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, has set a goal of ending the war within Trump's first 100 days. Putin claims he's long been open to dialogue and diplomacy regarding the nearly three-year-old conflict, though many in the West remain skeptical that his supposed interest in a peace deal is genuine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Those concerns are compounded by the fact that so far, the Kremlin's rough proposals for peace amount to little more than a full Ukrainian surrender.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Putin reiterated on Monday that Moscow has no interest in a limited ceasefire and will only accept a long-lasting peace deal that allows Russia to keep the roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory that they've seized since 2022 and prevents Ukraine from ever joining the NATO alliance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Officials in Ukraine, meanwhile, warned President Trump not to rush into negotiations with the Putin regime, saying it would be a catastrophic mistake to begin talks while Ukrainian forces are fighting to gain the advantage on the battlefield.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
A senior advisor to the Ukrainian President Zelensky noted that Kiev's forces are currently having great success targeting Russian energy infrastructure and that they need time to let that campaign play out. The advisor said, quote, We need to be able to keep up this kind of pressure if we are to enter negotiations from a position of strength.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Only if Russia is suffering losses will it be willing to negotiate meaningfully. How Trump's return will impact the conflict is anyone's guess. But the president has indicated he plans to meet with both Zelensky and Putin shortly to begin peace talks. Zelensky also congratulated Trump on his inauguration and said he looks forward to engaging in, quote, active and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Late last night, among the signing of many executive orders, Trump said to reporters, I have to speak to President Putin and we're going to have to find out. But he can't be thrilled. He's not doing so well. He's grinding it out. He made the point that many people thought Russia would defeat Ukraine in just a week. And here we are many years later.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Moving on from the war in Ukraine, Trump was inundated on Monday by well wishes from heads of state and leaders across the world. Whether from European allies, the Vatican, NATO leadership, or Eastern powers like India, the messages were universally positive.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Thanks, Mike. It's Tuesday, 21 January 2025. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. Coming up in today's spotlight, the world reacts to Donald Trump's inauguration, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, who appeared on Russian television to congratulate Trump on his win and urge him to avoid starting World War III.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trump for helping to secure a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, and said he and Trump will work together to, quote, raise the U.S.-Israel alliance to even greater heights. We expect the congratulatory messages to continue pouring in over the next few days as Trump kicks off his second term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Coming up after the break, Yemen's Houthi rebels announce that they'll stop targeting international shipping in the Red Sea. And over 80 are dead after violent clashes in Colombia's Catatumbo region. Details ahead.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Welcome back to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Turning to the Middle East, the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen are shifting their strategy in the wake of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The terror group said Sunday that they would stop their attacks on international commercial vessels and American and British naval ships in the Red Sea and instead limit their strikes to only Israeli-affiliated vessels.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Regarding Israeli ships, they said their attacks would only stop upon the full implementation of all phases of the ceasefire agreement, according to an exclusive report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The group warned, however, that any breakdown in the fragile truce or direct attacks in Yemen would prompt them to resume wider assaults on international ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which they described as a form of, quote, sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The militants said, quote, We affirm that, in the event of any aggression against the Republic of Yemen by the United States of America, the United Kingdom, or the usurping Israeli entity, the sanctions will be reinstated against the aggressor.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Later in the show, Yemen's Houthi rebels announce a shift in strategy, stating they'll stop targeting international shipping and focus solely on Israeli-affiliated ships in the Red Sea. I wonder if that has anything to do with the new president of America. Plus, 80 people lost their lives in Colombia's Catatumbo region during three days of escalating violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The Iranian-backed Houthis delivered their message in an email to international shippers on Sunday, though analysts say it will likely do little to encourage global firms to re-enter the critical shipping route, which, prior to the Houthi attacks, accounted for more than 12% of global trade volume and 30% of global container shipping volume.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Over the past year, Houthi attacks have significantly disrupted this vital economic lane, causing commercial traffic through the region to drop by half. Many shipping companies have instead been diverting their ships around southern Africa to avoid being attacked, leading to longer shipping journeys and, of course, higher costs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
For now, shipping companies appear to be taking a wait-and-see approach. The head of security for BIMCO, the largest international shipowners association, told the AP, quote, It is assessed that even minor deviations from the ceasefire agreements could lead to hostilities, which would subsequently prompt the Houthis to again direct threats against a broader range of international shipping.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Remarks on Monday from the Houthi Supreme Leader also left doubt over whether it is safe to return to the troubled waters. The group's leader warned they're, quote, ready to return to escalation again alongside our brothers should the ceasefire break down.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
As a reminder, the Houthis began relentlessly attacking Israel and international shipping vessels in the wake of last year's 7 October attacks by Hamas. To date, they fired more than 200 missiles and 170 drones at the Jewish state and carried out more than 100 attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea, sinking two vessels, seizing another, and killing four mariners.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Shifting to Colombia, more than 80 people have been killed in just three days of escalating violence in the country's northeast after fallout from collapsed peace talks between the government and the terrorist guerrilla group the National Liberation Army, also known as ELN.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
This outbreak has plunged the Catatumba region into chaos, placing thousands of civilians who now huddle in shelters or seek refuge in remote mountainous areas. One displaced resident captured the desperation of the moment, stating, quote, We had no time to grab our things. We're helpless here. Government officials are calling this one of the deadliest spirals of violence in recent memory.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
So why'd this happen? Well, the violence erupted last week after the ELN launched a coordinated assault on ex-members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, who have resumed armed activities to annex drug trafficking routes despite a 2016 peace deal. The Catatumbo region, a strategic nexus for drug trafficking, has long been a flashpoint as guerrilla groups vie for control.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
For the ELN, securing this area is central to expanding its communist ideology and operations. Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who campaigned on advancing peace, suspended negotiations with the ELN on Friday, accusing the group of war crimes. In a post on X the same day, Petro stated, quote, the ELN has no will for peace.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
It's the second collapse of talks in less than a year, underscoring the fragile nature of attempts to end Colombia's decades-long international conflict. With an estimated 6,000 fighters across Colombia and Venezuela, the ELN has long sought recognition as a political entity, a demand that would embolden the group.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
As the government moves to stabilize the region, more than 5,000 soldiers have been deployed. The defense minister underscores the urgency, pledging to, quote, "...guarantee the security of communities." but civilians remain in the crossfire.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
We'll have the details from South America. And in today's Back of the Brief, President Trump has reportedly ordered U.S. troops to the southern border following his designation of the Tren de Aragua gang as a foreign terrorist organization. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
According to a government official's report, among the dead are a community leader and seven individuals who sought to sign the ELN and government peace deal. While the ELN denies targeting civilians, claiming its operations focused solely on former FARC guerrillas, their rhetoric offers little solace.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
On Saturday, the ELN issued a statement accusing FARC factions of initiating violence against civilians, warning that continued attacks left, quote, no other way out than armed confrontation. The humanitarian toll is staggering. Over 8,000 people have been displaced, many lacking necessities. Government relief efforts sent 10 tons of aid.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Yet the scope of the crisis threatens to overwhelm resources. Compounding the instability, the violence risks spilling over into neighboring Venezuela, which remains mired in a political crisis under Nicolas Maduro's regime. Meanwhile, in northern Colombia, the ELN is also clashing with the Gulf Clan, the country's largest drug cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
These skirmishes, part of a broader struggle to control lucrative drug trafficking corridors, have left at least nine dead in recent days. As territorial disputes escalate, Colombia's fragile peace hangs by a thread, with a resolution remaining elusive. Coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump orders U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
troops to the southern border after labeling the Tren de Aragua gang a foreign terrorist organization. We'll be back with more on that. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker in today's Back of the Brief. Among the executive orders that President Trump signed while taking office were 11 orders overhauling America's border policy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The orders include the deployment of troops to the border and designating violent migrant gangs like Venezuela's Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization. According to Fox News, these actions will place unprecedented emphasis on the military's northern command. with an undisclosed number of troops tasked with securing the southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
A Trump transition source emphasized the administration's resolve to assert sovereignty over U.S. territory, which, by the way, is the point of Northern Command. The source said, quote, "...the armed forces have a role to play in protecting our borders."
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The designation of Tren del Aragua and El Salvador's MS-13 as a foreign terrorist organization marks a fierce escalation in the fight against transnational criminal networks. This move grants the federal government expanded legal tools to prosecute gang members and their associates.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
This action follows her coverage here on the PDB of growing concerns over Trenada Agua's violent activities, including gangbangers violently seizing an apartment complex in Colorado, which captured national headlines, flooding the streets of New York City with crime, and the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old in Houston, just to name a few sinister acts here in America.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Texas Governor Greg Abbott in October publicly called on then-Border Czar Vice President Kamala Harris to address the national security threat posed by Trend de Aragua. Yet under the Biden-Harris administration, the gang remained undisturbed, a choice that Trump is determined to reverse. Trump's orders also dismantle key Biden-era immigration policies.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Donald Trump was sworn into office yesterday as the 47th President of the United States, and reactions from world leaders have begun pouring in, including from Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, who urged Trump to avoid starting World War III.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
The CBP One app, Customs and Border Patrol One app, which facilitates migrant entry requests, will be scrapped. It's gone. It's already gone. If you open the app, it says, sorry, this doesn't exist anymore. The humanitarian parole program, which grants special consideration to migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, it's also over.
The President's Daily Brief
January 21st, 2025: Putin Issues ‘World War III’ Warning to Trump & Houthi Rebels Back Down
Meanwhile, Trump plans to reinstate the Remain in Mexico policy, requiring asylum seekers to await hearings in Mexico and resume border wall construction. Trump's administration will also halt the Catch and Release policy, which allows detained migrants to enter the U.S. while awaiting their court proceedings. Whether or not they show up, no one knows.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
The source told the Post that there is a growing fissure between the Trump administration and Israeli leaders, particularly over the ongoing fight against Hamas in Gaza and Israel's expanded ground operations that began this weekend in the battered enclave. The report claims that the president has been steadily increasing pressure on the government of Prime Minister Netanyahu
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
and even threatened to leave Israel, isolated on the international stage, if they don't change course. The source said, quote, Trump has been letting Israel know, we will abandon you if you do not end this war, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Well, the White House did not take too kindly to the allegations, with multiple administration officials denying the report as a baseless attempt to drive a wedge between the US and Israel, which have enjoyed a particularly close relationship since Trump returned to the Oval Office. One official bluntly told the Jerusalem Post, "...that is a lie. The idea that we would abandon Israel is absurd."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Nun, US-National Security Council Sprecher James Hewitt sagte später in einer israelischen Publikation, Quote, Israel hat nie einen besseren Freund in der Geschichte als Präsident Trump. Nun, obwohl, um ehrlich zu sein, Moses ein ziemlich solider Freund war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Hewitt sagte, dass wir weiterhin mit Israel zusammenarbeiten, um die Entschlossenheit der Flüchtlinge zu versichern, dass Iran nie nukleare Waffen erhält und regionalen Sicherheit in dem Mittleren Osten stärkt, Ende Quote. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee issued a similar denial, saying, quote, Their reporting is nonsense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
They need to listen to what the president says, not what some uninformed source pretends to know. Now, the Washington Post report came just a few days after Israel launched a large scale ground offensive across the Gaza Strip as part of a major new offensive that aims to dismantle Hamas's remaining military capabilities and to take full control of the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
When asked about the campaign at a press briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said the President, quote, has made it very clear he wants to see this conflict in the region end. The statement raised some eyebrows, as it was hardly a ringing endorsement of the new Israeli operation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
So, you ask yourself, is there any truth to the reports of some diplomatic friction between the White House and leaders in Jerusalem? Well, we know that Israeli leaders have been a bit miffed by some of Trump's recent foreign policy moves. And yes, that's the first time I've used the word miffed in the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
The President bypassed Israel to negotiate a ceasefire with the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, securing a deal that did not include protections for the Jewish State. He again bypassed Israel last week to directly negotiate with Hamas, securing the release of the last surviving American hostage in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Additionally, Israeli leaders are on edge over Trump's decision to engage in diplomacy for a new nuclear deal with Iran, as many have advocated for an aggressive military approach. Trotzdem optierte Trump nicht, Israel zu besuchen, während seiner Mittleren Osten-Tour in der letzten Woche, wo er große Investitionen mit den reichsten Gulf-Staaten betrug, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Katar, einem Staat, das seit Langem finanziell von Hamas-Vorschlägen verurteilt ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Andere White-House-Affiziere sagten Axios am Dienstag, dass obwohl die Begründungen, dass Trump Israel bedroht hat, oder dass sie Threats haben, sie zu verlassen, falsch sind, dass der Präsident frustriert wird, dass der Wachstum zu Ende der Krieg in Gaza ist, und dass er besonders überrascht ist, dass die Bilder palästinensischer Kinder verletzt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Sie sagen, der Präsident hat Netanyahu gesagt, er würde die Operationen in Gaza bald beenden wollen. Die Offizielle stressen, dass die Beziehung noch stark bleibt, aber dass die beiden Leiter einige Unterschiede in ihrer Meinung haben, um den besten Weg nach vorne zu gehen. Ein White House-Offiziell hat Axios gesagt, der Präsident ist frustriert über das, was in Gaza passiert ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Er will, dass der Krieg endet. Er will, dass die Flüchtlinge nach Hause kommen. Er will, dass Aid rein geht und er will, dass Gaza wiedergebaut wird. Ende Quote. Es ist wert zu bemerken, dass Netanyahu am Montag die Blockade der humanitären Hilfe in Gaza teilweise aufgelöst hat, um den Threat des Verbrechens zu beantworten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Das ist eine Bewegung, die in Teilen von der Trump-Weithaus-Fraktion geführt werden sollte. Wir sollten auch erwähnen, dass auch seine Grundoperationen dieses Wochenende aufgeräumt wurden,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Netanyahu signalierte eine Willenheit, den Konflikt aufzuhalten, und sagte am Montag, dass er den Krieg beenden würde, wenn die restlichen Stürmer verlassen werden, Hamas seine Arme schlägt, seine mörderischen Führer besiegt werden und Gaza demilitarisiert wird. Aber Hamas verweigert sich auf solche Begriffe, machen einen diplomatischen Ausbruch, naja, unwahrscheinlich.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Ein White House Official hat Axios gesagt, dass der Präsident eine echte Chance für Frieden und Prosperität in der Region sieht, aber er hat gesagt, dass es eine Menge Frustration daraus gibt, dass diese Krise gedrängt wird. Und nächstes Mal, trotz des Efforts von Präsident Trump, die Kriegsverhandlungen zwischen der Ukraine und Russland zu beurteilen, zeigt die Krieg keine Zeichen des Aufstehens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Du weißt, es ist fast so, als wäre Putin nicht ernsthaft darüber, seine Invasion zu beenden. Ich werde gleich zurückkommen. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, this July, maybe you've heard about this event coming up, is going to be a global summit of BRICS-Nations in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Now, this block of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia and Iran and India, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as the global currency, and they're calling that effort the Rio Reset. Hmm. Als die BRICS-Nationen mit ihren Plänen vorangehen, könnte die Anforderungen auf US-Dollar reduziert werden. Das würde natürlich den Wert des Dollars reduzieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Es ist Dienstag, der 20. Mai. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst einmal, ein Bombshell-Report aus dem Washington Post, der behauptet, dass die Trump-Administration die Israel-Frage verhindert, wenn sie den Krieg in Gaza nicht beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Während dieser Transition nicht über Nacht stattfindet, schlägt der Rio-Reset einen pivoten Moment ein, als BRICS' Objekte von der Möglichkeit nach der Realität wechseln. Was kannst du tun, um deine hart erneuerten Dollarschäden zu schützen? Ich würde vorschlagen, dass du zuerst mit den Profis bei Birchgold Group einsteigst.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Now Birchgold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. It's that simple. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birchgold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Mike Baker hier. Now, for those of you in the US, well, Memorial Day is right around the corner. It's true. Just look at the calendar. And as you know, Memorial Day isn't just a long holiday weekend. First and foremost, it's our chance to remember all those who have served and sacrificed. But then, yes, it's also a long holiday weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
And of course, it's also, well, it's the kickoff to grilling season. And let me tell you, if your grill could talk, it would definitely be asking for something better than just grocery store beef. That's why I order from TryTalesBeef. Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch. It's run by family. It's not some faceless meat corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Tritails ships pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, there's no middlemen, no mystery. Just real premium beef with great taste in every cut. Right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
And if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free flat iron steaks with your order. Stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Ukraine and Russia accused each other of drone attacks overnight, just hours after Russian President Putin again rejected calls for a ceasefire during a phone call with President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Ukraines Air Force on its Telegram channel reported that Moscow launched 108 Iranian-made Shahed drones, of which 35 were reportedly shot down, another 58 jammed along with decoy drones in an attempt to overwhelm defenses. At least four eastern Ukrainian regions reported damage, although the officials said full assessments are still ongoing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it downed eight Ukrainian drones, part of a growing pattern of cross-border attacks that have become near-nightly occurrences, as both sides settle into an attritional style of warfare. The barrage unfolded in the shadow of a nearly two-hour phone call between Trump and Putin, as we discussed on today's PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Trump wurde von der Oval Office eingefroren, während Putin von einer Musikschule in der schwarzen Seeresortstadt Sochi ausgesprochen hat, in der die Trump-Administration noch nicht so direkt gearbeitet hat, um Moskau wieder in Gespräche zu engagieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Während der Anruf von beiden Seiten relativ positiv war, wurde schnell klar, dass die Erwartungen oder vielleicht die Hoffnungen, zumindest auf der US-Seite, die Realität ausdrücken. Following the conversation, Trump told reporters that ceasefire talks would begin, quote, immediately, and that, quote, something is going to happen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Aber die White House drückt zurück, bezeichnend den Begriff als absurd. Wir haben die Details. Später in der Show, trotz des Efforts der Trump-Administration, die Kriegsverhandlungen zwischen der Ukraine und Russland zu verkaufen, zeigt die Krieg, naja, keine Zeichen des Entspannens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
But Putin signaled that Moscow was only open to a temporary truce, and even then, only if, quote, corresponding agreements were reached. Kremlin-Aid Yuri Ushakov bestätigte, dass es keine verabschiedete Zeitung, keine Mechanismen und keine konkreten Schritte gab. Das klingt vermisslich. Ukrainer Präsident Zelenskyy antwortete skeptisch zu den Gesprächen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
In einem Post zu Social Media nach einem Relais-Kollegen mit Trump, hat Zelenskyy Putin verurteilt, dass er die Zerstörungspflichten als eine Stalling-Taktik benutzt hat, indem er sagte, dass es offensichtlich ist, dass Russland versucht, Zeit zu kaufen, um seine Krieg und Occupation zu fortsetzen. Ende Quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Diese Ansicht wurde von einem der Vorsitzenden von Zelenskys, der blödsinnig gesagt hat, dass, nach dem Trump-Putin-Aufruf, die Status quo nicht verändert hat. Europäische Leiter haben auf den Deadlock geantwortet, indem sie die Druck auf Moskau steigerten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Der deutsche Kanzler Friedrich Merz sagte in einem Post zu X, dass neue Sanktionen nach Trumps privaten Brief mit europäischen Alliieren eröffnet werden würden. Für den Moment scheint Washington auf zusätzliche Sanktionen Feuer zu halten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
The Trump administration's calculus appears to be that pressuring Moscow too early could derail the possibility of meaningful talks, however remote that they might be. Of course, Putin's war on Ukraine is over three years old, so I suppose you could ask, when is actually too early to increase the pressure on the Kremlin?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Zelenskyy bestätigte, dass Diskussionen auf dem Weg sind, um eine Plattform für die nächste Runde der Diplomatie zu entscheiden. Die Mission bleibt die gleiche, ein Ausstiegsfeuer zu sichern und eine Ausstiegsrampfe zu schalten aus einer Kriege, die, naja, gerade jetzt keine Zeichen von Entschlossenheit zeigt. Und das, meine Freunde, ist die BDB Afternoon Bulletin für Dienstag, den 20. Mai.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And as I'm sure you've heard on the nightly news, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that simply by becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
And finally, if you get a minute of free time in your busy day, be sure to take a peek at our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. It's frankly everything you want in a YouTube channel. Take a look. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Die Ukraine und Russland haben sich geglaubt, dass sie frische Drohnen-Attacken über Nacht eröffnen, nur Stunden nachdem Trump direkt mit Putin darüber gesprochen hat, die direkten Gespräche zwischen Kiew und Moskau zu überwachen. Aber zuerst, heute's Afternoon Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
I want to take a few seconds of your time to tell you about a great home fitness company. I'm talking about Jacked Up Fitness. Now, Jacked Up Fitness makes amazing gym equipment for home use, making it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts. And frankly, strength training is key to overall fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Now, as an example, their all-new X-Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level. The Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a Power Rack Pro at my place and I'm telling you, it is outstanding.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulating pulley arms, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group. And if you're new to strength training, they offer a free Get Jacked Up program that has full body video workouts. Simply press play and follow along. It's that easy. Take control of your fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for their free training program. And when you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, well, use my promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 20th, 2025: Report: Trump Threatens To 'Abandon' Israel & Russia Launches Fresh Drone Attacks After Trump-Putin Call
The White House is slamming an anonymously sourced report from the Washington Post, claiming that President Trump has threatened to, quote, abandon Israel if they don't end the war in Gaza. Oh, look, an entire story based on an anonymous source. There is rigorous, objective journalism at its finest.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Listen, Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch, family run. It's not some faceless meat corporation. Tritails ships pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, there's no middlemen, just real premium beef delivering great taste in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
And right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. And if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free flat iron steaks with your order. Stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
And in today's Back of the Brief, Australia moves ahead with shipping nearly 50 decommissioned Abrams tanks to Ukraine, despite quiet objections from some in Washington. But first, today's BDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
I want to take a few seconds of your time to tell you about a terrific home fitness company, Jacked Up Fitness. Now, Jacked Up Fitness makes amazing gym equipment for home use, making it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts. As an example, their all-new X-Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
The Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer, well, it lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulating pulley arms, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group. And if you're new to strength training, they offer a free Get Jacked Up program that has full video workouts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Simply press play and follow along. It's that simple. Take control of your fitness. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for their free training program. You won't regret it. When you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, well, use my promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
In today's Back of the Brief, we'll discuss a rare bit of diplomatic friction between the US and Australia, centered around a controversial military aid package meant to bolster the battlefield capabilities of Ukrainian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
On Monday, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, or ABC, reported that Australia has begun loading nearly 50 decommissioned Abrams tanks for shipment to Ukraine, despite ongoing, albeit quiet, objections from US officials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Die Begründung kam nach einer Beratung zwischen dem australischen Premierpräsidenten Anthony Albanese und dem ukrainischen Präsidenten Zelenskyj in Rom am Sonntag, nachdem Zelenskyj sagte, dass er die Angelegenheit für militärische Unterstützung aus dem Land nach unten begrüßt hatte. Auf der Grundlage sieht die Situation genug unangenehm aus.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Nur noch ein militärisches Paket für die Ukraine von einem Alli, der sich von Putins Aggression aus dem besiegtes Land unterstützt hat. But this specific package has concerned US defense officials, who have questioned the usefulness of Abrams tanks on the Ukrainian battlefields and whether Kyiv is even interested in using the retired tanks on their front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Notably, the US objections precede the Trump administration. Ein US-Defense-Offizier, der anonym zu ABC gesprochen hat, sagte, letztes Jahr, auch bevor Trump als Präsident zurückkehrte, haben wir den Australiern gewarnt, dass es kompliziert wäre, diese Abrams-Tanks zu senden. Und wenn sie endlich auf den Kampfplatz kommen, werden die Ukrainer sie schwierig zu behalten, Ende Quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
We'll begin with President Trump's latest push to get momentum for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, despite what appears to be ongoing efforts by the Kremlin to undermine efforts to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
For some background, originally, Australia pledged to send Kiev 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks as part of a broader military aid package announced last October. But the shipments faced immediate delays, as the transfer of the US-made tanks to a third country required approval from the Pentagon, which was reluctant to greenlight the donation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
While the US ultimately relented and approved the arrangement, officials continue to express concerns about the logistical difficulties of transferring Abrams' tanks to Ukraine and the challenges of maintaining the dated equipment once they arrive on the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Essentially, US officials feel there are better, more effective ways for the Australian government to provide aid to the war-torn country. Die australische Regierung hatte bereits von westlichen Alliierten weitgehende Kritik gegenüber ihrer Verleihung ihrer vertretenen Fliege von advanced-Taipan-Helikoptern in die Ukraine gestern.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
US-Affiziere argumentieren, dass die Tanks mehr eine symbolische Gestaltung von Unterstützung bedeuten als etwas, das Ukraine tatsächlich einen praktischen Abstand auf dem Kriegsfeld geben würde. Die Ukraine hat vorhin 31 Abrams-Tanker von der Biden-Administration im Jahr 2023 erhalten, aber ihre Verletzungen wurden schnell klar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Die Tanks haben reportedly einen besonders schwachen Ruf, was sie einfacher zu zerstören, durch Drohnen-Attacken, als andere Art von militärischen Fahrzeugen. Ein Bericht von AP im April 2024 sagte, dass die ukrainischen Kräfte die Tanks bereits von den Frontlinien entfernt hatten, wegen ihrer einfachen Erkennung von russischen Drohnen, obwohl die Offiziere in Kiew die Berichte damals negierten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Der US-Defensivier sagte ABC, dass wir anfangen, zu bedauern, ob die Ukrainer tatsächlich diese Fahrzeuge wollen. Die Tankstange ist das schwächste Punkt der Abrams und das ist eine Drohnen-Ware." Whether or not they are an effective battlefield tool, the tanks have now begun their long sea journey to Ukraine. Their exact arrival date is of course being withheld for security reasons.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Trump erhielt einen rund zwei Stunden langen Anruf am Montag mit dem russischen Präsidenten Putin, welcher, wie wir gestern auf dem PDB diskutiert haben, der Präsident gehofft hätte, einen konkreten Weg für einen langwierigen Zerwärm zwischen Moskau und Kiew zu erheben.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 20th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Und wenn Sie eine Hankerung haben, den Show gratis zu hören, dann ist das sicher möglich. Bekommen Sie einfach ein Premium-Mitglied des Presidents Daily Briefs, wenn Sie auf pdbpremium.com besuchen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Und wenn Sie einen Moment haben, und ich hoffe, dass Sie einen Moment haben, dann schauen Sie auf unseren YouTube-Kanal. Sie finden das auf Presidents Daily Brief. Wie YouTube-Kanäle gehen, ist es ein Humdinger. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Aber während der Präsident und Putin einen positiven Spinn auf den Anruf gelegt haben, ihn als, Quote, frank und, Quote, nützlich zu beschreiben, It does not appear that any major progress was made towards securing a lasting peace. That's according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
By the way, the words frank and useful, not to mention constructive, well, they're Washington-speak for nothing of value was accomplished. Still, the conversation is keeping hopes alive, at least for some folks, that a diplomatic off-ramp to the more than three-year-long war is still possible. Taking to Truth Social following the call, Trump said, quote, I believe it went very well.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an end to the war. He added, however, that, quote, the conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be because they know details of a negotiation beforehand. that nobody else would be aware of."
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Trump sagte, dass er sofort die Pläne für wiederholbare Friedensverträge zwischen Moskau und Kiew direkt mit dem ukrainischen Präsidenten Zelenskyy, zusammen mit den Führern der EU, Frankreich, Italien, Deutschland und Finnland, wiederholte.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Zelenskyy sagte später, dass er eine hohe-Level-Meetung zwischen der Ukraine, Russland, den USA, Britannien und EU-Staaten, vielleicht von der Türkei, der Vatikan oder der Schweiz, führte, obwohl eine Zeitlinie für Friedensverträge nicht sofort klar war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
In his post on Truth Social, Trump had also suggested that the Vatican, now under the leadership of the first American Pope, could play a role in mediating the discussions. Trump said, quote, The Vatican has stated that it would be very interested in hosting the negotiations. Let the process begin. But Putin once again appears to be complicating these efforts. Well, that's shocking.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
As our regular listeners know, European leaders in Ukraine have been demanding that Russia agree to an immediate 30-day ceasefire, which would allow time for more substantive negotiations to begin. But Putin has consistently rebuffed those calls, insisting that Ukraine agree to its rather lengthy list of concessions before any break in battlefield hostilities.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
European leaders have encouraged Trump to impose fresh sanctions on the Putin regime in order to pressure the Kremlin into taking negotiations more seriously. The president suggested last Friday that he is open to using sanctions as leverage on Putin if needed, but for now he's keeping the economic powder dry. Vice President J.D. Vance, meanwhile, reiterated Monday that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
may walk away from the peace process entirely if talks don't progress, saying that, quote, one open question is whether Vladimir Putin is serious about negotiating peace, end quote. I'm sorry for sounding churlish, but how exactly is that still an open question? So, how did Putin react to the call? Well, the Russian strongman told reporters that, quote, a ceasefire with Ukraine is possible.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
And that, quote, Russia and Ukraine must find compromises that suit both sides. Looks like Vladimir just snagged today's PDB statement of the obvious award. I'm sure he'll be disappointed, though, to learn that the award doesn't come with any territory.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
But for now, instead of a ceasefire, Putin said Russia is, quote, ready to work with the Ukrainian side on a memorandum, oh good, a memo, on a possible future peace accord, which would define the principles of settlement and the timing of a possible peace agreement. He added that, quote, the main thing for us is to eliminate, oh, the root causes of this crisis. There's that phrase again.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Nun, die Erinnerung an die Grundsätze ist berührend, weil es eine Phrase ist, die der Kremlin oft verwendet wird, um auf Kiew für die Krieg zu beurteilen, die natürlich begann, als russische Kräfte die Ukraine invadierten. Der Trump-Putin-Koll kommt auf die Hülle des verletzten Versuches, ein Face-to-Face-Meeting zwischen Putin und Zelenskyj in Türkei letzten Dienstag zu haben.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Nun, Putin hat natürlich die Welt über die Aufmerksamkeit seiner Aufmerksamkeit bei dieser Beratung für Tage gehalten, bevor er letztendlich als Nullschau ausgewählt wurde, statt eine Junior-Level-Delegation zu senden, in dem, was als einen großen Knall für Kiew und Washington betrachtet wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Russia's delegation stuck to Putin's maximalist demands, calling for Ukraine to end their pursuit of NATO membership, officially cede Crimea and four occupied regions in eastern Ukraine to Russia and withdraw their military from the front lines. Moscow also continues to demand a halt to all western military aid to Kyiv as a condition for a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Now, given that most of these terms remain as non-starters for leaders in Kyiv, Putins claim on Monday that Russia is willing to compromise, well, it rings a little hollow. Or a lot hollow. Maybe even fully hollow. In the meantime, the bloodshed on the battlefields of Ukraine will continue. All right, coming up after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Es ist Dienstag, der 20. Mai. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily-Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. All right, let's get briefed. Wir beginnen heute mit einem Update auf diplomatische Bemühungen, um den Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden. Präsident Trump sagt, dass Russland und die Ukraine sofort Zerstörungstalken beginnen werden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
A cartel-linked ambush leaves two security consultants dead in Mexico. And Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei issues fresh threats following Trump's Middle East visit. Somebody needs anger management classes. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, there's something important about to take place that you should know about.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
I'm talking about a global summit of BRICS-Nations in Rio de Janeiro. Now, this block of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia, India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as a global currency. And they're calling this effort, here's their catchy name, it's called the Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for US dollars could decrease, obviously bringing down the value of the dollar. While this transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how to protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Well, I would suggest a first stop could be the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Welcome back to the BDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Mexico's bloody cartel violence once again took aim at law enforcement, this time claiming the life of a security consultant with ties to the US State Department in what officials are calling a suspected cartel ambush in Guadalajara. Cesar Guzman, a long-time counter-narcotics trainer, was gunned down Friday night. Yeah, I would say that does have all the earmarks of a cartel ambush. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Carlos Amador, der ehemalige Untersekretär der Sicherheit für Hidalgo-Stadt, wurde auch getötet. Ein dritter Mann, der ehemalige Staatssekretär der Polizei in Chihuahua, wurde kritisch verletzt. Sechs Leute waren insgesamt von Schussfeuer getötet, insbesondere Anwesende. Es war, wie ich gesagt habe, ein Angriff mit all den Marken eines targetierten Schusses.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
All three men had conducted counter-drug and intelligence training for the State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement. That's part of a long-standing U.S.-Mexico partnership aimed at cracking down on the cartels. Guzman's resume also included work with Interpol, Mexico's Attorney General's Office and the Jalisco State Police.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
According to retired FBI agent Arturo Fontes, the group had spent the past two years delivering high-level instruction to Mexican officers in Mexico City. In a LinkedIn post, Fontes, who once worked alongside the victims, called them, quote, true heroes and some of the bravest individuals I've ever known. He described the ambush as a gut punch to those on the front lines of Mexico's drug war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Nach einer zweijährigen Anrufung mit Wladimir Putin, mit dem Kremlin bestätigend, dass Putin bereit ist, zu diskutieren, Quote, Kompromisse nach der kandidativen Konversation. Wir haben diese Details. Später in der Show eine schreckliche Kartellambush in Mexiko.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
So far there is no official word on motive, but the location alone sends a message. The restaurant sits in a district controlled by the Cartel Jalisco New Generation, one of Mexicos deadliest and most brazen criminal organizations, now designated by the US government as a terrorist group under the Trump administration. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Consulate in Guadalajara confirmed the men were not employed by the diplomatic mission at the time, but issued a statement expressing condolences, saying, quote, We are deeply concerned about any act of violence and express our condolences to the victims and their families. Dieses letzte Mord befindet sich in Jalisco in einem grünen Faktum, in dem die Gewalt gestiegen ist.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Letzte Woche wurde ein mexikanischer Social-Media-Influencer während eines Live-Streams aufgeräumt. Im April wurde ein Mayoral-Kandidat totgeschossen, während er am Restaurant gegessen hat. Tage später wurde eine Mutter, die sich nach ihren verlassenen Eltern suchte, mit ihrem Sohn verurteilt. Und vor dem gleichen Monat wurde der Staats-Munizipal-Polizeichief verurteilt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
With no arrests announced and little public detail from Mexican authorities, the investigation into Friday's ambush remains ongoing. Okay, shifting to the Iranian regime. Hours after President Trump concluded his historic Gulf State tour, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei unleashed an angry tirade. Is there any other kind of tirade other than angry?
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Accusing the President of deceit and calling for Israel's destruction. Well, there's a surprise. In a post to X, the cleric dismissed Trump's pledge to use American power for peace as a lie, calling the president's remarks in the Gulf a, quote, source of shame for the American nation. He didn't stop there. Khamenei labeled Israel a, quote, cancerous tumor that, in his words, must be uprooted.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
The Trump administration, for its part, did not hesitate to reiterate that Iran remains the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism and anti-Semitism, arming and funding proxy groups including Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
During his visit to Riyadh, Doha and Abu Dhabi, Trump was unflinching in his indictment of the Islamic regime, telling Gulf leaders, quote, the biggest and most destructive of these forces is the regime in Iran, adding that Tehran, quote, has caused unthinkable suffering in the region. But Khameneis' fury wasn't just reserved for the US and Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Well, I mean, he does actually have gobs of fury, so he's spreading it around. He also lashed out at Sunni Arab states aligned with Washington, mainly Saudi Arabia and Qatar, accusing them of being little more than Western client states propped up by American muscle. Khamenei warned, quote, the US wants these countries unable to function without it, predicting the alliance will soon collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Zwei Sicherheitsexperten, insbesondere ein früherer US-Staatsvertreter, sind unter der Waffe, während sie ein Restaurant in Guadalajara trinken. Plus, fresh threats from the Iranian regime. Ooh, they're threatening again. Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei blasts President Trump in a fiery speech and calls for the destruction of Israel following Trump's visit to the region.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Nun kommt dieses Zaubergeräusch, als die nuklearen Gespräche zwischen Washington und den Mullahs gefeuert und zerstört wurden, hauptsächlich über die Frage des Uranium-Erweiterungsprozesses.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Präsident Trump hat immer wieder darauf geäußert, dass irgendein Deal die volle Verabschiedung von Erweiterungsaktivitäten in Iran beinhalten muss, ein Ergebnis, das die Regierung von Iran weiterhin entgegenkommt. On Monday, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister took to state media to deliver a curt assessment. Talks, quote, will lead nowhere if the U.S. sticks to its demand of zero enrichment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff echoed the administration's hard line in a Sunday interview with ABC News, stating, quote, we cannot allow even 1% of an enrichment capability. That red line, he added, is non-negotiable. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Iran is enriching uranium to 60% purity, well beyond what's needed for civilian energy and dangerously close to weapons grade.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
The Mullahs maintain that the program is peaceful. Of course, they've also just reissued their call to destroy Israel, which honestly doesn't seem like something that a peace-loving regime would do. Western Intelligence calls their claims laughable. In addition, Tehran has for years limited access to international inspectors, of course, fueling deeper suspicion in Washington and elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqi struck a familiar pose, opened the diplomacy, but only on the Iranian regime's terms. He said, "...if the U.S. is interested in ensuring that Iran will not have nuclear weapons, a deal is within reach." But he left no ambiguity on enrichment, stressing that the Islamic regime will continue "...with or without a deal."
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Now, that posture might have flown earlier this year, when the Trump administration signaled a potential willingness to allow limited enrichment under stringent conditions. But that flexibility has since vanished. Now Trump is warning of a possible military action if Tehran refuses to stand down. Israel ist noch direkter.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Premierminister Netanyahu hat gefeiert, dass Iran nie mehr die Möglichkeit hat, neue nukleare Waffen vollständig zu verkaufen. Nach der repeated threat von Tehran, Israel aus dem Map zu wecken, hat Netanyahu bemerkt, dass Jerusalem bereit ist, alleine zu arbeiten, wenn nötig. So, where does that leave things?
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Trump's tour through the Gulf and Khameneis blistering response have widened the rift, of course, between Washington and Tehran. And with neither side blinking on enrichment, well, a breakthrough really doesn't seem all that likely. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief. Australia is sending US-made tanks to Ukraine, whether Washington likes it or not.
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
The first batch of 49 decommissioned Abrams is now en route. More on that when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, now for all of you listening and viewing from the U.S., Memorial Day is coming up, right? Did you look at the calendar? I know, Memorial Day, right? May is just flying by. But as you know, Memorial Day in the U.S., it's not just a long weekend holiday, right?
The President's Daily Brief
May 20th, 2025: Putin Signals ‘Compromise’ After Trump Call & A Cartel Ambush In Mexico
Of course, first and foremost, It's the chance to remember all those who served and sacrificed. But then, of course, yes, it is a long weekend. And yes, it's also the kickoff to grilling season. So let me tell you about something. If your grill could talk, it would be begging for something better than grocery store beef. That's why I order from Tritails Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Offiziere sagten, dass der Hamas zu einer Kampfkraft von etwa 25.000 zurückgekehrt hat, während der palästinensische islamische Jihad zu einer Kraft von ungefähr 5.000 zurückgekehrt hat. according to a report from Axios.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
In a statement, Netanyahu's office said the decision to resume strikes, "...followed Hamas's repeated refusal to release our hostages, as well as its rejection of all the proposals it's received from U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and also from the mediators."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
So far, we can confirm that at least four senior Hamas officials were killed in the overnight bombardment, which hit houses and encampments from the north to the south of the Gaza Strip. The dead include Hamas' head of government administration, that's a role akin to prime minister, as well as the heads of their justice ministry, interior ministry and domestic security agency.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad also confirmed that their chief military spokesman was killed in the strikes. All told, the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry said that more than 400 people were killed during the aerial assault and nearly 600 were wounded, although those numbers do not distinguish between Hamas militants and civilians and can't be independently verified.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
The airstrikes began around 2 a.m. Tuesday local time, after Israeli officials notified the U.S. about their plans. Reportedly, President Trump gave Israel the green light, citing Hamas' failure to engage in good faith negotiations to release more hostages and to extend the ceasefire first established in January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
US-National Security Council Spokesman Brian Hughes said, quote, Hamas could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire, but instead chose refusal and war, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Trump administration tried to extend the ceasefire late last week, offering a proposal that would have freed half of the remaining hostages in exchange for Israeli commitments to discuss a permanent ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
But talks in Doha, that's in Qatar, broke down over the weekend without a breakthrough, with the White House saying that Hamas had rejected the offer. Still officials with Egypt and Qatar, who have been mediating negotiations, condemned Israel's renewed assault.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Nun, es gibt keine Worte darüber, ob sie auch Hamas' Entschuldigung für die Entschuldigung des Entschuldigungsgesetzes oder die Entschuldigung des Entschuldigungsgesetzes oder die Entschuldigung des Entschuldigungsgesetzes verurteilen, und das ist nicht unbedingt eine Überraschung, weil weder Ägypten noch Qatar jemals direkt Hamas für die 7.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Oktober-2023-Attacken verurteilt hat, die diesen jüngsten Konflikt begonnen haben. Und in Wahrheit hat Qatar die Beleidigung für Israel in der sofortigen Nachfolge der Hamas-Attacken. Domestisch scheint die Rückkehr zum Kämpfen Netanyahus' neulich gebrochene Regierungskoalition zu unifizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Der ehemalige Staatsanwaltschaftsminister Idmar Ben-Gvir, der im Mitteleuropas über seine Opposition zum Ausbruch des Ausbruchs verabschiedet ist, hat erklärt, dass seine ultranationalistische Partei die Regierung wiederholen würde, die Netanyahus' Position deutlich stärken würde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Nach den Angriffen hat Hamas ein Statement veröffentlicht, das Israel dafür verurteilt hat, dass die Mediatorinnen und Mediator einen permanenten Ende des Konflikts verursachen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Sie haben auch ein bedrohliches Statement über die restlichen Anwesenden veröffentlicht, das sagt, dass Netanyahus' Entscheidung, den Ausbruch des Ausbruchsvertrags zu überwinden, die Anwesenden zu einer unbekannten Furcht auswirkt. Als Erinnerung, ist Hamas noch 59 Anwesende, mit mindestens 35 davon vermutlich tot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Israeli leaders vowed to intensify their strikes if Hamas refuses to resume, quote, genuine negotiations regarding the remaining hostages. And a spokesman for Netanyahu's office said, quote, from now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military force, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Now, according to our report from the Jerusalem Post, the IDF will broaden the operation, including a renewed ground invasion as needed, though details of the strategy do remain unclear. And the IDF has not yet activated ground forces at this time. In the meantime, the Israeli military issued evacuation orders for large population centers in the enclaves north and south.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Netanyahu ist bereit, eine Rede von der IDF-Headquarters in Tel Aviv dieses Abend zu geben, wo er die Entscheidung von Israel beantworten wird, die Militäroperationen zu beenden. Nächstes Mal bleiben wir im Mittleren Osten, wo lebanische und syrische Verteidigungsoffiziere einen Sturzfeuer verabredet haben, nach zwei Tagen kräftiger Kriege auf ihren Grenzen. Ich bin gleich wieder da.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
It's Tuesday, the 18th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, and after recent reporting, this shouldn't be a surprise to you, the ceasefire in Gaza has collapsed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. A two-day border clash between Lebanon and Syria ignited by accusations that Hezbollah terrorists killed three Syrian soldiers has now ended with a ceasefire agreement. It was the most serious escalation between the two nations since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Die Gewalt brach am Sonntag ab, nachdem die syrische Interim-Islamistische Regierung den Lebanese Hezbollah-Terroristen verurteilt hatte, drei syrische Soldaten auf lebanesischem Boden abzuhalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Hezbollah hat jedoch keine Einwohnung verurteilt, mit Berichten, die stattdessen an lokalen Schmuggler-Klans beurteilen, die frei auf der porösen Grenze arbeiten, obwohl diese Berichte noch nicht beurteilt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
In response Syrian forces shelled Hezbollah positions, drawing a swift reaction from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who declared, quote, I have instructed the Lebanese army to respond to the sources of fire, end quote. As the situation spiraled, Lebanon's health ministry confirmed that seven civilians were killed, with another 52 injured.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Footage circulating online showed panicked residents fleeing toward a nearby Lebanese border town, while across the border, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that five Syrian soldiers were killed in Monday's fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Am späten Montag erhielt sich der syrische Minister der Verteidigung, dass beide Seiten zu einem Sturzfeuer verabschiedet hätten, welches, wie er sagte, die Koordination und die Kooperation zwischen den beiden Seiten erhöhen würde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Das lebanese Militär hat, für seine Part, gesagt, dass es die Körper der drei geschlossenen syrischen Soldaten zurückgegeben hätte und direkte Kommunikationskanäle mit syrischen Kräften geöffnet hätte, um die Krise zu deeskalieren. Aber auch sobald der Sturzfeuer stattfand, flirrten die Konflikte wieder in den frühen Tagen von Donnerstag.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Die Lebedes-Media berichteten, dass die Kämpfe am Morgen nach einem Angriff auf ein syrisches Militärvehikel beendet wurden, obwohl die Besatzungsfiguren unklar sind. Es wurde berichtet, dass vier syrische Journalisten, die mit Regierungskräften verbunden waren, schmerzhaft waren, als ein Artillerie-Schall ihre Position am Montag erhielt. They blamed Hezbollah for the attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
But in a Lebanese television interview, a senior Hezbollah legislator countered that it was Syrian fighters who had crossed into Lebanon and attacked border villages. The instability has prompted Lebanon to seek international assistance, appealing for additional funding um seine militärische Präsenz auf den Syrien- und israelischen Frontieren zu stärken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
In der Zwischenzeit hat ein UN-Envoy den UN-Sicherheitskanzler erwartet, dass israelische militärische Operationen in Südlebanon einen breiteren Konflikt erzeugen könnten. Komplizieren wir das Bild, weil, naja, was die Region braucht, ist weitere Komplikationen. Die israelischen Luftwaffen am Montag haben mehrere Orte in Süd-Syrien angegriffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
And it collapsed on Tuesday morning, as the Israel Defense Forces, the IDF, launched dozens of strikes throughout Gaza, targeting Hamas leadership. We'll bring you the latest news. Later in the show, after two days of violent clashes along the border of Syria and Lebanon, Lebanese and Syrian defense officials have agreed to a ceasefire. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Das israelische Militär hat gesagt, dass die Waffen von den Assad-Regime, Equipment, das die syrischen Kräfte allgemein versuchen, zu repräsentieren, an Kommandos und Militären-Orten, mit Waffen und Militären-Vehikeln, verletzt wurden. Syriens ziviles Verteidigungsgericht hat bemerkt, dass drei Menschen getötet und 14 verletzt wurden in diesen Waffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
With violence simmering across multiple fronts, the tenuous ceasefire between Lebanon and Syria faces immediate challenges. And as tensions mount, the risk of further escalation, potentially drawing in regional actors beyond the two nations, remains. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 18th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Now, as you've probably seen on billboards all over town, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's so simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool!
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Der Krieg in Gaza hat geschlossen, als Israel eine Reihe von Luftwaffen über Nacht gegen Hamas-Einsätze über dem Enklaven geöffnet hat, nachdem der Terrorgruppe die letzten Anstrengungen verabschiedet hat, den fragilen Sturz zu erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Collapses & Syria Reaches Truce With Lebanon
Die extensiven Anstrengungen beantragten mittlere Hamas-Kommandanten und einige Senior-Hamas-Politiker in Gaza und kamen als israelische Offiziere, die sagten, dass die Intelligenz gezeigt hat, dass sowohl der Hamas als auch der palästinensische islamische Jihad bereit waren, neue Angriffe gegen Israel voranzubringen und Schritte zu bewegen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Tufekci argues that we still haven't learned our lesson. Scientists at the Wuhan Institute of Virology are still conducting dangerous research on bat coronaviruses under questionable safety protocols.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
She concludes, we may not know exactly how the COVID pandemic started, but if research activities were involved, that would mean two out of the last four or five pandemics were caused by our own scientific mishaps. Let's not make it a third, end quote. All right. Well, it's it's swell that The New York Times has decided to run an op ed of this sort.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
But it's five years after Elvis has left the building and it falls seriously short of The New York Times using their extensive resources to do what used to be referred to as what did they call it? Oh, serious investigative journalism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
I mean, developing actual human sources, digging through mountains of paper to uncover just how complicit the Chinese regime under Xi Jinping was in covering up the origins of the pandemic. You'd think the Times would consider that effort newsworthy. I mean, if for no other reason than perhaps scoring another Pulitzer. The Chinese regime has basically received a free pass over the years.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
The global community failed to demand transparency from them, and there was never any hope that Xi's government would on its own offer up serious cooperation or assistance in understanding what happened. It may sound like I'm simply talking about history now. I'm just rehashing what happened in the past. But I'm actually talking about the future.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
There is no doubt that we'll have another global pandemic. And our response is going to be less effective to the next pandemic because the Chinese regime failed to open up the Wuhan lab to the scientific community to understand everything possible about the origins and early days of COVID-19. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 18th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
I, for one, am shocked that there's gambling at Rick's. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President Trump is set to speak one-on-one with Russian President Putin today, marking the most direct effort yet to get Putin on board with a ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, I suspect you know what to do. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
It's Tuesday, the 18th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. President Trump is set to speak directly with Russian President Putin today, pushing for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. But Russia isn't budging, demanding ironclad guarantees that Ukraine will never join NATO as part of any deal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
It's a high-stakes move because while Ukraine and the US signed off on a 30-day ceasefire during talks in Saudi Arabia last week, Russia hasn't budged from its maximalist position. And last time we checked, a ceasefire only works if both sides stop shooting. Speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he and Putin would discuss, quote, dividing up certain assets.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Now would include land and curiously, power plans. Now, one assumes that the Ukrainians would also want to say in divvying up Ukrainian assets. When referencing power plants, Trump didn't elaborate on what exactly that means, but most likely he was referring to the massive Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Yeah, it's the largest power plant in Europe and is currently sitting, well, smack in the middle of Russian-occupied Ukraine. Trump appeared to be somewhat optimistic ahead of the phone call, telling reporters, quote, We want to see if we can bring that war to an end. Maybe we can, maybe we can't, but I think we have a very good chance, end quote. But here's the problem.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Putin has shown no interest, that would be zero interest, in a ceasefire unless it locks in Russia's gains from the war. He's been clear about his priorities. He'll keep the land that he's taken, and he'll shut the door on Ukraine ever joining NATO.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko reinforced that message, telling Russian media that the Kremlin will demand, quote, ironclad security guarantees, meaning that Kyiv would be permanently excluded from NATO and Ukraine would have to agree to total neutrality. And it's not just about land or alliances.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Grushko also made it clear that Russia wants no foreign troops, not even peacekeepers, on Ukrainian soil as part of any post-war deal. That could be a sticking point because both Britain and France have floated the idea of sending forces to monitor any ceasefire. So, you ask yourself, what does all this mean for Ukraine? Well, it's not great. And by that I mean, it's the opposite of great.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
And as we've been reporting here on the PDB, Ukraine's position is frankly weakening by the day. They've now been all but completely pushed out of the small foothold they had in Russia's Kursk region. That's a position that, at its peak last August, covered some 500 square miles of Russian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
It was a massive propaganda win at the time and a potential point of leverage to at least have a card to bring to the negotiating table. Now, that's been whittled down to a tiny sliver on the border. The fighting there is less about holding land at this point and more about survival, preventing Russia breaking through and pushing deeper into Ukraine's Sumy region.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
That would open up a whole new front in the war, something that Ukrainian forces, which are already stretched thin, can hardly afford. So with Ukraine losing ground and Russia unwilling to negotiate without major concessions, you ask yourself again, you keep asking yourself questions. What can Trump actually offer Putin to get him on board?
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
That's the big question heading into today's call, because right now Russia appears to hold all the cards and Putin seems to be well aware of his hand. We'll keep a close eye on what comes out of this conversation today. But frankly, don't expect any breakthroughs, at least not without Ukraine making some painful compromises. All right, coming up after the break, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
steps up airstrikes on Yemen's Houthis as Iran vows retaliation. And Venezuela slams the White House for deporting TDA gang members to El Salvador. Now, to be fair, Venezuela's Maduro went to a lot of trouble to export his TDA criminals to the U.S. And now he probably feels like all that work went for nothing. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
has launched another wave of airstrikes on Yemen, hammering Houthi terrorist positions in response to renewed threats against shipping vessels in the Red Sea. Monday's strikes hit key locations in the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah and the Al-Juf governorate that's north of Yemen's capital, Sana'a.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
According to the Associated Press, the death toll has climbed to at least 53 people and around 100 injured. The airstrikes are an extension of military actions that began over the weekend under President Trump, who authorized the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since taking office.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Later in the show, the U.S. ramps up airstrikes on Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, keeping the pressure on the group as its sponsors in Tehran vow retaliation. Plus, Venezuela is blasting the White House for the deportation of hundreds of Trenderagua gang members, also known as TDA, to El Salvador, calling the move illegal. That's coming, of course, from Nicolas Maduro.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
The strikes come on the heels of the interception of roughly a dozen Houthi drones on Sunday, which the U.S. military says were targeting the U.S. Sahara Truman aircraft carrier strike group in the Red Sea. A U.S. official told Reuters that none of the drones came close to the Truman before being shot down, and U.S. forces also tracked a missile net splashed down off the coast of Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
The Iran-backed Houthi leader, Abdelmalik al-Houthi, has vowed retaliation against U.S. ships if the strikes continue, warning, quote, if they continue their aggression, we will continue the escalation. Now, the terror group has also threatened to resume attacks on Israeli-linked vessels, though no such strikes have yet materialized.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
A Houthi military spokesman, without providing any evidence, claimed the Iran-backed terror group launched a second attack on the Truman strike group. Amid the growing escalation, U.S. air defense stockpiles are being rapidly depleted to counter Houthi drone and missile barrages, raising concerns about the sustainability of interception efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
The Pentagon maintains that its latest operations aim to, quote, "...defend American interests, deter enemies, and restore freedom of navigation." A U.S. official told Reuters that the air campaign could extend for weeks as Washington simultaneously tightens economic pressure on Iran while seeking leverage in nuclear negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
In a post on Truth Social, Trump escalated his rhetoric against the Iranian regime, posting, "...every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of Iran."
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
The president accused the mullahs and their Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, of "...dictating every move by the Houthis and fueling their terror attacks with weapons and funding and intelligence." Well, he's not wrong. Iran predictably dismissed US claims that it directly controls Houthi military operations. Iranian state media continue to insist that the Houthis act independently.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
In response to the U.S. airstrikes, IRGC General Hossein Salami warned that Tehran would respond, quote, decisively and destructively to any perceived threats from Washington. As regional tensions intensify, analysts warn that continued U.S. airstrikes could backfire, bolstering the Houthis' resolve rather than degrading their capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
You see, despite relentless Saudi-led bombardment during Yemen's civil war, the terror group has demonstrated impressive resilience, embedding itself further into regional power struggles.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Okay, turning now to the intensifying fallout from President Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act, which triggered a legal standoff in the U.S., as Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro blasts the mass deportation of TDA gang members to El Salvador.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
As we reported Monday on the PDB, the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 is a wartime law granting the president broad authority to detain or expel foreign nationals from enemy nations with minimal due process. Now, the law has remained dormant for more than 80 years. It was last used during World War II to justify the internment of Japanese Americans.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Now, Trump's executive order is bringing it back to life, specifically targeting Venezuelan nationals aged 14 and older on allegations of TDA gang affiliations. Maduro's regime wasted no time in denouncing the deportations, framing them as, quote, kidnapping of 14-year-old children, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
His outrage, however, well, it does kind of ring hollow against the backdrop of his regime's well-documented political crackdowns, arbitrary detentions, election thefts and state-sanctioned violence against any dissenters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Seeking regional backing, though, Maduro appealed to the community of Latin American and Caribbean states to formally condemn Trump's move, setting the stage for a broader geopolitical standoff. Meanwhile, El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele, confirmed early Sunday that the 238 TBA deportees arrived in the country and were immediately transferred to a high-security terrorism detention center.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
We'll examine if the White House actually cares what the despotic Maduro regime says about anything. Okay, look, you and I know that the White House, in fact, doesn't care what Maduro says. In reality, the Venezuelan strongman has stolen more elections than even Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
We also learned from the Associated Press, citing an internal memo, that Washington paid San Salvador $6 million for the arrangement, money that also covered the deportation of 23 MS-13 gang members. Back in the U.S., the legal pushback was swift.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Just hours after deportation flights departed, a federal judge in Washington issued an emergency order halting further removals and ordering any airborne flights to return. The Justice Department, however, countered that the ruling came too late, as deportees had already left American airspace. The administration's response to the judicial order has been anything but conciliatory.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Trump's border czar, Tom Holman, openly defied the ruling in a Fox News interview Monday, calling the deportation policy a, quote, game changer. He vowed defiantly that deportation flights would continue daily, regardless of judicial or political pushback. Holman stated, quote, we are going to make this country safe again before doubling down and stating, also, we are not stopping.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
I don't care what the judges think. I don't care what the left thinks, end quote. Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt was equally unyielding, dismissing the judge's ruling as having, quote, no lawful basis and signaling that the administration is prepared to escalate the legal battle all the way to the Supreme Court.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
In the meantime, the White House is standing firm on its hardline stance, urging illegal immigrants to, quote, self-deport. As the legal and political firestorm intensifies, this confrontation is shaping up to be a defining test of executive power, judicial oversight, and the limits of immigration enforcement in the United States, not to mention the ability of a trial judge to interfere with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
foreign policy and national security actions. Regardless, with an overall approval rating hovering somewhere around 27% or so, that's just above the basement level, the lowest in decades might we add, the Democrats find themselves having to explain to the public why they are fighting for the rights of criminal gang members operating in the U.S. illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
While they obviously oppose anything coming out of the Trump White House, well, they might want to think about the optics and perhaps be a little more careful about picking their battles. All right, coming up in the back of the brief. After years of dismissing it as a conspiracy theory, the New York Times is finally admitting that a lab accident in China may have been the real origin of COVID-19.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Imagine that. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, well, it only took, what, five years? But it looks like The New York Times is finally ready to acknowledge the possible true origins of COVID-19. In a new opinion piece, columnist Zeynep Tufekci lays out a damning case that the so-called consensus on the virus's origins wasn't just wrong, it was actively manipulated.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Tovekchi highlights how in early 2020, the lab leak theory was dismissed as a conspiracy, remember that? Despite real concerns about the Wuhan Institute of Virology's research. She writes, to promote the appearance of consensus, some officials and scientists hid or understated crucial facts, misled at least one reporter, orchestrated campaigns of supposedly independent voices,
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
And in today's back of the brief, after years of dismissing it as a conspiracy theory, the New York Times is finally acknowledging what many sane people have suspected all along, that a lab accident in China may have been the real origin of COVID-19. And U.S. government officials, well, worked to suppress the notion of a lab leak during the pandemic.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
and even compared notes about how to hide their communications in order to keep the public from hearing the whole story, end quote. Now, that's not just scientific debate. That's a coordinated effort to control the narrative, to manipulate the narrative. She points to the now infamous Nature Medicine paper from March 2020, which ruled out a lab leak, but internal communications said,
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
later revealed that some of its authors actually believed a lab leak was likely. One of them, evolutionary biologist Christian Anderson, wrote privately, "...the lab escape version of this is so friggin' likely to have happened because they were already doing this type of work and the molecular data is fully consistent with that scenario." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
And yet, in public, he and his colleagues insisted the opposite. Why? Well, according to Tufekci, they sought guidance from Jeremy Farrar, who's now the chief scientist at the World Health Organization. Farrar even suggested they revise their paper to more forcefully rule out a lab leak. And then there's the Lancet letter, which dismissed the lab leak theory as a conspiracy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Turns out, that letter was secretly organized by Peter Daszak, the head of EcoHealth Alliance, the same non-profit that funneled U.S. grant money to the Wuhan lab for risky virus research. Daszak even strategized on how to hide his involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
March 18th, 2025: Trump’s High Stakes Meeting With Putin & A Shocking Lab Leak Admission
Tufekci also points to newly surfaced communications from Dr. Anthony Fauci's senior advisor, David Morenz, who wrote in an email, quote, We're all smart enough to know to never have smoking guns, and if we did, we wouldn't put them in emails, and if we found them, we'd delete them, end quote. Oh, my. Well, how about that? That sounds an awful lot like an admission of a cover-up. So what now?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Und sie sind unter dem Radar geschehen, ohne öffentliche Aufmerksamkeit von Washington oder Mexiko-City. Now, credit where it's due, CNN first broke this story, citing sources familiar with the program. But let's take a step back and look at this from the 30,000-foot level, or whatever altitude the drones are flying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
For years, the US has fought the cartels indirectly, through partnerships with Mexican authorities, DEA-led investigations and law enforcement operations along the southern border. But now, under the new US administration, we're seeing a clear effort to treat these cartels more like terrorist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
And as we reported here on the PDB, Trump officially designated them as foreign terrorist organizations in one of his first acts as president. And that designation is already reshaping US strategy. Hier ist, was wir wissen. Die CIA-Drohnen sind momentan unbearmt. Dies sind die MQ-9-Reepers, die gleichen, die für präzisierte Angriffe gegen ISIS und Al-Qaida verwendet werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Die MQ-9-Reeper kann mit einer Vielzahl von präzisierten Waffen gearmt werden, z.B. Hellfire-Missilen, lasergeführte Bomben und die GPS-geführte Joint Direct Attack Munition oder JDAM, wie Sie es gehört haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Die Drohne ist für sowohl Beobachtungs- als auch Angriffsmissionen ausgestattet, und sie ist ein wichtiger Aspekt in den US-Kontraterrorismus-Operationen, die sich mit Pinpoint-Akkuraten auf die Gegner konzentrieren können.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Nun, die Drohnen werden nur für Beobachtung verwendet, für jetzt zumindest, aber die Tatsache, dass sie gearmt werden können, äußert ernsthafte Fragen über das, was nachher kommen könnte. Wir haben vorhin über US-Spyplanes berichtet, die auf der Grenze verwendet werden, um Kartellbewegungen zu verhindern. Aber dies ist das erste Mal, dass wir über kriminelle Missionen innerhalb Mexikos reden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Die Regierung hat den Kongress über einen klassifizierten Prozess bemerkt, der für Operationen vorgesehen ist, die die CIA beurteilen oder negieren will. Und notierend ist, dass es keine Koordination mit dem mexikanischen Staat gibt. Und das ist ein großer Wandel aus den letzten gemeinsamen Bemühungen. Now, the timing here is important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
The Trump administration has already made it clear that it's willing to use counterterrorism tactics against the cartels. In fact, just last month, when signing an executive order ramping up those efforts, Trump was asked about sending special forces into Mexico. His response? Well, it was, quote, could happen, stranger things have happened, end quote. Hmm, that's ambiguous.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
So, how is Mexico reacting to all of this? Well, so far, it's been, I suppose you could describe it as a mix of silence and unease. Mexico's President, Claudia Scheinbaum, and other top officials have been quick to emphasize that American military surveillance flights along the border have remained in international airspace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
But when asked about reports of these covert CIA drone missions flown inside Mexican airspace, Mexico's defense minister admitted he wasn't aware of them. He also suggested, rather bluntly, that he couldn't rule out espionage. Meanwhile, Mexico's foreign ministry hasn't responded at all. This puts Scheinbaums government in a tough spot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Publisch können sie nicht in der Lage sein, in den USA frei zu arbeiten, innerhalb ihrer Grenzen. Privately though, Mexico's leadership knows that they're struggling to contain the cartels and that American intelligence on cartel movements and activities, well, is incredibly valuable. So, you ask, what happens next? Oh, I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
With a terrorist designation already in place, the legal and strategic ground is there for more aggressive military-style operations. And if these CIA drone missions are just the beginning, well, we could be looking at a dramatic escalation in how the US wages its war on drugs. Which, frankly, could be good, given that the past few wars on drugs didn't really go all that well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Coming up next, migrant shelters that once took in nearly a thousand people per day are now nearly empty, as Trump's border shutdown leaves some of those centers on the brink of closing. I'll be right back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Now, saving and investing can seem impossible, but with Stash, well, it's not just possible, it's easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Stash, you see, isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Or, if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can opt into their award-winning expert-managed portfolio that picks the stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. So, don't let your savings just sit around. Make your money work harder for you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Go to get.stash.com.pdb to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and a few important disclosures. That's get.stash.com.pdb Investing involves risk. Offer is subject. Terms and conditions. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
It's Tuesday, 18 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a major escalation in the fight against the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
ExpressVPN verhindert Hacker von privaten Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denkt daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu zerstören. Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für Instant Protection. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for US customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
According to reports, President Trump has the CIA, the Central Intelligence Agency, flying covert drone missions over Mexico, using the same Reaper drones deployed in the War on Terror. Later in the show, migrant shelters that once housed nearly a thousand people a day are now nearly empty as Trump's border crackdown sharply reduces border crossings. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Willkommen zurück im Nachhinein-Bulletin. Die Wahrheit bleibt, dass die Verbrechung der Grenzen der Trump-Administration die Immigrationslandschaft wiederhergestellt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Migrantenschelter auf der Texas-Mexiko-Border, die einmal mit fast 1.000 Einwohnern pro Tag überwältigt waren, sind nun fast leer, weil die steigenden Policien die Übergänge drastisch reduziert haben, um einige Schelter zu schließen. Since January, the Trump administration has effectively sealed the border to asylum seekers, allowing only a handful of exceptions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
The impact has been immediate and dramatic. Shelters, once at the breaking point under the Biden administration, are now struggling to justify their existence, and many expect to close by the end of the month.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
In der Bordertown von McAllen, zum Beispiel, haben katholische Chariten der Rio Grande Valley gesehen, dass die Ereignisse an ihrem Respektzentrum von mehr als 3.000 im Januar zu weniger als zwölf täglich in diesem Monat zerstört haben. In der heutigen Zeit wird der Zentrum in Februar weniger als 350 Migranten durchführen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Die wenigen, die vorbeikommen, werden normalerweise von den US-Kunst- und Grenzschutzbehörden ausgeliefert, nach dem Prozess und mit einer Notiz an die Immigrationsgerichtshofung eingeladen und dann auf den Weg gebracht. Annunciation House, ein Netzwerk von Gefängnissen in El Paso, hat einen ähnlichen Nosedive gesehen. Where there were once more than 20 shelters in operation, only four remain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
The total number of migrants in its care, well, that's only about 40. Director Ruben Garcia expects that number to fall further, possibly forcing more locations to close by month's end, leaving just one or two operational.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
García notierte, dass die Migrationsnummern bereits durch Mexikas striktere Immigrationsverpflichtung verschwunden sind, aber Präsident Trumps Immigration-Krackdown hat den Verlust dramatisch erhöht. Selbst vor der Wahl kamen die täglichen Eingriffe an die Annunciation House zwischen 250 und 300. Das ist niedrig, aber nichts wie das, was jetzt passiert. Across Texas, shelters are scaling back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
In El Paso, one facility closed its doors in September. The Migrant Resource Center in San Antonio stopped accepting new arrivals just last week. And in McAllen, Catholic Charities has already begun cutting staff, even before federal funding cuts further strained its operations. Am 30.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Januar erhielt Sister Norma Pimentel, Exekutivdirektorin der Rio Grande Valley Catholic Charities, Wort, dass das Zentrum federales Finanzierungsprogramm nicht mehr erhalten würde. Das Programm wurde erst während Trumps ersten Termin eröffnet, um die lokalen und staatlichen Regierungen und Non-Professionen für emergency migrant aid zu reimbursieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Trotz des finanziellen Ausgleichs sagt Pimentel, dass das Zentrum weiterhin Hilfe bieten wird, auch wenn es jetzt nur fünf oder zehn Migranten pro Tag gibt. Aber sobald die Trump-Administration sich auf ihre Plätschung vorstellt, die südliche Grenze zu sichern, wie lange das noch nötig bleibt, ist eine offene Frage. Und das, meine Freunde, ist die PDB-Afternoon Bulletin für Dienstag, den 18.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Februar. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you may have already read in the gossip pages, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. It really is that simple. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
Starte deinen Test noch heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 18th, 2025: CIA Reaper Drones Over Mexico & Border Crossings Collapse
In der neuesten Beweisung, dass die Trump-Administration den Kampf gegen die Drogenkartelle nimmt, hat die CIA kräftige Drohnen-Missionen tief in Mexiko gefahren. Diese Flugzeuge, die von den so genannten MQ-9-Reaper-Drohnen ausgestattet werden, bemerken einen bedeutenden Wandel in den US-Narkotik-Operationen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Leaders from six EU countries, as well as the United Kingdom, convened in Paris on Monday for an emergency summit intended to form a consensus on how to respond to President Trump's bilateral talks with Kremlin representatives, which kicked off today in Saudi Arabia. But finding common ground is proving tricky, with officials clashing over what kind of security guarantees to offer Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
In Bukavu, supporters called for the rebels to push all the way to the capital, Kinshasa, nearly 1,000 miles away Backed by an estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops, according to the United Nations, M23 is just one of over 100 armed groups vying for dominance over eastern Congo's vast mineral wealth, resources critical to global supply chains
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Uranium and cobalt and other critical minerals have been the key to conflict in the Congo for generations, going back to before the country's independence in 1960. The conflict has already displaced more than 6 million people, and that's a humanitarian crisis that the UN describes as the largest in the world.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
At the heart of this war is a decades-old ethnic struggle The M23 claims to be defending Congo's ethnic Tutsis, while Rwanda insists that the Congolese military has absorbed Hutu militias responsible for the 1994 Rwandan genocide In the wake of Bukavu's fall, the Congolese president states that the conflict risks spiraling into a regional war Congolese forces have leaned on South African troops in Goma and Burundian forces in Bukavu
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The crisis took center stage over the weekend at the African Union Summit in Ethiopia, but for now, neither African leaders nor the broader international community appear willing to take decisive action against M23 or Rwanda, whose military is one of the most formidable on the continent. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 18 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdp at thefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, which you could do, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdppremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
It's Tuesday, 18 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we'll kick things off with the latest on the war in Ukraine. As Russia and U.S. officials engage in peace talks in Saudi Arabia, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has offered to send U.K. troops as peacekeepers in any potential deal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
That's according to a report from the Financial Times. President Emmanuel Macron hosted the summit and was apparently hoping for commitments from EU allies to deploy a coalition of peacekeeping troops to Ukrainian territory to enforce any potential deal. It's a plan that Macron has floated several times in recent months and one that has the full support of Ukrainian President Zelensky.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Specifically, Macron envisions what he's described as a, quote, reassurance force. Well, that sounds friendly, which would be stationed behind but not on a future ceasefire line in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Zelensky has called on European allies to commit a minimum of 200,000 troops to the effort, arguing that in the absence of NATO membership for Ukraine, something that the Trump administration, by the way, opposes, Kiev will need to rely heavily on the support of Europe's militaries.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
On Sunday, ahead of the emergency meeting, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer offered Zelensky some hope, explicitly committing to deploying British troops to Ukraine, quote, if necessary. Starmer said, quote, securing a lasting peace in Ukraine that safeguards its sovereignty for the long term is essential if we are to deter Putin from further aggression in the future, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Well, he's he's not wrong. Starmer added, quote, The end of this war cannot merely become a temporary pause before Putin attacks again. He said he would work to sway European leaders still skeptical about joining the coalition, though on that score, frankly, he has his work cut out for him.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Leaders from Germany, Poland and Spain are reportedly reluctant to commit to a deployment, arguing that the discussions are premature. They're also likely concerned about the implications of having their own troops in Ukraine should a hypothetical peace agreement break down. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said it was impossible to commit to any hypothetical post-war security plan when the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
was making decisions without NATO's input. He demanded a wider discussion between the U.S., Kiev, and the NATO alliance, rejecting what he described as Moscow's effort to foist a... quote, dictated peace on Europe. Spain's foreign minister, meanwhile, also urged caution, saying, quote, Nobody is currently considering sending troops to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Peace is still very far away, and for one reason only, and that would be Vladimir Putin, end quote. Now, he added that a peacekeeping coalition would raise complicated questions, of course, within the NATO alliance regarding what their specific mandate would be, how many troops each country would commit, and under what flag they would be operating.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Similarly, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Warsaw was not yet prepared to commit to a troop deployment, echoing the concerns of Spain's foreign minister. He did, however, urge all of Europe to immediately step up their spending on defense, saying if they fail to prevent a wider war, quote, we will be forced to spend 10 times more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Currently, NATO members are required, in theory, to spend 2% of their GDP on their collective defense. That's a benchmark that many countries in the alliance have failed to meet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Over the weekend, however, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance would form a new agreement for defense spending targets at an upcoming summit in June, pledging that NATO members will significantly increase their contributions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Trump, who's been highly critical of NATO, has said he would like to see members contribute as much as 5% of their GDP towards defense, though it remains to be seen if members will step up to meet that demand. But Trump's blitz towards securing a quick peace deal with Russia has forced European allies to rapidly pivot and evolve their positions on issues of mutual defense.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
At the summit on Monday, officials reportedly discussed ways to boost contributions in the short term, such as temporarily easing the EU's rules on deficits regarding defense spending. Still, Starmer and other European leaders said that at the end of the day, security guarantees from the U.S. would be needed to keep Russia at bay. Starmer said, quote, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
But European leaders, well, they're divided, with some pushing back on the idea of putting boots on the ground in Ukraine. Later in the show, reports claim that Hamas has agreed to hand control of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority. But Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel is shutting that idea down fast.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
security guarantee is essential for a lasting peace because only the U.S. can deter Putin from attacking again, end quote. All right, coming up next, reports claim that Hamas has agreed to hand control of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority, while graphic details emerge from Hamas hostage survivors. I'll be right back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Saving and investing, well, it can feel impossible. But with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Or if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can opt into their award-winning expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Now, Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings sit around. Make them work harder for you.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Go to get.stash.com slash pdb to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures. That's get.stash.com slash pdb. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients, and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and an SEC-registered investment advisor. Remember, investing involves risk.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Offer is subject to terms and conditions. Welcome back to the BDB. Turning to Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu dismissed reports Monday that Hamas agreed under pressure from ceasefire mediator Egypt to transfer control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, the PA, reaffirming that neither group can be allowed to govern Gaza in the postwar period.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The reports, published by Sky News Arabia, were swiftly rejected by Netanyahu's spokesman, Omar Dostri, who posted on X, quote, not going to happen, end quote. Well, that's fairly direct. Netanyahu later reaffirmed his commitment to President Trump's plan to depopulate Gaza and redevelop the Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
That's a proposal that, of course, has drawn fierce opposition from Arab and Muslim majority countries, as well as some Western allies, as we've tracked here on the PDB. Unveiled in a 4 February White House press conference alongside Netanyahu, Trump's plan calls for American, quote, ownership of Gaza and its reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
An Israeli official told the Times of Israel that Israel is, quote, embracing with both hands Trump's vision and is actively working through the technical and logistical details to facilitate voluntary immigration from the Strip. And yes, you can imagine there may be some technical and logistical details in making that happen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The official stated, quote, Our goal is to allow the creation of an infrastructure to enable Gazans to leave, and we assess that many will leave, end quote. Last month, PA President Mahmoud Abbas signaled Ramallah's willingness to assume control of Gaza – that's big of him – once the war ends, though Netanyahu has repeatedly ruled out any role for the PA.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Plus, horrifying details are emerging from Hamas hostage survivors, revealing the brutal conditions that they endured during captivity. And in today's back of the brief, Congo's government says Rwanda-backed rebels have seized control of a second major city in the country's mineral-rich east, escalating tensions in the region. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Back in July, three officials told the Times of Israel that Netanyahu had at one point privately considered allowing a PA presence in Gaza. That was a position that the then-Biden administration has pushed for. But Netanyahu's hardline allies, well, they refused to entertain the idea, equating the West Bank-based PA with Hamas due to its longstanding financial support for Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Just last week, Abbas attempted to quell concerns by signing a decree ending the controversial, quote, pay-to-slay program, which provides stipends to the families of Palestinians convicted of attacking and injuring or killing Israelis. But Israeli officials aren't buying it.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
On Monday, Israel's Khan public broadcaster reported that the payments were still being processed as usual, reinforcing Israeli skepticism toward Ramallah's commitment to ending the practice. Meanwhile, Hamas's political future remains central to ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
While the terror group has previously suggested that it might disarm in exchange for statehood, there's no indication that it intends to do so under the current ceasefire deal. Speculation about Hamas ceding control of Gaza to the PA first surfaced during the initial stage of the hostage ceasefire talks, but Israel has made it clear Hamas and the PA cannot have a post-war role.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, reinforced that message Sunday, declaring that the next phase of the hostage deal is, quote, "...absolutely going to begin and will ultimately result in Hamas's removal from Gaza."
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Yet, as it stands, the ceasefire agreement does not explicitly require the Iran-backed terror group to relinquish power at the end of phase two, leaving Gaza's post-war governance, well, an open question. All right, I want to stick with Gaza for this next story, as recently freed Israeli hostages detail the horrific abuses they suffered at the hands of Hamas terrorists during their captivity.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
First, as a reminder, Israel and Hamas completed their sixth round of exchanges over the weekend with another three Israeli hostages released from the enclave. The Iranian-backed terror group has now released 19 out of the 33 Israeli hostages promised in the first phase of the deal, though at least eight of the remaining captives are confirmed dead.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
As the freed hostages attempt to adjust to life back in Israel, reports about the barbarity of their Hamas captors are coming to light, and, well, we should warn you that the stories are graphic and disturbing.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Hamas subjected male hostages to torture methods so brutal over their nearly 500 days in captivity that many of them had to relearn how to walk before their release.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The terrorists reportedly hung hostages by their feet for extended periods, regularly throttled them with ropes, gagged their mouths so they nearly suffocated, and branded them with burning objects. Hostages were also deliberately starved and held inside tunnels so small that they could not move, let alone stand upright, leaving them struggling to breathe.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The victims said they would go for days without any food or water, and when they were fed, they were given rotten food that they were forced to share. One unnamed hostage said, quote, 34-year-old Orr Levy, who was freed on Saturday, said that the hostages were only given proper food in the days leading up to their release so that they could stand on their own feet during the public handover.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Levy said, quote, End quote. The hostages were also subjected to psychological torture by their captors, who kept them in the dark about the fate of their loved ones following the brutal 7 October attacks back in 2023 that ignited this war. Levy, for example, only learned that his wife was killed during the attacks upon his release on Saturday. Levy's brother told reporters, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
With members of the Trump administration set to begin peace talks with Russia, without, for now anyway, the participation of Ukrainian and NATO officials, European leaders are now scrambling to coordinate their own plan to help ensure Ukraine's long-term security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Another hostage released on Saturday, 54-year-old Ali Sharabi, also learned that his wife and their two teenage daughters had been killed on 7 October when he was released. Before learning the tragic news, his Hamas captors taunted him during the handover, forcing him to say he was looking forward to seeing his wife and children once he returned home.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
As we recently discussed on the PDB, the emaciated state of three hostages that were freed on 8 February ignited public fury in Israel and across the world, prompting international condemnations about the barbaric treatment of the hostages. And as the exchanges continue, it's likely that similar stories will continue to emerge.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
There are still as many as 76 hostages that remain in Gaza, though their condition is unknown. And reports emerged Monday that Israel is preparing to receive the remains of an unknown number of hostages from Gaza on Thursday, marking the first handover of deceased hostages since the ceasefire began.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Okay, coming up next, in the back of the brief, unrest in Africa where Rwanda-backed rebels have seized a second major city in the growing conflict in eastern Congo. I'll have those details when we return.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
In today's Back of the Brief, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized Bukavu, the second major city in mineral-rich eastern Congo, marking an escalation in their largely unopposed ongoing territorial gains.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
The Congolese government, which initially downplayed the situation, was forced to acknowledge on Sunday that Bukavu, a city of over one million people, had been, quote, occupied after M23 rebels seized control of the governor's office. There, M23 vowed to clean up the, quote, disorder left over from the old regime, referring, of course, to the government.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Associated Press journalists on the ground witnessed scores of residents cheering the rebel fighters as they rolled into the city following a days-long march from Goma, a city of two million that fell to M23 just last month. Despite government vows to restore order, there were no visible efforts to retake Bukavu.
The President's Daily Brief
February 18th, 2025: U.K. Peacekeepers in Ukraine? & Hamas Agrees To Step Aside In Gaza
Thousands of civilians, along with Congolese troops, fled on Saturday, leaving the city essentially defenseless. This is a stark departure from 2012, when M23 briefly occupied Goma before bowing to international pressure and withdrawing. This time, the group appears intent on cementing long-term political power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold today. They've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And as you and I know, that's a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Tuesday, 17 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Given how involved the Russians were in propping up Assad and the amount of Syrian blood they have on their hands, I suppose it's not surprising that the new rebel government may not be interested in negotiations. Now, according to unnamed U.S. officials who spoke with CNN, Russia has begun withdrawing large amounts of military equipment and troops from its Syrian bases.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
While the officials said it's unclear whether the withdrawal will be permanent, they described the activity as, quote, significant. As a reminder, Russia has two military bases in Syria along the country's Mediterranean coast, a massive naval base in Tardis and an air base in the port city of Latakia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
The base at Tardis is of particular importance, providing Russia with their only access point to the Mediterranean Sea. Both bases also function as the main transit hub for military assets into African countries, and that's a key strategic interest for the Putin regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
With that in mind, it appears Russia is now looking to potential alternatives to preserve their access to both the Mediterranean and Africa in the event that they lose their Tardis base, even temporarily. The Russians began moving naval assets from their base in Tardis to Libya late last week. Cargo planes registered to Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
have landed at a Russian outpost in northern Libya at least seven times over the past week. That's according to flight records and satellite imagery. The air base in question has been used by Russia in the past as a jumping-off point for their operations in Africa, including for the notorious Wagner Group mercenaries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
As they continue moving their Syrian military assets to the Libyan base, a senior defense official told CNN that Moscow has also been increasing pressure on the Libyan National Army to endorse Russia's claim on a critical port in Benghazi.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Back in Syria, satellite images show increased activity at the Tardis port and the airbase in Latakia, where Russian troops appear to be staging equipment for transfer. Two heavy military transport planes were seen at the airfield on Friday with their nose cones lifted, indicating that they're being loaded with cargo.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Dismantled attack helicopters have also been spotted, and convoys carrying surface-to-air missile systems were photographed heading to the base. Regarding negotiations with the rebel regime in Damascus, the Kremlin is still working to find a solution, with a spokesman saying Monday, quote, there are no final decisions on this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
But later in the day, a spokesman for Syria's new transitional government said Russia should, quote, reconsider its presence on Syrian territory as well as its interests, adding that Russia's interests were, quote, linked to the criminal Assad regime, end quote. Well, they're not wrong with that assessment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Still, the spokesman left the door open for a diplomatic relationship, saying it was up to the Russians to, quote, take the initiatives to reach out to the new administration to show that they have no animosity with the Syrian people and that the era of the Assad regime is finally over, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Coming up, a high-ranking general in the Russian Armed Forces and his assistant have been killed in Moscow, reportedly by Ukraine's security service. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We begin in Syria, where the Russian military appears to be conducting a large-scale withdrawal, ending over a week of speculation about whether they would stay or leave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
A senior Russian general was assassinated Tuesday when a bomb concealed in a scooter detonated outside his Moscow apartment building just one day after Ukraine's security service, the SBU, brought criminal charges against him. Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, the chief of Russia's nuclear, biological, and chemical protection forces, was killed as he left for work alongside his assistant.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Kirillov, who took his position in 2017, was previously under sanctions from the UK and Canada for his role in Russia's war. Now, an official with the SBU, speaking anonymously, claimed responsibility for the attack, calling Kirillov a, quote, war criminal and an entirely legitimate target.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
The SBU accused him of overseeing more than 4,800 instances of chemical weapons use since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine back in February of 2022. The allegations, reinforced by the U.S. State Department, center on Russia's documented use of chloropicrin, a chemical agent first deployed in World War I against Ukrainian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
For its part, Russia flatly denies any use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. What, us? No. Instead, Kirillov frequently appeared in Kremlin-backed briefings accusing Ukraine of similar tactics, claims dismissed by Kyiv and Western allies as outright propaganda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
According to Russian news reports, the bomb was triggered remotely and caused severe damage to the apartment block, shattering windows and scorching the building's facade. Video footage shared by the SBU captured two individuals leaving the scene just moments before the explosion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
The Kremlin's top state investigative agency immediately launched a terrorism investigation, and the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council issued a scathing condemnation. The chairman accused Kyiv of attempting to distract public attention from its military failures and warned of, quote, inevitable retribution against Ukraine's senior military political leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Then, we'll turn to Russia, where Ukraine's security service is claiming responsibility for the high-profile assassination of a Russian general right in the heart of Moscow. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Now, I want to point out that Kirillov's death is only the latest in a string of assassinations attributed to Ukraine since the war began. The Kremlin has repeatedly struggled to insulate its leadership from these targeted hits, whether in Moscow itself or Russian occupied territories.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
Past orchestrated assassinations include the 2022 car bombing that killed the daughter of a Kremlin-linked ideologue, the 2023 cafe explosion targeting a pro-war blogger, and last December's fatal shooting of a former pro-Russian Ukrainian lawmaker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
More recently, a car bomb earlier this month in Russian-occupied Donetsk killed the former head of a prison where dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war died in a 2022 explosion. As Ukraine openly claims responsibility for Kirillov's killing, the attack raises fresh questions about Russia's capacity to defend its top brass, not just in combat zones, but in the heart of its capital.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 17 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as you may have heard from close friends and family, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
We'll begin with an update on Russia's troop presence in Syria, as major questions exist over whether the Kremlin will lose their strategic foothold in the Middle East in the wake of Putin ally Assad's overthrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
As we discussed on last week's PDB, the lightning offensive that brought Islamist rebel militants to power just over a week ago presents a direct threat to the Kremlin's strategic military assets in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 17th, 2024: Putin's Withdrawal In Syria & Ukraine Assassinates Russian General In Moscow
While the Russians have been attempting to negotiate a settlement with the rebel group HTS over the past week in order to keep their military bases in post-Assad Syria, well, so far, the discussions with the new regime have borne little fruit.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the Patriots over at Patriot Gold. Now, as you may have heard, they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. That is a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Tuesday, 17 December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
And in today's Back of the Brief, incoming border czar Tom Holman shared details about the Trump administration's deportation plans during a meeting with New York City Mayor Eric Adams. I'll have those details in the Back of the Brief. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
The former ICE director underscored the broader objectives of the plan, including cracking down on human trafficking and safeguarding children from exploitation. Holman stated, quote, the criminals need to be taken off the street to protect our communities and children need to be found safe from sex trafficking and forced labor, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
While President-elect Trump has pledged the largest deportation operation in US history, Holman stated that the effort will focus on precision and high-risk individuals. For now, the alignment between Eric Adams and Tom Holman emphasizes a shared commitment to prioritizing public safety while navigating immigration enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 17 December. You've got eight more shopping days till Christmas. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as you've probably heard from neighborhood gossip, To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
And don't forget, if you get a chance, take the time to stop by our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. It's frankly the cat's meow. It's the bee's knees. The dog's bollocks. Check it out. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
I want to begin with what appears to be an embarrassing incident out of Syria involving a CNN reporter who helped rebel forces free a man from a secret prison facility last Wednesday only to later discover that the man was a member of the Syrian military with a long record of war crimes on behalf of the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Now, CNN had visited the prison in question, located at the Syrian Air Force Intelligence Headquarters in Damascus, as part of a search for a missing US journalist. As they toured the facility, the team noticed a locked door, which a rebel guard subsequently shot open.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Inside was a man who gave his name as Adil Glorbal, who claimed to have been left alone without food, water or light after being taken by Assad's intelligence services from his home three months earlier. The CNN segment showing the man's release went viral last week and was described by network representatives as, quote, remarkable when it initially aired.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
It was supposed to be an amazing moment caught on video, the kind that could make a journalist's career. CNN even publicly praised reporter Clarissa Ward for finding, quote, a Syrian prisoner left behind in a secret prison alone and unaware the Assad regime was no more, end quote. But the network soon ended up with egg on their face.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
In the days that followed, a Syrian fact-checking organization, ooh, they've got one, said the jailed man used a false identity and was actually a man by the name of Salama Mohammed Salama, a first lieutenant in Syrian Air Force intelligence with a storied history of brutality against civilians. Once again, oops.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
The fact-checkers pointed out some initial incongruities in Salama's story, noting he appeared well-groomed and physically healthy, with no visible signs of torture or injury, hardly the profile of a man who had spent 90 days in solitary confinement. They also pointed out that in the CNN video, when he steps outside, after claiming to have not seen daylight for months, Salama does not even blink.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
After some digging, the fact-checkers found no record of an Otto Gerbal in the region, which eventually led them to records that revealed his true identity. Now, in his role in Syrian Air Force intelligence, Salama managed several security checkpoints in the city of Homs, where, according to local residents, he engaged in theft, extortion, and coerced residents into becoming informants for Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
He also had a history of detaining and torturing young men on false charges and had killed an unknown number of civilians while taking part in military operations for the Assad regime in 2014. Local residents and homes said his arrest by the regime occurred less than a month ago and actually stemmed from a dispute with a high-ranking officer over how to divvy up extorted money.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
CNN has since addressed the situation, acknowledging they were likely duped, you think, by a man using a false identity. Ooh, that's tough to figure out. The network stressed that the trip to the prison was unplanned and that the decision to release the prisoner was made by one of the rebel guards.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
They added that CNN is now investigating the man's actual background and will provide an update regarding their initial report. Well, let's hope they take the time to fact-check their update.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Now, before we shift from the Assad regime's collapse, another aspect of this situation that we're following closely here on the PDB is the ongoing operations by Israel inside Syria, where the IDF just dropped what observers are dubbing a, quote, earthquake bomb.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Israel has been engaged in an air campaign, of course, across Syria since Assad's ouster, striking hundreds of strategic military targets to ensure Assad's weapons stockpiles don't fall into rebel hands.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Late Sunday evening, the IDF launched one of their heaviest strikes in more than a decade, hitting targets in northwestern Syria, near the city of Tartus, including a surface-to-surface missile depot. Now, one of the bombs that was dropped triggered a colossal explosion that was measured as a 3.1 magnitude earthquake by seismic sensors and left a fiery mushroom cloud in the sky.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Dramatic video captured the blast, which analysts said likely set off a large volume of stored armaments.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with an unusual story and a tale of the importance of due diligence out of Syria, where CNN is facing tough questions about a man they showed being rescued from a Syrian jail. New reports claim, well, he may have been more than just a prisoner.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Israel has vowed to do everything in their power to safeguard Israeli security and ensure extremist elements inside Syria don't use Assad's weapons to threaten the Jewish state As of Friday, the IDF estimated that they had already destroyed roughly 70-80% of the former Assad regime's strategic military capabilities All right. Coming up next, a report on China's, quote, kill list targeting U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
naval assets. And the latest from the Ukraine-Russia war, where North Korean troops have reportedly been killed in combat for the first time. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
I want to turn your attention to China as we learn that the Chinese regime under Xi Jinping is developing plans to cripple the capabilities of the US Navy in the event of a future conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
China's People's Liberation Army, or the PLA, recently came out with a, quote, kill list of potential targets for a coordinated attack against US aircraft carrier strike groups deployed in and around the South China Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
In a wartime scenario, the targets, which include critical radar systems, sensors, and communication systems, would be hit with concentrated fire from China's electronic warfare weapons, that's according to the South China Morning Post. The revelation comes from a report authored by a PLA analyst with China's electronic warfare unit that recently appeared in the state-run magazine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
The report includes a deep dive into the capabilities and vulnerabilities of the US Navy's air defense and early warning network, pointing out ways that the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, and the PLA can leverage the system's flaws to mount a successful attack, specifically
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
It focuses on how to use various forms of electronic interference to disrupt the Navy's wireless communications network, which they said is a key weakness, identifying specific vessels in the U.S. fleet equipped with advanced radar like the Aegis system that would be targeted. The report concludes that if those radar systems are successfully knocked out, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Allegedly, he was a member of deposed dictator Assad's military and possibly a torturer of political prisoners. Oops. Seems like some fact-checking might have been in order. Later in the show, we'll discuss a revelation out of China. The People's Liberation Army has reportedly released an electronic warfare kill list targeting U.S. naval assets.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Navy would be left without their eyes and ears, unable, of course, to coordinate with the broader U.S. fleet. The CCP's researchers also singled out the E-2C Hawkeye early warning aircraft as another potential target. The craft, which operates from U.S. aircraft carriers, plays a critical role in identifying enemy threats and coordinating the activities of the rest of the naval fleet.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Additionally, the report discusses using cyber warfare tactics to target U.S. military signal transponders, arguing that if exploited properly, the CCP could use them to gain access to U.S. military networks where they could launch further cyber attacks. It's a rare and obviously concerning insight into how the CCP and PLA are wargaming a potential showdown with America.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
While President-elect Trump has touted his ability to bring America's many adversaries to the negotiating table, China has been ratcheting up tensions in the disputed waters of the South China Sea for months. As we discussed last week on the PDB, China recently mounted their largest maritime drill in nearly three decades in the waters around Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
During the large-scale exercise, which involved some 90 naval vessels, 23 Chinese aircraft were logged crossing into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. Taiwanese security officials suggested that the timing of the drill is strategic, coinciding with the lead-up to Trump's inauguration in January, which the president-elect has reportedly invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Ah, no word yet if Xi has RSVP'd, although he'd better hurry if he plans on attending. Hotel space will be limited, and, well, it could be tough to book a rental car at this short notice.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Okay, shifting to Ukraine, it's being reported that North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces suffered their first combat casualties of the war, with at least 30 soldiers killed or wounded during clashes in Russia's Kursk border region over the weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
On Monday, Ukraine's military intelligence agency, known by its acronym GUR, reported Pyongyang's losses against Ukrainian forces near three villages in a post on Telegram.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
The Pentagon later corroborated those claims, with Press Secretary Major General Pat Ryder confirming that North Korean troops, primarily serving in infantry roles, have been actively engaged in combat operations in Kursk for about a week.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Despite the reports from the GUR, it's important to note that Ryder declined to provide specific casualty numbers, citing ongoing assessments According to the GUR's telegram post, three additional Pyongyang servicemen went missing near another village in the same region They'll probably turn up in a couple of weeks in a pub in London
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
These are the first documented casualties since Ukraine and the US revealed that North Korea had deployed a minimum of 10,000 troops to bolster Russian forces, despite previous skirmishes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, under a mutual defense pact with Russia signed over the past summer, has pledged unwavering support for Moscow, cementing an alliance that obviously has raised alarm among global powers. But cracks in this partnership are apparently already beginning to show.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
According to military analysts, language barriers and poor coordination as a result have created operational hurdles, raising questions about the effectiveness of their joint efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
On Sunday, the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, described the Moscow Pyongyang military alliance as, quote, a source of persistent friction, emphasizing integration and communication issues will likely continue to undermine Russian military strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Meanwhile, Russia's defense minister sought to counter the narrative of setbacks, claiming on Monday that Russian forces are making steady territorial gains in Ukraine, reportedly capturing approximately 12 square miles of territory daily, despite heavy losses.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Plus, an update from the front lines of the Ukraine-Russia war. Ukraine's military and the Pentagon report that North Korean soldiers have been killed in combat for the first time during clashes in Russia's Kursk region.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Ukraine, for its part, continues to defend its strategically significant enclave in the Kursk region, a territory that could serve as a potential bargaining chip in any future peace negotiations. And, as a reality check, this conflict, well, it's approaching its three-year mark.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, incoming border czar Tom Holman reveals key details about the Trump administration's deportation strategy following his meeting with New York City Mayor Eric Adams. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
In today's back of the brief, President-elect Trump's incoming border czar, Tom Holman, has unveiled details of the administration's sweeping deportation agenda, framing it as a strategy far more targeted than initially perceived or described by a variety of media outlets and pundits, lots of pundits.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Last Thursday, Holman met with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who, in a subsequent press conference, announced that the two share a commitment to targeting individuals who pose the greatest threat to public safety. Adams emphasized their mutual focus on protecting communities, stating, quote, his goal is the same goal I have. We cannot allow dangerous individuals
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
to commit repeated violent acts of violence in our cities across America," end quote. The New York City mayor later added, quote, this city can't be a safe haven for violent individuals, end quote. The announcement marks a significant development as cities like New York City grapple with an influx of undocumented migrants, many of whom face accusations of violent crime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Adams has long called for federal intervention to address the strain on municipal resources over the past two years.
The President's Daily Brief
December 17th, 2024: CNN Rescues a ‘Torturer’ From Assad’s Prison & Israel’s ‘Earthquake Bomb’
Holman, speaking in an interview with Dr. Phil the same day, stressed the administration's targeted approach, stating, quote, this isn't going to be neighborhood sweeps and military vehicles going through the city, adding, quote, I told Adams, President Trump and myself have committed that this is going to be a targeted enforcement operation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
It's an attempt, apparently, to choke off supplies of components critical to the operations of U.S. automakers, aerospace manufacturers, semiconductor companies, and military contractors. China's stranglehold over the elements are a powerful arrow in their quiver, as 60% of all rare earth materials are produced in China, and more than 90% are processed there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
That's according to a report from the New York Times. Additionally, the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, has halted exports of rare earth magnets, 90% of which are also produced in China. Are you starting to see a trend here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
These rare earth magnets, which are significantly more powerful than any other types, are essential for building electric motors that are used in the production of electric vehicles, drones, robots, missiles, and spacecraft, as well as, for example, the steering systems in gas-powered cars. Drew Horn, who served as the top U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
official on strategic minerals during Trump's first term, told the New York Post, "...rare earths are in everything. China has essentially created an all-powerful monopoly with them. They have that leverage to basically cut off the U.S. and cut the world off, and now they're doing it."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The export halt applies to all countries, and going forward, the metals and magnets can only be shipped out of China with special export licenses, though China has yet to set up a system for issuing such permits. While it's not clear when access will be granted to foreign companies,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
A major chemical supplier in Los Angeles told the New York Times that Chinese officials have indicated it may take up to 45 days for export licenses to start being issued. Now, I can't overstate the importance of these elements to U.S. industry, as they're used in everything from consumer electronics to defense technology.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The various minerals are critical to the manufacturing of jet engines, drones, cars, robots, and computer chips just to name a few of their applications. US companies do not hold large emergency stockpiles of these elements, meaning that current supplies could rapidly run low, handicapping the manufacturing process and risking major production disruptions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The impact on military contractors is, well, of particular concern. Boeing, for example, relies on rare earth minerals to produce next-generation F-47 fighter aircraft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The chairman of MP Materials, a leader in American mining, told the Times, "...drones and robotics are widely considered the future of warfare, and based on everything we're seeing, the critical inputs for our future supply chain are shut down." China is likely hoping the restrictions will pressure Washington to the negotiating table, but their retaliation isn't stopping with rare earth minerals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
According to our report from Bloomberg, China has also ordered its airline companies to halt all jet orders from Boeing and to not purchase any aircraft-related equipment from U.S. companies. The order caused Boeing's share price to dip 3% as the aerospace giant sees China as one of its biggest growth markets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Taken together, China's actions are the most drastic response yet to the escalating trade war with the US, and the downstream effects, well, could prove catastrophic for essential American industries. Coming up next, an update from the US southern border, where illegal migrant crossings have dropped to a record low. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Well, look, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but tax season is here. Now, while it might not be the most exciting time of the year, it is a great opportunity to make smart money moves. If your credit, as an example, is under 600, well, you could jump that number by 84 points with on-time payments.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
No matter what your plans are, look, one of the smartest ways to set yourself up for success is by building your credit. And if you need to boost your credit fast, well, Kickoff can help. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with the Kickoff's special tax season promo. Look, tax season is the perfect time to take control of your financial future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
And for a limited time only, get your first month free at getkickoff.com slash Mike. Don't wait. That's Kickoff without the C. So it's K-I-K-O-F-F. Get your first month free at getkickoff.com slash Mike. must sign up via getkickoff.com to activate offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only. Individual results may vary, subject to approval, offer subject to change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff credit service starts at $5 a month for 12 months. Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points. Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024. for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Mike Baker here. Good news. It's grilling season. And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on your grill. It's from a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Look, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
It's not a faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman. There's no mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
It's Tuesday, the 15th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a troubling update in the global trade war as China cuts off exports of essential rare earth minerals, halts all jet orders from Boeing, and suspends all purchases of aircraft equipment from American companies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Newly released data from US Customs and Border Protection reveals illegal crossings at the southern border have dropped to historic lows under the Trump administration. In a striking reversal from last year, CBP reported fewer apprehensions for the entire month of March than were logged in just the first 48 hours of March, 2024, when President Biden's policies were still in effect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
It's the second consecutive month in which the Border Patrol has posted the lowest daily apprehension averages in agency history, an outcome that the Trump administration hails as proof that its hardline approach is working. According to CBP's latest report, just under 7,200 illegal immigrants were apprehended at the southern border in March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
That's a 14% drop from February and a staggering 95% drop compared to March of 2024, when Border Patrol agents recorded 137,400 apprehensions. In a statement posted to X, the CBP called the trend a, quote, pivotal achievement in our nation's border security efforts, adding that operational control, which was a once distant benchmark, quote, is becoming a reality.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The agency attributed the turnaround to a slate of Trump's aggressive enforcement measures, including enhanced patrols supported by the Department of Defense. The CBP noted that prospective migrants are now responding to the administration's uncompromising policy posture of, quote, if you cross the border illegally, you will be deported. The same trend is visible at ports of entry.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The CBP's Office of Field Operations, which oversees roughly 300 American ports of entry, saw 670 encounters per day in March. That's down 81% from the March average of last year of over 3,460 per day. But perhaps the most striking impact is being felt far beyond the U.S. southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
In the treacherous Darien Gap, that's a notorious jungle corridor between Colombia and Panama, that region, once overrun with tens of thousands of migrants per month trekking north, well, it's gone quiet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Department of Homeland Security data shows just over 400 migrants crossed the Darien Gap in February of this year, down 99% from some 37,000 who made the journey during the same month of last year under former President Biden. At the height of the crisis in 2022, Panamanian officials tracked an average of 16,400 weekly crossings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Again, there were just 400 migrant crossings in the Darien Gap in February of this year. Now, the Associated Press describes empty migrant camps and abandoned paths that just months ago teemed with foot traffic through the Gap.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Officials point to a suite of reinstated Trump policies behind the decline, including mass deportation flights, military-assisted border enforcement, and what the White House calls a border shutdown aimed at restoring legal order to the southern frontier. Within CBP, career officials describe the March figures as more than just a policy victory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
They see them as the long-awaited confirmation that stricter border policy can, in fact, reverse migratory surges. The administration sees the March data as a vindication of its hardline immigration agenda and a direct rebuke of its predecessor's immigration record. Officials inside CBP now say that the goals once seen as aspirational, such as operational control, are being met in real time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 15th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, that is certainly doable. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you know, that ugly trade war situation, it's thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver lining out there. Well, it's actually a silver and a gold lining.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Later in the show, we turn to the U.S. southern border, where according to new data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, illegal migrant crossings have dropped to a record low under the second Trump administration. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. The US-China tariff war, have you heard about it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
See, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from these sweeping tariffs. And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
The first step, it's easy. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
With an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Start your test today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 15th, 2025: China Halts Rare Earth Exports In Latest Retaliation & Illegal Border Crossings Plummet To Record Lows
Well, it's taking another alarming turn as China stops shipments of essential rare earth metals and magnets, raising alarms for US industries reliant on Beijing's mineral monopoly. In their latest retaliation to President Trump's 145% trade tariff, the Chinese government ordered restrictions on the export of seven heavy rare earth metals processed or refined exclusively in China.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. Look, the first step is simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
In today's Back of the Brief, we turn our attention to North Korea, where new satellite imagery reveals something alarming. Pyongyang appears to be constructing the largest and most advanced warship it has ever produced. Images captured on the 6th of April by satellite providers Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs show this enormous new vessel at the Nampo Shipyard on North Korea's western coast.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
The next round of talks is set for this Saturday in Rome, according to a source in the Italian government who spoke to an Associated Press. This follows last weekend's discussions between the two lead negotiators, U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
That's about 37 miles southwest of the capital city of Pyongyang. According to analysts, the ship appears to be entering what's known as the outfitting phase. In shipbuilding terms, this is when all the essential equipment and weapon systems are installed. It's essentially the last step before the warship becomes fully operational and ready for deployment.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
If early estimates are accurate, this new frigate will be approximately 459 feet in length. Now, that would make it roughly twice as large as anything currently in North Korea's naval fleet and the largest warship ever produced domestically by Kim's regime. To give you a sense of scale, America's frontline naval vessels, such as the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, they measure about 505 feet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
The U.S. Navy's newest Constellation-class frigates, currently under construction, will measure roughly 496 feet. So, Pyongyang's new warship isn't far behind in terms of size, these state-of-the-art American vessels. But there's more to the story.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Despite crippling international sanctions intended to prevent North Korea from accessing advanced military technology, analysts believe Pyongyang is getting help from Moscow. Now, you don't have to be an analyst to draw that conclusion. Retired South Korean Admiral Kim Do-ki recently speculated that Russia might be providing critical missile technology for this warship.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Indeed, satellite images indicate sophisticated weapon systems are being fitted to the ship, systems capable of launching missiles at both land and sea-based targets. Although the ship itself is heavily camouflaged, obscuring, of course, precise details, experts say these features would significantly upgrade North Korea's naval capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
If true, Russian assistance, of course, would represent a dangerous escalation in North Korea's already troubling military advancement, potentially complicating security across the entire Pacific region. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 15th of April. And for our U.S. listeners, once again, here's hoping you're getting a tax refund.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
It's Tuesday, the 15th of April. Ooh, well, for those of you in the U.S., it's tax day. I'm sorry to remind you of that. Now, it may be painful if you have to write those checks to the IRS, but at least you can console yourself knowing that the U.S. government always spends your tax dollars wisely. So I hope that helps. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
If not, and if you're writing a check, well, my condolences. I'd suggest posting the check and then mixing up a nice cold martini. Don't forget, word on the street is that you can listen to this show ad-free by simply becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. And you can do that by simply visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Now, sources are saying that their initial meeting on Saturday, the direct meeting between the two of them, lasted roughly 45 minutes. That's significantly longer than had initially been publicly reported. The bulk of the discussions between the two nations were handled indirectly, with Omani mediators shuttling messages between the two sides, like middle school kids passing notes in class.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Start your testing today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
A source described the brief direct dialogue between Witkow and Arakchi, the highest level direct contact between U.S. and Iranian officials in eight years, as, quote, substantive, serious and excellent. On the U.S. side, negotiators have a clear goal in mind to compel Tehran to take meaningful steps in the short term to move its nuclear program away from potential weaponization.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Now, that's a lot of words to say that the goal is no nukes for Iran. Meanwhile, Iran's objectives are just as clear. According to statements from their foreign ministry spokesman over the weekend, they want sanctions lifted. And they don't want a transparent, full, and comprehensive inspection regimen by the international community over all their facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But there's a stark contrast emerging between Tehran's conciliatory language at the negotiating table, well, sort of conciliatory language, and the increasingly hardline rhetoric being used by senior officials back home. Until recently, Iran officially maintained for years the line that its nuclear ambitions were strictly peaceful for civilian purposes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But as negotiations have restarted, influential figures within the Iranian regime have begun openly advocating for nuclear weapons. Let's look at some recent examples, translated and reported by memory, an organization that monitors Middle East media.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
In late March, Ali Laranjani, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and a member of Iran's powerful Expediency Council, warned Iranian television viewers that if the U.S. or Israel made what he termed a, quote, mistake regarding Iran's nuclear program, Iran would be forced into nuclear action in self-defense.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
He declared explicitly that such military aggression would not weaken Iran's nuclear capabilities, but would instead pressure the regime to reconsider its position on developing nuclear weapons, even overriding Ayatollah Khamenei's religious decree against them. And Larajani isn't alone.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
On March 31st, Ahmed Naderi, an influential member of Iran's parliament, wrote on social media that nuclear deterrence had safeguarded North Korea against former President Trump's threats, strongly hinting Iran should follow Pyongyang's example.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Now, Naderi stated bluntly that the demand to publicly develop nuclear weapons is becoming widespread among senior officials determined to protect the Islamic Revolution. Well, determined to protect their own self-interests and their grasp on power. Just days later, on April 8th,
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Another Iranian lawmaker, Mohammad Reza Sabagin, took to the floor of Iran's parliament and delivered an even stronger call to arms, stating, quote, I do not fear negotiations. I fear weak negotiators. The bullies, he said, must be confronted. The answer to Trump and Netanyahu is clear. Build nuclear weapons and become stronger, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Now, these statements are just a small sampling of the kind of provocative rhetoric increasingly heard from influential Iranian officials on the home front. And it raises important questions about Iran's true intentions, of course, as the regime engages with the U.S. at the negotiating table. We can only speculate why Iran's hardliners are now becoming so vocal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Perhaps they sense vulnerability in the West, or maybe they're trying to leverage nationalist sentiment at home to strengthen their negotiating hand. Either way, their newfound openness about pursuing nuclear weapons sets a troubling tone for the critical talks ahead, and underscores the stakes, of course, for the U.S. and its allies. All right, coming up next, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with Iran and the U.S., headed for another round of nuclear talks this coming weekend. But at the very same time, senior Iranian officials are now openly calling for the bomb. Hmm. Well, that seems contradictory. I'll have the details. Later in the show, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
and Saudi Arabia move toward a nuclear deal, while thousands of Israeli veterans and national security officials ramp up pressure on Netanyahu to end the war in Gaza. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but tax season is here. Now, while it might not be the most exciting time of the year, it's also a great opportunity to make smart money moves.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Look, if your credit is under 600, you could jump that number by 84 points with on-time payments. No matter what your plans are, one of the smartest ways to set yourself up for success is by building your credit. And if you need to boost your credit fast, well, Kickoff can help. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with our special tax season promo.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Tax season is the perfect time to take control of your financial future. For a limited time only, get your first month free at GetKickoff.com slash Mike. Don't wait. That's Kickoff without the C, so it's spelled K-I-K-O-F-F. Get your first month free at GetKickoff.com slash Mike. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate the offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Individual results may vary. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff credit service starts at $5 a month for 12 months.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points, Vantage Score 3.0, between January 2023 and January 2024 for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Turning to Iranian rival Saudi Arabia, the U.S. and the oil-rich kingdom are reportedly inching closer to inking a preliminary nuclear cooperation deal, marking a major step toward Riyadh's push for atomic energy. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Energy Secretary Chris Wright, on his first official visit to Saudi Arabia, said Sunday that Riyadh and Washington are on a, quote, pathway to reaching an agreement that would allow the kingdom to develop a commercial nuclear power industry and potentially enrich uranium.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, has long desired to develop a civil nuclear energy industry with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman making it a cornerstone of his Vision 2030 reform plan to reduce emissions. That's according to a report from the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Such an agreement would see the US government and companies cooperate with the kingdom on developing the necessary infrastructure to develop civil nuclear capabilities. A deal has long been pursued by past administrations, with the Biden administration seeking to tie it to broader US security guarantees for Saudi Arabia and the normalization of relations between the kingdom and Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But concerns over Saudi Arabia using the technology to develop a nuclear weapons program has always stymied past talks. As Crown Prince bin Salman has said, if Iran moves to develop nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia will follow suit. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Energy Secretary Wright said he met with Saudi Arabia's energy minister over the weekend to discuss the prospects of a deal that would address concerns around nuclear proliferation, and said he expected to announce, quote, meaningful developments later this year. Speaking to reporters in Riyadh, Wright said, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
We've not reached the details on an agreement, but it certainly looks like there is a pathway to do that. That's very diplomatic. He added that, quote, the issue is control of sensitive technology. Are there solutions to that that involve enrichment here in Saudi Arabia? Yes, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
and Saudi Arabia are reportedly preparing to ink a nuclear cooperation deal, marking a major step in Riyadh's push for atomic energy. Plus, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu facing renewed pressure over the war in Gaza. Thousands of Israeli veterans, former Mossad agents, and elite paratroopers are now demanding an end to the conflict in Gaza, even if it means cutting a deal with Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Absent from Wright's statement, however, was the mention of a broader security guarantee for Saudi Arabia or normalization of ties with Israel. As we've previously discussed, Saudi Arabia has historically conditioned any official recognition of Israel on Jerusalem's acceptance of a Palestinian state.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Now, given the ongoing war against the Hamas terrorists in Gaza and Jerusalem's opposition to Palestinian statehood, a deal that involves Israel does not appear likely at this time. Speaking of Israel, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is facing an unprecedented internal uprising over his decision to return to full-scale war in Gaza last month.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Notably, the outcry isn't coming from a political faction, but directly from the men and women charged with defending Israel at home and abroad. Late last week, a group of 1,000 current and former Israeli Air Force reservists sent shockwaves through the government when they signed an open letter calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
The letter called for the government to prioritize the release of the remaining hostages being held by Hamas. As a reminder, the Israeli government believes that 24 of the remaining 58 hostages that were taken captive during the 7 October attacks are still alive inside the enclave. That's according to our report from The Guardian.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
The pilot's letter, as it's being called, condemned the expansion of airstrikes and ground operations since the ceasefire with Hamas collapsed back on March 18th. accusing Netanyahu and his governing coalition of putting the lives of soldiers and the hostages at risk and pursuing continued conflict for, quote, political and personal interests.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
The letter stated in part, quote, only an agreement can return hostages safely, while military pressure mainly leads to the killing of hostages and the endangerment of our soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
A furious Netanyahu initially slammed the signatories of the letter as a, quote, group of fringe extremists funded by politically motivated foreign NGOs attempting to, quote, break Israeli society from within, end quote. He ordered the immediate dismissal of all active duty reservists who signed the letter, though the number of firings was not disclosed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But since the letter's publication last Thursday, a wave of other military and intelligence personnel have joined the chorus calling for an end to the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
On Monday, a similar letter was signed by some 1,600 former IDF paratroopers and infantry soldiers, including two former IDF chiefs of staff, demanding that the government reach a deal with Hamas to bring the hostages home, even if it means ending the war. Their statement read, quote, We are soldiers who have served our country all our lives.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
We have driven tanks, commanded troops, and paid a heavy price. It's precisely this experience that pushes us today to call for a ceasefire. The letter asked, quote, Why do we continue to sacrifice human lives for unattainable objectives?
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
That letter followed one from about 250 former operatives from Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, including three ex-chiefs, that also called for prioritizing the release of the hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Similar letters and statements have since been released by reservists from Israel's Elite Unit 8200, the IDF's biggest military intelligence unit, as well as hundreds of reservist doctors, active duty personnel, and naval reservist officers. The letters represent rare public backlash from a military and intelligence apparatus that usually displays a united front.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But criticism has been mounting in Israel that Netanyahu's decision to resume military operations in Gaza is more about appeasing far-right members of his coalition. Those members have threatened to collapse the government if Netanyahu fails to prosecute the war until Hamas is completely eradicated.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Amid this criticism, reports emerged Monday that Netanyahu had offered a new deal to Hamas that would see the release of 10 hostages in return for a 45-day ceasefire, during which negotiations would take place for a longer-term agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Hamas has reportedly signaled a willingness to pursue this offer, which we should note is being attributed to the pressure put on the terror group by Israel's renewed military operations. Previously, Hamas said they were only prepared to release one hostage.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
And in today's back of the brief, satellite images reveal that North Korea may be building its largest warship ever. Little Rocket Man is always up to something. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We're learning more details about the nuclear talks that are underway between the U.S. and Iran, and what the next phase of those negotiations could look like.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But an Israeli official told the Jerusalem Post on Monday that significant gaps do remain between Hamas and Israel, particularly over Hamas's demands for guarantees for an end to the war. The official said, quote, Hamas is expected to respond again in the coming days, but if they remain firm on the issue of guarantees, it's hard to see the agreement happening, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Okay, coming up in the back of the brief. Satellite images reveal what appears to be the largest warship North Korea has ever built, perhaps twice the size of any ship in Kim Jong-un's current naval fleet. We'll have those details next. Hey, it's Mike Baker here. Well, it's tax season, but it's also grilling season. That's a happier note. And here's a pro tip.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
I'm about to tell you where you can get the finest beef to throw on your grill. It's from a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, this isn't some corporate meat factory or some mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs have thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, frankly, it's weighing heavily on all of us.
The President's Daily Brief
April 15th, 2025: Iranian Leaders Drop The Mask: “We Want the Bomb” & Israel’s Veterans Demand Peace
But there's a silver lining that most people might have missed. And frankly, it's not just a silver lining, it's also a gold lining. President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. Now, while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The Los Angeles County Fire Chief emphasized the improved readiness, including pre-positioned firefighting aircraft and dozens of water trucks stationed along parched, brush-covered hillsides to replenish supplies after the hydrants ran dry last week. The chief said, quote, we're absolutely better prepared for what's coming.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
However, he warned that the powerful Santa Ana winds could ground planes and disrupt operations as they did last week. In just seven days, four major fires engulfed over 62 square miles of Los Angeles County. That's triple the size of Manhattan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Capturing the headlines are the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, which is one third contained, and the Palisades Fire in the affluent Pacific Palisades area, where containment lags at just 14%. On this Palisades fire, if you're familiar with the area, it just has to go over a few more ravines and then could jump the 405.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
If it jumps the 405 highway, the next neighborhood to catch on fire is Bel Air, UCLA, and then Beverly Hills. Firefighters, of course, doing everything they can to prevent it from jumping over the highway. The L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed the death toll rose to 24 as of Sunday with dozens still missing.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Evacuation orders remain in effect for nearly 100,000 residents, including on the other side of the 405. The crisis has also seen a troubling surge of opportunistic crime. The sheriff reported 29 arrests for looting in fire-affected zones, including 25 near the Eaton Fire and four in Pacific Palisades. One suspect disguised himself as a firefighter.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The sheriff told reporters, quote, when I was out there in Malibu, I saw a gentleman that looked like a firefighter and I asked him if he was OK because he was sitting down. I didn't realize we had him in handcuffs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
While firefighting crews have made modest gains, the scale of destruction and the ferocity of the winds threatened to undo that progress, setting the stage for an ongoing battle to safeguard lives and property. And that is the president's daily brief for Tuesday, 14 January. I'm no Mike Baker. but I hope you still feel informed and caught up.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
If you have any questions that you'd like to send to me, same address, pdbatthefirsttv.com. Baker's people will get that to me if you'd like. To listen to the show ad-free, you become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief going to pdbpremium.com. You can also reach me directly on Slater Radio on Twitter and Instagram. I'm Mike Slater.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Hey, Mike Baker here. I'm currently on an epic camel trek through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan. 700 miles in about four weeks, all to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. And if you're wondering, well, there are very few comfortable ways to sit on a camel. Now, while I'm away, my good friend Mike Slater is stepping in to keep you informed here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Analysts suggest these vessels could be designed to transport tanks and heavy equipment into Taiwanese shores. Plus, with optimism building for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, Israeli officials have revealed the key details of the deal that both sides are currently considering.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
And in today's Back of the Brief, the latest from Los Angeles, where the death toll rises and authorities face growing challenges with looters, some of them dressing up as firefighters. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
We'll begin in Russia, where Vladimir Putin is preparing to host the president of Iran this week for the signing of a long-awaited comprehensive strategic partnership pact that could have nuclear implications.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The Iranian president is set to arrive in Moscow for the diplomatic talks on January 17th, which will officially focus on plans for expanding bilateral trade, investment and cooperation in transport, logistics, and humanitarian spheres. The Kremlin said Monday that the pair will also discuss regional and international issues. though they did not elaborate on specifics.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The mullahs have gone so far as to help Moscow build their own production bases for these drones inside Russia, while also supplying the Putin regime with close-range ballistic missiles to resupply their dwindling stockpiles. In return, the Iranians have pursued sophisticated Russian weapons like long-range air defense systems and fighter jets.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
But recent rumblings say Iran's leaders are after something far more explosive than that. One item not explicitly on the agenda in Moscow this week is Iran's nuclear program, but an exclusive report from Britain's The Times reveals that the Islamic Republic has also been engaging in secret talks with Moscow to advance its atomic ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
According to the report, a senior advisor to the Iranian Supreme Leader has been conducting covert diplomatic missions to Russia in recent months ahead of the signing of the new treaty, seeking the Kremlin's assistance in improving Tehran's nuclear and air defense capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The aide has met with high-ranking Russian officials during these secret excursions, though what kind of assistance Russia may be providing the Iranians at this time remains unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
An unnamed Western intelligence source told the Times, quote, since they are deepening their strategic relationship and Russia is dependent on Iran for missiles and drones, there's concern that Moscow is ready to cross previously drawn red lines on the Iranian nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
According to the sources who spoke with the Times, while the Iranians are fully capable of developing the enriched uranium needed to build a bomb, they lack expertise on the finer points of how to effectively deploy such a device.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
NATO's former director of nuclear nonproliferation said the Russians could help teach Iranian scientists, quote, how to build a smaller, more complex bomb or a nuclear device that can fit inside an artillery shell.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The official added that Iranian scientists could also learn a tremendous amount about how to refine their nuclear program by visiting Russian nuclear facilities, saying, quote, they could learn a lot in 24 hours. A long working weekend would give the Iranians a lot of ideas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
In addition to Putin's summit with the Iranian president on Friday, the revelation comes as Tehran holds talks with the UK, Germany, and France in Geneva this week regarding the nuclear program. Iran reportedly initiated the latest round of talks seeking to lift sanctions and resolve the longstanding nuclear impasse before Donald Trump is inaugurated this coming Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
As part of their renewed push for diplomacy ahead of Trump's return, the Iranians have reportedly offered to cap their nuclear enrichment program at 60% and allow inspectors with the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency back into the country.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
But given recent activity inside Iran and the new reports about their back-channeling efforts with Russia, many remain skeptical that Iran's commitment to resolving the issue is genuine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Thanks, Mike, and safe travels, brother. It is Tuesday, 14 January 2025. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. It's an honor to be filling in when Baker's off doing what all of us do on our vacation time, you know, ride camels through the Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Five riders, 10 camels, 700 miles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
As Baker has discussed here before, Iran has increased their stores of uranium enriched to 60% purity tenfold since August and are now in possession of enough nuclear material to produce roughly 12 nuclear weapons. For context, uranium is considered weapons-grade at 90% purity, and the leap from 60% to 90% can be done in a matter of days or at most weeks by using advanced centrifuges.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Just last week, the French President Macron warned that Iran's renewed pursuit of a bomb was nearing, quote, the point of no return. The stakes couldn't be higher. And due to rising international concern, Trump is reportedly considering preemptive strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities as he returns to office on Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Coming up next, China's new amphibious assault barges spark concerns over Taiwan, and Israeli officials reveal the latest ceasefire deal with Hamas as optimism builds for peace. Do you remember Trump said a couple times that if Hamas, you don't return all the hostages before I take office, all hell will break loose? That seems to have gotten their attention.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
We'll have those stories when we get back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Welcome back to the PDB. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Shifting now to the Far East, where China is reportedly constructing a fleet of specialized amphibious assault barges, sparking fresh concerns that its military is preparing for a potential invasion of Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
According to Naval News, at least five of these vessels are being built at a shipyard in southern China, and they have unique features that analysts say are tailored for amphibious landings. Why would they need that? Check this out. Each barge is equipped with an extended road bridge that's 400 feet long.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
It's about the length of a football field and capable of reaching coastal roads or firm ground beyond a beach. The design allows tanks, trucks, and other heavy equipment to be offloaded directly onto shorelines. These barges also feature stabilizing jack-up pillars for operation in poor weather conditions, effectively functioning as mobile piers for military logistics.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Defense analysts have drawn parallels between these vessels and the Mulberry harbors used by Allied forces during the D-Day invasion of World War II. Like those, these barges are being constructed at remarkable speed with innovative design, suggesting their intended use is more than just civilian. Experts agree that their size and configuration make them unsuitable for commercial purposes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Dr. Emma Salisbury, a Sea Power Research Fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, highlights the significance of these developments, said, quote, any invasion of Taiwan would require a large number of ships to transport personnel and equipment across the strait, particularly land assets like armored vehicles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
These barges, along with China's growing fleet of roll-on, roll-off ferries designed for dual civilian and military use, indicate a deliberate effort to enhance China's amphibious assault capabilities. Traditionally, Taiwan has relied on its natural geography and limited beach landing sites for defense, but the reach of these new barges could change that equation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
With their ability to operate on rocky or soft beaches and deliver equipment to previously inaccessible areas, they offer the Chinese military new landing options. This complicates Taiwan's defense strategies and allows Beijing to bypass heavily defended ports. Now, these developments don't confirm an imminent invasion.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
They do underline Beijing's effort to keep the option on the table, whether it's a leverage tool or a real possibility. For Taiwan and its allies, the message is clear. The threat is evolving, and so must the defenses. Shifting now to our continuing coverage of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire negotiations. Top-level talks are reportedly being held in Doha this morning.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Iron out the final details of the deal. Last night, we began learning the contours of this potential deal. Among the most pivotal elements, Hamas is poised to release 33 humanitarian hostages. High-profile Palestinian prisoners remain off the table, and Israel plans to establish a new buffer zone inside Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Israel is reportedly in the advanced stages of negotiations with Hamas, with mediation from Qatar, Egypt and the U.S. And while the deal is not finalized, Israeli officials credit President-elect Donald Trump's hardline rhetoric and threats for pushing Hamas towards negotiations. The threat was something like, if you don't release all the hostages by January 20th, all hell will break loose.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
We'll see, but that seems to have been. and effective approach. The proposed ceasefire's first phase hinges on Hamas releasing 33 humanitarian hostages, so that means children, women, elderly, and the sick.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
It's important to note that if this phase succeeds over a 16-day period, negotiations for the second stage will shift towards the release of male soldiers, men of military age, and the remains of deceased captives. On the other side of the equation, Israel will release a number of Palestinians being held by Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
However, high profile Palestinians remain excluded from the release, as do individuals linked to the 7 October 23 terror attacks. A Saudi news outlet on Monday reported Israel floated a list of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners who are eligible for exchange. The potential agreement also outlines broader territorial adjustments.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Israel will withdraw from most areas of Gaza while fortifying its border security with new buffer zones, and strategic points along the Gaza-Egypt border will remain under Israeli control, enabling security oversight while allowing civilian movement within Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The officials confirm Israel will not completely withdraw from Gaza until the war's goals are achieved, which is the return of all hostages. While there's hope in Gaza for a ceasefire to the north, the truce between Israel and Hezbollah continued to show signs of fraying as the IDF, Israeli Defense Forces, carried out airstrikes targeting the Iran-backed terror group in Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
He'll update us if he ever can have a moment and get some reception. Look forward to hearing from him soon. I look forward to Mike getting back. Until then, my honor to be here. My name is Mike Slater. I host the morning show called Breitbart News Daily on Sirius XM Patriot. I also host a podcast called Politics by Faith and a TV show on The First TV. Baker has been on that show many times.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The strikes from Israel targeted rocket launchers, a terrorist military site, and weapon smuggling routes along the Syria-Lebanon border. Lebanon's state-run National News Agency confirmed the strikes but did not provide casualty details. The IDF defended its actions, stating that prior warnings of Hezbollah violations have gone unaddressed by the international mechanism overseeing the ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The truce in effect since late November now teeters on the brink of collapse. Lebanon's prime minister pledged to disarm Hezbollah in the south, while the country's newly elected president vowed to establish state authority over the region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Despite these commitments, reports from the Khan public broadcaster reveal Hezbollah continues to conceal weapons, including mortars and anti-tank missiles, in areas under IDF control. Under the terms of this ceasefire from late November, Hezbollah is expected to withdraw north to the Latani River by 26 January, while Israeli forces must vacate southern Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
This withdrawal would leave the area under the control of the Lebanese armed forces and the UN interim force in Lebanon. However, Israeli officials warn its exit may be delayed if these conditions are not met. Coming up in the back of the brief, Los Angeles officials crack down on looters amid wildfires, including suspects caught impersonating firefighters. More on that when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
And if you've ever wondered, yes, he is a genuinely good man. Now, without further ado, let's get briefed. Today, we kick off with the growing partnership between Russia and Iran as news emerges of the Islamic Republic's engaging in secret talks with Moscow to bolster its nuclear ambitions. Later in the show, China is building at least five specialized barges for amphibious assaults.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker in today's Back of the Brief, the latest from Los Angeles. A growing force of firefighters and equipment deployed across the county came as high winds threatened to further fuel wildfires that have devastated thousands of homes and claimed dozens of lives.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The region braces for its most dangerous day today, with winds expected to peak at 65 miles per hour, complicating the limited containment efforts from over the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued severe fire warnings through Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 14th, 2025: Russia And Iran Sign Historic Partnership & China Builds Taiwan Invasion Barges
The county is now a flashpoint in a coordinated emergency response, drawing resources from across California, nine other states, even Canada and Mexico. Nearly 1,400 fire engines, 84 aircraft, and over 14,000 firefighters battled the infernos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Gutierrez, her daughter, and three of her supporters were killed in the attack, which also left three others injured. Subsequent reports said that two federal agents were later killed in connection with the incident in another part of Veracruz.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
President Scheinbaum confirmed the attack during her morning press conference on Monday, but said they had no information yet on the gunmen or their motive. The governor of Veracruz issued a statement vowing justice, saying, quote, "'No position or office is worth a person's life. We'll find those responsible for this cowardly murder.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
It's Tuesday, the 13th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, Mexico is suffering through another violent election season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
All of the state's power will be present in coming days so that the elections are free and democratic.'" Gutierrez became the second mayoral candidate killed in Veracruz during the campaign. Her tragic death comes after candidate Germán Valencia, also a member of Scheinbaum's Morena Party, was killed at his campaign headquarters on the 29th of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The governor of Veracruz said that some 57 local candidates had requested security offered by the state and federal government following that first assassination, though it's unclear if Gutierrez had such protection. It's a large election for Veracruz, with voting set to take place across the state's 212 municipalities on the 1st of June.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Locals described a climate of terror, saying that the violence is so bad that residents are reluctant to publicly voice their support out of fear of retribution. Now, Mexico is no stranger to widespread political violence during election seasons. Last spring's presidential and local elections were the bloodiest in Mexican history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Outside of the presidential election, there were races then for both houses of Congress, gubernatorial elections in nine of the country's 32 states, and thousands of mayoral races. In total, roughly 20,000 congressional and local positions were up for grabs, making it the largest election in the country's history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Some 30 candidates were murdered during that 2024 campaign season, while another 11 were kidnapped and nearly 80 candidates faced significant death threats. The violence was not limited to the candidates themselves, with local groups estimating that there were at least 27 other killings of family members, political organizers, and community leaders,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
linked to political candidates during the election cycle. The focus for cartels tends to be on local elections, particularly candidates for mayor or the state legislature, where they can more easily exert their influence. In some areas of Mexico, the cartels, as you might suspect, wield almost total control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
While the Mexican government has done more to bolster the security of local candidates over the past year, Gutierrez's death shows just how little control federal authorities still have over their electoral process, particularly in cartel strongholds. One supporter of Gutierrez told NBC News, quote, We can't continue with the insecurity. We're tired of all of this. This is terrorism, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The latest victim was a mayoral candidate in the Mexican state of Veracruz who was gunned down on Sunday along with three of her supporters during a live broadcast of a campaign rally. We'll have those details. Later in the show, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveils the UK's most sweeping immigration overhaul in decades, declaring that the country's open borders experiment has failed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Well, they're not wrong. All right, coming up next, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveils the UK's most sweeping immigration overhaul in decades. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, there's going to be a global summit of what's known as the BRICS nations, and it'll be held in Rio de Janeiro. Have you heard about this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Yeah, the bloc, it's made up of emerging superpowers, including China and Russia, India and Iran. Well, they're meeting in Rio with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling it the Rio Reset. That's a catchy name. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars, well, could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
And while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how do you protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, one way is to check in with Birch Gold Group. Now, Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. Let's take a few seconds to talk about eating smart, right? About eating healthy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Now, a big part of that effort is knowing where your food comes from, right? That just makes sense, knowing how your food was raised and handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, well, someone else will, and it will likely be some large faceless corporation. Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, well, then I've got just the place for you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
It's a great business called Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen, no mystery. Just pasture-raised, grain-finished black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and frankly, your grill will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
After years of record-breaking migration and broken political promises to rein it in, British Prime Minister Keira Starmer has unveiled the UK's most sweeping immigration overhaul in decades, promising that net migration will fall significantly over the next four years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The reforms mark the sharpest break yet from past policies, spanning all major legal entry routes, including work, study, and families. Starmer insists the measures will restore control and fairness, telling reporters, quote, we decide who comes to this country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The Home Office estimates the package, based on just eight of its quantifiable policies, could reduce immigration by around 100,000 people annually by 2029. but ministers acknowledge that to scale will depend on how quickly employers, universities, and entire industries adapt to the new rules. To understand the scope of this shift, it's worth recalling the numbers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Net migration peaked at a record 900,000 in June of 2023 and stood at 728,000 last year, despite repeated pledges from successive governments to bring that figure down. Starmer blamed those governments for presiding over what he described as, quote, open borders experiments, now declaring that era officially over.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Yeah, open borders. Who would have thought that it's a terrible concept? But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin today in Mexico, where political violence is once again gripping the nation as voters prepare to head to the polls for local elections on the first of June.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
At the center of the reform package is the scrapping of a Boris Johnson era visa scheme that allowed companies to freely recruit health and social care workers from abroad. Under the new rules, employers must instead prioritize British workers or extend contracts for existing foreign staff already inside the country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The Home Office projects that this change alone will eliminate 7,000 to 8,000 annual arrivals. But the cuts do go much deeper. The skilled worker route, long a gateway for foreign labor, will now require degree-level qualifications, reversing temporary pandemic-era relaxations. An estimated 180 occupations will be stripped from the eligibility list.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Meanwhile, English language proficiency requirements will rise and applicants seeking permanent residency will need to reside in the UK twice as long as before, 10 years instead of five. Costs are also climbing sharply. The immigration skills charge is set to increase by 32%, bringing employer costs to more than $3,000 per foreign worker for small firms and nearly $9,000 for larger businesses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
For the higher education sector, the pressure is twofold, a potential new tax on international students and stricter accountability rules requiring 95% to begin their courses and 90% to complete them. Revenue from the tax would be funneled into domestic skills training programs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Ministers are also moving to reinterpret Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which guarantees the right to a family life. The government says the clause has been applied too broadly in immigration cases, and they are now pushing Parliament to vote on a narrower application, a move that could significantly limit family reunification rights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
The humanitarian pathways, meanwhile, remain effectively frozen. No new refugee routes will be created and only a limited pool of UN-recognized refugees will be allowed to apply under existing skilled worker schemes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Starmer has insisted the moves are grounded in principle, not political pressure, saying, "...I'm doing this because it is right, because it is fair, and because it is what I believe in." The language he used was unambiguous. British businesses, Starmer warned, had grown, quote, almost addicted to importing cheap labor rather than training domestic talent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
And unless that pattern changes, he cautioned, the country risks becoming an island of strangers. Look, border policies really shouldn't be that difficult to comprehend. We've said this before on the PDB. If you don't have secure borders, if you don't know who's coming and going from your country, if you have essentially an open border policy, then really, you're not a country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
You're just a spot on the map. Every nation's first responsibility is to its citizens to provide for and safeguard the security of its citizens, the economic and physical security. If you don't have border security and immigration policies that prioritize your own citizens, then, as a nation, you're failing in your primary responsibility. That's not rocket science.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
On Sunday, during a live broadcast of a campaign rally, a mayoral candidate from Mexico's governing party in the Gulf Coast state of Veracruz was murdered by gunmen, marking the second assassination of a political candidate in the state ahead of the June 1 election.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 13th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Of course, as you've likely seen on billboards all over town, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security. Specifically, let's talk about your online security. I want you to check out an excellent company. It's called DeleteMe. Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Look, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. You know that. Having your address, your phone number, and family members' names, though, hanging out on the internet, well, that can have actual consequences in the real world and can make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy and privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete Me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today you can get 20% off your Delete Me plan simply by texting PDB to 64000.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Now the only way again to get that 20% off is simply to text PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 13th, 2025: Mayoral Candidate Gunned Down During Live Stream In Mexico & Starmer Declares UK's 'Open Borders Experiment' A Failure
Candidate Yesenia Lara Gutierrez, a member of the Morena Party of Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum, was seen greeting residents in the streets of Texistepec, now flanked by a group of supporters, before some 20 gunshots rang out, sending bystanders scrambling for cover. That's according to a report from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Now, DeleteMe makes it quick and easy and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make, well, everyone feel vulnerable. Look, it's easier than ever, you know this, to find personal information about people online.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
And having your address, your phone number, your family member's names hanging out on the internet, well, it can have actual consequences in the real world, and it makes everyone vulnerable. With Delateme, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete Me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, you can get 20% off your Delete Me plan by texting PDB to 64000. The only way, again, to get that 20% off, just text PDB to 64000. That's PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The newly identified site, reportedly codenamed the Rainbow Site, well, that sounds oddly cheery, by Iranian officials, has been operational since at least 2013 in Iran's Semnan province. That's to the east of the regime's already known nuclear facilities, such as the Natanz Complex in Isfahan and the Fordow Enrichment Site south of Tehran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
In today's Back of the Brief, the latest round of high-level nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran wrapped up in Oman this weekend, with both sides offering sharply different interpretations of how things went, but agreeing to keep talking. The U.S. says it's encouraged by the outcome of Sunday's meeting, while Iran called the talks difficult but useful.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The session, held in Muscat and mediated by Omani officials, lasted over three hours and marked the fourth round of diplomacy since mid-April. At the heart of the stalemate is uranium enrichment. Iran insists it has the right to enrich for peaceful civilian purposes, while the U.S. side, led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, has declared that no enrichment whatsoever can be allowed under any deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Witkoff has also said centrifuges must be dismantled and that any rollback of Iran's nuclear program must be permanent, not time-limited, like in the past 2015 agreement. Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araki, did signal some willingness to limit the amount and purity of enriched uranium as a confidence-building step.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
But he was clear there is, quote, no room for discussion about ending enrichment inside Iran. Iranian President Pesachian made a similar statement, saying Iran would never seek a nuclear weapon, but also would not give up what it sees as its peaceful nuclear rights. The talks are taking place under a two-month deadline laid out by President Trump, who's doing a tour of the region this week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
He's hoping to notch a foreign policy win amid mounting frustrations over stalled progress in Ukraine and also in Gaza. Vice President Shady Vance called the current talks, quote, on the right pathway, while Trump has warned that military strikes remain an option if diplomacy fails. In the background, a fragile truce between the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen and U.S. forces brokered just last week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
That deal is credited with helping get the stalled nuclear talks back on track. The next round of negotiations is expected within weeks, though no firm date has been announced. Both sides are expected to consult with their leadership before returning to the table. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 12th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
It's Tuesday, the 13th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a troubling new discovery.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. As a public service announcement, well, remember that you can listen to the show ad-free simply by becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And finally, don't forget to take a minute out of your day to check out our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
You can find that at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The primary function of this newly revealed site is said to be the extraction of a radioactive isotope called tritium. Did you know about tritium? It's used to enhance the capabilities of atomic weapons. That's according to a report from Fox News. Unlike the enrichment of uranium, which has civilian energy applications, the extraction of tritium has virtually no peaceful or commercial use.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
In fact, it's a key step toward the development of hydrogen bombs. The findings should give significant pause to those who still doubt Iran's ambitions or believe their oft-repeated assertion that their nuclear program is solely for civilian purposes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The revelation comes from the National Council of Resistance of Iran , which said they gathered the intelligence from a large network of sources operating inside the country. The dissident group presented their findings at a press conference last Thursday, releasing satellite imagery of the purported nuclear research complex and nearby air defenses and military infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
They contend that the Iranian Defense Ministry's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research has been overseeing research at the facility under the authority of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC. To mask their efforts, the sprawling 2,500-acre compound has been operating under the guise of a paint factory overseen by a chemical production company known as Diba Energy Seba.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The NCRI has identified a total of five front companies linked to the site, all under the umbrella of a parent firm called the Petsar Group, which is chaired by a brigadier general in the IRGC that's been sanctioned for his links to Iran's missile program. And that's according to a report from Breitbart.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Further reinforcing the facility's links to the highest levels of Iran's military, the rainbow site is reportedly surrounded by military checkpoints, a no-access perimeter, and surveillance systems. Officials with NCRI say locals have long been told to steer clear of the area.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Satellite images and intelligence reports have revealed what appears to be a secret Iranian nuclear weapons facility, hidden in plain sight and potentially tied to long-range missile development. I'm shocked, shocked I tell you, that there's gambling going on at RICS.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
They also point to the fact an advanced long-range radar system sits nearby the facility, likely strategically placed for defensive purposes in case the site is targeted. As I noted, the NCRI says the facility is specifically focused on the development of a hydrogen bomb as tritium's main use is to amplify nuclear yield.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Additionally, they say the site is being used to manufacture enhanced nuclear warheads intended for ballistic missiles with ranges up to 2,000 miles, which would put parts of Europe and also U.S. military bases across the Middle East within range. The deputy director for the N.C.R.I.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
's Washington office said, quote, The information we released was entirely proven and verified by the sources on the ground, people who are familiar with these sites, who know about the people who've been going back and forth there, but also who was behind setting up and constructing these sites dating back to 2009, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The dissident group criticized the international community's inaction on reining in the Iranian nuclear program. The program has been rapidly expanding in recent years, with the enrichment of uranium to 60% purity. That's far above civilian energy needs and dangerously close to weapons-grade levels.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
In April, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a report confirming that Iran now possesses roughly 605 pounds of uranium enriched up to 60%, which they could theoretically convert into bomb-grade material within one to two weeks. They also reportedly hold nearly all the components needed to assemble a bomb.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Officials with the NCRI say they hope their latest findings will persuade the Trump administration to demand the total dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program in their ongoing talks with the mullahs. We'll update you on those talks later in the show.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
They say such an outcome would help energize organized resistance movements inside Iran to challenge the authority of the ruling clerics, noting that the regime has spent an estimated $2 trillion on nuclear research while letting their civilian infrastructure crumble.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
They argue that the international community should formally recognize these opposition groups and their right to overthrow the ruling regime. In a statement to Breitbart, the NCRI said, quote, the current moment presents a strong opportunity for the people of Iran to end the rule of the clerics. That's what we're calling for, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
All right, coming up after the break, possible peace talks between Zelensky and Putin take shape in Turkey. And after four decades of war, the Kurdish PKK says that it's disarming for good. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Well, this July, I suspect you've already heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of what's known as the BRICS nations being held in Rio de Janeiro. Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers includes China and Russia and India and Iran. They're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Later in the show, potential peace talks between Zelensky and Putin are on the horizon in Turkey, marking what could be the first face-to-face meeting since the war began. And President Trump signals he may join the action during his Middle East swing. Plus, one of the world's longest-running insurgencies comes to an end.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
dollar as the global currency, and they're calling it the Rio Reset because that's such a catchy name. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could actually decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, well, the real reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
So you ask yourself, what can you do to protect your dollars, to protect your savings? Well, one thing you could do is check in with Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB. Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are now set to take place Thursday in Istanbul, but with a twist.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Ukrainian President Zelensky will attend the negotiations in hopes of a face-to-face meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, the talks, which would be the first direct high-level negotiations since the war began, were pitched by Putin during a televised address on Sunday as a direct meeting between officials, not heads of state.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The Russian leader said the session would take place, quote, without any preconditions and aim for what he called a, quote, durable peace. Zelensky responded with cautious optimism, calling the outreach a, quote, positive sign, but made clear Ukraine's participation hinged on a full Russian ceasefire. That condition has yet to be met. So, you ask, what changed?
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Well, according to both Ukrainian and American officials, it was a post from President Trump that shifted momentum. In a message on Truth Social, he urged Zelensky to take the deal, writing, quote, President Putin of Russia doesn't want to have a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday to negotiate a possible end to the bloodbath.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Ukraine should agree to this immediately, end quote. Trump added that even if nothing comes of the meeting, it would at least clarify where each side stands and help his administration and European leaders calibrate next steps. Kiev reportedly moved quickly. On Monday, Zelensky confirmed on X that he himself would attend the talks, saying, quote, I will be in Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
I hope the Russians will not evade this meeting. Moscow is now offering only vague signals. Kremlin mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Russia remains committed to, quote, a serious search for ways of a long-term peaceful settlement, but dodged questions about whether Putin would join Zelensky in person.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
He flatly stated, quote, that's all, I've said everything I could about this story, refusing to elaborate. Now, if Putin does attend, it would mark the first in-person encounter between the two leaders since the 2019 Normandy format talks in Paris. Behind the scenes, Kyiv is bracing for every outcome.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
The Kurdish PKK is disbanding after waging a 40-year insurgency against Turkey. And in today's back of the brief, high stakes nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran have ended with no breakthrough, but both sides are staying at the table for now. Perhaps while they're at the table, the U.S. can ask the mullahs about that secret nuclear weapons facility. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
A senior Ukrainian official told the Kyiv Independent that they're preparing for the possibility that Putin stays away entirely and confirms Zelenskyy is still waiting on a formal response to Ukraine's central demand of a ceasefire. Supported by the U.S. and key European partners, Zelensky has called for a 30-day ceasefire to begin this week, which Moscow has dismissed as a, quote, ultimatum.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
And in a move that further raised the stakes, Trump himself floated the possibility of attending the Istanbul meeting. The president is currently on a high-profile investment tour across the Gulf states aimed at attracting hundreds of billions of dollars in foreign capital. The commander-in-chief teased reporters, saying, quote, I even thought about flying over.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
I'm not sure where I'll be on Thursday. I have so many meetings. Leaving open the possibility, of course, of a drop-in on the talks. Oh, look who's coming to dinner. Zelensky welcomed the idea, posting on X, of course, all of us in Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Turkey, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
All right, turning now to the Kurdistan Workers Party, known as the PKK, a terror group that has fought a bloody insurgency against the Turkish state for more than four decades. Well, on Monday, the PKK announced that it will be laying down its arms and dissolving. Their move comes months after the terror group's imprisoned founder, Abdullah Ocalan, called on his fighters to disarm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
As our regular PDB listeners will remember, Ocalan declared in a February message that the terror group's armed struggle had outlived its purpose. Just a month later, the PKK declared a unilateral ceasefire, timed with political overtures from Ankara, hinting that parole for Ocalan might be on the table, but only if the group disbanded. On Monday, the terror group took the next step.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
In a statement echoing Ocalan's call, the PKK said it had, quote, "...carried the Kurdish issue to a level where it can be solved by democratic politics," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
At a Congress held last week in northern Iraq, its leadership voted to dissolve the organization entirely, announcing the termination of, quote, "...activities under the name of the PKK and urging Parliament in Ankara to play a role in the disarmament process."
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Now, for those less familiar with the terror group, the PKK began as a Marxist-Leninist secessionist movement back in the late 1970s, originally seeking an independent Kurdish state carved out of Turkey. Its tactics of suicide bombings and assassinations, guerrilla ambushes, earned it terror designations from not only Turkey, but the U.S. and the EU as well.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Over time, the group shifted its demands from outright independence to greater autonomy and rights for Turkey's Kurdish minority. Its insurgency has killed more than 40,000 people. Now, what happens next remains uncertain. Öcalan remains in near total isolation on an island in the Sea of Marmara, where he's been held since Turkish forces captured him back in 1999.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Pro-Kurdish politicians are now calling on Ankara to either release him outright or lift his isolation so he can oversee the disarmament process. For Turkish President Erdogan, the PKK's dissolution is being cast as a crowning achievement. His supporters are touting it as a milestone that previous Turkish leaders failed to accomplish.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Some analysts suggest that Erdogan may use the moment to expand his reach among Kurdish voters and pave the way for constitutional changes that would allow him to seek a third term as president. A spokesman for Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party called the PKK disbandment, quote, an important step in President Erdogan's vision for a terror-free Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
Now, beyond Turkey's borders, the terror group's dissolution could ripple across the region. Kurdish militias affiliated with or inspired by the PKK continue to operate in Syria and Iraq, many of them as key U.S. partners in the fight against ISIS. But Ankara considers these groups extensions of the PKK and has repeatedly targeted them with cross-border strikes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
A political settlement with the PKK could reduce the need for those operations and potentially ease long-running tensions between Turkey and its NATO allies who have urged Erdogan to rein in the attacks on American-backed Kurdish forces. Turkish officials insist no concessions were offered in exchange for disarmament.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
In the middle of high stakes nuclear talks between the US and the Iranian regime, alarming new intelligence has revealed an alleged secret nuclear weapons facility being used by the mullahs to pursue enhanced nuclear warheads and hydrogen bombs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
For now, the end of the PKK's armed insurgency represents the most significant development in Turkey's Kurdish conflict in decades. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, the latest round of U.S.-Iran nuclear talks has wrapped up. Tehran is calling them difficult, but both sides have agreed to keep the negotiations going. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
All right, let's take just a little bit of time to talk about eating smart, right? About eating healthy. Now, a big part of that effort is knowing where your food comes from. That just makes sense, knowing how it was raised and handled.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
After all, if you do not take control of your food supply, how you source your food, then someone else will, and that will likely be some large faceless corporation. Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, I'm about to give you a pro tip. I'm talking about where you can turn for high-quality beef. And, of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales beef. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
It's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense, no middlemen. Just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill.
The President's Daily Brief
May 13th, 2025: Satellite Intel Uncovers Iran’s Secret Nuclear Facility & Zelensky-Putin Meeting?
That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security. Specifically, let's talk about your online security. And I want you to check out this excellent business. It's called DeleteMe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
The US is lifting its paws on military aid and intelligence sharing, effective immediately, after Kiev agreed to an American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. According to a joint statement released Tuesday, Ukraine accepted Washington's plan for a, quote, immediate interim 30-day ceasefire. However, well, the ball is now in Moscow's court to determine whether they'll agree to the same terms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
As you might suspect, a conflict doesn't end if only one side stops shooting. The statement added that both countries, meaning the US and Ukraine, have agreed to name their negotiating teams and, quote, immediately begin negotiations toward an enduring peace that provides for Ukraine's long-term security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
The US also committed to taking these specific proposals to Russian representatives, while Ukraine reiterated its position that European allies should be involved in the process. The joint statement went on to say, "...representatives of both nations praised the bravery of the Ukrainian people in defense of their nation and agreed that now is the time to begin a process toward lasting peace."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
During the nearly seven-hour meeting, Ukrainian officials also took time to express gratitude to President Trump, the U.S. Congress and the American people for helping create what they called "...meaningful progress toward peace."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Diese Veränderung ist ein wichtiger Ausdruck von wenigen Tagen her, als Präsident Trump alle militärische Hilfe und Intelligenzverteilung mit der Ukraine ausgeschlossen hat, nach der Konfrontation am 28. Februar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Zu diesem Zeitpunkt bestätigten Trumps Vorsitzende den Wunsch, über die Gefühle über Zelenskys Vertrauen in die Frieden zu beurteilen, und sagten, Hilfe würde pausieren, bis Kiew gezeigt hat, dass es um Negotiierungen mit Russland geht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Während die initiale Antwort aus der Ukraine eine bemerkenswerte öffentliche Statement von Vergnügen enthielt, hat US-Spezialanwalt Steve Witkoff später erklärt, dass Zelenskyj sich privat an Trump verabschiedet hat, in einem Brief. Nun hat Trump die Teile dieses Briefes laut in seiner kongressiven Anrufe letzte Woche gelesen, aber keine Anerkennung von einer Verabschiedung gemacht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
With this new agreement on the table, the focus, of course, shifts to Moscow. Will Putin agree to the same 30-day ceasefire terms? And if so, what kind of lasting deal can actually come from these talks? Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who led the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
delegation in Jeddah, seemed hopeful, telling reporters, quote, We're in a different place now and I think we'll continue moving forward, end quote. Well, even for the State Department, that statement is a masterclass in vagueness. Still Ukraine remains under heavy bombardment from Russian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
As we've recently discussed on the PDB, Moscow has been on the counteroffensive against the Ukrainian military in the Kursk region of Russia and has been making slow but steady gains in the eastern portion of Ukraine. Es ist, ehrlich gesagt, jeder, der an dieser Stelle nachdenkt, ob Putin interessiert wird, wenn seine Truppen, die an der Oberfläche stehen, über eine Ausstrahlung sprechen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Kommen wir zum nächsten Thema. Elon Musks Ex, die soziale Medien-App, die damals Twitter bekannt war, kam am Montag unter einem massiven Cyber-Attack, das die Sozial-Media-Seite für mehrere Stunden aufgeräumt hat, mit wilden Spekulationen darüber, wer hinter der Intrusion sein könnte. Really? Wild speculations on social media? That hardly seems likely. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. Well, now you know. Here's the thing. They have all the plants that your yard needs. Like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs and a whole lot more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Whatever plants you're interested in, fast growing trees as you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. I love this company. Look, no more wandering around a nursery trying to figure out how you're going to schlepp home a bunch of plants. And this spring, well, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
And listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. Now is the perfect time to plant. And use code PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
It's Tuesday, the 11th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, an update from Saudi Arabia, where a U.S. delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with senior Ukrainian officials. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. After several hours of recurring outages Monday, Elon Musk claims that X was the target of a, quote, massive cyber attack. Speaking to Fox Business, the billionaire and Doge chief said X was hit by a large-scale cyber operation, but admitted he wasn't entirely sure where it originated from.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Musk stated, quote, there was a massive cyber attack to try to bring down the X system with IP addresses, originating in the Ukraine area, end quote. The outage was widespread, with more than 40,000 users reporting problems by 10 a.m. Eastern Time, according to downdetector.com. Many users were met with an error message stating, quote, something went wrong. Hmm, another statement in vagueness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Stunden später flog eine weitere Waffe von 25.000 Berichten ein. Am späten Nachmittag erhielt Musk, dass X wieder online war, aber suggerierte, dass der Angriff staatliche Sponsoren hatte oder durch eine große koordinierte Gruppe gemacht wurde. In einem Post auf X sagte Musk, dass wir jeden Tag getötet werden, aber das war mit vielen Ressourcen gemacht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Musk's comments quickly ignited speculation, but cybersecurity experts pointed out that IP addresses can be manipulated, meaning Russia or another actor anywhere on the globe could have intentionally masked the origin to make Ukraine appear responsible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Ein Senior Fellow at the American Think Tank Atlantic Council dismissed the idea that Ukrainian government actors would launch such an attack, particularly on the eve of the critical US-Ukraine peace negotiations meeting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
The Fellow stated, quote, It makes absolutely no sense for Ukrainian hackers to attack Elon Musk the day before a meeting in which they are attempting to get the US to start sharing intelligence again and provide aid and assistance, end quote. He added that Russia stood to gain the most from this timing,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Nicht zu erwähnen, natürlich, dass Russland und China die größten Verbrecher von staatlich gesponserten Cyber-Attacken und Verbrechen sind. Ein weiterer potenzieller Verbrecher ist die Hacking-Kollektiv Anonymous, die von Musk offensichtlich kritisch war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Aber Cyber-Sicherheitsanalyse argumentieren, dass Russland der wahrscheinlich größte Verbrecher ist, bezieht sich auf Moskau's lange Geschichte mit der Anwendung von Cyber-Krieg, um Chaos zu zerstören und Gegner zu verringern. Meanwhile, Musk's relationship with Ukraine, well, remains complicated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
His Starlink terminals have been indispensable to Ukrainian forces, providing battlefield connectivity when other communication networks collapsed. Musk has emphasized their reliance, stating, quote, their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off, end quote. Yet Musk remains critical of Ukrainian President Zelensky, echoing President Trump's demands for an immediate ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Again, well, a ceasefire only works if both sides agree to it. On Sunday, Musk urged for, quote, peace now in a post on X, underscoring years of slaughter and a stalemate they, quote, Ukraine will inevitably lose. As investigations into the X-Outage continue, cybersecurity experts caution against jumping to conclusions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
aid, both military aid as well as intelligence sharing, has now been restored after Kiev agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. Now, of course, Da ist die Sache von Moskaus Intentionen. Später im Show kam Elon Musks Ex unter einen massiven Cyber-Attack am Montag, der die Service auf der Social-Media-Seite für mehrere Stunden zerstört hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
While Musk's remarks have fueled rampant speculation, cyber analysts warn that without concrete evidence, premature accusations risk playing into the hands of those looking to exploit uncertainty. Well, the only problem is, social media is tailor-made for speculation and jumping to conclusions. It's kind of social media's signature move.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 11 March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And finally, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. It's simple. Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Starte dein Testen heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 11th, 2025: Ukraine Agrees To A Ceasefire & Elon Musk's X Hit By Major Cyber Attack
Wir diskutieren den Fallout und warum Musk in erster Linie die Cyber-Intrusion auf die Ukraine verurteilt hat. Aber zuerst heute's Afternoon Spotlight. Delegations from the US and Ukraine met in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia today, and in a somewhat surprising turn, although maybe not that surprising given the ups and downs of the past couple of weeks, the meeting wrapped up with a breakthrough.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Meanwhile, billionaire and close advisor to President Trump, Elon Musk, reacted to the BEC ruling, calling it, quote, crazy in a post on X. With Georgescu out, the 4 May presidential rerun is set to move forward. If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, well, a runoff will take place on 18 May. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Now, as of Sunday, Russia's defense ministry said they'd managed to retake four settlements in a matter of days as their forces attempt to encircle a 10,000-strong Ukrainian garrison stationed in the region. That's according to a report from the Associated Press. As a reminder, Ukraine launched a military operation last August inside the Russian territory, catching the Putin regime by surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Coming up next in the back of the brief, a Palestinian activist tied to Columbia University's student protests is arrested by federal immigration authorities. We'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Hey, I'm Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. We have a very simple mission. We take the news of the day and we filter it through a biblical worldview. So here's the big story of the day. What does the Bible say about it and how can we apply it? It's amazing. There's nothing new under the sun. The Bible has something to say about everything that's going on today.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
So basically, we thump the Bible over on Politics by Faith. I think we got to keep MAGA going. And I think the way to take it beyond just a political victory into a true rebuilding and awakening and revival in America is to make sure that this is all grounded in biblical principles. And that's what we do on the podcast Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
And you can subscribe to Politics by Faith wherever you're listening to the show right now.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
In today's Back of the Brief, a Palestinian activist who helped lead the chaotic and anti-Semitic student protests at Columbia University last spring was arrested over the weekend by federal immigration authorities, sparking controversy among free speech advocates and triggering new protests in New York City.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Mahmoud Khalil, who obtained a graduate degree from Columbia University last semester, was detained outside his apartment on Saturday evening by ICE agents acting on orders from the U.S. State Department. The agents reportedly told Khalil that his student visa was being revoked, though it turns out that Khalil is a legal permanent resident who's in the country on a green card.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
And that's a fact that could complicate the Trump administration's effort to deport him. That's according to a report from Axios. Several hundred protesters massed outside a courtroom in lower Manhattan on Monday to demand his release. Later in the day, a federal judge temporarily blocked his deportation as the court weighs a petition challenging the arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Another hearing is currently scheduled for Wednesday. His attorney accused the Trump administration of engaging in, quote, open repression of student activism and political speech. Pro-Palestinian and civil rights groups also condemned his arrest. That's shocking. With an official for the ACLU calling it a, quote, gross violation of his constitutional rights.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The move came after President Trump vowed last week to crack down on universities, allowing anti-Semitism to proliferate, and to revoke visas or green cards and deport foreign students involved in what he called, quote, illegal protests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Over the weekend, Trump described Khalil as, quote, a radical foreign pro-Hamas student and said more deportations of purported terrorist sympathizers would follow. A spokesman for the Department of Homeland Security added that Khalil, quote, led activities aligned to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Now, Khalil was one of the most visible student activists during last spring's protests at Columbia University, regularly giving interviews and engaging in negotiations with university officials over the protesters' lengthy list of demands.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
It's Tuesday, 11 March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, Russian forces unveil a dangerous new tactic, sneaking through gas pipelines to ambush Ukrainian troops from behind. We'll break down what's happening in Kursk in Russia and why Ukrainian forces could be at risk of encirclement.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
He's been under investigation by a new Columbia University committee that has brought disciplinary charges against dozens of students involved in the demonstrations. Much like the protests that we covered on last week's show, the demonstrations last spring were often marked by anti-Semitism, with protesters praising Hamas and defending the brutal 7 October attacks on Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Jewish and Israeli students have described a climate of hate on campus, with many increasingly fearful for their safety. Pro-Israeli student groups have long demanded stronger action from university officials to protect Jewish students. The Trump administration stepped in last week, pulling $400 million in grants and contracts from Columbia University over their failure to curb these protests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
$400 million in federal dollars? Now, I would have thought that a university like Columbia, a fine institution with an undoubtedly large endowment fund, wouldn't have to resort to taking government cheese. And in the event that you're curious, Columbia's endowment fund is now close to $15 billion with a B dollars. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 11 March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
At the time, they managed to seize roughly 500 square miles of territory, which Kiev intended to use as leverage in potential future negotiations with Moscow. But Russia has since mounted several counteroffensives, clawing back more than half of the area captured by Kyiv's military.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Now, if you have any questions or comments, and hopefully you do, well, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. dot com. See? Very simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Some 50,000 troops, supplemented by 12,000 North Korean soldiers, are once again on the move inside the territory, and reports say that Ukrainian forces have been forced into a steady, albeit controlled, retreat.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Additionally, Russia has been using an elite drone unit to carry out a wave of strikes on the main road into Kursk, destroying hundreds of military vehicles used to resupply the Ukrainian garrison. In a bid to cut off a possible full retreat of Ukrainian forces, Moscow's forces have also destroyed several bridges in Kursk near the border with Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russian president and now deputy chairman of the country's Security Council, celebrated the developments, saying Sunday, quote, the lid of the smoking cauldron is practically closed, end quote, whatever that means.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The renewed offensive push in Kursk was punctuated by a surprise attack over the weekend by Russian special forces near the town of Sudza, who crept for miles through a gas pipeline to strike Ukrainian units from the rear. Some Russian troops reportedly spent several days lying in wait inside the pipeline before making their move.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
But reports from Russian military bloggers and officials in Kyiv suggest the sneak attack did not achieve the results that the Kremlin was hoping for. Russian and Ukrainian military bloggers said the attack did indeed catch Ukrainian troops by surprise and that fighting in the area was intense, allowing Russia to gain a foothold on the outskirts of Sudzha.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
But officials with the Ukrainian military said the Russian troops were, quote, detected in a timely manner and that their forces had quickly responded with rockets and artillery. An official with the Ukrainian military's general staff said, quote, At present, Russian special forces are being detected, blocked, and destroyed. The enemy's losses in Sudza are very high, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Sirsky, the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian military, pushed back on claims that his troops were at risk of encirclement, saying the situation was largely under control. He framed the pullback of Ukrainian troops as a strategic move, saying, quote, the units are taking timely measures to maneuver to advantageous positions for defense, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
That's a very fancy way of saying they're retreating. Ukraine's top general also downplayed the purported successes of Russia's new offensive, noting that most of their gains have come to the north of Sudza, in areas that are no longer habitable. Sersky said, quote, a number of settlements on the border, the names of which appear in the reports of Russian propagandists, no longer actually exist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
They've been destroyed by the aggressors shelling, end quote. As of Monday, he said his forces had repelled at least 15 Russian attacks in the region and destroyed Russian reconnaissance groups and infantry attempting to pierce into the Sumy region in northeastern Ukraine, which shares a border with Kursk. Six armed clashes in the Kursk region were reportedly still ongoing.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Siersky said that despite Russia's manpower advantage, reinforced by thousands of North Korean infantry, Moscow was suffering, quote, "...significant losses in manpower and equipment." Still, some Ukrainian officials are increasingly skeptical that their forces can hold on to the territory and say it's lost its strategic value.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The offensive push by Russia comes in the wake of President Trump's decision early last week to cut off military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine until leaders in Kyiv commit to peace negotiations with Russia. On that score, well, it looks like progress is being made. Delegations from the U.S. and Ukraine are meeting Tuesday in Saudi Arabia, and U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Monday that if the discussions go well, the restrictions on weapons and intelligence sharing could be lifted sometime this week. Now, there's still no word on why anyone believes the Russians are ready to sit down at the negotiating table or why they would back off of their hardline demands, given the current breakdown of relations between Ukraine and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Later in the show, a major shakeup in Canada. Mark Carney is set to replace Justin Trudeau as Liberal Party leader and prime minister. The new leader used his victory speech to take aim at President Trump. Plus, chaos erupts in Romania after a right-wing presidential candidate is barred from running.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Look, getting Ukraine to the table, well, means nothing if the Russians aren't interested in playing ball. Trump has already announced that Ukraine doesn't hold any cards, which implies that Putin doesn't have to give up anything, which begs the question, what leverage does the White House plan on using over Russia if they're reluctant to end their current battlefield progress?
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Now, you could say sanctions and tariffs, but for the past three years, Russia has beat most of those sanctions with the assistance, of course, of China, Iran, North Korea, and India. So if additional sanctions hold little concern for Putin, well, that implies that the other option is for the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
to resume significant military assistance to Ukraine in an effort to cause Putin sufficient pain to look for a deal. But Putin, well, is probably savvy enough to know that Trump would be loathe to get back in the business of seriously arming and resourcing Kiev. Which returns us to the question, why would Putin be motivated to sit down at the negotiating table now?
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
All right, coming up next, Canada has a new prime minister, huzzah, and chaos in Romania as a leading presidential candidate is barred from running. I'll be right back. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S. with thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers? Well, now you know. Here's the thing.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
They have all the plants that your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and a whole lot more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. I love this company. Look, no more wandering around a nursery trying to figure out how you're going to schlep home a bunch of plants.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
And this spring, well, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. Now is the perfect time to plant and use code PDB to save today. Offers valid for a limited time.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Welcome back to the BDB. After a months-long race, Mark Carney was elected leader of Canada's Liberal Party on Sunday, positioning him as the country's next prime minister after Justin Trudeau's exit. The former central banker now inherits a party weakened by internal disputes as the nation inches closer to a federal election.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Supporters are clashing with police with claims of Russian interference once again at the center of the controversy. And in today's Back of the Brief, a Palestinian activist who led student protests at Columbia University has been arrested by federal immigration authorities. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Trudeau, who served as prime minister for nine years, announced in January that he was stepping down, a decision driven by sinking approval ratings and relentless party infighting. His authority was further undermined in December when reports surfaced that he urged Carney to take over as finance minister. That was an offer that led to Chrystia Freeland's abrupt resignation from the cabinet.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Trudeau later conceded that, quote, having to fight internal battles made it impossible for him to continue as Canada's best option for leadership. Carney, a seasoned economist who previously helmed both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, assumes control of the Liberal Party effective immediately.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
However, Trudeau will remain prime minister for an unspecified transitional period as his successor settles in and begins to shape the party's strategy for the upcoming election. His arrival signals a turning point for the Liberals, who've struggled to regain traction against a surging Conservative Party currently leading in the polls.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Bacardi's most immediate challenge won't just be domestic politics. It will be navigating Canada's increasingly difficult relationship with the U.S. under President Trump. In his victory speech, Carney wasted no time in setting the tone for that relationship, declaring, quote, America is not Canada. Well, I guess he figured that one out.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
And Canada never, ever, he said, will be part of America in any way, shape or form, end quote. He doubled down on his stance, vowing to maintain stiff Canadian tariffs on U.S. imports until Washington, quote, shows us respect. He went further, stating Canadians are always ready when someone else, quote, drops the gloves. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Well, who could predict that a Canadian politician would use a hockey analogy? Carney's words come as tensions with Washington have escalated under Trump, who's repeatedly accused Canada of fueling illegal immigration into the U.S. and has floated the idea of, quote, turning it into the 51st state.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump has slapped steep tariffs on Canadian goods, justifying them as a crackdown on fentanyl trafficking. In response, Carney has championed a policy of economic retaliation, supporting targeted countermeasures designed to inflict minimal damage on Canada while pressuring American industries.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The timeline for the next federal election remains uncertain, but the political landscape is shifting rapidly. Opposition parties are preparing to introduce a no-confidence motion when Parliament reconvenes on the 24th of March, one that, if successful, could trigger an immediate election.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
But according to the Globe and Mail, Carney may try to get ahead of them by calling a snap election as early as the week before, with Canadians potentially heading to the polls in late April or early May. His chief rival in that contest will be Pierre Poliev, the conservative leader who's drawn comparisons to Trump for his Canada First platform.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Poliev positioned himself as the champion of working-class Canadians, seizing on Carney's background in high finance to paint him as an out-of-touch elitist. As Carney assumes the reins of a fractured party, he faces a dual challenge, uniting the liberals while convincing Canadians he's the right leader to take on Trump in the battles ahead. Okay, now turning to Romania.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The country's political crisis has deepened, with far-right nationalist Kalin Georgescu now barred from running in the May presidential election rerun, in an explosive decision that triggered clashes between his supporters and police in Bucharest.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
We'll begin with an update out of Eastern Europe, as Moscow's forces quickly advance inside Russia's partially occupied Kursk region, threatening Kiev's hold on its sole territorial bargaining chip at a crucial juncture in the war. Over the weekend, the Kremlin mounted a major counteroffensive aimed at recapturing the Kursk region from Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Romania's Central Electoral Bureau, the BEC, ruled on Sunday that Georgescu's candidacy, quote, doesn't meet the conditions of legality, citing his alleged ties to Russia and extremist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
The move comes months after the country's constitutional court annulled the results of the November 2023 election, where Georgescu had emerged as a surprise frontrunner, plunging Romania into prolonged political turmoil.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
As we reported last month on the PDB, intelligence assessments allege that Russia backed his campaign through an extensive online influence operation, deploying some 800 TikTok accounts to sway voters. The Kremlin considers Georgescu to be pro-Russian and are particularly pleased with his often stated desire to create distance between Romania and NATO and the EU.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Those claims of Russian interference led to the unprecedented court decision that scrapped the election just days before the scheduled 8 December runoff. Moscow, for its part, well, they dismissed the allegations as baseless. There's a surprise. On Friday, Georgescu formally submitted his candidacy for the 4 May rerun, triggering a 48-hour review process.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
By Sunday, the verdict was in and the BEC disqualified him, stating that he had, quote, "...violated the obligation to defend democracy." The ruling was met with immediate backlash. Georgescu, who styles himself as a nationalist firebrand, condemned it as a, quote, direct blow to the heart of democracy worldwide. Posting on X, he declared Europe is now a dictatorship. Romania is under tyranny.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Should he appeal to Romania's top court, a ruling would be expected within 72 hours. His disqualification set off a wave of unrest in the capital. Thousands of his supporters flooded the streets, waving Romanian flags and chanting revolutionary slogans. As tensions escalated, rioters hurled paving stones, overturned vehicles, and set fires, forcing riot police to respond with tear gas.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
At least four people were detained, though the real test for authorities came as hundreds of demonstrators refused to disperse, clashing with security forces in scenes reminiscent of February's protests when Georgescu was arrested while attempting to register for the race. At the time, he was charged with attempting to overthrow the constitutional order and membership in a fascist organization.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
Those are charges he continues to deny. Georgescu built his political brand on promises to, quote, restore Romania's dignity and push back against NATO and EU influence. While he's openly praised Russian President Putin and questioned Ukraine's statehood, well, he insists he's not pro-Russian.
The President's Daily Brief
March 11th, 2025: Russian Troops Launch Sneak Attack In Kursk & Canada Gets A New Prime Minister
So, he praises Putin, he questions whether Ukraine should be independent, and he wants to distance Romania from NATO and EU, but he's definitely not pro-Russian. His disqualification has also drawn attention from the Trump administration. Vice President J.D. Vance last month slammed Romania's annulment of the November election as, quote, flimsy suspicions driven by intelligence agencies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Apparently, Sammy the Terrorist has forgotten that this whole tragic mess started with Hamas swattering over a thousand Israelis and taking 251 women, children, babies, and men hostage. Now, that is frankly what complicates matters. Now, as we reported yesterday, Hamas halted its upcoming hostage exchange, which was set to take place on Saturday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
It's Tuesday, 11 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
The group accused Israel of breaking the ceasefire deal, specifically by blocking humanitarian aid from entering Gaza and preventing Palestinians from returning to the north. Israel has denied those claims. Frankly, a possible scenario here is that Hamas has suspended further hostage releases, well, because the hostages are the terror group's only remaining leverage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
And there may well be internal dissent and disagreement among Hamas leaders over just how to proceed. There's also the sad possibility that they simply don't have any more live hostages to release or don't have actual control over them, since other groups, including Islamic Jihad and various family criminal groups within Gaza, also took some of the hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Now, hopefully, neither of those things, of course, are true, but it's important to consider every potential situation when evaluating Hamas's actions. While Hamas is objecting to Trump's threats, Israel is fully backing them. The Israeli Security Cabinet released a statement saying that all members support the U.S. president's demands for the release of the hostages by noon on Shabbat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
The statement also praised Trump's, quote, revolutionary vision for the future of Gaza. And speaking of Gaza's future, the UN has put a price tag on what they think it will take to rebuild the enclave after 15 months of war. A new estimate from the UN says reconstruction will cost over 53 billion US dollars, with 20 billion dollars needed in just the first three years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Well, start things off today with President Trump issuing a serious, significant ultimatum, I guess is there any other kind of ultimatum, to Hamas, warning that if hostages aren't released by Saturday, all bets are off and quote, hell will break loose. Later in the show, a big win for the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
There is no word yet on how much of that would be pocketed by UNRWA and Hamas leaders. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called the destruction in Gaza a, quote, humanitarian catastrophe and warned that a full assessment of the damage isn't even possible yet, given the current conditions on the ground. All right, coming up next, a major policy win for the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Venezuela, a country that's, well, hardly a U.S. ally, has accepted its first deportation flights, sending nearly 200 Venezuelans back home. I'll have those details after the break. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The first deportation flights carrying nearly 200 Venezuelans who entered the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
illegally touched down in Caracas on Monday, marking a major victory for the Trump administration. The return of these migrants, long resisted by Venezuela's socialist government, signals a, perhaps, a thaw in U.S.-Venezuelan relations, one that the White House touts as a breakthrough in its broader immigration crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
The two planes, operated by Venezuela's state-run airline, departed from Fort Bliss, Texas, Monday, landing in Caracas hours later. The flights come after months of diplomatic wrangling, culminating in a deal brokered by Trump envoy Richard Grinnell, who traveled to Caracas last month to finalize the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Grinnell announced the flights on X, stating, quote, two planes of illegal immigrants left El Paso today, headed to Venezuela, paid for by the Venezuelans. Now, for years, Venezuela refused to cooperate and accept deportation flights, even as its citizens flooded the U.S. southern border in record numbers under the Biden administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
The impasse, briefly broken under then-President Biden in October 2023, has since hardened again until now. A White House post on X framed the development as a political win, stating, "...repatriation flights to Venezuela have resumed. Make America safe again."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro welcomed the flights, though he framed them as a broader push for international cooperation rather than a concession to Washington. The Venezuelan strongman stated, quote, this is the world we want, a world of peace, understanding, dialogue, and cooperation, end quote. Hmm. But even as the first flights landed, Maduro's socialist regime pushed back against U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
claims that members of the Trender of Agua or TDA gang used the migrant route to infiltrate the U.S., dismissing the allegations as, quote, ill-intentioned narrative against Venezuelans. The deportations are part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to curb illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Just days before the flights, a group of Venezuelan migrants was transferred to the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, where they were reportedly held separately from the 15 prisoners charged with planning the 11 September terror attacks. Well, yeah, that that seems like a logical thing to do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
The flights also follow a series of agreements secured by Secretary of State Marco Rubio with El Salvador and Guatemala, ensuring that those countries would take back their citizens and accept other deportees from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Following Grinnell's visit to Caracas, Trump announced that Maduro had agreed to accept, quote, all Venezuela illegal aliens who were encamped in the U.S., including gang members of TDA, end quote. and that the Venezuelan government had committed to funding the repatriation flights. As part of the arrangement, Caracas also released half a dozen American citizens who had been detained in Venezuela.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Venezuela, obviously a longtime adversary of the U.S., has accepted its first deportation flights, sending nearly 200 Venezuelans back home. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. President Trump is drawing a hard line with Hamas, issuing an ultimatum after the group suspended its planned hostage release.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 11 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as you've no doubt seen on roadside billboards and on those banners that get pulled along by airplanes while flying over the beach,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
If you want to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It honestly couldn't be any simpler, and frankly, pound for pound, you won't find a better value in the world of news and information. So, check it out. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump said, "...as far as I'm concerned, if all the hostages aren't returned by Saturday at 12 o'clock, I think it's an appropriate time. I would say cancel it and all bets are off and let hell break out."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
Now, when asked for specifics on what exactly he meant by, quote, hell, the president kept it vague, saying only that Hamas, quote, will find out what I mean. Now, Hamas, unsurprisingly, wasn't thrilled with the remarks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 11th, 2025: Trump Threatens ‘All Hell Will Break Loose’ In Gaza & U.S. Starts Venezuela Deportations
A spokesman for the terror group, oh, they've got a spokesman, Sami Abu Zuri, told AFP that Trump should remember that there's a ceasefire agreement in place and that threats, quote, have no value and only, quote, complicate matters.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Among the aircraft spotted, Navy P-8 Poseidons, Air Force RC-135 rivet joints, and even a U-2, a U-2, a legendary high-altitude reconnaissance plane designed during the Cold War. Now, the P-8s, typically used for anti-submarine warfare, are equipped with powerful radar systems capable of tracking movements on land as well as at sea.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
It's Tuesday, 11 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we'll begin with reports that the U.S. military has ramped up its surveillance of Mexican drug cartels with spy planes conducting nearly 20 flights in the past two weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
The RC-135, well, that specializes in signals intelligence, intercepting communications from the ground, potentially including cartel radio chatter and encrypted messaging. Meanwhile, the U-2, with its ability to fly above approximately 70,000 feet, can capture high-resolution imagery of vast areas, providing an unmatched bird's-eye view of cartel strongholds and trafficking routes.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Their mission? Well, their mission is pretty straightforward. Gathering a range of intelligence, signals, imagery, and movement data on cartel activity, far beyond what traditional law enforcement surveillance can achieve. These flights have spanned Texas, Arizona, and California, with some even looping around Mexico's Baja Peninsula and passing near cartel strongholds like Sinaloa.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Former military officials note that while the U.S. has long conducted aerial surveillance along the border, the current intensity is unprecedented. So the big question, what is the intelligence gathering for? One possibility, the U.S. is gathering intel to pass along to the Mexican military, helping them to target cartel operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
That would make sense from a joint liaison military operation perspective. As we reported here on the PDB, 10,000 Mexican troops have been deployed to the border in recent days as part of what they've dubbed Operation Frontera Norte or Operation Northern Border.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
That deployment was promised by Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum in return for a reprieve on the tariffs President Trump had promised to impose. However, another possibility is also emerging, one that has officials in both countries somewhat on edge. Former officials note that these surveillance flights could be part of preparations for direct U.S. military action against cartel targets.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
President Trump has previously floated the idea of striking cartel fentanyl labs or even sending special forces to take out drug lords. moves that could mark a dramatic escalation in U.S. efforts to combat the drug cartels. The administration has already taken steps to designate cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, and that's a move that could pave the way for direct military intervention.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Meanwhile, thousands of additional U.S. troops have been deployed to the border, providing intelligence support and logistical assistance to the Border Patrol. Tom Holman, former head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and now Trump's border czar, recently stated that the cartels, quote, would be foolish to take on the U.S. military.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
But he also warned that violence is likely to escalate if direct confrontation occurs. For now, the Pentagon insists that military personnel remain in a support role, and there are no confirmed reports of active U.S. operations inside Mexico. But the sheer scale of this surveillance push does raise questions about what comes next. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Coming up after the break, President Trump reignites a trade battle from his first term with new tariffs on aluminum and steel, while the IDF targets Hezbollah sites in Lebanon, putting new pressure on the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
President Donald Trump is reigniting a trade battle from his first term in the White House, announcing his plan to implement a sweeping 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum in a bid to bolster domestic metal industries.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Later in the show, President Trump reignites a trade battle from his first term, announcing his plans to impose a 25% tariff on aluminum and steel imports. Plus, as the ceasefire in Gaza faces new obstacles, the IDF hits Hezbollah sites in Lebanon, threatening the fragile peace along its northern border.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump made his position clear, stating, quote, any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25% tariff, aluminum too, end quote. Now, the measure effectively revives the trade policies he introduced in 2018, when he slapped a 25% tariff on imported steel and a 10% tariff on aluminum.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Those duties, aimed, well, primarily at China's overproduction, initially applied to all countries, but were later softened through a patchwork of exemptions. Now, the question is whether Trump's latest move will replace or supplement the existing tariffs. What is certain, however, is that the decision will likely drive up costs for manufacturers and consumers who rely on these materials.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
China wasted no time in responding. Beijing unveiled a new round of retaliatory tariffs this week, slapping 10 to 15 percent duties on American exports, including crude oil, liquefied natural gas and farm machinery.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
The countermeasures, first disclosed last week, are part of China's broader response to the Trump administration's decision to levy a blanket 10% tariff on Chinese goods, and that's an effort that Washington framed as economic pressure to curb the flow of fentanyl into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
It's important to note that China remains the world's primary supplier of precursor chemicals used by Mexican cartels to manufacture the deadly synthetic opioid. Beijing's foreign ministry swiftly condemned the tariffs on Monday, calling for, quote, dialogue and consultations based on equality and mutual respect. Oh, that's nice. Urging Washington to abandon its tariff strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
But China's response extends well beyond tit for tat tariffs. Beijing, in a calculated escalation, launched an antitrust probe on Google, blacklisted two additional U.S. firms, and tightened its grip on rare earth exports. And that's important. Material is essential to global technology and defense supply chains.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
China dominates the rare earth industry, controlling the lion's share of mining and refining operations. If Beijing moves to further restrict exports, well, the ripple effects could be severe, disrupting American industries that depend on these critical materials. For now, China's response has been measured, but some see it as a warning shot.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
The head of China economics at Moody's Analytics put it bluntly, stating, quote, It is China saying we don't want to make the situation worse, but can make it troubling if this escalates further. During Trump's first term, China responded proportionally to tariffs, matching U.S. duties on imports dollar for dollar. This time, however, interestingly, the imbalance, well, is stark. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
tariffs now target approximately $450 billion in Chinese goods, whereas China's countermeasures impact just $15 to $20 billion in American exports. The standoff comes at a precarious time for the world's two largest economies. China is grappling with a deepening real estate crisis, mounting debt and deflation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
In the U.S., analysts warn that escalating tariffs could fuel inflation, potentially forcing a recalibration of strategy in Washington. However, Trump remains defiant, threatening tariffs beyond China, including Taiwan and Europe. The question now is whether Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will engage in direct talks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
While the White House initially anticipated a call between the two leaders, Trump later stated he was in, quote, no hurry to speak with Xi. Without a diplomatic resolution, the standoff does risk spiraling into a prolonged, unpredictable trade war that, frankly, neither side can fully predict.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
And in the back of the brief, President Trump escalates his crackdown on former Biden administration officials, revoking security clearances for key members of the previous administration and signaling that more could be on the way. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. In a move that's likely to send a shiver down the spine of cartel leaders, at least if they're paying attention, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
OK, turning now to Lebanon, where Israeli fighter jets launched a series of airstrikes Sunday, striking Hezbollah terrorist positions, including a tunnel in the Beqaa Valley used to funnel weapons between Lebanon and Syria. In a statement, the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, said the tunnel had previously been targeted and vowed to prevent its restoration and use.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Along with the tunnel, Israeli warplanes hit Hezbollah weapons depots and rocket launchers in other areas, which the IDF described as posing a, quote, "...immediate threat to Israel's security." These latest strikes come on the heels of airstrikes Saturday when the Israeli Air Force targeted a Hezbollah weapons manufacturing site in the Bekaa Valley, reportedly killing six people and injuring two.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Lebanese state media also reported Israeli airstrikes just 12 miles from the Israeli border and in Baalbek, more than 60 miles inside Lebanese territory. The IDF has framed these operations as a direct response to Hezbollah's continued terrorist activity, despite the ceasefire agreement that was reached back in November of 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
That deal, which ended more than a year of hostilities, including two months of full-scale war, required Hezbollah to withdraw north of the Latani River, roughly 18 miles from Israel's border. It's important to note that despite the ceasefire, Israel retains the right to conduct strikes on what it deems imminent threats.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Security concerns beyond that, in theory, are supposed to be handled by a monitoring committee made up of representatives from Israel, France, the United States, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Now, not to sound cynical, but if you were to imagine that something called the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon might be somewhat a useless, toothless entity, well, you could be on the right track. The Lebanese military was also required to deploy to southern Lebanon alongside the UN peacekeepers as Israeli forces withdrew over a 60-day period.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
But Israel extended its withdrawal deadline from late January to 18 February, citing Lebanon's failure to fully deploy its army as agreed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Israeli officials say the Iran-backed terror group has yet to dismantle the remaining weapons infrastructure in southern Lebanon, and IDF forces continue to seize Hezbollah weapons in restricted areas, raising serious doubts about whether the ceasefire can hold.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
With Hezbollah still operational near Lebanon's southern border and Israel asserting its right to preemptively strike, well, tensions remain high despite diplomatic efforts to maintain something resembling stability. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump revokes former Secretary of State Antony Blinken's security clearance and signals that, well, more could be on the way.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump is taking his crackdown on former officials to a new level, revoking security clearances from members of the Biden administration. And you could argue that, well, he's he's just getting started. The latest target, former Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Trump says Blinken is losing his access to classified information because of his role in the infamous, quote, dirty 51 letter, where dozens of former intel officials dismissed Hunter Biden's laptop as essentially Russian disinformation just before the 2020 election. According to Trump, Blinken is a, quote, bad guy and his clearance is now gone. But Blinken isn't the only one.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
military has significantly increased its surveillance operations along the southern border and beyond. Over the past two weeks, American spy planes have conducted at least 18 missions, and that's a dramatic increase as the Pentagon has historically flown only about, well, one surveillance mission a month around the U.S.-Mexico border.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Trump has also ordered security revocations for other Biden era figures, including the Doogie Howser of National Security, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, both of whom played key roles in past investigations tied to Trump. And he's not stopping with former federal officials.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Trump is also targeting two of his biggest legal adversaries, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Now, these are the people behind the hush money trial and the civil fraud case that's already cost Trump hundreds of millions in penalties.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Now, while revoking their clearances won't impact those cases, it's a clear sign that Trump is using every tool at his disposal to hit back at his political and legal opponents. Legal experts say some of these moves are largely symbolic. After all, state prosecutors like Bragg and James, they don't rely on federal security clearances to do their jobs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
But for others, like national security lawyer Mark Zaid, Losing clearance could have real consequences for their work. Zaid famously represented the whistleblower whose complaint led to Trump's first impeachment over the Ukraine scandal. The latest news comes just days after Trump announced he was revoking security clearances.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
for Joe Biden, claiming Biden, quote, set this precedent in 2021 by revoking Trump's own clearance. Yeah, what goes around comes around. Now, Trump's team is framing this as a matter of national security, insisting that those involved in what they call, quote, election interference should be held accountable. Critics, however, see it as a political retaliation. Well,
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
which you could reasonably argue was also the reason for Biden revoking Trump's security clearance back in 2021. Either way, you can imagine this isn't the end of it. Trump has warned that more names will be added to the list. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 11 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Now, if you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, don't forget what your mother always said. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting PDB Premium. And remember, Mom's Always Right. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 11th, 2025: U.S. Spy Planes Target Drug Cartels & Trump Announces New Tariffs
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Start your day off with a tasty cup or two of Blackout Coffee. Now, Blackout Coffee is an excellent family-owned American company. It's producing premium coffee, fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB, for 20% off your first-time purchase. It's Tuesday, 10 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Meaning, can the rebel leaders follow through with action to support their claims that they want to form a pluralistic, inclusive government to respect all Syrians? Now, No one in the West, of course, is mourning the fall of Assad and his brutally repressive regime, which collapsed on Sunday, just 10 days after the rebel insurgents began their lightning offensive in northern Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
But with this toppling, difficult questions remain regarding what type of government will fill the void, namely, whether we'll be looking at a pivot towards moderation or a government steeped in the principles of radical Islam.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
The somewhat loose coalition of Islamist rebels is led by the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or known as HTS, a former arm of al-Qaeda that used to be called the Nusra Front.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Now, HTS, and this is where it gets complex, is a U.S.-designated terror organization that fought against U.S.-backed forces in the region during the civil war, but has since positioned themselves as moderates focused on the liberation of Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Their leader, Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, a Syrian native, began as a fighter for the Islamic State of Iraq before being dispatched back to Syria after the civil war kicked off in 2011 to further the interests of al-Qaeda and the emerging ISIS terrorist group. But as fissures emerged between the terrorist groups, al-Jolani sided with al-Qaeda and turned on his ISIS backers in Iraq.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
He then moved to brutally eliminate competitors and former allies among the many extremist organizations opposing Assad, eventually renouncing his longtime ties to Al-Qaeda. That's it, fellas, we're through. He rebranded his organization as HTS in 2016, and framed it as a, quote, salvation government rooted in the values of pluralism and tolerance. That all sounds good, doesn't it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
The cynical rebranding worked to broaden the group's public support, but as a former counterterrorism envoy for the Trump administration put it, quote, when you look at his resume, well, it's a terrorist resume. According to an exclusive report from Politico, senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
defense officials are currently engaged in a furious debate, ooh, it's furious, over whether Al-Jaladi's supposed transformation is authentic and if the terrorist designation on HTS should be lifted. Well, look, I'm no senior U.S. defense official, but I've got an idea. How about you wait to see if their actions match their words and platitudes?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Skip the furious speculative debate for now, since nobody has any idea how this is going to shake out in the short term. There, look at that. I fixed it for you. But just in case you're wondering about the mechanics of a terrorism designation, and these days who isn't, under U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
law, the president, through the secretary of state, can choose to remove groups from the list of foreign terrorist organizations at any time. But the process is politically fraught. And yes, I used the word fraught. No administration wants to be seen as soft on terror, of course, particularly if the choice to delist is premature and later backfires.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
But officials say early signs out of Syria are promising. The rebels spent their first couple of days in Damascus in, well, let's call them cordial conversations with Syria's sitting prime minister from the Assad regime. To date, the rebel leadership named a new interim prime minister, and that would be Mohammed al-Bashir. Al-Bashir was the head of the HTS de facto government up in Idlib province.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
That was the rebels' primary stronghold prior to their offensive that brought the Assad regime to a quick end. Now, al-Bashir will lead a transitional government until 1 March 2025. He's already, reportedly, met with numerous members of Assad's government and has implied that senior public officials and others need to stay in place to ensure that services to the people of Syria remain consistent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
So, I guess that's better than rounding up all officials of the Assad regime and making them walk the plank. In addition, the brand new interim government has reportedly offered amnesty to all Syrian soldiers and reservists. Now, so far, it does appear that the transition to a new government has been relatively smooth and peaceful, but it's obviously early days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, with Syrian rebel leadership naming a new interim prime minister in an attempt to avoid a dangerous power vacuum following their overthrow of the Assad regime, debate is raging in Washington D.C. over whether the Islamist rebel insurgents will break from their radical past.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
The rebels have also indicated that they will break with Islamic law and not implement oppressive policies on women. So, despite the early efforts of the rebels to appear moderate and restrained, there are others in the international community who are urging caution.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Michael Herzog, Israel's ambassador to Washington, told Politico, "...there are no good guys in this story, because you have jihadists. We don't want jihadists to put their hands on strategic capabilities like chemical or other types of capabilities that are there in Syria."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Israel has already launched a series of airstrikes targeting chemical weapons caches and other missile and air defense systems in Syria to ensure that they don't fall into rebel hands. But the skepticism, well, it's not unique to Israel. Many in Washington, particularly on the Republican side, question HTS's ability to de-radicalize after such a sweeping victory over Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
They're advocating a wait-and-see approach with regards to HTS and Al Jalani to learn if the group's rhetoric is truly sincere. That seems reasonable. The problem is even more complex than what HTS intends to do. There are, after all, numerous other groups and factions that make up this coalition of rebels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
And, pardon me for being cynical, but once the pie starts getting divided up, they'll all want their peace. A former Trump administration official who worked on Middle East policy warned Politico, quote, lots of groups say the right thing as they come into power because they're concerned that their hold on power is fragile.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
And then, once they consolidate power, they focus on implementing their ideology, end quote. For now, analysts think that the terror designation and the sanctions that come with it will likely stay in place, offering potential leverage to the incoming Trump administration as they work to navigate the many conflicts currently gripping the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Coming up, in the latest escalation from the South China Sea, the Chinese have staged their largest show of force in decades in the waters around Taiwan. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
We'll discuss the current debate over whether the West can trust Syria's new leaders. Hmm, there's so much pontificating and punditry happening right now in the West.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Taiwan's military is once again raising alarms over a significant Chinese naval and air force deployment near its borders, warning that such maneuvers could escalate into open conflict as tensions in the Taiwan Strait reach a boiling point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
According to Taiwanese defense officials, China has deployed roughly a dozen naval vessels and 47 military planes in regional waters and the timing, well, the timing is no coincidence. These maneuvers followed Taiwanese President Lai Ching Do's trip to the U.S. earlier this month, including stops in Hawaii and the island territory of Guam, where he spoke to congressional leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Beijing, which views Lai as a separatist, reacted furiously, of course they did, escalating tensions that were already high. As I'm sure you likely know, China's stance on Taiwan is longstanding. It sees the island as a breakaway province and has repeatedly vowed to reclaim it by force if necessary. The latest maneuvers come just weeks after the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Then, in the latest escalation from the South China Sea, because, of course, that's what we needed right now, a bit of escalation, the Chinese military has staged their largest show of force in decades in the waters around Taiwan, a likely message to the incoming Trump administration about the consequences of intervention. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
also approved a $2 billion arms package for Taiwan, including three national advanced surface-to-air missile systems. Now, this further upset Xi's regime in Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
A Taiwanese lieutenant general painted a grim picture of China's recent strategy, describing the naval deployments as forming, quote, two walls, one encircling Taiwan and another along the island chain stretching from Japan to the Philippines. The lieutenant general stated, quote, the message they are sending is very simple. The Taiwan Strait is ours, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
The scope of the operations, the lieutenant general added, suggests that China aims to demonstrate not only its capacity to isolate Taiwan, but also its ability to block U.S. allies from intervening. While Taiwanese defense officials have described the deployment as without announcement and a training exercise, the lieutenant general issued a warning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Training could evolve into drills, and drills could escalate into war. Now, this isn't the first time that China has flexed its military muscle in response to one of Lai's activities. Following his inauguration in May and National Day speech in October, Beijing conducted massive military drills around Taiwan. Basically, any time Lai gives a speech, Beijing throws its teddy out of the crib.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Taiwan has responded by setting up an emergency response center, well, that should do it, and imposing flight restrictions in zones near China's east coast, effective through Wednesday. The U.S., meanwhile, continues to back Taiwan with arms sales, diplomatic visits, and military operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
Now, past high-profile trips, like former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's 2021 visit and Taiwan's former president meeting with Kevin McCarthy in 2023, have repeatedly provoked Chinese military exercises. With President-elect Donald Trump poised to take a tougher stance on Beijing, tensions show no signs of easing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
His nominee for Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, has already pledged unwavering support for Taiwan, calling for increased defense spending on the island. Oh, look at that. Here comes another Teddy. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 10 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
And don't forget, not that I'd ever let you, to listen to the show ad-free. It's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See? Told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 10th, 2024: Syria's Al-Golani: Terrorist or Liberator? & China's Escalating War Games Against Taiwan
With the fall of the Assad regime and a new interim government starting to take shape, well, sort of, one of the top questions on the minds of America's senior national security officials is, do Syria's rebels still warrant their international terrorist designation?
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Kickstart your day with a delicious taste of Blackout Coffee. Family owned, premium coffee, fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB for 20% off your first time purchase. It's Tuesday, 10 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
passport, marking the end of a tense multi-state pursuit that began following last week's high-profile Manhattan shooting. At the time of his arrest, Mangione was found with a two and a half page handwritten manifesto declaring, quote, These parasites had it coming, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Law enforcement sources told The New York Post that the manifesto likened to the writings of Unabomber Ted Kaczynski, whose quotes Mangione endorsed online provides insight into his escalating discontent with modern society and the health care industry. Officials confirmed Mangione acted alone in the attack, though he notably has not yet been charged in Thompson's killing.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
While the manifesto reveals a deep ideological motivation, authorities are also exploring personal grievances that may have driven Mangione's animosity toward the healthcare system. According to the Post, online obituaries reveal he lost his grandmother in 2013 and his grandfather in 2017, while records show he briefly worked at an assisted living facility in 2014.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
As PDB faithful listeners are no doubt aware, the regime of President Bashar al-Assad was toppled by a coalition of Islamist rebels on Sunday, bringing a swift and very surprising end to one of the world's longest running family dictatorships.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
While speculation, these experiences may have shaped his path toward violence. Mangione's academic and professional trajectory paints a startling contrast to his actions. Once a valedictorian and a University of Pennsylvania graduate with dual degrees in engineering and computer science, Well, he appeared destined for a promising future.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Sources report he excelled academically and worked most recently as a data engineer. However, his online activity reveals a darker transformation, with posts dating back to 2019 criticizing capitalism, the healthcare system, and government policies. Investigators believe Mangione's case reflects the dangerous intersection of personal loss and ideological extremism.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Investigators are now combing through his digital footprint to uncover more about the motivations behind his alleged crimes and the events leading up to the attack. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 10 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
And of course, as you've probably seen on billboards scattered around town, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The insurgents managed to sweep across the country in just 10 days to evict the Assad family after 50 years ruling over Syria, a reign marked by the violent oppression of political dissidents and average citizens alike.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
As they advanced towards Damascus, the rebels began freeing prisoners from the country's detention centers, some of whom were marked for executions, assuring them that the regime would soon fall and that they were now safe. Many were seen running through the streets in celebration and screaming in joy on Sunday when news of Assad's ousting swept through the country.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
That's according to a report from the Associated Press. Now, with Assad driven into asylum in Russia, the rebels, alongside Syrian relief workers, are working to clear out the roughly 100 prison facilities scattered across the country and working to find the location of any secret detention centers used by the regime, where many prisoners are still believed to be trapped.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The prisons, described by the families of detainees as, quote, dungeons, death camps and human slaughterhouses, have long stood as a reminder of the violent consequences that faced those opposing the Assad regime. The harsh conditions were infamous, with human rights groups reporting systematic torture and secret executions overseen by Syrian intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Now, to say the day-to-day life of these prisons was horrific is, well, obviously it's an understatement. In 2013, a Syrian military defector known as Cesar smuggled out more than 53,000 photographs taken at the facilities that he then gave to international human rights groups and Syrian activists.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
An analysis of the photographs proved that at least 6700 people had died while in the government's custody. And that was just back in 2013, just two years into the Civil War. Some were executed in mass hangings while others were tortured to death by being deprived of food, water and medicine. Their bodies would then be dumped into mass graves.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Disease was also said to be rampant inside these facilities, accounting for an unknown number of deaths. Prisoners were also regularly subjected to severe beatings, electrocution, sexual assaults and medieval torture methods. Amnesty International has long highlighted the torture, executions, and prison conditions as crimes against humanity.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
At just one military prison north of Damascus, Amnesty International estimates that as many as 13,000 people were killed between 2011 and 2016. All told, observers estimate that nearly 158,000 Syrians were arrested between March 2011 and August 2024 and placed in detention. Of those, more than 5,000 were children and more than 10,000 were women.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The Assad regime's security apparatus and prisons were designed not only to isolate Syrian dissidents, but also to instill fear among the wider population. An analyst at the London think tank Chatham House told the Associated Press, quote, anxiety about being thrown in one of Assad's notorious prisons created wide mistrust among Syrians.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Assad nurtured this culture of fear to maintain control and crush political opposition, end quote. Now, as of Monday, the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that tens of thousands of political prisoners have been freed from Aleppo in the north down to Damascus in the south. But relief groups say there are still countless prisoners trapped in underground dungeons.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
They've called on former soldiers and prison guards to provide the rebels with passwords to unlock underground electronic doors and offered monetary rewards for information that helps uncover the remaining secret facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
All right, coming up next, Syrian refugees celebrate Assad's fall as Europe freezes their asylum applications, and South Korea's president faces a travel ban after a controversial martial law decree. Okay, well, to be fair, most martial law decrees are considered controversial. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
We begin in Syria, where newly discovered evidence exposes the true depths of former President Assad's brutality. Prisoners are emerging from dungeons described as, quote, human slaughterhouses, painting a grim picture of his regime's darkest crimes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Sticking with the fallout from Syria, I want to take a look at how victims of the Assad regime are reacting to news of the dictator's demise, even as some European nations begin freezing asylum applications for new refugees.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Refugees of the Syrian Civil War have been taking to the streets across Europe since Sunday to celebrate the end of Assad's decades-long authoritarian rule, waving flags and singing songs to mark the historic power shift. Thousands rallied in Berlin, home to the largest Syrian community in Europe, as well as in Athens, London, and Vienna, according to a report from France 24.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Later in the show, millions of Syrian refugees celebrate the collapse of Assad's regime, while some European nations begin to freeze asylum applications, citing uncertainty over Syria's political future. Plus, an update from South Korea. The nation's president has been barred from traveling overseas following last week's controversial martial law decree.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Rally-goers could be seen carrying signs reading Free Syria while honking horns and shouting Allahu Akbar or God is Great. One participant who fled Aleppo in 2015 said the general feeling among refugees was one of relief and expressed hope that Assad and his cronies will ultimately face justice.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
He said, quote, 10 years ago, I was in Syria and saw things no one should have to see, things that are impossible to wipe from your memory. Assad is the worst terrorist imaginable, end quote. Others echoed these sentiments and called for Assad to be tried by the International Criminal Court in The Hague for the many war crimes committed against his own people.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Assad, as we've reported, fled to Moscow over the weekend after being granted asylum by the Russian government, a key ally of his regime, of course, during the Civil War. No word on where exactly Assad and his family are currently staying. I don't know, maybe they're staying at Putin's place in a guest suite.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
I can just see Assad patting around Putin's kitchen in the morning in his boxers, asking Vladimir where he keeps the coffee. Now, the Russian government, with a straight face, said they gave Assad asylum for humanitarian reasons. Seems like it would have been more humanitarian to hand him over to the Syrian people. I mean, they freed up room in their prison system, so he'd have accommodations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The civil war, which broke out in 2011, drove more than 14 million, 14 million Syrians from their homes over 13 years of fighting, with more than 5 million fleeing as refugees to neighboring countries in the Middle East as well as Europe. There are reportedly 3 million refugees in Turkey alone and another million or so in Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Germany became the biggest non-neighboring host country for those fleeing the violence, with an estimated 850,000 Syrian refugees living there as of 2024. Now, many said they hope they can soon return to their war-torn country to begin the process of rebuilding, though expressed concern about what kind of government will take its place.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The rebels, frankly, are a coalition of Islamist groups led by a former al-Qaeda operative. While the rebel leader recently claimed he planned to replace the regime with a pluralistic government, many, of course, have questioned whether his rebranding as a moderate is authentic. And that should be known in relatively short order.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Some European countries are already making changes to their asylum policies regarding Syria, particularly due to concerns over the extremist ties within the rebel coalition. On Monday, Germany's Federal Office for Migration and Refugees placed a hold on asylum applications from Syria, a decision that affects roughly 48,000 active asylum cases.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The governments of Austria, Belgium, Italy, Greece, and the Netherlands all promptly followed suit, citing uncertainty over Syria's political future. Officials in the UK also said they planned to stop processing applications for Syrian refugees.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Austria, home to some 100,000 Syrian refugees, went further than most, with their interior minister announcing plans to begin targeted deportations of Syrian migrants. National security concerns are also a major consideration.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
A senior German politician warned that Germany and the rest of Europe can't ignore the rebel coalition's close ties to radicals, particularly their links to Afghanistan and the Taliban. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed cautious optimism about the collapse of the Assad regime, but said his country will be keenly watching to see what fills the void.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Schultz said, quote, we will judge the future rulers by whether they make it possible for all Syrians to live in dignity and self-determination and live in peace with their neighbors, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Okay, turning to South Korea, the Justice Ministry has imposed an overseas travel ban on President Yun Suk-yeol as authorities investigate allegations of rebellion tied to his abrupt declaration of martial law just last week. That was a move that plunged the country, of course, into political chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
And in today's Back of the Brief, a 26-year-old man is arrested for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Luigi Mangione's arrest ends the large-scale manhunt for last week's assassination on the streets of New York City. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The travel restriction was announced Monday, with the Justice Ministry spokesperson confirming the decision was based on requests from police, prosecutors, and an anti-corruption agency. This step comes as Yoon faces mounting legal challenges. While sitting presidents are generally immune from prosecution in South Korea, allegations of rebellion or treason are key exceptions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
According to a briefing shared with the Associated Press, a senior national police agency officer told reporters Monday that Jung could be detained if legal conditions are met. Observers doubt police will detain Jung, though, due to potential clashes with his presidential security, which is also unlikely to allow office searches without approval, citing laws protecting state secret sites.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
As we've been tracking on the PDB, Yun's declaration of martial law on the 3rd of December, which saw special forces deployed into Seoul for six tense hours, sparked outrage domestically and drew international criticism. The opposition-controlled National Assembly swiftly overturned the decree early Wednesday, labeling it a, quote, unconstitutional and illegal rebellion.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
opposition lawmakers and the Democratic Party are now preparing a new impeachment motion after Yun narrowly survived the vote on Saturday as most governing lawmakers boycotted the vote. The fallout from Yun's declaration has already engulfed senior officials,
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
The country's former defense minister, who reportedly advocated for the decree, was detained on Sunday, marking the first arrest in the case. Additionally, three top military commanders have been suspended, while opposition lawmakers have filed formal complaints against Yun and other key figures.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
In a televised apology on Saturday, Yoon acknowledged responsibility for the martial law declaration, but announced plans to step back from state affairs, deferring political decisions to his conservative People Power Party. Now, the leader of that party confirmed the arrangement, but critics argue it sidesteps constitutional norms.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Despite relinquishing some duties, Yoon notably retains command of South Korea's military, as the defense ministry confirmed on Monday, and that's a power explicitly reserved for the presidency under the Constitution.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
Yoon's justification for martial law, including accusations that parliament is a, quote, den of criminals, well, it's parliament after all, and a haven for, quote, anti-state forces, has only deepened the divide with South Korea's liberal-leaning legislature. His administration has faced repeated clashes with parliament since he took office in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
with liberal lawmakers introducing impeachment motions and launching investigations into multiple scandals. Now, experts warn that the PPP's decision to shield Yun from impeachment could backfire, stoking public protests and further eroding trust in his leadership. As investigations and impeachment efforts continue, Yoon's presidency faces unprecedented uncertainty.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
We'll begin in Syria, where a full picture of the brutality of the Assad regime is beginning to emerge as prisoners are released from infamous dungeons described as, quote, human slaughterhouses.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
With opposition parties pushing impeachment and his own party scrambling to restore public confidence, the political storm enveloping Seoul shows no signs of fading. All right. Coming up next in the back of the brief, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is revealed as 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, an Ivy League-educated tech bro from Maryland. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
In today's Back of the Brief, the nationwide manhunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's suspected killer has ended with the arrest of 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, an Ivy League graduate whose radical anti-capitalist ideology culminated in a brazen act of violence.
The President's Daily Brief
December 10th, 2024: Inside Assad’s “Human Slaughterhouses” & Suspect in CEO Slaying Revealed
A native of Maryland, Mangione was apprehended Monday morning at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after an employee recognized him and tipped off authorities. Local police recovered a 9mm ghost gun, which is an unserialized and therefore untraceable firearm, equipped with a silencer along with four fake IDs and a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
The latest incursion is also designed to split Russia's attention, easing pressure on other parts of the war's front lines, particularly in the Eastern Donetsk region. Zelensky said, quote, we continue to carry out active operations in the border areas on enemy territory, and that is absolutely just. War must return to where it came from, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
It's Tuesday, the 8th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, as diplomatic talks over the war in Ukraine stall, Kyiv launches a fresh invasion into Russian territory, and Moscow, well, they're preparing for a new spring offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
While the activity is only just coming to light, an assessment from the Institute for the Study of War suggests Ukrainian forces first crossed the border into Belgorod in mid to late March after being all but completely dislodged from the Kursk region following a Russian counteroffensive earlier that month. But details of the operation remain scarce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
It's not clear how many Ukrainian troops are taking part in the Belgorod incursion or how long Kiev plans to maintain a presence there. Kremlin officials have also confirmed the limited invasion, saying that Ukrainian forces are attempting to, quote, wedge themselves into the western part of the Belgorod region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
They accused Kiev of attempting to, quote, create a negative background amid the ongoing diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Russia. That, of course, implies that Putin is actually interested in ending his military adventurism, which doesn't frankly appear to be the case.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Moscow, which has been stalling diplomatic talks with the US by continually upping their demands for concessions from Ukraine, appears to be preparing for a major military operation. According to a report from Euromaidan Press, Russia is massing some 30,000 troops in the Donbass in preparation for an offensive push in the region by the end of the month.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Now, if the estimates of Russian troops prove to be accurate, Moscow would have a three-to-one numerical advantage over Ukrainian forces currently defending that sector. Analysts speculate that Russia seeks to seize the entirety of the Donetsk region in an attempt to further strengthen their negotiating hand in the ongoing U.S.-brokered talks to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
I don't know about you, but I'm starting to think that Putin's not all that interested in ending the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
As we've been tracking on the PDB, those talks began to deteriorate last week after Russia's deputy foreign minister pushed back on President Trump's peace proposals, saying that Moscow cannot accept the current terms as they fail to address Russia's long-term strategic concerns and objectives, one of those objectives apparently being the complete ownership of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
The comments came just two days after President Trump said he is getting increasingly, quote, pissed off by the Kremlin's attempts to stall negotiations and will consider imposing new sanctions on Russia's oil trade within the next month if he feels Moscow is actively seeking to undermine his efforts. But for now, it appears the Trump administration still thinks diplomacy can win the day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Late last week, the U.S. hosted Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, a top advisor to Putin, in hopes of getting negotiations back on track. On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that a new round of talks between the U.S. and Russia are slated to take place in Istanbul on the 10th of April. Oh, just in time for Putin's spring offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
All right, coming up next, an update on Iran, as President Trump says the U.S. is now engaging in direct talks with the Islamic regime over their nuclear program. Or are they? I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, let's take a look at the economy, shall we? Well, what do we got? We got tariff wars. We have those.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
We've got some recession fears, and we still got some of that stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. In volatile markets like now, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Don't just sit there hoping that things will get better. Take control and safeguard your savings. It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Later in the show, a surprising update regarding Iran, as President Trump says that the U.S. is now engaging in direct talks with the Islamic regime over their nuclear program, with a major meeting said to be taking place this Saturday in Oman, or it might actually just be a meeting about perhaps having a meeting to maybe talk about the possibility of direct talks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So you ask yourself, is it time, perhaps, to edge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans are trusting Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. Hey, Mike Baker here. Have you heard about the Maha movement?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Of course, I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again movement. It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority. Look, when you work out regularly, you feel better, you look better, you know that. It positively impacts your entire being and everything you do. It's why I'm so excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team over at Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro has everything you need for a full-body workout at home. Seriously, it's an amazing setup. The cable crossover system with integrated 200-pound weight stacks and the Smith machine, well, it allows you to do hundreds of exercises. Basically, anything and everything you can do at the gym, you can do at home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
And look, if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers complete video workouts. Just press play and follow along. My Power Rack Pro just arrived at the house this week, and our three teenage boys and I are ready to hit it hard. Look, my boys are like all sons, I think. They want their title shot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
But I'm telling you, with the Power Rack Pro at home, I think I can hold them off for a bit longer. Getting into a consistent home fitness routine is easy with Jacked Up Fitness. And at the end of the day, there is nothing more important than your health. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
When you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code BAKER. That's B-A-K-E-R, just like you imagine. Come on, look, no more excuses. Go to getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. President Trump surprised the international community on Monday by confirming that the U.S. is engaged in direct talks with Iran, with what he described as a, quote, very big meeting set for Saturday in Oman.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
As we discussed on the PDB this morning, speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in the Oval Office, Trump announced that the talks will continue with high-level participation. The president told reporters, quote, we'll see what can happen, end quote. Until now, details of the discussions remained opaque. Honestly, I just wanted to work the word opaque into this episode.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
But according to two sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Axios, we've now learned that the U.S. delegation will reportedly be led by Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. On the Iranian side, Foreign Minister Abbas Ragji is expected to take the lead, though, interestingly, the Iranian regime insists that the negotiations will remain indirect and mediated by Omani officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
That version of events, of course, directly contradicts the White House's framing. An Iranian state-linked outlet reported Tuesday that Omani intermediaries will shuttle messages between the parties, an arrangement that Tehran appears to prefer to maintain a plausible distance from any overt diplomatic thaw. So, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
We'll sort through all the various mixed messages. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin in Eastern Europe, where Ukrainian forces are back on the offensive, launching a fresh incursion into Russian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
says there'll be direct talks, while Iran says that the talks will be indirect and conducted through Omani mediators. Looks like I get another chance to throw the word opaque into this episode.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
American officials have confirmed to Axios that Washington is prepared for face-to-face engagement, which of course is not the same as saying that the two sides will engage in direct discussions on Saturday. So, let's have a show of hands over who's confused at this point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
One senior American official described the current situation as little more than, quote, a negotiation about the format of the negotiations. That, of course, underscores the depth of mistrust that persists between the two nations, mistrust that dates back to Trump's unilateral withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear agreement back in 2018. Still, the stakes are enormous.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Trump warned that, quote, if the talks aren't successful with Iran, I think Iran is going to be in great danger, hinting at military action and reaffirming his administration's hard red line that Tehran will never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
As we've tracked here on the PDB, this latest diplomatic push began last month when Trump dispatched a formal letter to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei proposing direct talks and offering Tehran a two-month window to come to the table. Khamenei, who had previously dismissed Trump's gestures as theatrics, responded in late March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Since then, Oman has reportedly acted as an intermediary, ferrying messages between the capitals. Meanwhile, fault lines are beginning to emerge inside the U.S. administration. President Trump, Witkoff, and Vice President J.D. Vance reportedly view diplomacy as viable and are optimistic that a deal is within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
In a March interview with Tucker Carlson, Witkoff said there was, quote, a real possibility of implementing a verification program to ensure that Iran halts any nuclear weapons development. But others remain unconvinced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Mark Rubio, both longstanding Iran hawks, have signaled deep skepticism, favoring a harder line that keeps a military option firmly on the table. Saturday's meeting in Oman could mark a watershed. Well, depending on what the format, structure, or nature of the talks might be, direct, indirect, well, we don't know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
On Monday, President Zelensky publicly confirmed for the first time that Ukrainian troops are fighting in Russia's Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine, engaging in active operations aimed at stifling Moscow's attack capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
A breakthrough could signal the most serious engagement between Washington and Tehran since the collapse of the 2015 deal. But if the talks in whatever format or structure they may occur collapse, well, the U.S. and Iran may well find themselves much closer to military conflict. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 8th of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, it's that simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 8th, 2025: Ukrainian Troops Invade Russia Again & Trump Announces High-Stakes Nuclear Talks With Iran
Now, Zelensky emphasized that the primary goal is not to seize large swaths of Russian territory, like they did with their invasion of the Kursk region back in August of 2024. but to protect Ukrainian towns and settlements in the regions of Sumy and Kharkiv, which face regular aerial bombardments from Russian forces that are stationed near their border, according to a report from Euronews.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Ernsthaft, es ist ein fantastisches Setup. The cable crossover system with integrated 200-pound weight stacks and the Smith machine, well, they allow you to do hundreds of exercises, basically everything that you could do at the gym. If you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers complete video workouts. Just press play and follow along.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Mein Power Rack Pro ist gerade am Haus angekommen und unsere drei jungen Jungs und ich sind bereit, es hart zu schießen. Nun, meine Jungs sind wie alle Söhne, glaube ich. Sie wollen ihren Titelschuss. Aber mit dem Power Rack Pro, lass mich dir etwas sagen, denke ich, kann ich sie ein bisschen länger aufhalten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Es ist einfach, sich in eine konsistente Home Fitness Routine zu entwickeln, mit gejagtem Fitness. Und am Ende des Tages ist nichts wichtiger als deine Gesundheit. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program. And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code Baker. That's just B-A-K-E-R, just like it sounds. Come on, no more excuses.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Go to getjackedup.com. In today's Back of the Brief, a sprawling storm system that ravaged the Midwest and South last week continues to unleash chaos across the US, placing millions on flood watch. At least 21 people are dead across eight states, casualties of a weather system that has torn through the country with alarming speed and force.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
The worst of it hit Tennessee, which now counts 10 storm-related deaths. Other states, such as Missouri, reported three deaths, while Arkansas, Kentucky, Georgia and Indiana each recorded a couple. Mississippi and Alabama also suffered casualties. Kentucky in particular is dealing with a storm hangover that won't quit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
In Louisville, the Ohio River surged 5 feet in just 24 hours, overwhelming a levee and turning farmlands into floodplains. Central counties of the state faced mandatory evacuations after more than 7 inches of rainfall inundated the region and crippled a major power substation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Gestern haben wir uns angeschaut, wie Präsident Trumps steigende Tarif-Polizien für China schaden könnten. Heute fokussieren wir uns auf ein anderes US-Vorschlag, das wäre Russland, und wie der ökonomische Fallschirm Putin in den Kofferbuch schlägt. Eigentlich denke ich nicht, dass Putin einen Kofferbuch trägt. Er schlägt mich als mehr als ein Mann-Purse-Kind.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
But it was western Kentucky that bore the brunt with nearly 16 inches of rain over four days, smashing the state's all-time rainfall record. An assistant fire chief in Kentucky's Anderson County put it bluntly, stating, quote, We've had families lose everything, calling it a, quote, once-in-a-generation weather event.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Over the weekend alone, more than 40 people had to be pulled from the rising waters. And it's not over. As of Monday, nearly 9 million residents across Georgia and eastern Alabama remain under flood watches, with rescue operations still underway and damage assessments, well, far from complete.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Since last Wednesday, the same storm system has triggered at least 93 preliminary tornado reports, making Saturday the 10th consecutive day with confirmed tornado activity. That's a new benchmark for early season severe weather in the U.S., Meanwhile, meteorologists warn that another low-pressure system is gathering steam, sweeping from southeast Virginia down to the Gulf Coast.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
The National Weather Service says it's primed to ignite another round of thunderstorms and flash floods across an already saturated landscape. Rivers across the Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee and Ohio Valleys have yet to crest. And when they do, likely later this week, the flooding could escalate even further. Emergency officials are urging residents in vulnerable areas to stay vigilant.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Recovery efforts are underway, but with more storms on the horizon, well, the threat is far from over. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 8th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And finally, remember what your mother told you.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
To listen to the show ad-free, just become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Always listen to your mom. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Now, the interesting thing here is that Russia wasn't even on Trump's tariff hit list. The White House has stated that sanctions render trade with Russia effectively negligible, making additional tariffs redundant. Other heavily sanctioned nations like Cuba, North Korea and Belarus were also left off of the list. Aber leider für Russland.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Die Märkte kümmern sich nicht wirklich um direkte Zielgruppen. Sie reagieren auf Unwahrheit. Und diese Reaktion hat die Ölpreise nach unten gedreht. Lassen wir uns zuerst die Lage einstellen. Bevor Trump diese neuen Tarife eröffnete, war Brent Crude, der globale Benchmark für Öl, ungefähr 75 Dollar pro Barill. But as soon as the tariffs landed, oil took a nosedive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Today, prices are hovering around $64 a barrel. That's a drop of more than $10 in just a few days, and it's the lowest price since 2021. Now, why does that matter to Russia? Well, I'm very glad you asked that question. It matters because Russia's economy is deeply tied to oil. You might recall the famous line from now deceased Senator John McCain, Russia is a gas station masquerading as a country.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
The Kremlin counts on oil and natural gas exports for roughly a quarter of their entire federal budget. And right now, Russia's flagship crude, the Ural's oil, is trading at around $50 a barrel. That's significantly below Moscow's expectations. Just to give you an idea of how much lower, Russia's entire 2025 budget was initially built around oil trading at $70 per barrel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Even last month, when things started looking shaky, the Russian Ministry of Finance scaled back their expectations, predicting prices around $60 a barrel. But now, even those revised projections look optimistic. Und hier ist, warum es so schlecht für Russland ist, besonders jetzt. Der Kremlin braucht Geld, viel davon, um ihre Krieg in der Ukraine zu bewältigen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Die Militärspende hat sich über 60 Prozent erhöht, allein dieses Jahr. Seit der Invasion in der Ukraine im Februar 2022 hat Russland stark auf Öl-Renten gelegt, um ihre Kriegsmachinen zu halten. At around $80 per barrel, Russia was sitting pretty.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Low production costs, somewhere between $20 and $30 a barrel, meant healthy profits, even with Western sanctions, including a $60 price gap by G7 countries. And of course China has been the main beneficiary, ready, willing and able to purchase Russian oil despite the sanctions. But that uncomfortable margin for Russia is starting to disappear.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
If prices drop another $10 or so, say to $40 a barrel, that could erase about $20 billion from Russia's annual revenues. When that happens, well, Russia has few choices. Raid its reserves, hike taxes on already strained Russian companies, or borrow heavily, if they can, from international markets. All tough options in an economy already bruised by war and sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
To be fair, look, Moscow is not going bankrupt tomorrow. They have reserves, but they can't ride out low prices forever. A sustained slump means a significantly reduced war chest. And that could force the Kremlin to make some very tough decisions about its costly war in Ukraine. Bottom line, Russia built its budget and basically its entire war economy, betting on high oil prices.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
That bet is starting to look shaky. And now, the economic storm that Russia didn't even see coming could seriously undermine Putin's ambitions in Ukraine. Alright, coming up next. Europe is offering zero tariffs to the Trump administration. That's zero. And Netanyahu just wrapped up a high-stakes meeting at the White House with President Trump. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Let's take a look around the economy. What do we see? Oh, well, I'll tell you what we see. Tariff wars. Yep, they're happening. Recession fears and, well, there's that stubborn inflation. It's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets, like the one that we've got right now, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Don't just pretend that everything is going to get better. Take control and safeguard your savings. That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold?
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Es ist Dienstag, der 8. April. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns berichten. Wir fangen heute mit einem Blick auf, wie globales ökonomisches Turmoil den Kriegschuss Russlands schlägt. Die Ölpreise sind stark gestiegen, seit Präsident Trump neue Tarife eröffnet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Look, with an A-plus rating, with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans have turned to Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
In a bid to halt the escalating global trade war, the European Union, the EU, offered to eliminate all industrial tariffs with the US, just as President Trump threatened new economic penalties as global markets are reeling in response.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Am Montag hat die Europäische Kommission-Präsidentin Ursula von der Leyen ein Quote-Zero-für-Zero-Proposal ausgeschlossen, die sagt, dass die EU bereit ist, alle industriellen Tarife, wenn die USA es wollen, das Gleiche zu tun.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Sie ruft Washington an, Tarife auf Geräte wie Autos, Chemikalien, Maschinen, Pharmazeutiken und Rubber- und Plastikmaschinen zu entfernen, die sagt, dass die EU immer bereit ist, einen guten Deal zu machen. Her idea isn't new.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
It's a revival of a concept first explored during the abandoned transatlantic trade and investment partnership, referred to as the TTIP, because everybody loves a good acronym. And those talks of a decade ago were scrapped by Trump in his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
von der Leyen didn't mince words, stating, quote, We've offered zero for zero tariffs for industrial goods, as we have successfully done with many other trading partners. We keep it on the table, end quote. But she made one thing crystal clear. This isn't a plea. If the U.S. shrugs it off, she warned, the EU's ready to hit back if diplomacy fails.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
She stated, quote, We're also prepared to respond through countermeasures and defend our interests, end quote. Right now, the EU's average tariff on US non-agricultural goods sits just above 1.5%. But for American cars, a steep 10%. That's more than any other G7 country and it's a legacy of the TTIP collapse that still stings.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
As we've been tracking closely here on the PDB, von de Leyen's overture comes as Trump just slapped a fresh wave of 20% tariffs on the EU and several other allies last week, ratcheting US trade barriers to levels not seen in over a century. In Luxemburg, EU trade ministers gathered to map out their next move. The bloc's trade commissioner confirmed what many suspected.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Europe is locked and loaded with, quote, a robust list of retaliatory measures. Von der Leyen doubled down, adding, quote, We stand ready to negotiate, but we won't stay idle, end quote. Now, back in Washington, not everybody is on board with Trump's tariff blitz. Republican Senator Mike Lee took to X with a post stating, quote, Let's take that deal, referring to Von der Leyen's offer.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Fellow Republican Senator Rod Johnson echoed that sentiment, writing, quote, At some point, you have to take yes for an answer. Despite the stateside pleas, Trump appears to be remaining defiant. On Truth Social, the president posted, Be strong, courageous and patient, and greatness will be the result. He spelled greatness in all caps, so that's really great.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
By midday, the Dow plunged 750 points, the S&P dropped 1.5%, and the Nasdaq slid more than 1%. Stocks did briefly rally on a false rumor that Trump might delay the tariffs, only to tank again after the White House called the report, quote, fake news. Meanwhile, as we reported yesterday, China is playing hardball.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
After Trump's announcement last week, Beijing responded with retaliatory tariffs of its own. And now Trump is threatening to up the ante unless China reverses its latest 34% tariff hike. Otherwise, the U.S. will slap another 50% – are you keeping track of this? – 50% tariff on Chinese imports starting today.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Enough to threaten the Kremlin's ability to fund its war in Ukraine. I'll explain why this drop in revenue could force Moscow to rethink its military strategy. Later in the show, more world leaders are lining up to make a deal. The European Union is offering to eliminate all industrial tariffs on the US. That's a deal that some Senate Republicans are urging the President to accept.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Now, if you're doing the math, and who isn't, that would bring the total tariffs on Chinese goods to a staggering 104%. That includes previous rounds of penalties, like the fentanyl-related tariffs and last week's trade hits. But Beijing, well, for now, isn't backing down. Chinese officials blasted the US strategy as destabilizing and protectionist.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Economists warned that the ripple effects could be brutal, resulting in higher prices for American consumers and a flood of Chinese goods into other markets. White House Advisor Peter Navarro made the Trump administration's position clear. Tariff relief won't come cheap.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Countries looking for a reprieve better be ready to overhaul their tax codes and gut their regulatory regimes in what could become a long grinding standoff. Okay, auf der ständigen Seite. Präsident Trump hat den israelischen Bundespräsidenten Netanyahu am Montag in einem hochwertigen Meeting begrüßt, das Tarifen betrug. Tarifen sind überall.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Die Krieg in Gaza und eine Bombshell-Revelation von zukünftigen direkten Gesprächen zwischen Trump und Iran über seine nukleare Entwicklung. Das Meeting wurde mit einem gesetzlichen Austausch geöffnet. Netanyahu hat gefeiert, dass Israel mit den USA das Austausch-Defizit auslösen würde, und hat Trump gesagt, dass er es sehr schnell machen würde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
As you might recall, the pledge comes on the heels of sweeping global tariffs that Trump announced last week, with a 17% levy on Israel as part of what he branded Liberation Day. The tariffs are poised to hit Israel's economy hard.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
The tariffs, set to take effect Wednesday, will cost Jerusalem an estimated $3 billion annually in exports and threaten roughly 26,000 jobs across sectors like biotechnology, chemicals and electronics. Israel versuchte, den Blut zu verhindern, indem sie unilaterale Tarife auf amerikanische Produkte, v.a. Essen und agrarische Produkte, eliminierten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Aber Washington versuchte, eine reziprakale Ausgabe zu geben. In der Oval Office hat Netanyahu die Bewegung als eine Bidung für Gerechtigkeit geformt, indem er sagte, dass er ein Freiträger ist und Freiträger muss Gerechtigkeit sein. Ende Quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Trump for his part acknowledged that Netanyahu, quote, started off our conversation today with the offer to drop tariffs, but stopped short of matching the gesture. Instead, he made a broader point, stating, quote, we help Israel a lot. That comment, well, wasn't accidental.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
It was a quiet signal that Trump may be using the tariffs as leverage, tying trade relief to progress on ending the war in Gaza. In the hours leading up to the meeting, Trump spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron, Egypt's President and Jordan's King, each a core player in ceasefire and regional peacekeeping efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Seated beside Netanyahu, Trump predicted the war could end in the, quote, not too distant future, stressing the importance of securing a hostage release. Trump said, quote, this man is working very hard with us to do that, casting Netanyahu as a partner in the diplomatic push.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Netanyahu confirmed that a new hostage deal is in the works and backed Trump's idea of relocating Palestinians as part of rebuilding efforts and US ownership of the Strip. Netanyahu stated, quote, we didn't lock them in, he said, of displaced Palestinians inside the war-torn enclave. Trump emphasized the quote, Gaza is a dangerous death trap.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
He then blasted Israel's 2005 withdrawal from the Strip, calling it a historic blunder, flatly stating, quote, it should never have been given away.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
While critics have condemned the idea of transferring Gaza's displaced population, all 2.3 million of them, Netanyahu praised Trump's plan as bold and claimed talks were advancing with countries willing to receive those refugees, though he didn't name them. Trump, mittlerweile, empfand das Ende-Goal, Gaza in eine, Quote, «safe Field» zu verändern.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Plus, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu traveled to Washington to meet with President Trump yesterday. We'll look at the results of that gathering. In today's Back of the Brief, deadly storms continue to sweep through the Midwest and south of the US, causing widespread flooding and killing at least 21 people. I'll have the details. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Aber der größte Schock kam am Ende des Gesprächs, als Trump erklärte, dass die USA mit Iran diese Sonntag direkte Negotiierungen beginnen würden. Die Negotiierungen, die sich auf Tehrans schnellstmöglichen nuklearen Programm konzentrieren, bezeichneten einen dramatischen diplomatischen Schritt, der entweder einen Ausbruch oder einen Konflikt aufbauen könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
As we reported here on the PDB, Trump warned last month that, quote, if Iran doesn't make a deal, there will be bombing. In the Oval Office meeting, Trump made it clear, stating, quote, Iran would be in great danger if it refuses to abandon its nuclear ambitions, adding that a deal, quote, would be preferable to doing the obvious, in a not so veiled reference, of course, to military action.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Trump stated that Iran flat out cannot have a nuclear weapon, adding that if Saturday's talks aren't successful, it will be a, quote, bad day for Iran. Netanyahu echoed the president's hardline stance, stating, quote, whatever happens, we have to make sure that Iran does not have nuclear weapons, end quote. Okay, and coming up next in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Deadly storms have devastated parts of the Midwest and the South in the US, leaving at least 21 dead and entire communities underwater. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Have you heard about the Maha movement? Das ist richtig. Ich spreche von dem Make-America-Healthy-Again-Movement. Es geht alles darum, Menschen zu inspirieren, Fitness eine Priorität zu machen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 8th, 2025: How The Economic Turmoil Is Crushing Russia & The EU Offers Zero Tariffs
Schau, wenn du regelmäßig trainierst, fühlst du dich besser, du weißt das, du siehst besser aus, es beeinflusst dein ganzes Leben positiv. Deshalb bin ich sehr gespannt, mit Don Mastrangelo und dem Team Jacked Up Fitness zu arbeiten. Schau, das ist ihr kommerzielles Power-Rack Pro. Es hat alles, was du brauchst, um einen vollen Körper-Workout zu machen, direkt zu Hause.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The revelation comes as leaders in Jerusalem are increasingly considering a strike of their own on Iran's nuclear sites due to ongoing ballistic missile attacks on their cities by the Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
They also feel that the regime in Iran has been significantly weakened due to their proxy war against Israel and that now may offer an historic opportunity to end the mullahs' dreams of a bomb.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
It's Tuesday, 7 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
In an interesting wrinkle, Axios reported that in recent weeks, senior advisors to President Biden had also privately encouraged him to strike Iran's nuclear program before Trump takes office, though others inside the administration reportedly pushed back. With only two weeks now remaining in his term, those discussions have reportedly stopped.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Regarding Trump, it remains unclear what his preferred path forward will be. Despite the speculation regarding a potential strike on Iran, other unnamed sources close to Trump told Axios that he'll likely attempt to strike a new nuclear agreement with Tehran before turning to possible military options.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Trump, the dealmaker, is keen on avoiding further regional escalation in the Middle East, particularly a scenario that could pull in U.S. forces. Just last week, Iran's foreign minister said his country is eager to restart nuclear talks with the U.S. once Trump returns to office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
As a reminder, in 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or the nuclear deal, was reached between Iran, the US, and five other world powers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The deal restricted Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief and extensive UN oversight, though Iran was quickly accused of flouting the terms of the deal, not to mention that there were several sites that the Iranian regime insisted be off-limits from any monitoring efforts. The U.S. withdrawal from the deal under Trump in 2018 marked a turning point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
First, we'll look at Donald Trump's plans for the Iranian regime as Israeli officials say that they're confident that the president-elect will back an IDF strike on Iran's nuclear facilities or even mount his own preemptive strike when he returns to office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Sanctions were reimposed as part of a maximum pressure strategy by the then-Trump administration, to which Iran responded by stepping back from its commitments, notably increasing uranium enrichment to 60% purity and restricting access to certain nuclear sites, which, frankly, they had already done during the course of the agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Now, with their network of proxies crippled by Israel and the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, Iran is in a significantly weakened position. Due to this isolation, fears are growing among US and Israeli intelligence officials that Iran may pivot to further accelerating their development of a nuclear weapon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
French President Emmanuel Macron was the latest to warn about Iran's renewed pursuit of a bomb, saying on Monday that the regime's nuclear program was nearing, quote, the point of no return. Given the stakes, we expect this issue to be front and center when Trump returns to the Oval Office on January 20th.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Whether Trump will opt for a military option is, well, frankly, at this point, anyone's guess. But despite his reported desire to avoid escalation, he did warn last month that there's a chance the US could go to war against the mullahs, saying, quote, Anything can happen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Coming up, the Biden administration has announced the transfer of 11 Yemeni detainees from the Guantanamo Bay military prison, Gitmo, to Oman for resettlement, including two prisoners who served as bodyguards for Osama bin Laden. We'll discuss that story when we return. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Then, the Biden administration has announced the transfer of 11 Yemeni detainees from the Guantanamo Bay Military Prison to Oman for resettlement, including two prisoners who served as bodyguards for Osama bin Laden. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The Pentagon announced on Monday the transfer of 11 Yemeni detainees from Guantanamo Bay, including former bodyguards of Osama bin Laden, to Oman as part of the Biden administration's effort to reduce the detainee population to eventually close the detention facility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The detainees were captured in the aftermath of the September 11 terror attacks and have been held for over two decades without charges. According to the New York Post, among them is Ahmed Alwi, an alleged al-Qaeda fighter who served as part of bin Laden's security detail in Afghanistan. A 2016 declassified document described him as maintaining a quote, extremist mindset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Another detainee, also linked to al-Qaeda and reportedly bin Laden's bodyguard, may have been associated with the aborted 9-11-style hijacking in southwest Asia led by al-Qaeda operative Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. Now, notably, all 11 detainees had been cleared for transfer by federal national security review panels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The transfer was shrouded in secrecy, executed in the pre-dawn hours, and comes days before Mohammed, or KSM, the alleged mastermind behind the September 11 attacks, and, of course, Guantanamo's most notorious prisoner, is expected to plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence, thus avoiding a death penalty trial.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The plea deal, which also includes two co-conspirators, has been met with fierce criticism from Republican lawmakers and the families of 9-11 victims who see it as a miscarriage of justice. Well, they're possibly not wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
It's important to note that efforts to execute this transfer began three years ago with an initial transfer set for October of 2023, but that plan was aborted due to congressional opposition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
With just two weeks to go until Donald Trump assumes office, the president-elect is setting his sights on Iran, particularly what the US can do to undermine the regime's atomic ambitions. According to an exclusive report from Axios, Israeli officials believe Trump will either support an Israeli military strike against Iranian nuclear facilities or direct the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
The Defense Department expressed gratitude to Oman for agreeing to resettle the detainees, stating, quote, The United States appreciates the willingness of the government of Oman and other partners to support ongoing U.S. efforts focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Authorities have not disclosed why Oman was chosen or what the U.S. gave the host country, but the nation is recognized as a stable U.S. ally in the Middle East. According to the New York Times, the U.S. typically provides host countries with financial support for housing, education, rehabilitation, and monitoring of the activities of former detainees.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
This transfer leaves Guantanamo Bay with just 15 detainees, six who have never been charged, two convicted prisoners, and seven others facing charges in high-profile terrorism cases, including the 9-11 attacks, the USS Cole bombing, and the 2002 Bali bombings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
In its final two weeks, the Biden administration's push to clear Guantanamo Bay of uncharged detainees has now resulted in the lowest prisoner count since the detention center was opened in 2002. Of course, the center, Gitmo as it's commonly called, has faced widespread criticism over the years for holding individuals indefinitely without trial.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 7 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
military to launch its own preemptive strike on the sites. The report cites two sources close to Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, who met with the president-elect at Mar-a-Lago back in November.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 7th, 2025: Will Trump Strike Iran's Nuclear Program? & Biden Frees Gitmo Prisoners For Resettlement In Oman
Dermer, a close advisor to Prime Minister Netanyahu, reportedly came away from the meeting confident that Israel will have a strong strategic partner in Trump when it comes to dealing with the increasing nuclear threat posed by Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
The outcome, resting heavily on congressional maneuvering, could redefine the future of America's energy independence. Okay, coming up in the back of the brief. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warns of Russia's potential transfer of advanced technology to North Korea in his final days as America's chief diplomat. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In today's Back of the Brief, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued a stark warning. Russia is dangerously close to sharing advanced satellite technology with North Korea, a move that could significantly boost Pyongyang's military capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Speaking from Seoul on Monday, Blinken underscored the gravity of this potential transfer, asserting that such technology would significantly enhance North Korea's reconnaissance capabilities and precision strike capacity. Dies, hat er bemerkt, ist eine direkte und eskalierende Gefahr für die Vereinigten Staaten und ihre Alliierten.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Seine Aufmerksamkeit bringt in kräftigen Fokus die zunehmende Verbindung zwischen Moskau und Pyongyang, die wir hier auf der PDB übernommen haben. Die Satelliten-Technologie in Frage ist beruflich Teil einer breiteren Quid-Pro-Quo-Vereinigung.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, in return for military equipment, training and satellite assistance, North Korea has supplied troops and armaments to bolster Kremlin forces in Ukraine. Equally alarming is Russia's shifting stance on North Korea's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Blinken disclosed that Moscow, quote, may be close of formally acknowledging Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program, a stark departure from its historical support for denuclearization on the Korean peninsula.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
solch eine Veränderung könnte Pjongjangs Bezug auf advanced Weaponry erheben und internationale Anstrengungen verhindern, um seine nukleare Arsena zu verhindern, die bereits bei etwa 50 Kriegsführern ausgestattet ist. Nun, das ist nicht Russlands erster Schritt in der Entwicklung von Nordkoreas militärischen Fähigkeiten.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In 2023, Moscow played a critical role in facilitating Pyongyang's inaugural satellite launch. It was a milestone that paved the way for subsequent collaborations on space-based surveillance systems. These systems now allow North Korea to pinpoint global targets with unprecedented precision.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
We'll begin with a major bombshell out of Canada, where the curtains are closing on the political career of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trudeau announced Monday that he'll be stepping down as leader of Canada's Liberal Party and resigning as Prime Minister in the coming months, after serving in the role for nearly a decade.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Admiral Samuel Paparo, Head of US Indo-Pacific Command, has previously cautioned that Russia's assistance could extend beyond satellites. Paparo warned of the potential transfer of submarine and missile technology, assets that would dramatically expand North Korea's military reach and further destabilize an already volatile region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
The evolving alliance between Russia and North Korea represents more than a simple convergence of interests. It signals an explicit challenge to the international order. The implications of this partnership, spanning nuclear proliferation, military support and strategic defiance, underscore the urgency of a cohesive global response.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 7 January. Now, if you have any questions or comments for me, please reach out at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, I suspect you know that you just have to become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It is that simple. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
The surprise move caps off weeks of interparty squabbles, and when was the last time you heard someone say squabble, and mounting calls from party members for Trudeau to step aside. In fact, one of his most loyal allies, Chrystia Freeland, abruptly resigned from her role as finance minister in mid-December, rebuking Trudeau over what she felt was his failed stewardship of the country.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Her Resignation left his party in tatters going into an election year and only increased the infighting. Staring down the barrel of a worsening economic crisis and pre-election polling showing the Liberal Party has grown wildly unpopular under his leadership, Trudeau wurde mit wenigen Chancen verlassen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In einem Anruf am Montag sagte ein somberer Trudeau, dass er sich sowohl als Premierpräsident als auch als liberaler Führer bis Ende März behalten würde, sobald seine Partei einen neuen Chef wählt. Er bezeichnete den internen Rift mit der liberalen Partei als den führigen Faktor für seine Wahl, sich zu verlassen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
There was also the looming threat that the opposition party would bring down Trudeau's minority government with a no-confidence motion once Parliament returned to session. Trudeau said, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
The Canadian Parliament was originally due to resume session on the 27th of January, but Trudeau also announced that he would be suspending Parliament until the 24th of March to allow his party time to pick a new leader.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Er sagte, er hätte bereits den Präsidenten seines Partei ausgerichtet, um den Prozess zu beginnen, um eine robuste und kompetitive Führungskraft zu nennen, obwohl es unklar ist, wie dieser Prozess aussehen wird und wer der Frontrunner sein wird, um seine Schuhe zu füllen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In der Zwischenzeit sagte er, er glaube, dass seine Ausgabe hilft, die Temperatur zu reduzieren und das Parlament zurück zur Arbeit zu bringen, ohne Distraktion vor einem neuen Nationalen Wahlkampf. He criticized Parliament for being, quote, seized by obstruction, filibustering and a total lack of productivity in recent months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Die Verabschiedung des Parlaments bedeutet, dass eine neue nationale Wahl vor Mai nicht mehr vorhanden sein wird. Die kanadische Gesetzgebung stipuliert, dass eine Wahl am Ende Oktober stattfinden muss, aber egal, wer ihre Führerin ist, zeigen die Wahlen, dass die Liberal-Partei wahrscheinlich eine nationale Warnung haben wird.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Die Wähler in Kanada sind wütend über die hohe Inflation, die viele auf die liberalen Spenden-Polizeien von Trudeau beurteilen, sowie auf eine große Erhöhung der verfügbaren Wohnungen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Ein Poll im Dezember zeigte, dass die Verteidiger mehr als bereit sind, von Trudeau weiterzugehen, mit 73 Prozent der Kanadier, beziehungsweise fast der Hälfte von liberalen Verteidigern, die gesagt haben, dass sie ihn resignieren wollten. Nun, das ist ein Zeichen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Der Leiter der Opposition-Konservative Partei verabschiedete Trudeaus Verabschiedung als ein, Quote, Trick und politische Manöver, indem er sagte, dass die gesamte liberale Partei für Trudeaus politische Rekorde ähnelt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
The Conservative Party leader, who's running for Prime Minister, said that the Liberal Party was simply, quote, swapping in another Liberal face to keep ripping off Canadians, end quote, but said voters would not fall for it. He reiterated his calls for an immediate election to be held.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Regarding his conservative opposition, Trudeau took some parting shots, warning that the Conservative Party leader represented a dark view for Canada. Trudeau said, quote, we need an ambitious, optimistic view of the future and they are not offering it. All that said, Trudeau will still be in the driver's seat when President-elect Donald Trump returns to the Oval Office in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
on January 20th. As I'm sure our listeners are aware, Trump has threatened Canada with steep tariffs on all imports over the flow of migrants and drugs across the northern border, as well as what he argues are trade imbalances. Solche Tarife könnten natürlich die kanadische Wirtschaft zerstören, da 75 Prozent ihrer Exporten direkt in die USA gehen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In typischer Trump-Fashion hat der Präsident-Elekt Trudeau gezwungen, nach seinem Resignationsgespräch, Kanada mit den USA zu verbinden und die 51. Staat zu werden, um finanzielle Ruin zu vermeiden. Alright, coming up next. Israel negotiates a ceasefire with Hamas while warning of a collapsing truce with Hezbollah. Plus, President Biden's new ban on drilling across 625 million acres of US waters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
It's Tuesday, 7 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Heute beginnen wir mit den wichtigen Nachrichten aus Kanada. Justin Trudeau ist als Premierminister nach fast einer Dekade im Büro, an die Anrufe zu steigen, um zu steigen. Später in der Show haben wir das Neueste aus dem Mittleren Osten.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
I'll have those stories when we come back. Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact. Wisst ihr, dass 60% der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall in einem Jahr hergestellt wird? Denkt daran, 60% in einem Jahr. Bob ist dein Onkel. Landfall. Kontrastiere das mit dem Vergangenen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich teure Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ausgestattet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern auch eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB. I want to turn your attention to the Middle East, where hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza have once again been rekindled, just as Israel warns their fragile truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon is at risk of collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas resumed in Qatar on Sunday, and officials with the Biden administration said they're optimistic that a deal can be secured before the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House. But then again, when has the Biden administration not been optimistic that some deal is in the making?
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
But as our regular listeners are aware, when it comes to this particularly difficult issue, it's hard to know what to believe. We've seen optimistic reports, as I've mentioned, that Hamas was close to a ceasefire deal countless times, only for negotiations to break down. If the latest reports are anything to go by... I would be careful about setting your expectations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Rumors abounded on Sunday that a breakthrough was imminent after Hamas released a list of 34 Israeli hostages still held in Gaza who could be released in the first stage of a ceasefire agreement. The list included the names of the remaining women, children, older and injured hostages. The problem, however, as Israeli officials quickly pointed out,
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
ist, dass es die selbe Liste ist, die die israelischen Negotiatorinnen und Negotiator im Juli an die Mediatorinnen und Mediator gegeben haben. Israels Offiziere haben auch bemerkt, dass die monatelange Liste keine Klarheit über die Bedingungen der Anwesenden gab. Und das ist etwas, was Israel geäußert hat, bevor sich ein potenzieller Deal vorstellt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
On Monday, a spokesman for the office of Prime Minister Netanyahu downplayed the media reports that progress was being made as spin by Hamas and urged the media to stop giving oxygen to the militant group's attempts at, quote, propaganda and psychological terror. The spokesman told the Times of Israel, quote, they haven't said who is alive and who is not. They haven't sent any list.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Israel ist mit Hamas zu einer Zerstörung zu diskutieren, während sie beurteilt, dass ihre Krieg mit Hezbollah vielleicht auf dem Weg zum Verlust ist. Plus, President Biden, I remember him, announced a last-minute executive action on Monday, banning new drilling and further oil and gas development across over, get this, 625 million acres of U.S. coastal and offshore waters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
So as far as we stand, there isn't any progress, end quote. As a reminder, Israeli officials say there are 96 hostages remaining in Gaza, though at least 30 are thought to be deceased, and Hamas reportedly doesn't even know where all the hostages are located.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Progress was briefly made towards a ceasefire in early December, after Hamas reportedly yielded some of Israel's key demands, but the talks broke down again just before New Year, after Hamas reportedly went back on their promises and hardened their stance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Still, despite the statement from Netanyahu's office, Koretz reported on Monday that the Israeli negotiating delegation was hopeful that a deal could be finalized in the coming days. Whether or not that is just wishful thinking is really frankly anyone's guess. Währenddessen schaute man nach Nordisrael.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Die Führer in Jerusalem haben am Sonntag beurteilt, dass ihr Sturzfeuer-Verein mit Hezbollah in Risiko des Verlustes gewesen wäre. Wie Sie sich erinnern werden, hat Israel mit der Gruppe am 27. November eine unbegrenzte Truppe erreicht, um für mindestens 60 Tage Ausfall zu stoppen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Der Deal benötigt die Verabschiedung israelischer Truppen aus Libanon und Hezbollah, um nach Norden, über den Litani-River im südlichen Libanon, zu fliehen. In Theorie sind die Leibniz-Militär- und UN-Peacekeeping-Mitgliedschaften, die am 26. Januar die einzige Gruppe erlaubt sind, am Süden des Latanien-Rivers zu sein.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Aber Israel und Hezbollah haben sich immer wieder verurteilt, dass sie die Termine des Vertrags verurteilen und haben sich in einigen Tit-für-Tat-Strikes engagiert, seit der Zerstörung implementiert wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Am Sonntag sagte der israelische Verteidigungsminister Israel Katz, Hezbollah habe noch nicht alle ihre Waffen und Terrorismus-Infrastruktur im Süden des Rivers zerstört oder ihre Kämpfer zurückzuhalten. Weiterhin sagte Hezbollahs Leiter am Samstag, dass die Terrorgruppe noch nicht entscheidet hat, ob sie die Begründung der Kriege aufhalten würde.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Katz gab eine einfache Warnung, indem er sagte, dass, wenn Hezbollah nicht mehr über den Latani-River zurückgeht, es keine Vertreterin sein wird. Okay, wir gehen auf die staatliche Seite. Präsident Biden hat eine letzte-Minute-Exekutiv-Order eröffnet, neue Öl- und Natur-Gas-Drohungen über mehr als 625 Millionen Hektar östlichen und offiziellen Wasser zu bieten.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Die Ordnung setzt einen Showdown mit Präsident Trump auf, der gefeiert hat, domänische Nahrungsproduktionen zu eröffnen. The executive order, signed on Monday, protects offshore areas along the east and west coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and parts of Alaska's northern Bering Sea, wielding authority under the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
It's important to note that despite the ban, the order spares existing operations and leaves the energy-rich western Gulf of Mexico untouched. This isn't the first time that the 1953 law has been invoked for long-term protections. Former President Barack Obama used it to bar drilling in Arctic and Atlantic waters. When challenged by Trump during his first White House stint, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
District Court in 2019 upheld the law's provisions, ruling that only Congress, not the President, could overturn such protections.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
In announcing the order, Biden pointed to escalating environmental concerns, stating, quote, it's not worth the risks, while framing the order as a safeguard, adding, quote, as the climate crisis continues to threaten communities, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Trump and his team, however, have been quick to brand the decision as a provocation. The president-elect, who campaigned on restoring American, quote, energy dominance, dismissed the ban as, quote, ridiculous in a radio interview, vowing to, quote, unban it immediately upon taking office. Trump further blasted the move, stating that his administration will take advantage of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
oil and gas assets, referring to them as the biggest assets that the country has. Caroline Leavitt, Trumps incoming press secretary, condemned the move on X, accusing Biden of political theatrics, stating, quote, Joe Biden will fail and we will drill, baby, drill, end quote. Industry leaders were no less blunt in their criticism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, Secretary of State Antony Blinken issues a warning in his final days about Russia possibly transferring advanced technology to North Korea. Well, of course they are. This is not a pro bono arrangement for North Korea to provide troops to Russia. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Ron Neal, chairman of the Independent Petroleum Association of American Offshore Committee, enabled to ban a, quote, significant and catastrophic blow to the oil and gas sector, warning of broader economic repercussions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Neil further stated, quote, this move represents a major attack on the oil and natural gas industry, emphasizing the anti-energy policies Biden enacted through his administration that will continue to hurt Americans long after his departure. Yet the incoming Trump administration may find room to maneuver.
The President's Daily Brief
January 7th, 2025: Trudeau Announces His Resignation & Hezbollah Ceasefire on the Brink
Obamas precedent in 2019, upheld by the courts, provides a potential legal pathway for Trump to reverse Biden's order. With Republicans now controlling Congress, Biden's 11th hour executive order can be repealed through legislative action. As Biden prepares to exit the White House in two weeks, the battle over energy policy looms large, with Trump poised to reshape the nation's approach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
In a recent interview with Britain's The Times, Ralph Goff, a veteran intelligence officer who spent more than 30 years in CIA operations, said the U.S. gravely misjudged Putin's military threats towards the West in the early days of the war, essentially letting the Russian leader dictate the terms of the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
He said President Biden and his allies were guided by a misplaced fear of nuclear escalation, which prevented them from giving Ukraine the advanced weaponry and equipment they needed to defeat Putin's forces when the war first broke out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
It's Tuesday, the 6th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Essentially, Goff argues that the Biden administration felt that if Putin thought he was losing the war, he would, quote, go nuclear, a risk that he said was severely overblown. This led to a deliberate strategy of giving Ukraine just enough weapons to fight, but not enough to turn the tables on Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
In truth, Goff said Putin was simply engaging in empty saber rattling with his nuclear threats, gambling that Western leaders would be too intimidated to push back. And, well, frankly, it appears that Putin was right. Goff said, quote, they allowed themselves to be bamboozled by Vladimir Putin and his nuclear saber rattling.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
So they gave the Ukrainians this weaponry, but they never gave them enough to win. They only gave them enough to bleed, end quote. And yes, bamboozled is a technical CIA term. According to the Times report, it's a frustration shared by many in the Western intelligence community and even at the heart of the U.S. and U.K. governments, but not one that officials dare to voice publicly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
But for Goff, this frustration goes back much further, back to the winter of 2014 when Russian forces first captured Crimea. At the time, Goff was based in Langley, serving as the CIA's chief of operations for Europe and Eurasia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
He says that he attempted to warn his superiors and decision-makers in Washington that Putin's capture of Crimea signaled the beginning of something much worse, but he said he was largely ignored.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
First up, a veteran CIA station chief just offered up some harsh criticism for the former Biden administration regarding the war in Ukraine, saying that the former president badly miscalculated the situation, giving Kiev enough weapons to, quote, bleed, but not to win. The result, he says, was condemning Ukraine to fighting a drawn-out meat grinder war with no end in sight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Goff told the Times, quote, I was trying to ring the alarm bell that the seeds of World War III are being sown in the Donbass right now, and we need to do something about it, but there were other priorities, end quote. Goff says that Western leaders severely underestimated the growing threat from Russian expansionism, emboldening Putin, who read the lack of strong response from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
and their European allies as weakness. Ultimately, he argues that the West's soft approach to Putin led directly to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022. Still, he said, the U.S. and Europe could have dealt Putin a decisive blow if they'd been willing to throw their full military support behind Kiev instead of just offering empty platitudes about defending democracy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Goff told the Times, "...had we equipped the Ukrainians at the time with proper weaponry, they might have been able to drive the Russians all the way out of the country. It didn't happen. It set the stage for this long, protracted, drawn-out, meat-grinder war that we're witnessing today." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
As our longtime listeners here at the PDB are well aware, Putin and other Kremlin officials have made repeated nuclear threats since the invasion, particularly any time the Biden administration and NATO leaders were discussing giving Kyiv more advanced weaponry and loosening the restrictions on using them inside Russian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
The threats always appeared to work, prompting the Biden White House to back down and revert to mere rhetorical support for Kyiv. It wasn't until November of 2024 that then-President Biden relented and approved the use of advanced U.S.-made long-range missiles for strikes inside Russia, but by then, Goff said it was too little, too late.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Regarding the Trump administration, Goff sees more reason for cautious optimism. He says Putin, as a former intelligence officer, thinks he can manipulate Trump, but he predicts he'll end up, quote, sorely mistaken. Goff said, quote, Putin will eventually overplay his hand with the administration and show them where the problem lies. And the problem is in Moscow, not Kiev.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Goff retired from the CIA in October of 2023 and has since spent a considerable amount of time in Ukraine advising government and intelligence officials. He's also attempting to persuade American companies to invest in Ukraine's long-term future. He told the Times, End quote. Well, frankly, Goff is correct in his assessment of how the U.S. and the EU have engaged in this conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
They never approached this as an effort to defeat Russia. That, in their minds, of course, was a bridge too far. The mindset from the beginning was, we'll support Ukraine in the invaded country's effort to defend itself, but we're not engaged in action against Russia. Coming up next, Israel unleashes a second wave of airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on Tuesday. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about fitness, right? That's important. Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that is great news. And studies prove that strength training does more to burn fat than just cardio alone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Plus, of course, as we age, and we're all aging, it's critical to maintain muscle mass and bone density. You want to be consistent also, right? You need to make it easy to find time to work out regularly. And the best way that I think for that is to work out at home. And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about. I want to talk to you about this great company.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Jacked Up Fitness, as an example, offers the commercial-grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro. It's an ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full-body workout right in your own spare room or your garage. It's equipped with a cable crossover system, an integrated 200-pound weight stack, and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform hundreds, literally hundreds of exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Everything you used to do at the gym, well, you can now do it at home. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program includes a full-body video workouts led by celebrity fitness trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram. Simply press play and follow along. Look, no more excuses. It's easy now. I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and I gotta tell you, it is fantastic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
The quality is excellent, the construction is super solid, and it's smooth, just like the best commercial gym systems. And, no more worrying about finding time to get to the gym, or whether it'll be crowded and you'll have to stand around waiting for benches or machines. Visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Later in the show, Israel unleashed a second wave of airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on Tuesday, including a strike on the country's main airport. The latest actions are a direct retaliation for Sunday's missile strike by the Houthis on Tel Aviv's international airport, which injured several people. In a late-breaking development, President Trump has now said that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
And use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com. Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security. Specifically, let's talk about your online security. And more specifically, let me talk to you about a company worried about your online security, and that would be Delete.me.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Delete.me makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable. Look, you know this, it's easier than ever now to find personal information about people online.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Having your address, your phone numbers, your family members' names hanging out on the internet can have actual consequences in the real world and it makes everyone vulnerable. With DeleteMe, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan by texting PDB to the number 64000. Now, the only way to get 20% off is to text PDB to that number 64000. That's PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Israeli military unleashed a second wave of airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on Tuesday, hitting sites in and around the capital, Sana'a, including the airport, in direct retaliation for Sunday's missile strike on Tel Aviv's international airport that injured several people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
According to the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, the latest strikes targeted key infrastructure used in Houthi tunnel construction and weapons smuggling, including Sana'a International Airport, multiple power stations, and the Al Imran cement factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
A Houthi-affiliated news outlet reported additional strikes on the Attan neighborhood to the southwest, the Haiz central power station in Sahan to the southeast, and the Asr electricity facility in the Ma'in district west of the capital. For the first time since Israel began striking Houthi targets, the IDF issued an evacuation warning to civilians at the airport before hitting it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
The military later declared the Yemeni airport, quote, completely disabled. Israeli officials described the warning as a calculated decision, saying the nature of the target, an international airport, necessitated a higher threshold for civilian protection. Previous strikes on ports and industrial zones came without such notice.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Tuesday's campaign marks the seventh Israeli operation against Houthi infrastructure since July of 2024, and the second in just 24 hours. As we reported on today's PDB, Israeli fighter jets on Monday carried out a long-range assault involving at least 20 aircraft and 50 munitions, targeting a Hodeidah port and a concrete factory near the city of Bajau.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
will stop its two-month-old bombing campaign against the Houthis, claiming that the rebel group is, quote, capitulated and will stop targeting shipping in the Red Sea. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
The port, according to Israeli intelligence, has been used as a conduit for Iranian weapons shipments. At the same time, the factory was flagged as a logistical hub for Houthi terrorist infrastructure. The Iranian-backed terror group claims the Monday strikes killed at least one person and wounded more than 30 others, describing the campaign as a, quote, "...joint U.S.-Israeli aggression."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Washington has denied direct involvement in the strikes, but offered intelligence to Jerusalem, though American forces reportedly conducted their own strikes near Sana'a that same evening. In a statement Tuesday, the IDF accused the Houthis of operating, quote, under Iranian direction and funding,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
with the goal of destabilizing the region, threatening Israel, and disrupting maritime traffic through the Red Sea. The Iranian regime denied playing a role in Sunday's missile strike on Israel, insisting the Houthis acted independently.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Until now, Israeli officials had relied largely on the Trump administration's robust ongoing aerial campaign, which has included over 1,000 strikes on Houthi targets since March as a deterrent. But Sunday's missile attack, which punched through Israeli air defenses and detonated inside Tel Aviv's Ben-Gurion airport's perimeter, well, that prompted a reassessment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
It was the first time that a Houthi-fired missile made it through to Israeli territory unimpeded, forcing Israel to recalibrate its posture and take direct aim at the source. and did a late-breaking development. Earlier today, President Trump indicated that the U.S. will cease, at least for now, its two-month-old bombing campaign against the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
According to Trump, the Houthis have, quote, capitulated and agreed to stop their targeting of all shipping in the Red Sea. We're following up on this latest development, and we'll provide more detail in tomorrow morning's PDB. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 6th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
And as you probably heard during today's White House press conference, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. All right, fine. That was not mentioned during the press conference. I guess they just didn't have time to bring it up. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
A decorated six-time former CIA station chief is airing his unvarnished thoughts on America's foreign policy failures regarding the war in Ukraine, and his assessment paints a rather damning portrait of the former Biden administration's strategy towards Vladimir Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, you know all about the tariffs by now, right? The trade wars. And you know that all of that has thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. Look, it's weighing heavily on all of us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
But I am here to tell you that there's a silver lining and actually a gold lining as well that I think a lot of people may have missed. And by that, I mean that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. Now, while the new policies are triggering some financial chaos for sure, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
So, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is very simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 6th, 2025: Ex-CIA Chief: Biden Armed Ukraine to Bleed—Not to Win & Israel Takes The Gloves Off Against Yemen's Houthis
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans turn to Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
And while the new policies are admittedly causing financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first step is very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Just text PDB to the number 989-898 to receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans turn to Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
have been felt swiftly in China Numerous Chinese manufacturers have paused production entirely and shut down operations as they scramble to find new buyers with warehouses filling with unsent goods China's factory activity, meanwhile, has contracted at its fastest pace in 16 months
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. In today's back of the brief, the Trump administration is reportedly turning to cash incentives in a bid to accelerate the removal of illegal migrants from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Officials with the Department of Homeland Security, DHS, announced Monday that they will shoulder the cost of commercial flights and offer a $1,000 stipend to any illegal migrants willing to voluntarily self-deport from the U.S. and return to their country of origin. While it may sound like a costly endeavor, officials said it will actually save taxpayers up to $1 million per family.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
That's according to a report from the New York Post. The department says the current average cost of arresting, detaining, and deporting an illegal migrant is roughly $17,000. So, a $1,000 stipend instead is a small price to pay in the administration's view.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Stephen Millett, President Trump's top policy and homeland security advisor, said the additional savings are associated with the long-term costs of free welfare and public support that have been given to illegal migrants.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Migrants can avail themselves of the new option by using the DHS's CBP Home app, which contains a self-deportation reporting feature that lets migrants submit their intent to depart the U.S. to the DHS. Officials with the Trump administration have said that migrants who choose to self-deport have the opportunity to return legally in the future, unlike those who opt to remain illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Monday, "...if you are here illegally, self-deportation is the best, safest, and most cost-effective way to leave the U.S. to avoid arrest. This is the safest option for our law enforcement and aliens and is a 70% savings for U.S. taxpayers."
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The department added that migrants who use the CBP Home app will be deprioritized for detention and removal, provided they take meaningful steps towards preparing for their future departure.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
As we've previously discussed, the CBP Home app is a rebranded version of the Biden-era CBP One app that allowed at least 936,000 illegal immigrants to apply for asylum from within their home countries before flying to the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
It's Tuesday, the 6th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today in China, where street protests have erupted due to the ongoing trade war with the U.S., with angry workers taking to the streets to demand back pay and to complain about mass factory layoffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
That program was shut down through an executive order within minutes of President Trump being sworn into office, along with virtually every single other Biden-era program that facilitated the influx of some 8 million migrants into the U.S. over the last four years.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
In a recent update on their progress regarding illegal immigration, DHS officials said roughly 152,000 migrants have been deported since Trump's second term began in January. Border Czar Tom Homan also recently touted the administration's success at turning the tide at the southern border, pointing to a historic 95% drop in illegal crossings.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Now, discontent is spreading among the millions of Chinese workers suffering the brunt of these harsh economic impacts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Under the Trump administration, illegal migrant encounters and apprehensions of the border are now reportedly at their lowest levels in recorded history. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 6th of May. If you have any questions or comments or perhaps some pithy insight, just reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
And to listen to the show ad-free, well, you know what to do. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Over the past few weeks, thousands of disgruntled workers have poured into the streets from the Hunan province in central China to Inner Mongolia in the north and Sichuan in the south to demand back pay from unpaid wages and to challenge what they call unfair dismissals caused by the wave of factory closures. That's according to a report from the Daily Caller News Foundation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Last week, outside an LED light manufacturing plant near Shanghai, thousands of furious workers chanted against company managers over unpaid wages, while in China's Dao County, hundreds of furious workers gathered outside a sporting goods factory after it abruptly closed its doors without paying employees.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
An example of just how desperate the situation is becoming, in the northeast city of Tongliau, construction workers recently climbed onto rooftops and threatened to jump unless they were paid And in the southwest Sichuan province, workers of a company producing flexible circuit boards also say they haven't been paid in months and are having their social security benefits withheld
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
It's a similar story across the country. A garment exporter in southern China told the Wall Street Journal that they had already been forced to furlough 30% of their workforce after losing three major U.S. clients during the trade war. Another textile manufacturer told the Journal that some Chinese factories are now engaged in unsustainable price wars just to keep their heads above water.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Analysts for the U.S.-based investment bank Goldman Sachs recently estimated that some 16 million jobs across Chinese industries are now at risk, as China's export orders hit their lowest levels since the worst days of the COVID lockdowns. They say China's communication equipment sector is set to be hit hardest, followed by apparel and chemical product manufacturers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
As we touched on earlier on the PDB, major global banks have now cut China's full-year growth forecast to around 4%. That's well below Beijing's official target. The situation is clearly untenable for the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, prompting them to begin quietly exempting a host of US-made products from their 125% retaliatory tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
While China has not publicly acknowledged the exemptions, they have reportedly compiled a list of some 131 products that will be granted tariff waivers, amounting to roughly $40 billion in goods or nearly a quarter of all Chinese imports from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
this year The exemptions cover a range of goods, from pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals to aviation components and critical inputs for electronics manufacturing Since early April, Beijing has also been privately surveying businesses about other potential sectors where tariff waivers might be appropriate.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Analysts say that this quiet approach by the CCP allows China to maintain its hardline message demanding the U.S. back down while easing the economic damage of the trade war domestically. But with protests spreading, the measures may not be enough to quell the public's outrage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Many human rights observers fear that the CCP could soon violently crack down on the spreading protests, much like they did in 2022 when demonstrations erupted over Chinese President Xi Jinping's lockdown orders. An advisor to the Chinese government recently told the Wall Street Journal, quote, Xi today has the same mentality as Mao.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
His bottom line is that no major crisis will be allowed to endanger his hold on power, end quote. Meanwhile, last Thursday, the Chinese Communist Ministry publicly expressed a willingness to engage in direct trade negotiations with the U.S. They qualified that statement, however, by saying that the U.S. must first drop all unilateral tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
We'll have those details. And here's a hint. The one thing that Xi Jinping and his Chinese Communist Party fear more than anything else is an unhappy and unruly population. Later in the show, Pakistan makes a show of force, tests launching a ballistic missile, has tensions with India flare after that deadly terror attack in Kashmir. Plus, Israel strikes back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
That's a demand that isn't likely to be received warmly by the White House. For now, it does not appear that a quick resolution with China is in the cards, even as their domestic economy slumps. All right, coming up after the break, Pakistan test launches a missile as tensions with India rise, and IDF warplanes strike Yemen after a Houthi missile lands near Tel Aviv's airport. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds to talk about fitness. Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that is great news. Studies prove that strength training does more to burn fat than cardio alone. Plus, as we age and we're all aging, it's critical to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
You want to be consistent also and make it easy to find time to work out regularly. And frankly, I think the best way to do that is to work out at home. And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about. Jacked Up Fitness, it's a great company, and they offer the commercial-grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
It's the ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full-body workout right in your own spare room or garage. It's equipped with a cable crossover system, an integrated 200-pound weight stack, and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform hundreds of exercises. Everything you used to do at the gym, well, you can now do at home.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program includes full-body video workouts led by celebrity fitness trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram. Simply press play and follow along. Look, no more excuses. I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and I've got to tell you, it is fantastic. The quality is excellent. The construction is amazing.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Solid and smooth, just like the best commercial gym systems. And there's no more worrying about finding time to get to the gym, right? It's right there at home. Or whether it'll be crowded and you'll have to stand around waiting for benches or machines. Visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
And use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, just like you would imagine, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Welcome back to the PDB Tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate With Islamabad test-firing a surface-to-surface ballistic missile on Saturday Two weeks after the deadly massacre in the disputed Kashmir region Reignited hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbors
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The missile, part of the Abdali weapon system, has a range of roughly 280 miles and was fired into a designated zone over the Arabian Sea or the deserts in the southwest in keeping with standard military protocol.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
According to the Pakistani military, the test was intended to validate operational readiness of, quote, "...key technical parameters, including the missile's advanced navigation system and maneuverability."
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Pakistan President Mzardari and Prime Minister Sharif both issued public congratulations following the launch The timing of the test was unmistakable, frankly The launch comes after the 22 April attack on Indian tourists in the Kashmir region That left 26 dead and triggered one of the sharpest escalations between the nuclear rivals in recent years
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
New Delhi blames Pakistan-based Islamist terrorists for the attack. That's a claim that Islamabad continues to eject as baseless. But the symbolism of the Abdali missile was not lost on regional observers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
An Islamabad-based security analyst told the Associated Press that the weapon was named after a famed Muslim conqueror of India, adding that it was, quote, critical in the current geopolitical context. Well, not exactly subtle, is it?
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The analysts suggested it was no coincidence The launch followed India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty an act that many in Pakistan view as economic warfare given that about a quarter of Pakistan's economy is agriculture-based
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
New Delhi, for its part, is signaling it's ready to strike back with force Last week, India's Navy carried out anti-ship missile drills to, quote, And according to a former advisor to India's Ministry of External Affairs, public fury over the Kashmir massacre has created space for a, quote, The message from Delhi is clear Patience with Pakistan is wearing thin
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
IDF warplanes hit Houthi targets in Yemen a day after a Houthi missile landed near Tel Aviv's main airport. And in today's Back of the Brief, the Trump administration has a new offer for illegal migrants. Take $1,000 and leave. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, signs of a military buildup are already visible. Skirmishes along the line of control, which is the de facto border in Kashmir, have flared nightly for over a week. On Saturday, India's military accused Pakistani troops of once again opening fire, prompting what they described as a, quote, proportionate response. Islamabad has yet to confirm the exchange.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Meanwhile, the standoff continues to spill into the economic and diplomatic arenas Over the weekend, India banned all imports from Pakistan, blocked Pakistani flagged vessels from entering its ports, and prohibited Indian ships from docking in Pakistani harbors Postal services between the two countries have also been halted, further fraying already brittle lines of communication With both sides digging in, the prospect of de-escalation is rapidly slipping from view
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Okay, moving to the Middle East. The Israeli Air Force launched retaliatory strikes Monday evening on Houthi positions in the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah. That's just a day after a ballistic missile fired by the Iran-backed terror group slammed into the grounds of Tel Aviv's international airport.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
According to the IDF, approximately 20 fighter jets pounded targets along Yemen's western coastline, including infrastructure at Hodeidah port and a concrete factory in the nearby city of Bajul.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Officials called the strikes, quote, a direct response to the Houthis escalating campaign of missile and drone attacks on Israel, most notably Sunday's rare and frankly alarming breach of Israeli airspace that sent a missile crashing within the perimeter of Ben Gurion Airport. As we noted in Monday's PDB, six people were wounded in that attack.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The missile tore into the airport complex just a few hundred yards from Terminal 3's control tower, carving out a crater and grounding international flights for hours. It was the first Houthi-fired projectile to reach Israeli soil since the terror group began targeting the country in March, marking a serious failure of Israel's advanced air defense systems.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The attack has added pressure on Israeli leadership to reassert deterrence not only against the Houthis, but against their chief backer in Tehran. Monday's air campaign marked Israel's sixth strike inside Yemen since the start of the war, and the first since January, when the IDF paused operations after the U.S. assumed a lead role in countering Houthi threats to Red Sea shipping lanes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Israeli officials said this latest mission was coordinated with Washington but was not conducted as a joint strike The Israeli military said its aircraft dropped 50 precision-guided munitions on preselected targets aided by aerial refueling tankers and intelligence-gathering planes
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Photos released by the Israeli military showed Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir in an underground command center overseeing the operation in real time.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
We'll begin with the ongoing fallout from the U.S.-China trade war as the communist regime's export-dependent economy buckles under the weight of the Trump administration's tariffs, prompting Chinese workers to take to the streets and revolt As we've been tracking on the PDB, the financial impact of Trump's 145% tariffs and Beijing's 125% retaliatory tariffs
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
IDF spokesmen accused the Houthis of using the Hodeidah port, the second largest on Yemen's Red Sea coast, as a gateway for Iranian weapons shipments and military equipment. The Bajau concrete facility, they added, has been repurposed by the Islamic regime-backed group to support tunnel construction and other components of the Houthi war machine.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Verified footage posted online showed plumes of smoke and sustained fires at the site in the aftermath of the strike. Separately, U.S. forces reportedly carried out airstrikes near the Yemeni capital of Sana'a just hours before the Israeli jets launched. The Houthi-run Saba news agency claimed at least two American missiles struck a road near Sana'a's airport.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
The Iranian regime denied playing a direct role on Sunday's missile strike, insisting the decision was made independently by the Houthis in solidarity with Hamas. But Iran's foreign ministry issued a thinly-veiled threat, warning that it would retaliate if Israel dared strike Iranian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
That's after Netanyahu vowed a forceful response, not just against the Houthis, but against those arming and enabling them. And that would be, of course, the Iranian regime. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief. Skip the raid, take the cash. The Trump administration is offering $1,000 to migrants who voluntarily leave the U.S. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Let's talk about security. Specifically, let's talk about your online security. And more specifically, let's talk about a company called DeleteMe. Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Look, it's easier than ever, frankly, to find personal information about people online. You probably know that. Having your address, your phone number, and family members' names just hanging out on the internet can have actual consequences in the real world. And like I said, it makes everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete Me, now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete Me plan by texting PDB to 64000.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Now, the only way, again, to get that 20% off is to text PDB to 64000. That's PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, by now, you know all about the tariffs, right, and the trade wars. And you also know that all that activity has thrown the global economy into some form of chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
May 6th, 2025: Tariffs Spark Worker Protests Across China & IDF Hits Back After Tel Aviv Strike
Look, potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there is a silver and a gold lining that I think a lot of people may have missed. What I mean by that is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
One prominent Russian war blogger told Reuters, quote, "...the enemy blew up bridges with rockets at night and launched an attack with armored groups in the morning. The mine clearance vehicles began to make passages in the minefields, followed by armored vehicles with troops. There's a heavy battle going on at the border." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
It's Monday, the 5th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. It's a little bit late. I'm back on the road. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
The reports of the renewed attacks came just days after Russian officials said they were attempting to establish a, quote, security strip on the border to prevent a renewed Ukrainian assault. The action also comes ahead of Moscow's Victory Day ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
That's a Putin planned three day cessation of hostilities as supposedly to begin on May 8th, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Putin will be hosting a number of world leaders in Moscow, most notably China's Xi Jinping, for the Victory Day festivities, and clearly he was hoping that a three-day pause in fighting would prevent a possibly embarrassing potential Ukrainian attack during the parades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
We should note, however, that the ceasefire has been met with skepticism from Ukraine and Western allies, and if Monday's military actions are anything to go by, leaders in Kiev plan to keep the pressure on the Putin regime as his Victory Day celebrations get underway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
As a reminder, Ukraine launched a military operation last August inside Russia's Kursk territory, catching the Putin regime by surprise. At the time, they managed to seize roughly 530 square miles of territory, which Kiev intended to use as leverage in potential future negotiations with Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
But beginning in the fall, Russia mounted several counteroffensives using some 50,000 troops, supplemented by, of course, 12,000 North Korean soldiers, and slowly began clawing back a significant chunk of the area captured by Kyiv's military. By mid-March, Russia declared victory over Ukrainian forces in the region, all but dislodging them from the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Though reports suggested Ukraine did manage to hold onto a narrow strip of land roughly 40 square miles. As I said, Ukraine is staying relatively quiet about their renewed activity in Kursk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
First, with peace talks to end Moscow's war on Ukraine stalled, leaders in Kyiv are upping the pressure on the battlefield, reportedly launching a fresh cross-border incursion into Russia's Kursk region, taking out a critical Russian drone command unit in the process.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
It follows reports in early April that Ukrainian forces had mounted a limited offensive into Russia's nearby Belgorod region, which also borders Ukraine, in order to protect Ukrainian towns and settlements in the regions of Sumy and Kharkiv.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
We should note that Sumy has been the recent target of intense aerial bombardments from Russian forces stationed near the border, with officials in Kyiv warning that the attacks are part of Russia's spring offensive to capture additional Ukrainian territory. On April 13, Russia launched a deadly strike on Sumy as civilians were attending morning church services to celebrate Palm Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
The attack killed 35 people and wounded more than 100, prompting widespread condemnations. Those attacks continued over the weekend, with the Ukrainian prosecutor's office saying Monday the two settlements in Sumy had been struck by mass artillery fire and guided bombs, leaving three residents dead and injuring four others.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Local authorities have urged residents to evacuate the area as fighting in the northeastern border region continues. Meanwhile, diplomacy continues to falter. Putin remains as intransigent as ever, having rejected multiple favorable ceasefire offers from the Trump administration, instead opting to stick to his long list of Moscow-centric demands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Trump, in turn, has since bolstered his support for Kyiv. Last week, he approved the sale of $50 million or more worth of weapons and other defense-related products to Ukraine, the first direct military aid granted by Trump to Kiev since his return to office. That came the same day that Kiev and Washington finally inked a long-anticipated minerals deal in exchange for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
investment to help rebuild the war-torn country. The White House has since also approved a $310 million package, give or take some change, to provide support and training for Ukraine's Air Force, specifically their F-16s. Trump, who has vowed to end the war, appears to have lost all patience with the diplomatic process.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters last Thursday that the U.S. will be stepping back from its role as a mediator in peace talks, citing frustration over Putin's stalling tactics. Trump reiterated that position in an interview on Sunday, although he said that he's still hopeful a peace deal can be secured.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Coming up next, the Israel Security Cabinet approves a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas to include the full capture and occupation of Gaza. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, as you know by now, I'm sure, the tariffs and the trade wars have thrown the global economy into something I guess we could call chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver and also a gold lining that I think some people may have missed. And what I mean by that is that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Later in the show, a major update on the Israel-Hamas conflict, as Israel's security cabinet approves a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas to seize and hold the entirety of the Gaza Strip. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin today with an update from the battlefields of Eastern Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Now, while the new policies have triggered significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free, no obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, now eating smart, eating right, eating healthy, well, it means staying ahead of what's happening in the food world, knowing where your food comes from, for example.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
And if you're still buying your beef from a big box store, well, I can tell you you're already behind the curve. Look, we've seen food shortages and inflation, and now the world of mass food production is pushing lab-grown meat and fake protein. If you don't take control of your food supply, well, I guarantee someone else will. So let's start with where you get your beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
And of course, here I'm talking about Tritail's Beef. Tritail's is a real Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense, no middlemen. It's just pasture-raised, grain-finished Black Angus beef. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's Security Cabinet unanimously approved a sweeping plan to expand its military campaign to seize and hold the entirety of the Gaza Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
The plan, reported by Israel's public broadcaster Khan and confirmed by Israeli officials today, was presented by IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. His plan outlines a gradual expansion of operations, beginning in select areas before extending across the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Tens of thousands of reservists have already been called up as part of the military's preparations to intensify the campaign. According to Security Cabinet Minister Ze'ev Elkin, the aim is to dismantle Hamas militarily, hold newly annexed territory, and apply enough sustained pressure to force the terror group into agreeing to a ceasefire and hostage release.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
That timeline, he added, could align with President Trump's expected visit to the region in mid-May, giving Israel a potential edge at the negotiating table. As of now, Israeli forces control roughly one-third of the battered enclave. As we've covered here on the PDB, IDF operations resumed in full force in March after the collapse of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
As peace efforts falter due to Vladimir Putin's lack of interest in peace, Ukrainian forces are bringing the fight back into Russian territory with renewed vigor. According to Russian war bloggers, cited in a Reuters report, Kyiv's forces mounted a fresh cross-border offensive into Russia's Kursk region on Monday, surprising Moscow's troops with a blitz of military actions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
As part of the updated battle plan, Israeli forces intend to clear targeted population centers, particularly in northern Gaza, by pushing civilians further south before advancing ground units. Meanwhile, despite mounting pressure, the Israeli government has refused to lift its full aid blockade, which has remained in place since early March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Instead, the cabinet has authorized a workaround that would allow humanitarian deliveries via private contractors, sidestepping or bypassing the UN and other international aid agencies entirely. The MOF has, as you might imagine, drawn swift condemnation from those aid organizations. Earlier today, Jan Egland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
accused Israel of demanding that humanitarian organizations dismantle their aid networks. UN officials say the bypass plan violates humanitarian principles and have signaled that they will not cooperate. Jerusalem insists the restrictions are necessary to prevent aid from being hijacked by Hamas. Officials maintain that the policy is legal under international law.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
But the UN has pushed back, stating Israel as the occupying power is still responsible for the welfare of Gaza's civilians, most of whom are now displaced. The Iran-backed terror group, which, of course, started this current conflict with their slaughter and hostage taking back on the 7th of October in 2023, denounced the proposal as, quote, political blackmail.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
You know, I'm getting the impression that Hamas might not be very self-aware. Israel's stated war aims remain unchanged, destroy Hamas and bring home the remaining 59 hostages, 24 of whom are believed to be still alive. That's according to Israeli intelligence. Inside Israel, public support for the war, though, is starting to crack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Recent polls show a growing number of Israelis now favor a negotiated deal over a prolonged occupation. But Hamas isn't budging either. It continues to demand a total Israeli withdrawal as a precondition for any ceasefire or hostage agreement, a stance that Netanyahu's cabinet has repeatedly rejected. And that, my friends, is the PDB afternoon, or let's call it evening.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Bulletin for Monday, the 5th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please just reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com. Now, don't forget to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Former CIA dude, businessman, podcast host, and of course, fashion icon. Now, when it comes to fashion, well, let's be honest. Most guys don't want to spend hours figuring out what to wear. You know what I mean? That's where True Classic comes in. Their mission? Well, it's simple. Make guys look sharp and feel even better. And they've nailed it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
From tees to hoodies to jeans and activewear, True Classic has your entire wardrobe dialed in without, of course, emptying your wallet. But it's not just the clothes. The folks at True Classic are deliberate about everything they do, from top-shelf customer service to giving back to communities. It's a brand with a purpose, not just a logo. Fit-wise, well, it's right where you want it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
It's snug in the shoulders and chest, relaxed to the waist. No weird tight spots. Who needs those? No sloppy lines. Just clean, solid gear that works in real life. So skip the overpriced designer trip. Don't waste money on throwaway basics. True Classic delivers premium essentials that punch above their weight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
Ukrainian forces reportedly smashed through Russian border defenses and then crossed a minefield with specially devised vehicles as they bolstered the ground offensive with a missile barrage on critical targets, including a Russian drone command unit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
You can find them at Target, Costco, or head to trueclassic.com slash pdb to check them out today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 5th, 2025: Re-Invasion: Ukrainian Forces Storm Into Russian Territory Again & Israel Approves Plan To Seize The Entire Gaza Strip
The activity comes less than a month after Russia claimed to have regained control of Kursk and expelled all Ukrainian forces from the region following a bloody counteroffensive. Ukrainian officials have not commented on any of the reported advances, but simply said Monday that operations in the Kursk region, which began last August, continued.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
In a post to X, Zelensky admitted that his Washington meeting, quote, did not go the way it was supposed to. Well, yeah, that's a fair statement. He called it, quote, regrettable and said, quote, it is time to make things right. We would like future cooperation and communication to be constructive, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
It's Tuesday, March 4th. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with the latest fallout from Ukraine's Oval Office clash with President Trump. Zelensky has responded with a statement that could be interpreted as an apology. The question is, will it be enough to get U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Now, while not a display of fealty or a full bore mea culpa, it's certainly a shift in tone. Zelensky also reiterated that Ukraine is committed to ending the war, writing that his team is, quote, ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. He added, nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump's strong leadership to get a peace that lasts. We are ready to work fast to end the war, end quote. Now, that's a notable olive branch, but it wasn't just about diplomacy. Zelensky made sure to remind Washington of Ukraine's gratitude, thanking the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
for its past support and specifically calling out Trump's role in providing Javelin missile systems during his first term. As for concrete steps toward peace, Zelensky laid out a few initial proposals, a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, a truce in the sky that would halt missile and drone strikes, and a commitment to stop targeting energy and civilian infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Zelensky also floated the idea of a truce in the sea as part of the deal's first stage. He emphasized his desire to move quickly, saying Ukraine is ready to work with the U.S. on securing a, quote, strong final deal to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
And on that critical minerals deal, one of the key issues that soured last week's talks, he said he sees it as a step toward long-term security and hopes it can still be effective. So, you ask yourself, will this be enough to get the aid flowing again? That's the big question. For now, Zelensky has made his move. Obviously, it's up to Washington to decide how to respond.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
And of course, well, there is the other player that would be Russia. Putin has shown no indication that he intends to back off his existing hardline demands for even coming to the negotiating table. Coming up next, a new trade war kicks off, with President Trump slapping 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexican goods and doubling existing duties on Chinese imports.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. And look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details, and a lot of other sensitive information.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN prevents hackers from accessing private information by creating a secure encrypted tunnel between devices and the Internet. Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Its encryption is so strong that even a supercomputer would take over a billion years to crack it. And who's got that sort of time? Setup is seamless. Just open the app and tap one button for instant protection. It works on phones, laptops, tablets, and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web, and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
military aid back on track? Later in the show, a new trade war begins as President Trump follows through on his tariff threat, enacting a 25% levy on Canadian and Mexican goods and doubling duties on Chinese goods to 20%. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. This morning on the PDB, well, we told you about the White House cutting off military aid to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. President Trump has kicked off a new trade war with America's top three global suppliers, sending stocks tumbling and sparking fears of a looming recession.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Following through on his threat from last week, on Tuesday, President Trump imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, as well as an additional 10% tariff on imports from China, doubling duties on Chinese goods to 20%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump initially threatened to impose the tariffs on America's northern and southern neighbors in early February, but paused their implementation after Canada and Mexico promised to take comprehensive actions to secure their borders and to reduce the flow of migrants and drugs into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
But on Monday, ahead of the move, Trump declared that the time for negotiations was over, arguing that all three countries had failed to take meaningful action to stem the flow of the deadly opioid fentanyl into the U.S., and that's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
All three countries quickly announced retaliatory measures targeting US goods on Tuesday, causing all of Wall Street and Europe's main stock indexes to fall as investors flee for safety. The tariffs could upend nearly $2.2 trillion, and that's a lot of fat stacks, in annual US trade with America's top three economic partners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Trump suggested further escalation is possible, saying the US would not back down from the fight. Well, it's a fight that the US started, so you wouldn't expect that they'd back down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Trump defended the action, saying it will incentivize Mexico and Canada to get serious about combating illicit drug trafficking at their respective borders, and that it would encourage foreign companies, like car manufacturers, to move their production to the US. Trump added that current trade imbalances are costing Americans millions of factory jobs and that tariffs were the only remedy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
He said that import taxes were, quote, a very powerful weapon that politicians haven't used because they were either dishonest, stupid, or paid off in some other form, and now are using them, end quote. But Mexico and Canada and China swiftly struck back, denouncing the tariffs as a, quote, reckless attack on free trade and announcing retaliatory measures of their own.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Ottawa would impose immediate 25% tariffs on nearly $30 billion worth of American goods, including orange juice, peanut butter, alcohol, what? Coffee, appliances, apparel, and motorcycles. Over the next 21 days, Trudeau said Canada will slap additional tariffs on more than $100 billion of American goods.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Trudeau didn't mince words as he addressed Trump directly, saying, quote, You're a very smart guy, but this is a very dumb thing to do. He added that the new tariffs will, quote, disrupt an incredibly successful trading relationship. Now, Trudeau is likely feeling somewhat emboldened, given that he'll be out of his prime minister's job by the end of March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Beijing, meanwhile, retaliated with a new 15% tariff on imports of chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton from the US, along with a 10% tariff on US sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruit, vegetables, and dairy products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
China's Commerce Ministry issued a statement condemning Trump's tariffs, saying that they violated World Trade Organization's rules, and quote, undermine the basis for economic and trade cooperation between China and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Now, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum took a slightly more cautious approach, saying that her country would announce countermeasures on Sunday, including retaliatory tariffs, if Trump's tariffs were still in place come the weekend. While her response suggests that she's hopeful there's still wiggle room left with the Trump administration,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
She said there was, quote, no reason, rationale, or justification for the tariffs, arguing Mexico had taken, quote, decisive actions against drug cartels and fentanyl trafficking along the U.S. southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
That was fallout, of course, from last week's Oval Office meeting where tensions ran high. Oh, that's putting it diplomatically between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. The sticking points? Well, Zelensky's perceived resistance to peace negotiations under current conditions and the ongoing back and forth over a critical minerals deal between the two countries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
The new tariffs have left investors rattled, fearing that the measures would devastate economic growth prospects and increase prices for American consumers at a time when Americans are still grappling with inflation and high interest rates. Many are predicting a recession is on the horizon, which some are already calling the looming Trump session.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Honestly, it's not the most creative nickname I've heard. The tariffs come just one day after the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta significantly revised their first quarter GDP forecast. While just last week they predicted 2.3% U.S. GDP growth, now they're forecasting a contraction of 2.8%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Criticizing the steep economic risks of Trump's tariffs, the CEO of Canada's Chamber of Commerce said, quote, Today's reckless decision by the U.S. administration is forcing Canada and the U.S. toward recessions, job losses, and economic disaster, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 4 March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, as the old saying goes, if you want to listen to the PDB ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. There's a lot of wisdom in those old sayings. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 4th, 2025: Zelensky Apologizes For Oval Office Dust-Up & Trade War Begins With Canada, Mexico, And China
Since Friday's blow-up, the White House has been firm, no progress on the minerals deal and no further support, unless Zelensky apologized and showed what the White House considers to be a more serious commitment to negotiations. Well, it looks like Zelensky has offered up an apology of sorts and even some steps toward what could ultimately be a negotiated settlement.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
It does not specify when or if elections would be held in Gaza, nor does it outline concrete steps for disarming Hamas, should the terror group refuse to step aside. These gaps leave, of course, major uncertainties over how or even if the plan could be implemented. Alright, coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The Trump administration has reportedly paused its offensive cyber operations against Russia as negotiations between Washington and Moscow continue over Ukraine. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Und in heute's Back of the Brief. Die Trump-Administration hat bemerkt, dass sie auf offizielle Cyber-Operationen gegen Russland aufgehoben hat. Aber zuerst, heute's PDB-Spotlight. The Trump administration announced on Monday that the U.S. will pause all military aid to Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
In today's back of the brief, the Trump administration is once again provoking alarm with their efforts to reach a diplomatic solution to end Russia's war in Ukraine. In their latest bid to draw the Kremlin into more substantive negotiations, The Pentagon has reportedly ordered a pause on its offensive cyber and information operations against Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
According to current and former officials briefed on the secret directive, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave the order for U.S. Cyber Command to stand down against Moscow last week, though the White House says not publicly confirm the new policy. That's according to a report from the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Notably, the order came before President Trump's dust-up with Ukrainian President Zelensky in the Oval Office last Friday, which derailed the signing of a minerals deal that the administration hoped would accelerate the peace process.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The directive is raising serious questions among European allies about the Trump administration's commitment to combating ongoing Russian cyber attacks against the West, with France's foreign minister publicly expressing confusion over the move.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Europäische Länder im Wesentlichen sind ein Lieblingsziel des Schattenkrieges des Putin-Regimes, welches ihre Energie-Sektoren, Kommunikationsinfrastruktur, Verteidigungsindustrie und elektronische Systeme ausgestattet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Die USA haben eine zentrale Rolle gespielt, in der Hilfe, dass Europa gegen Russlands Sabotage-Efforts kämpft, mit der Koordinierung von zerstörten Cyber-Operationen und der Arbeit, die die digitalen Verteidigungen in der Ukraine stärken. Now that cooperation is now reportedly in jeopardy, though it's unclear what the impact will be on the purely defensive cyber operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
We should note, however, that cybersecurity experts and former officials have stressed that such stand-downs are not uncommon when the US is engaged in sensitive diplomatic negotiations in order to avoid derailing them.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
As we've been tracking on the PDB, diplomatic talks began on February 18th in Riyadh between US and Russian delegations and were followed by a second meeting in Istanbul just last Thursday. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said over the weekend, "...you're not going to bring the Russians to the table if you're calling them names, if you're being antagonistic.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
That's just the President's instincts from years and years and years of putting together deals." Still, some analysts said the Trump administration is taking a huge gamble with this latest directive, arguing that Russian President Putin is unlikely to reciprocate. Well, that, ladies and gentlemen, would be what we here at the PDB refer to as a statement of the obvious.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Now, details are scarce at this time, but it appears that the aid will be stopped while the White House decides if Ukrainian President Zelensky is making an actual effort toward peace negotiations with Russia. According to a Wall Street Journal report, a White House official stated, "...the President has been clear that he's focused on peace.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
While the scope and duration of the pause is unclear, anonymous officials said it's only intended to stay in place while negotiations to end the Russia-Ukraine war are active. A senior Defense Department official added that Secretary Exeth has, quote, "...no greater priority than ensuring that the nation remains protected across all fronts, including in the cyber domain."
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Now, as you may suspect, Russia and China are the key players in aggressive cyber operations and attacks against the West. It could be described as, well, let's go with naive, to imagine that Moscow will show Washington the same courtesy in stopping their own operations against the US. And by that I mean, they won't.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
It's nice to be magnanimous, you see, but not when dealing with a key adversary who in no way has your best interests at heart. But then, maybe that just makes me sound churlish. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday for March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
And, as always, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, well, that can happen. Just simply become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
We need our partners to be committed to that goal as well. We're pausing and reviewing our aid to ensure that it contributes to a solution." Well, I guess you could argue that the lack of aid by pausing that aid will certainly contribute to a solution. And that would be eventually a Putin victory.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
There were no details provided by the administration as to how, when or under what conditions the military aid could resume.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The Trump administration had already stopped the financing of new weapons sales to Kyiv prior to the rumble in the Oval Office on Friday last week, so this latest move on Monday, well, essentially shuts down any further shipments of military aid that had previously been in the works."
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
And in the wake of that contentious televised Oval Office meeting, Ukraine's President Zelensky followed up in Europe by further angering President Trump, warning that a deal to end the war with Russia remains, quote, very, very far away. Bevor er am Sonntag aus London führte, behauptete Zelensky, dass Kiews Beziehung mit den Vereinigten Staaten politische Veränderungen übernimmt.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Der ukrainische Führer sagte, ich denke, unsere Beziehung wird weitergehen, weil es mehr als eine offizielle Beziehung ist, beziehungsweise Washingtons steile Strecke der militärischen und finanziellen Beziehung in den letzten drei Jahren. Und das ist eine Strecke, wie eben erwähnt, die seit Montag gegrümmt ist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
However, Zelenskyy remains publicly optimistic that US aid will persist despite political turbulence, stating, quote, Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America. His remarks followed a diplomatic swing through the United Kingdom, where he met with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders to rally additional military and economic support.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
European officials have been vocal in their pledges to continue backing Ukraine. But behind closed doors, some acknowledged a harsh reality. Long-term security in the region still hinges on American military power. While there's been discussion of British and French peacekeepers stepping in, should a peace settlement be reached, leaders made one thing clear. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
air defense systems remain essential for deterring future Russian aggression. On Monday, in a post on Truth Social, responding to Zelenskys comment that the war's end could be very, very far away, Trump lashed out at Zelensky, slamming his bleak assessment of the war's endgame.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Trump posted, quote, This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer, end quote. Trump went further, outright accusing Zelensky of deliberately prolonging the conflict to secure ongoing US aid, stating, it is what I was saying, this guy doesn't want there to be peace as long as he has America's backing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The President also took aim at European leaders for what he called a weak negotiating stance against Russia, ridiculing their candid admission that US military power remains indispensable. He wrote, quote, Although, Frankly, at this stage, neither the US nor Europe has explained what compromises, if any, Putin will need to make for peace. That itself would be a show of strength against Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The White House has been fairly clear in stating what concessions they expect Ukraine to make for peace, but have not indicated if they expect Putin to make any concessions. Präsident Trump hat bereits bestätigt, dass er glaubt, dass die Ukraine keine Karten an der Negotiationsstelle hält, was bedeutet, dass Putin in der Position ist, den Pott zu bestätigen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Nun, ich bin kein globaler Diplomat, aber ich wette, dass wenn man Putin alles, was er will, gibt, dann kann man sich einen Friedensvertrag bekommen. Alright, coming up next, we go south of the US border, as the Mexican government is ramping up operations against the cartels. Plus, Egypt unveils its plan to sideline Hamas in a post-war Gaza. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
It's Tuesday for March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. The war of words between Ukrainian President Zelensky and President Trump continues. After Zelenskys latest remarks, well, Trump fired back, calling it, quote, the worst statement he could have made.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denken Sie daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu knacken.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Und wer hat das für eine Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Einfach die App öffnen und einen Knopf drücken, um instantane Schutz zu bekommen. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Welcome back to the PDB. Let's turn our focus to south of the US border, where threats from the Trump administration and a renewed crackdown by Mexican authorities have the country's powerful drug lords reportedly fearing that their days could be numbered. As we've been tracking on the PDB, the Mexican government has been bringing the fight to drug cartels with renewed vigor in recent months.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
While the campaign against the cartels kicked off after Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum took office last October, it intensified in February under pressure exerted by President Trump, who has demanded that they do more to combat illicit drug trafficking or face harsh trade tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Präsident Scheinbaum hat seitdem auf der Offensive gegangen, 10.000 Truppen im frühen Februar zu Städten und Städten auf der Grenze zu dispatieren, auch Kartell-Strongholds wie Juarez und hundreds mehr zu Sinaloa-Stadt, der Haupthub für Fentanyl-Traffik. Das ist according to our report from the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
A series of high-profile arrests, drug seizures and fentanyl lab busts have followed, striking a significant blow to the operations of the Sinaloa Cartel, the country's largest trafficking organization. Mexican officials say they've made some 900 arrests since the crackdown began late last fall and seized nearly as much fentanyl in the last five months as they did the entire previous year.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
And, as if to emphasize that, the Trump administration announced on Monday that it would pause the ongoing delivery of military aid to Ukraine. Bis zum nächsten Mal. Ägypten hat ihre Vision für eine Post-Kriegs-Gaza entdeckt, um Hamas zu bewegen und Interim-Gewerkschaften zu installieren, die von Araben, Muslimen und westlichen Staaten gebackt sind. Wir haben diese Details.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
According to six cartel operatives who spoke exclusively to the New York Times, the cartels have now been forced to scale back fentanyl production in Sinaloa State, relocate drug labs to other parts of the country and in some areas temporarily shut down production altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
A security analyst based in Mexico City said, quote, Trump established a deadline and we're seeing the results of everything we could have seen in years being done in a month. He added, quote, the government is sending a message that when it really wants to, it can exert that kind of pressure, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The activity is reportedly striking fear in the heart of Mexico's top narcos, who say that for the first time in recent memory, well, they're genuinely afraid that they could be arrested or killed. One high-ranking member of the Sinaloa cartel that spoke to the Times said, "...you can't be calm, you can't even sleep, because you don't know when they'll catch you.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The most important thing now is just to survive." Security analysts told the paper that Mexico's cartels have not felt this level of scrutiny in decades, and cartel operatives agreed. Many said they're hastily selling properties and cutting their personnel to make up for the losses in their fentanyl trade.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Others, in a bid to protect their operations, are increasing illicit arms shipments from the U.S. and investing heavily in advanced equipment like scanners to detect American drones. The U.S. has been using advanced drones for more than a decade in partnership with Mexican authorities to surveil these criminal enterprises and track down their leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
But the Trump administration has drastically expanded their use. Zusätzlich zu ihren Gefühlen, diskutiert die Trump-Administration beruflich, direkt militärische Aktion gegen die Kartelle zu nehmen, nachdem sie sie als internationalen Terroristen-Organisationen im letzten Monat designiert haben.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Einige Kartellleute sind nun in Schmerzen und versuchen, Wege zu finden, um sich und ihre Familien von der Möglichkeit amerikanischer Militärstrikes in Mexiko zu schützen. The cartels were dealt another major blow last Thursday, when in a surprise announcement, the Mexican government agreed to extradite 29 high-profile cartel members to the US to face justice for their many crimes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Among those extradited were the founders of the brutal Los Zetas criminal syndicate, known as one of Mexico's most dangerous drug cartels, as well as the former boss of the Juarez cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Die Ausstattungen haben auch den notariellen Drogenherrn Rafael Caro Quintero, der seit vier Jahrzehnten von US-Mitgliedsstaaten gezwungen wurde, über seine Einwohnung in der Verbrechung, Zerstörung und Mord von DEA-Agent Enrique Kiki Camarena 1985. Quintero wurde am Freitag in einem Brooklyn Federal Court verurteilt, in dem er nicht schuldig war für Angelegenheiten, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Mord, Verbrechen und internationale Narkotik-Distribution. Er befindet sich mit einem Todspenal, wenn er verurteilt wird, und das ist eine klare Botschaft für die mexikanischen Kartell-Operativen über die Auswirkungen, die sie, wenn verhaftet worden sind, befinden können.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Nun, wir wechseln jetzt in den Mittleren Osten, wo Ägypten ein Blueprint für eine Postkriegs-Gaza vorgesehen hat, das Hamas auf die Seite bringen würde, es zu verändern mit interim gewerblichen Böden, die von Araben, Muslimen und westlichen Nationen überwiesen sind.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Der Vorschlag, der seit Monaten in Koordination mit Saudi-Arabien und anderen regionalen Stakeholdern entwickelt wurde, wird heute an einem Arab League-Summit präsentiert. Er wird als eine Kontrmessung zu Präsident Trumps breiterer Vision einer Mittleren Osten-Riviere positioniert, die die Relokation von 2,3 Millionen Palästinensern aus dem Enklave zu naheliegenden Ländern betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
So, what do we know so far? Well, at its core, the Egyptian plan is designed to stabilize Gaza through a phased approach, averting mass displacement while laying the groundwork for long-term governance. The first stage calls for the construction of thousands of mobile homes to shelter displaced Palestinians as the rebuilding of roads and housing and key infrastructure gets underway.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
The plan also accounts for practical challenges. Solar panels are being considered as a short-term energy solution, while the vast amount of debris left behind will be repurposed once unexploded ordnance is cleared and bodies buried beneath the rubble are removed. A central pillar of the initiative is political restructuring.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Cairo's proposal envisions a temporary Palestinian administration consisting of 15 to 20 technocrats with no ties to Hamas or the unpopular Palestinian Authority, known as the PA. This transitional body would theoretically oversee governance until, ideally, a reformed PA takes over the reins over Gaza and the West Bank.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Um Aufmerksamkeit zu behalten, würde ein internationales Steering Board eröffnet werden, mit den wichtigen arabischen Nationen, Mitgliedern der Organisation der islamischen Kooperation, den Vereinigten Staaten, der Europäischen Union und anderen Stakeholdern.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Auf Sicherheit, der Plan betrifft die Anlage einer internationalen Stabilisierungsstelle, primär von arabischen Staaten, um Hamas' militärische Apparatus zu ersetzen. Endlich würde Gaza's lokale Polizeiführung wiederentwickelt und umgekehrt, um Ordnung zu erhalten. But funding for Gaza's reconstruction remains an open question.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
Initial estimates place the cost between 50 billion and 80 billion dollars, with Gulf and Arab states expected to contribute at least 20 billion dollars in the initial phase. The reconstruction model itself draws inspiration from major historical efforts, including the U.S. Marshall Plan back after World War II and most recently post-war recovery efforts in Bosnia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 4th, 2025: Cartel Operatives Confess: ‘We Live In Fear’ & Trump Blasts Zelensky...Again
But if Cairo hoped for a buy-in from Hamas, well, those hopes have already been dashed. The terror group has repeatedly rejected any plan in which they lose power, with a senior official declaring, quote, the day after in Gaza must only be decided by the Palestinians, dismissing any foreign-led administration or military presence. Notably, the proposal remains vague on key issues.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Their methods, well, they include mass executions, beheadings, and direct attacks on law enforcement. CDN is one of the main cartels currently running smuggling operations into the United States, moving fentanyl, weapons, and people across the border. Their operations don't just stay in Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
It's Tuesday, 4 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, we'll begin in Mexico, where authorities are beginning to crack down on the country's violent drug cartels following President Trump's pressure campaign on Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
CDN's influence extends deep into Texas, contributing to the fentanyl crisis and increasing cartel-related violence in U.S. border cities. El Ricky had two outstanding arrest warrants for attempted homicide, and he's also linked to extortion, murder, and attacks on Mexican federal forces. And his arrest, well, it didn't go over quietly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Within hours of his capture, Nuevo Laredo erupted in violence. Reports came in of gunfights throughout the city, cartel gunmen blocking highways, and vehicles set on fire to disrupt security forces. The U.S. consulate in Nuevo Laredo quickly issued a security alert, warning all American personnel to shelter in place as the violence escalated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Now, obviously, the timing of this arrest, well, it's not random. It happened just hours after President Trump put heavy pressure on Mexico's new president, demanding she take stronger action against the cartels. As we reported yesterday, Sheinbaum, the president, agreed to deploy 10,000 Mexican soldiers to the border, a move that came less than 48 hours after Trump imposed tariffs on Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Trump has agreed to delay the imposition of those tariffs for at least a month. So, the question now is, is this the beginning of a real crackdown on cartel operations, or is it just kabuki theater, a political maneuver to satisfy Washington? Mexican authorities have made high-profile arrests before, only to see those cartels bounce back even stronger.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
As a matter of fact, a previous leader of the CDN, a man known as Bola Trevino, was arrested just last September. Whether this signals a shift in policy or just a temporary show of force, well, that remains to be seen. Coming up, after President Trump's 10% tariffs on Chinese imports took effect Monday, China announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs of their own, sparking fears of a new trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
I'll be right back with those details. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Then, after President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, Xi Jinping's government has announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs of their own, targeting key American industries and sparking fears of a new trade war. But first, our afternoon spotlight. It looks like we might be seeing the first signs of a cartel crackdown by Mexican authorities, at least near the US southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
While Canada and Mexico may have reached temporary agreements to pause or postpone Trump administration tariffs, well, it appears that China is gearing up for a fight. After President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports on Monday, leaders in Beijing announced a large package of retaliatory economic measures targeting the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Specifically, China's Ministry of Finance said they'll levy a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas products, as well as a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-engine cars, and pickup trucks set to take effect on 10 February. That's according to a report from Fox Business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Separately, China's Ministry of Commerce and Customs Administration announced new export restrictions on more than two dozen metal products and related technologies, including minerals critical for defense technologies and solar cells. Now, given the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party's near global monopoly on the refining of critical minerals, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
should probably be paying attention at this point. Additionally, China also launched an anti-monopoly investigation into Google that threatens to disrupt its dealings with Chinese companies, but it's worth noting that Google does have minimal operations in China where their flagship search engine is not available.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Taken together, China's retaliatory measures represent the most significant response by a country yet to Trump's aggressive use of tariffs as a negotiating tactic. In a statement, officials with the CCP chastised the US over the 10% tariff and said they'd filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
The officials said, quote, the US practice seriously undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system, undermines a foundation of economic and trade cooperation between China and the US, and disrupts the stability of the global industrial chain and supply chain. Still, analysts said China's response is far from extreme.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
It touches only $20 billion of the country's annual imports from the U.S., or about 12% of total imports, compared with Trump's tariffs, which impact some $450 billion in Chinese goods. The export restrictions on minerals also reportedly only impacts a small portion of overall bilateral trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
The head of the financial firm China Economics told Reuters, quote, the measures are fairly modest, at least relative to U.S. moves, and have clearly been calibrated to try to send a message to the U.S. without inflicting too much damage, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
While President Trump has not officially responded to the Chinese tariffs, his trade advisor, Peter Navarro, downplayed concerns and said the president would be speaking with Chinese President Xi Jinping sometime on Tuesday. Given the breakthroughs that Trump had during phone calls on Monday with Mexican President Scheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
hopes are high that he and President Xi can come to some kind of understanding. Although, dealing with the Chinese regime is an entirely different proposition from dealing with the Mexican and Canadian governments. And for that, today's winner of the PDB's Statement of the Obvious Award goes to, oh look, me.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Late Monday, Mexican law enforcement announced the arrest of cartel leader Ricardo Gonzalez Sauceda, better known as El Ricky or Mondo R. He was taken into custody in Nuevo Laredo, a key cartel stronghold sitting right across the Rio Grande from Laredo, Texas. Now, El Ricky, just 27 years old, was the leader of Cartel del Noreste, one of the most violent and aggressive Mexican drug cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Still, Trump warned Monday that he could increase the new tariffs if China does not take comprehensive action to block the flow of fentanyl into the U.S. Trump warned, quote, China hopefully is going to stop sending us fentanyl, and if they're not, well, the tariffs are going to go substantially higher, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 4 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
Now, no pressure, but you've got a week and a half until Valentine's Day. And if you're wondering what to get that special gal or fella in your life for Valentine's Day, may we suggest a premium membership to the President's Daily Brief. It's both romantic and informative. Just visit pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 4th, 2025: Mexico's Cartel Crackdown & China's Retaliatory Tariffs
If you're not familiar with them, CDN, as they're known, is an offshoot of the once-dominant Los Zetas Cartel. Now, the Zetas were notorious for their paramilitary-style operations and extreme brutality, and CDN, well, they've carried on that legacy. This group doesn't just control drug routes, they fight for them, often engaging in open battles with Mexican security forces and rival cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. In today's back of the brief, President Trump turns his attention on the United Nations as his administration prepares to take a more hardline stance towards the international body. According to White House officials who spoke with Politico, Trump will sign an executive order on Tuesday withdrawing the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
from the UN Human Rights Council and prohibiting future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency in Gaza. That's an organization that oversees aid deliveries in Gaza, but also has extensive ties to the Hamas terror group. The dual actions will reinstate policies that were in place during Trump's first term in office, but were undone by President Biden when he took office in 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Notably, the changes will go into effect the same day that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu arrives in Washington for his first face-to-face meeting of Trump's second term. The White House accuses the UN Human Rights Council of harboring a severe bias towards Israel while providing cover for governments with some of the worst records on human rights abuses.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Now, frankly, all you need to know about this situation is that back in late 2023, the Iranian regime was actually called on by the UN to chair a session of the UN Human Rights Council. I'm not making that up. The UN decided that the Iranian regime's envoy was suitable for chairing the Human Rights Council. A statement from the White House said, quote, the U.N.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Human Rights Council has demonstrated consistent bias against Israel, focusing on it unfairly and disproportionately in council proceedings. The statement points out that, quote, in 2018, the year President Trump withdrew from the U.N. Human Rights Council in his first administration, the organization passed more resolutions condemning Israel than Syria, Iran and North Korea combined, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
It's worth noting that the Council currently includes such quality regimes as Cuba, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, oh, don't forget the Chinese regime, and Qatar, countries that are hardly known as responsible stewards of human rights.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Border Patrol agents with weaponized kamikaze drones and other explosives, angered that their lucrative illicit trade of people and drugs is being impeded by the new administration. The news comes just two weeks after Trump designated cartels operating in Mexico as foreign terrorist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Turning to the scandal-plagued United Nations Relief and Works Agency, or UNRWA, that group has long faced criticism for their extensive ties to Hamas and other militant groups, particularly in the wake of the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
After an investigation by Israel last year, UN leadership was forced to acknowledge that some staff members of UNRWA actively participated in the 7 October attacks. The organization, well, they did fire 10 employees in August over their involvement in the attacks. That's nice. But Israel said it was too little, too late.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Israeli intelligence previously estimated that some 450 terror operatives in Gaza are employed by UNRWA, and that approximately 1,200 of the UNRWA's 12,000 employees in Gaza have ties to Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Around 50% of the organization's employees are also estimated to have close relatives within these Islamist militant groups. Congress paused U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
It's Tuesday, 4 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We start things off today at America's southern border, where Mexican drug cartels are reportedly ordering attacks on U.S. Border Patrol agents using suicide drones and other explosives as part of an effort to push back against the latest crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
funding to UNRWA last March for a period of one year as these reports came to light. But across 2023, the U.S. contributed some $154 million to their coffers. Now, you don't have to be Poirot to determine that over the years, a significant portion of the funds for UNRWA ended up in the pockets of Hamas leadership and Hamas operatives.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 4 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And finally, well, just like your mom always said, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The alert, citing human sources and statements on social media, advises agents to, quote, remain cognizant of their surroundings at all times. Well, that's always a good idea anyway, due to the potential threat. It also recommends that all agents have rifles readily available, as well as first aid kits, tourniquets and body armor in case they come under attack.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The memo specifically warns that U.S. Customs and Border Protection has received intelligence, quote, End quote. Analysts note that since attack drones have become more common in modern warfare as we've seen both in Ukraine and the Middle East, it's not surprising that the violent drug cartels in Mexico are turning to the technology in their desire to maintain their illicit revenue streams.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
A separate memo also warns border authorities that the cartels are encouraging assassins to target agents individually, underscoring the grave threats, of course, facing law enforcement personnel that are tasked with carrying out the White House's immigration crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
But given Trump's designation of the cartels as terrorist organizations, well, they could soon find themselves facing the full wrath of the American military. On Friday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said they, quote, all options will be on the table, including airstrikes when it comes to potentially engaging in targeted U.S. military operations on Mexican soil to counter the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The warning comes less than a week after four suspected members of a Mexican cartel opened fire on U.S. Border Patrol agents who were attempting to stop a group of migrants from entering the U.S. illegally. The agents, who were able to stop the migrant group from crossing, promptly returned fire on the cartel members and subsequently deployed a drone to track the four gunmen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
While authorities were unable to apprehend the gunman, no injuries were reported to the border agents. But again, it revealed the lengths that these violent cartels are willing to go to in order to protect their lucrative criminal enterprise.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Despite the incidents and ongoing threats, the Trump administration is plowing forward with their efforts to curb illegal immigration and fortify the southern border. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Trump declared a national emergency at the border on his first day in office and shut down all crossings with Mexico for migrants seeking asylum.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The administration has since dismantled or suspended virtually every single Biden-era program that facilitated the influx of nearly 8 million migrants into the U.S. over the last four years.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
In terms of enforcement, border czar Tom Homan has been overseeing deportation raids in cities across America, prioritizing migrant criminals, particularly those with links to violent transnational gangs and cartels. Additionally, Trump deployed 1,500 troops to the southern border in his first week in office to bolster the 2,200 U.S. National Guard and Reserve Forces already in place.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
He's also vowed to send another 10,000 troops to the border at a future date. All right, now an update on the Great Trade War of 2025, which, well, seems to have ended before it could even start. Last night, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that President Trump agreed to pause the implementation of planned tariffs on imports from Canada for at least 30 days.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
This comes just hours after Trump and Mexico's president reached a similar agreement, delaying tariffs on Mexican imports for one month. Trudeau made the announcement in a tweet saying, I just had a good call with President Trump, and he said that the tariff pause was tied to Canada's commitment to crack down on the flow of fentanyl into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
As part of that commitment, Trudeau unveiled a series of new measures aimed at stopping the deadly opioid, including reinforcing the border with new helicopters, technology and personnel, enhancing coordination with American authorities, and deploying nearly 10,000 frontline personnel to strengthen border security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
We'll break down what this means for border security and how U.S. officials are responding. Later in the show, the latest on the diplomatic row over Greenland. The Danish prime minister says Denmark is open to allowing the U.S. to expand its military presence on the island, aiming to ease tensions with the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Canada is also making new policy moves, appointing a fentanyl czar, formally listing cartels as terrorist organizations, ensuring round-the-clock surveillance of the border, and launching a Canada-U.S. joint strike force to combat organized crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Trudeau also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl, backing it with a $200 million investment. So, for now, well, the tariffs are on hold. But the White House has made it clear, follow-through on enforcement will be key. If Canada fails to deliver, well, those tariffs could be back on the table in just a few weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
All right, coming up after the break, Denmark signals openness to a greater U.S. military presence in Greenland, and a new U.N. report details a sharp rise in Russian executions of captured Ukrainian soldiers. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Denmark is signaling a willingness to allow the United States to expand its military presence in Greenland as Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen seeks to diffuse a growing diplomatic standoff with the Trump administration over the Arctic Territory.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Speaking ahead of a European Union leaders meeting in Brussels on Monday, Frederiksen acknowledged Greenland's increasing strategic importance and left the door open to further American military activity on the island. Greenland already hosts an important U.S. military air base, and it's a key site for monitoring space and missile threats.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
But Fredrickson indicated additional American operations could be negotiated. Fredrickson told reporters, quote, I totally agree with the Americans that the high north, the Arctic region, is becoming more and more important when we are talking about defense and security and deterrence, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The prime minister added, quote, so if this is about securing our part of the world, we can find a way forward. However, Fredrickson was emphatic that Greenland remains, quote, not for sale. Fredrickson's remarks come as tensions between Copenhagen and Washington escalate, with President Trump reviving his push to assert U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
control over Greenland on national security grounds, by force, if necessary. In recent weeks, the Danish leader sought to rally European support, meeting with French, German, and Nordic officials to discuss the dispute. According to an EU official, the issue was also raised at Monday's summit, where leaders voiced full support for Denmark's position.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Plus, a troubling new report from the United Nations documenting an alarming rise in the execution of captured Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces. And in today's back of the brief, President Trump is set to issue an executive order pulling the U.S. out of the U.N. Human Rights Council and cutting off funding for the U.N. relief agency for Gaza known as UNRWA. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
As we covered on the PDB, Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, handling most of its own domestic affairs, while Copenhagen oversees defense and foreign policy. Just last month, Denmark committed $2 billion to strengthen the mineral-rich island's defenses, underscoring its strategic significance in an era of intensifying geopolitical competition in the Arctic.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
But pressure from Washington is mounting. Vice President J.D. Vance took direct aim at Denmark's handling of Greenland, telling Fox News that Copenhagen was failing as an ally. Vance stated, "...it's really important to our national security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
There are sea lanes there that the Chinese use, that the Russians use, that frankly, Denmark, which controls Greenland, it's not doing its job and it's not being a good ally."
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Now, Vance hinted that Trump could take stronger measures, adding that if that means that we need to take more territorial interest in Greenland, that is what President Trump is going to do because he doesn't care what the Europeans scream at us. End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Fredriksson pushed back, as you might imagine, rejecting Vance's characterization of Denmark as an unreliable partner, stating, quote, I will not accept the notion that Denmark is a bad ally. We are not, we have not been, and we will not be in the future, end quote. But the Trump administration appears to be applying broader pressure on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
allies, with Denmark's potential military concessions aligning with a recent pattern of foreign governments adjusting to Trump's diplomatic posture. Over the weekend, Panama announced its withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative after U.S. pressure. Trump had threatened to, quote, take back the Panama Canal unless the country cut ties with Beijing's influence over the waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Additionally, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum revealed that Trump agreed to pause new tariffs for one month after a, quote, good conversation. In exchange, Sheinbaum committed to deploying members of Mexico's National Guard to curb drug trafficking into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
As the standoff over Greenland unfolds, Fredrickson's remarks suggest Denmark looks to strike a delicate balance, offering increased military cooperation while rejecting notions of ceding sovereignty. Now, whether this middle ground will be enough to appease the Trump administration or whether the White House will escalate its demands for territorial control, well, that remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
All right. Turning to the Russia-Ukraine war. The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission documented a disturbing surge in executions of captured Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces, calling it, quote, an alarming trend that violates international law and could constitute war crimes. Seriously? Seriously, could constitute war crimes? Executing prisoners? Look, I don't know.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
I'm no war crimes expert, but it seems like executing POWs would seem to fit in that category. In its report released Monday, the mission revealed that at least 79 Ukrainian troops had been summarily executed across 24 separate incidents since late August of last year. According to the UN's findings, many of the slain soldiers were unarmed, wounded, or had already surrendered when they were killed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The troubling report states, quote, many Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered or were in physical custody of the Russian armed forces were shot dead on the spot. Witness accounts also described the killings of unarmed and injured Ukrainian soldiers, end quote. Danielle Bell, head of the UN monitoring mission, pointed to incendiary rhetoric from Russian public figures as a contributing factor.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Bell stated, quote, these incidents did not occur in a vacuum. She continued, saying public figures in the Russian Federation have explicitly called for inhumane treatment and even execution of captured Ukrainian military personnel. Ukraine's foreign minister condemned the findings, calling for immediate international action.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
In a post on X, the foreign minister stated, quote, Russia's horrific executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war demonstrate that Ukraine confronts true beasts, adding that, quote, Ukraine needs new and effective international legal tools and concrete steps to hold the perpetrators accountable, end quote. The Russian Defense Ministry has not commented on the allegations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
However, the UN said it had verified the executions through a combination of witness testimony, photographic evidence, and verified video footage published by both Ukrainian and Russian sources. The killings reportedly occurred in areas where Russian forces were carrying out offensive operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The drug cartels that helped facilitate the U.S. migration crisis are not taking kindly to President Trump's sweeping immigration crackdown, with reports warning that they may soon attempt to turn the U.S. border into a war zone. According to an internal Border Patrol memo reviewed by the New York Post, Mexican drug cartels have given orders to their foot soldiers to start attacking U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The UN mission also documented at least one case in which Ukrainian forces executed a wounded and incapacitated Russian soldier back in 2024, though further details were not provided. Meanwhile, Ukraine's prosecutor's office has launched investigations into dozens of cases of potential war crimes involving executed Ukrainian troops by Russian personnel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
The country's human rights ombudsman has repeatedly pressed the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross to take decisive action in response to mounting evidence of these killings. Well, that should do it. I'm sure that harshly worded memos from the UN and the Red Cross will improve the behavior of Putin's minions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
Okay, coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump moves to cut U.S. funding for a U.N. agency with reported ties to Hamas and to withdraw from the U.N. Human Rights Council. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
February 4th, 2025: Mexican Cartels Order Drone Attacks On Border Patrol & Denmark Signals Openness on Greenland
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts at Patriot Gold today. Now they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. Think about that. That's a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Tuesday, 3 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Earlier today, President Yun declared martial law, deploying military troops and police in riot gear across the streets of Seoul. It was a stunning and controversial decision in a country that hasn't seen such measures since its authoritarian era in the late 1970s and 1980s.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
In his initial late-night television address, President Yun stated that martial law was necessary to, quote, rebuild and protect the nation from falling into the depths of national ruin. He vowed to, quote, eliminate anti-state forces as quickly as possible and normalize the country. Well, I guess he did do that because he's lifted martial law.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
But he was calling on citizens to trust his leadership, despite some concerns. Quote, inconveniences. Sorry, folks, I've declared martial law. There will be some inconveniences. The announcement immediately, as you might suspect, drew backlash from across the political spectrum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, a fierce rival of Yoon's, called the martial law declaration illegal and unconstitutional. Even members of the president's own conservative party, including the leader of that party, criticized the move as wrong and promised to work against it. Now, South Korean law provides that martial law can be overturned by a majority vote in parliament.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Well, that's very democratic. And in a late-night emergency session, well, the National Assembly, led by the opposition Democratic Party, voted overwhelmingly to demand its repeal. Under South Korean law, the president is obligated to honor this resolution. The Speaker of the National Assembly declared President Yun's martial law decree null and void after the vote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
In a follow-up statement, President Yun confirmed he would comply with the assembly's decision. Martial law, he said, would be lifted without delay in accordance with the law, though he urged South Koreans to remain vigilant against what he described as, quote, threats to the constitutional order.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Now, the rapid reversal has calmed tensions somewhat, but questions remain about the president's judgment and political future. Critics have pointed to the president's waning approval ratings and difficulties in navigating a divided parliament as reasons behind the martial law declaration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
His administration has faced scandals involving top officials, well, and his wife, fierce opposition over budget disputes, and ongoing impeachment efforts targeting his allies. This marks the first time that martial law has been declared in South Korea since its democratization in 1987.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
The last such declaration occurred back in 1979 under authoritarian rule, an era that South Koreans fought to leave behind. While the immediate crisis appears to have subsided, protesters do continue to gather outside the National Assembly with some calling for the president's resignation and arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
As South Korea regains its footing, the international community, of course, remains closely focused on the political and strategic implications for a key ally in the Indo-Pacific. All right. Up next, President-elect Trump delivers a stark warning to Hamas, declaring that there will be, quote, hell to pay if American hostages are not released before he takes office. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we begin with breaking news from the Far East. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has declared martial law. granting sweeping powers to the military only to reverse himself just hours later. We'll bring you all the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
President-elect Donald Trump on Monday issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, warning that there will be, quote, all hell to pay if the hostages held in Gaza are not released before he takes office on 20 January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Trump's statement, posted on Truth Social, criticized the lack of progress in securing the release of the remaining hostages, including seven Americans, who were abducted, of course, during Hamas's 7 October terror attacks on Israel, Last year, that assault left more than 1,200 people dead. Trump posted, quote, everybody is talking about the hostages, but it's all talk and no action, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
The president-elect pledged that failure to free the captives would result in unprecedented repercussions for those responsible, stating, quote, they will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied history of the United States of America. Release the hostages now, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
For context, negotiations for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have stalled, with the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, continuing military operations in Gaza more than a year after the attacks. Now, families of the hostages have expressed hope that, well, that Trump's engagement could revitalize these efforts, both in public and behind closed doors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
The crisis, however, deepened over the weekend when the Iran-backed terror group released a video showing Israeli-American hostage Adan Alexander pleading for his release. Alexander, who's been in captivity for over 420 days, delivered forced messages to both Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Netanyahu has since spoken with Alexander's family and vowed to, quote, take every action to bring them back home. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham commented on Trump's stance, telling Axios that the president-elect seeks a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza before his inauguration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Trump's rhetoric, combined with his demand for immediate action, could mark a turning point in efforts to resolve the crisis. Now, I did caveat that with the word could. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, 3 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
And, of course, if you're jonesing for an ad-free PDB experience, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Look at that. I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
Later in the show, President-elect Trump delivers a stark warning to Hamas, declaring that there will be, quote, hell to pay if American hostages are not released before he takes office. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Breaking news from one of America's closest allies in the Far East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 3rd, 2024: South Korea’s Martial Law Chaos & Trump’s Warning to Hamas
South Korean President Yoon Seok-yool has announced that he will lift martial law after lawmakers voted to reject his controversial move. Now, this decision marks a dramatic turn in a crisis that has gripped the nation for well, for hours. I mean, seriously, this could be the quickest constitutional crisis in South Korean history.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and protect your future. Speak with the knowledgeable folks over at Patriot Gold today. Now, they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Tuesday, 3 December. Oh, look at that.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
We'll begin with an update on the violence engulfing Syria, where the Assad regime, with assistance from Russia, is stepping up strikes on opposition forces who managed to capture the country's second largest city, Aleppo, in a surprise offensive last week.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, 3 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Of course, as your mother probably told you all those years ago, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. One should always, of course, listen to their mum.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Now, as we've been tracking here on the PDB, the rebel coalition has wasted little time since they captured Aleppo, consolidating their gains over the weekend by seizing key military sites in the east of Aleppo city and pushing further south into several towns in the countryside near Hama, Syria's fourth largest city.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Over the past 24 hours, however, their advance has been blunted somewhat as the government of President Assad ramps up airstrikes against the Islamic rebels with the help of Russian forces stationed in the region. That's according to a report from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Russian and Syrian government warplanes began their aerial counterattack in earnest Sunday evening into Monday, hitting opposition positions in Aleppo, Idlib and Hama, claiming to have killed at least 400 insurgents. At least 20 civilians were also reported killed during these strikes, though the figures cannot yet be independently verified.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Russian President Putin reportedly spoke with Iranian President Massoud Bezeshkin on Monday to discuss the escalating situation. A spokesman for the Kremlin said, quote, Unconditional support was expressed for the actions of the legitimate authorities of Syria to restore constitutional order and to restore the political, economic and social stability of the Syrian state.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Poseshkin has been taking the lead on shoring up the Assad regime's delicate hold on power, sending Iranian militias as reinforcements. At least 300 members of Iranian-backed Iraqi militias crossed the border into Syria on Monday to bolster Assad's forces on the front lines in the north. Assad himself traveled to Russia in recent days to plead with the Putin regime for greater assistance.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
That's according to sources who spoke with The Wall Street Journal. We also learned that on Sunday, Moscow dismissed the general in charge of its forces in Syria. Now for Russia, the stakes in Syria are high. The civil war, which began in 2011, has largely been stalled since 2020, and Russia has been obviously increasingly distracted since 2022 with their invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
The rebels are hoping this will play to their advantage and limit Russia's ability to fully commit to the defense of the Assad regime. For some background, Russia entered the fray several years into the civil war back in 2015 on the side of Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Some 5,000 Russian troops were dispatched, along with extensive supplies of weapons and military equipment, which played a pivotal role in a years-long military offensive to retake control of the country, culminating in the retreat of the rebels from Aleppo back in 2016.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Russia framed their entrance into the conflict as an extension of their fight against Islamic terror groups like ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which are also designated terror groups in Russia. More broadly, however, Putin sought to roll back U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
influence in the Middle East by propping up the Assad regime, ensuring that Syria remained a strategic regional ally alongside Iran, as well as a viable economic partner for arms sales. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday, quote, we certainly continue to support Bashar al-Assad and continue our contacts at relevant levels, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
The sweeping success of the Islamist rebels poses the biggest challenge to Assad's rule in the eight years since his government retook Aleppo. Now, while the U.S. has long sought to undermine Russia's hold on Syria, analysts have said this particular conflict poses a dilemma for Western governments. Well, yes, it does.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
While the insurgents have put Russia and Iran on the back foot, their victory would mean that Syria would then fall into the hands of hardline radicals. An analyst for the Brookings Institution told CNN, quote, Should they be cheering the opposition taking over Syria's second largest city, Aleppo? Or should they actually worry about the city falling under Islamist rule?
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
On Monday, officials with the U.S. State Department urged de-escalation and called for a political settlement to the years long civil war. OK, well, not to sound cynical, but that's not going to happen. All right. Coming up next, President-elect Trump threatens BRICS nations with steep tariffs over their potential challenge to the U.S. dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Three weeks to get your holiday shopping done. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we begin with an update from Syria, where government forces supported by Russian air power are intensifying efforts to counter advancing rebel forces moving south. Well, look at Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
And Mexico's President Scheinbaum disputes President-elect Trump's account of a migration deal. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to the latest news from the Trump transition, the president-elect has issued a new trade threat, vowing to slap 100% tariffs on any BRICS nation that attempts to replace the US dollar with a rival currency.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
As he often does, Trump took to Truth Social on Saturday to make the declaration, saying, quote, the idea that the BRICS countries are trying to move away from the dollar while we stand by and watch is over.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Trump then put every member of the alliance on notice, saying, quote, We require a commitment from these countries that they will neither create a new BRICS currency nor back any other currency to replace the mighty U.S. dollar, or they will face 100% tariffs and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful U.S. economy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
As a reminder, the BRICS alliance has been made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa since 2011, but has recently expanded to include Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt. Russian President Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have been working to accelerate efforts to expand the bloc of emerging economies, seeing it as a counterbalance to Western influence.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Currently, 34 other nations have expressed interest in joining. That's according to a report from the BBC. Just last year, Brazilian President Lula da Silva proposed that the alliance create a common currency to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar. While using an alternative currency and banking networks outside the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
dollar system would allow BRICS nations to circumvent Western sanctions, broad economic and geopolitical disagreements within the alliance have limited their ability to make progress on that issue. Ahead of a landmark BRICS summit in Russia back in late October, Putin said discussions about an alternative to the U.S. dollar would not yet be under consideration.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Putin said, quote, its time has not come yet. We need to be very careful and act gradually without any rush, end quote. Instead, Putin said the BRICS alliance was studying, quote, the possibilities to make wider use of national currencies, potentially reducing the use of the dollar in trade between member countries.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
He may be busy still with his invasion of Ukraine, but not so busy that he can't help out a fellow despotic dictator in need. Later in the show, another potential trade war on the horizon as President-elect Trump threatens BRICS nations with a 100% tariff if they attempt to replace the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
He also said that they were discussing enhanced coordination between member central banks to support trade. But if his statement is anything to go off, Trump will make disrupting the effort of BRICS to move away from the dollar a top priority. He punctuated his message to the BRICS alliance by saying the group, quote, can go find another sucker, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
But Russia and China, well, they quickly issued a rebuke. There's a shock. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Trump's threat of, quote, economic force would likely backfire and actually accelerate the trend of countries switching from the dollar to national currencies for international trade.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
He said the dollar has long been losing its appeal as a reserve currency and uncertainty over how the U.S. may wield it as a financial weapon in the future would only deepen international mistrust. Representatives for the Chinese embassy in the U.S. echoed these sentiments, telling Newsweek, quote, The U.S. has long used its dollar hegemony to shift crises, spread U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
inflation to other parts of the world, and made it become a geopolitical tool which damages international economic and financial stability and disrupts international order, end quote. Well... You know what else disrupts international order?
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
That would be conducting massive military drills around Taiwan, deliberately ramming other nations' naval vessels, decades-long theft of intellectual property and economic intelligence, and, well, there was that pandemic, which may or may not have originated from the Wuhan lab. I mean, we'll likely never know, since Xi's regime can't be bothered to provide transparency into its origins.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
But I guess I digress. Trump has already been using the threat of tariffs as a key negotiating tool ahead of his return to office in January. Last week, Trump threatened Mexico, Canada, and China with steep tariffs if they don't act expeditiously to rein in illegal immigration and illicit fentanyl trafficking. Okay, staying with President-elect Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
He claimed a victory in curbing illegal immigration following a conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, though the leaders offered conflicting narratives. Taking to Truth Social last week, Trump asserted that Sheinbaum had agreed to, quote, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
However, Scheinbaum described the discussion differently, underscoring that Mexico's position remains focused on managing migration without closing its borders. In a post on X, Scheinbaum characterized the conversation with Trump as, quote, excellent, but clarified that she had reiterated Mexico's outline to address migrant caravans.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Scheinbaum stated, quote, I explained to President-elect Trump the comprehensive strategy that Mexico has followed to address the migration phenomena, respecting human rights, end quote. For background, this exchange followed days of heightened tensions after Trump threatened a 25 percent tariff on Mexico and Canada, citing illegal immigration and drug trafficking as justifications.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Scheinbaum initially responded with defiance to the tariff threat, vowing reciprocal measures if tariffs were imposed and declaring, quote, There is no subordination here. Speaking to reporters, Scheinbaum clarified that tariffs were not a focus of her call with Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Plus, Trump and Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum are giving different accounts of a phone call in which she reportedly agreed to halt migration through Mexico. And in today's Back of the Brief, sad news from Israel, as an American once believed to be a Hamas prisoner is now presumed dead. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Instead, they discussed immigration and fentanyl trafficking, which Trump had cited as key justifications, of course, for his tariff threats. Scheinbaum reassured Trump that a migrant caravan that he had expressed concerns about would not reach the U.S. border. but reiterated Mexico's stance against closing its borders.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Facing significant diplomatic pressure from the US, Mexico has undertaken its most extensive migrant crackdown, transporting non-Mexican migrants to its southern regions well away from the US border. Notably, Scheinbaum struck a more conciliatory tone during her remarks to reporters, downplaying the likelihood of a trade war and describing her conversation with Trump as, quote, very amiable.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
She affirmed that there was, quote, no possibility of tariffs escalating tensions and expressed a shared commitment to, quote, continue with our talks as Trump prepares to take office in January. Now even if no tariffs are imposed, Trump may frame this episode as evidence of his ability to secure concessions through tariff rhetoric.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
This tactic could then set the tone, of course, for his administration's future dealings with Mexico and other trade partners. With just weeks until Trump's inauguration, the evolving dynamic between the two leaders emphasizes the challenges ahead for U.S.-Mexico relations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Scheinbaum's remarks reflect a balancing act between managing domestic Mexican pressures and fostering a productive relationship with the incoming U.S. administration.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, sad news from Israel, where an Israeli-American soldier initially believed captured alive by Hamas during the October 7th attacks is now believed to have been killed that day with his body taken into Gaza. I'll have the details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
In today's Back of the Brief, the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, confirmed the death of Captain Omer Nutra on Monday, a 21-year-old from New York who was killed during Hamas's 7 October terror attack, and they said that his body is being held hostage in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Nutra, referred to as a lone soldier because his parents were not in Israel, served as a tank platoon commander in the IDF's 7th Armored Brigade and had previously been believed to be alive and held hostage. He was stationed near the Gaza border when his tank came under attack from Hamas terrorists with rocket-propelled grenades and explosives.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Infamous footage from the attack captured the tank covered in smoke and flames, with Palestinians in civilian clothing standing on and around it as the tank crew was dragged out by Hamas terrorists into Gaza. The confirmation of Nutra's death on Monday, based on findings from the military rabbinate and new intelligence, comes 14 months after the attack. 14 months.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu extended condolences to Nutra's family, vowing to bring his body back to Israel for burial. In a statement, Netanyahu described Nutra as a, quote, man of values, blessed with talents and a Zionist in every sense of the word, emphasizing Israel's commitment to recovering the bodies of all hostages and victims.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
In an official statement from the White House, President Biden stated, quote, Our hearts are heavy today. Jill and I are devastated and outraged to learn of the death of Omar Nutra, an American citizen. He dreamed of dedicating himself to building peace, end quote. Biden recalled meeting Nutra's parents at the White House less than a month ago in prayer for the safe return of their son.
The President's Daily Brief
December 3rd, 2024: Putin Strikes Back in Syria & Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat
Biden condemned Hamas' actions in the statement and reaffirmed his dedication to bringing all remaining hostages and victims home. Currently, 97 of the 251 individuals abducted by Hamas on 7 October remain in Gaza, including a minimum of 35 confirmed dead. Netanyahu has vowed relentless action until every hostage is returned home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
The terror group's response has been, well, exactly what you would expect from an Iranian-funded and supported terrorist organization, with Hamas fighters brutally executing at least six of the protesters. Many others have been publicly beaten or kidnapped by the group, and locals say a number of their loved ones still remain missing. That's according to a report from The Telegraph.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
It's Tuesday, the 1st of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, as rare public protests against Hamas spread throughout Gaza, the terror group is resorting to executions, torture, and kidnappings to crush any dissent to their rule.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
In an example of the group's actions, Hamas thugs made an example out of a 22-year-old protester. A senior police officer affiliated with the Palestinian Fatah party told The Telegraph that the militants beat and tortured the young man for nearly four hours before dumping his body on his family's doorstep as a warning to others of the consequences of opposing their rule.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
He was reportedly kidnapped shortly after leaving an anti-Hamas protest last week and was held for several days before Hamas made their savage display. Before leaving him at the family's doorstep, he was dragged through the streets by a rope tied around his neck and beaten with clubs and metal rods in front of passerby.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Photographs of his body, which was left swollen and disfigured, then began circulating locally on the messaging app Telegram, provoking further outrage against the organization. The Fatah police officer told the Telegraph, quote, End quote. Now, if the organization was hoping to shock locals back into silence, well, they seem to have been mistaken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
At the young man's funeral on Saturday, attendees could be heard chanting anti-Khamas slogans. In another example of their actions, an unidentified Gazan was reportedly kidnapped, beaten, shot in the legs, and left in a public square in a refugee camp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Sam Habib, a Gazan now living in London, said the recent protests are the first time that Hamas has seen such large-scale uprisings since they took control of the Gaza Strip back in 2007. While there have been some small pockets of protests over the years, notably in 2019 and 2023, they were swiftly and violently squashed by Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
But this time, given the destruction brought on Gaza by Hamas's 7 October massacres in Israel, Habib said many protesters feel that at this point, they have nothing left to lose. Regarding Hamas's reprisals, Habib told The Telegraph, quote, "...this is a heinous crime that's completely condemned.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Not all people in Gaza are part of Hamas, and they have the right to express their views freely," end quote. Well, you know, that's true. Not all Gazans belong to Hamas. But unfortunately for them, all the guns belong to Hamas. During last week's protests, demonstrators could be heard chanting, quote, for God's sake, Hamas out, Hamas terrorists, and we want an end to the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
The protests first broke out roughly a week after the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas collapsed, and Israel resumed ground and air operations in Gaza, targeting the militant groups, fighters, and leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Coming up next, an update on the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal migration as Department of Homeland Security sources report that more than 100,000 deportations have taken place since President Trump's second term began. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. You know what? Let's talk beef, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
In a world where everything feels mass-produced, it's refreshing to find something real. Well, like the beef from Tritails. Now, Tritails, the business isn't some corporate meat factory. Tritails is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. That is very important. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
No middleman, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference at the moment it hits the grill. Speaking of which, I grilled up a batch of their ribeyes just the other day, and they are delicious.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Later in the show, an update on the White House's crackdown on illegal migration as border crossings plummet to their lowest levels in decades, and Department of Homeland Security sources report north of 100,000 deportations since President Trump's second term began. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, look around and what do you see out there? What do you see? Well, you see tariff wars. We've got those. You see some recession fears. And you see that pesky, stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been hitting routinely all-time highs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
In volatile markets like the one we have right now, well, what you don't want to do is sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Don't do that. Take control. Take charge. Safeguard your savings. And that is why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or a 401k into an IRA in physical gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
So you ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Text PDB to 989-898. Now, Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit. Again, all you have to do is text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
With an A-plus rating, with a Better Business Bureau, and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. In the two months since President Trump returned to the White House, deportations have surged past 100,000 as the administration maintains the hardline immigration agenda that defined his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Since Trump's inauguration on 20 January, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has arrested more than 113,000 individuals and deported, quote, north of 100,000. That's according to DHS source who spoke exclusively with the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
The source characterized the pace and scope of the removals as a deliberate and immediate fulfillment of Trump's central campaign promise to crack down on illegal immigration and expel those the administration classifies as national security threats, including alleged gang members and suspected terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
We'll begin in Gaza, where reports are emerging that the terror group Hamas is turning on its own people, the very people that they claim to be fighting for and representing. cracking down on recent protests with executions, torture, and kidnappings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
An ICE source told the Post, quote, he's doing what he was voted in to do, point blank, end quote. ICE has yet to release a formal breakdown detailing how many of the deported individuals had prior criminal convictions or from which countries they originated. Officials say the majority have been removed to Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Detention facilities are now operating at full capacity, and ICE has formally requested additional funding from Congress to accommodate the expanding scope of its operations. Trump wasted no time implementing his immigration crackdown. Within hours of taking the oath of office, he declared a national emergency at the southern border,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
suspended the asylum process for those entering illegally, ordered the deployment of thousands of troops to the region, and initiated a broad deportation campaign that yielded 32,000 arrests within the first 50 days. One element of Trump's strategy has been the resurrection of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act. That's a wartime authority seldom used in the modern era.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
For background, that statute grants the president sweeping powers to detain or expel foreign nationals from enemy nations without trial during war or invasion. On Sunday, 17 alleged members of Venezuela's Trenderagua, or TDA, gang, as well as MS-13 gangs, were deported without trial to El Salvador's notorious mega-prison, despite a federal judge's order earlier this month blocking their removal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
The Trump administration, citing national security interests, moved forward with the deportations anyway. Meanwhile, illegal border crossings have dropped precipitously. Just 7,000 illegal entries were recorded in March. That's down a massive 94% from the 137,000 logged during the same month last year under then President Biden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
February numbers were likewise low at just over 8,300, the lowest monthly figure in the last two decades. DHS sources attributed the dramatic decline to what they're calling, quote, the Trump effect. Another DHS source stated, quote, migrants are scared there are consequences now. Everyone who is caught is charged and does time, end quote. So imagine that, consequences for not following the law.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Hmm, apparently it's a revolutionary new concept. The most active crossing points remain the San Diego and El Paso sectors. If current trends persist, 2025 could see the lowest rate of illegal migration since 1968. That was a good year, wasn't it? A marker that the Trump administration is likely to tout as a campaign promise delivered.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
As we've been tracking on the PDB, thousands of Gazans have taken to the streets over the past week in a rare show of public dissent against Hamas, the largest public demonstrations against the terror group inside the enclave since they took power back in 2007.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Tuesday, the 1st of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, by now, you've probably noticed all the billboards, magazine ads, those banners that get towed around by airplanes, advising you that you can listen to the show ad-free.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
All you have to do is become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 1st, 2025: Hamas Tortures Protester To Death In Barbaric Crackdown & DHS Reports More Than 100,000 Deportations Since Trump's Return
Hamas is increasingly losing the support of local Gazans as frustrations mount over the group's handling of the war, particularly after the fragile ceasefire with Israel broke down just two weeks ago.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
If anything, observers suggest the ruling could actually galvanize support among her followers, who see her as a martyr to the system that she has long sought to overthrow. Okay, coming up in the back of the brief. Leaders in Greenland punch back the Trump administration. How about that? That is a sentence that I have never, ever uttered before. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Take a look around. What do you see? Well, you see tariff wars. They seem to be erupting everywhere. Recession fears and that stubborn inflation keeps hanging on. It's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. In volatile markets like right now, look, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Do something, take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself a question. Is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, text PDB to 989-898. It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Plus, in a bombshell court ruling, France's right-wing leader Marine Le Pen was banned on Monday from running for public office for the next five years. We'll break down the case against Le Pen and what it means for the future of French politics. And if I'm able to correctly pronounce the name Marine Le Pen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold. And you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
In today's back of the brief, it appears that officials in Greenland have had enough of the Trump administration's ongoing threats to fold the territory into the U.S. The war of words over the resource-rich Arctic territory intensified over the weekend when President Trump was asked by a reporter what he thought his chances were of annexing Greenland.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Trump responded as if the matter was inevitable, saying, quote, We'll get Greenland, yeah, 100%, end quote. Sorry, I tried to say that with a straight face. But Greenlands leaders, well, they weren't having it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Newly minted Prime Minister Jens Fredrik Nielsen, man, how about today's names, who was sworn into office last Friday, poured cold water on Trump's ambitions in a statement on Sunday, flatly saying that the U.S. will never get its hands on the territory. Nielsen, let's call him Fred, said, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
But Trump looks determined to press ahead with his vision of American expansion, no matter how Greenlands leaders feel about it. Trump said that Sunday, that while he thinks the territory can be acquired without the need for military force, he wasn't taking that scenario off the table. Military invasion of Greenland. Again, not something that I had on my 2025 bingo card.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
For some background, Trump has long expressed a desire to seize Greenland, arguing it's vital to deterring potential threats from China and Russia in the Arctic's crucial global trade and military arteries. Now, those threats are real enough.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
China has been vying for dominance of Greenlands vast deposits of natural resources in recent years, while also pursuing expanded shipping routes through the region's waters. Russia, meanwhile, has recently reopened dozens of Soviet-era military bases in the Arctic region. But Greenland, well, it's a semi-autonomous territory that is currently still a part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
It has its own government and controls most of its domestic affairs, including natural resources and local policies, though Denmark retains authority over areas like foreign policy and defense. While Greenlands leaders favor a gradual process of independence from Denmark, they have little interest in becoming part of the US.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Their people, apparently, feel just as strongly, with the latest polling showing some 85% of Greenlanders opposing becoming a US territory. Trumps letztes Statement kam in der Mitte einer kontroversen Reise von Vise-Präsidenten J.D. Vance nach Griechenland über den Wochenende, wo er den Dänischen über das, was er als ihre schlechte Beherrschung des Territoriums genannt hat, schiebte.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Und in today's Back of the Brief, the war of words over the future of Greenland is heating up, as their leaders punch back at President Trump's latest threats to annex the territory. And I honestly did not have war of words with Greenland on my 2025 bingo card. Didn't happen. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Aber die Rezeption von Vance in Griechenland war eiskalt, mit Lokalisten, die an seiner Überraschungsreise protestierten. Trotz Trumps Verlust, denken einige AnalystInnen, dass seine Threaten einfach als eine Negotiations-Taktik für die Sicherung des US-Ausschusses vor China sind. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Tuesday, the 1st of April.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
If you have any questions or comments, or if you pull off a really solid April Fool's joke, reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, which you can do, just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Despite the Trump administration's hopes for a permanent peace deal to end the war in Ukraine, well, it appears that Russian President Putin may have other plans in mind. On Monday, the Russian President ordered another 160,000 Russian citizens to be conscripted into military service by July 15th to bolster the ranks of his depleted military. Just how happy are those Russian citizens?
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
While Moscow recently all but expelled Ukrainian forces from their Kursk region in a bloody counter-offensive, and their military continues to slowly advance in eastern Ukraine, they are hemorrhaging troops at a historic pace. Casualty figures remain very difficult to verify. But Britain's Ministry of Defense estimates that Russia has suffered up to 250,000 combat deaths recently.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Since its full-scale invasion began in 2022, with the number of killed or wounded approaching 900,000. That makes this the deadliest Russian military campaign since World War II. But the new draft may be about more than just replenishing Moscow's devastated ranks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The move immediately raised concerns in Kyiv and throughout Europe, particularly since the mobilization comes in the middle of ongoing negotiations brokered by the U.S. to secure a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Ukrainian President Zelensky quickly warned that Putin is deliberately stringing America along in this peace process as he quietly prepares a massive new offensive to seize more Ukrainian territory. That's according to a report from Politico. It's the latest sign of just how precarious these negotiations are and the severe consequences that Ukraine could face if U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
officials misjudge Putin's true motivations. Early last week, the Trump administration's diplomatic outreach yielded a very limited ceasefire, halting attacks on energy sites and ensuring the safety of shipping in the Black Sea. But Ukrainian officials have already accused Moscow of flagrantly violating the accord with attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The Kremlin has also accused Ukraine of the same, while also suggesting they won't fully adhere to the ceasefire without sanctions relief from the US, raising further questions about whether the Putin regime is acting in good faith. Here's a spoiler alert. Putin doesn't act in good faith.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Not to mention that Putin has now indicated that the only way an actual peace deal can be signed is if Ukraine installs a new government. Oh, so there's that. Zelenskyy claims that Russia's limited engagement on peace talks is simply being used as a smokescreen, saying intelligence suggests Putin is gearing up for a major push into Ukrainian territory in the country's northeastern regions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The Ukrainian leader warned, quote, they are dragging out negotiations and trying to drag the U.S. into endless meaningless discussions about fake conditions to buy time and then try to seize even more land. Putin wants to negotiate territory from a stronger position. He only thinks about war, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
As we discussed on yesterday's program, the Putin regime's tactics are reportedly beginning to wear thin on President Trump. He said Sunday that he's getting, quote, pissed off by the Kremlin's attempts to stall negotiations and will consider imposing new sanctions on Russia's oil trade if he feels that Moscow is actively seeking to undermine his efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
But despite the pointed remarks, Trump ultimately said he believes Putin will stick to his word. Well, that would be a first. From Zelenskys point of view, however, Trump is being naive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The Ukrainian president pointed to Russia's weekend drone and missile bombardment of the northeastern city of Kharkiv, which injured several civilians, sparked fires at industrial buildings and damaged 11 buildings, including two kindergartens. Zelenskyy sagte, dass Moskau's forces have actually increased the rate of their aerial attacks since discussions with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
began, firing more than 1,000 drones into Ukrainian territory over just the past week. In his Sunday evening video address, Zelensky said, "...the brutality of Russian strikes, not just occasionally, but literally every day and night, show that Putin couldn't care less about diplomacy." He noted that for, "...several weeks now, there has been a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
proposal for an unconditional ceasefire, and almost every day, in response to this proposal, there are Russian drones, bombs, artillery shelling, and ballistic missiles." Look, you may not like Zelensky, but he's not wrong in this assessment.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
It's Tuesday, the first of April. Well, look at that. In some parts of the world, it's known as April Fools. So, I guess, keep that in mind, in case at some point today you get invited to join a Warplans chat group. It might just be an April Fools joke. Or maybe not. It's hard to tell these days. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
It's also worth noting that a Kremlin spokesman said Monday that peace negotiations will continue to be, quote, a drawn-out process, suggesting that the Russians are in no hurry to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Zelenskyy hat eine robuste Antwort von den USA auf Russlands neuesten Angriff gehalten, die argumentiert hat, dass Trump sofort mit neuen Sanktionen vorangehen sollte, um Putin in den Negotierungen ernst zu machen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Wie ich schon erwähnt habe, hat Trump das Signal, dass er bereit ist, Russland mit neuen finanziellen Penalitäten zu schießen, und hat am Sonntag gesagt, dass Tarife im nächsten Monat implementiert werden könnten. Aber er scheint nicht bereit zu sein, den Druck auf Putin zu erhöhen. All right, coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Israeli officials say the IDF will dramatically expand its ground operations in Gaza in the coming weeks to occupy up to 25% of the enclave. Plus, France's right-wing leader Marine Le Pen gets sidelined by a bombshell court ruling banning her from seeking public office for the next five years. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Now, living out west in Idaho, as I do, I feel somewhat qualified to talk about ranching and beef. In a world where everything feels mass-produced, it's refreshing to find something real. Well, like the beef from Tritails. Look, Tritails is not some corporate meat factory. Sie sind eine fünfte Generation Texas Ranch, wo Kuhn, Pestizide, Gras fertig und auf der richtigen Art gegrillt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Das ist unglaublich wichtig. Sie handeln das Fleisch auf dem Ort und schicken es direkt zu Ihrer Tür. Es gibt keine Mittleren, es gibt keine Geheimnisse. All ihr Fleisch ist gesourcet, um die Genetik zu vergleichen und die Sicherheit, die sie auf ihrem Herd gebaut haben, um konsistenten Marbling, Leckerheit und reichen Geschmack in jedem Cut zu ermöglichen. Kleiner Batch, großer Geschmack.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Du kannst die Unterschiede probieren, je nachdem, wann es auf den Grill kommt. Now whether it's a ribeye, a filet, a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And it is delicious. I can vouch for that. And right now they've got a special offer just for listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the PDB. Israel is preparing to dramatically expand its ground operation in Gaza, aiming to seize control of up to a quarter of the enclave in the coming weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The move, confirmed by a senior Israeli official on Monday, is part of a maximum pressure strategy designed to compel Hamas to release more hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
But the ground campaign's stated goals may belie a more permanent agenda, such as reestablishing military control over large swaths of the enclave and forcing some two million Palestinians into what government officials have labeled a, quote, humanitarian zone.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The operation has reignited concerns about the so-called voluntary departure plan, long floated by some Israeli hardline members of Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition, which calls for the resettlement of Gaza's population as a means of eliminating Hamas. Proponente argumentieren, dass der Plan ein schmerzhafter, aber notwendiger Schritt ist, um langfristige Sicherheit zu ermöglichen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. All right, let's get briefed. Wir beginnen heute mit einem Update auf die Krieg in der Ukraine, als russischer Präsident Putin die Verschiebung von noch 160.000 russischen Mitgliedern in den Militär beurteilt. Und die Führer in Kiew beurteilen, dass Moskau eine massive neue militärische Offensive vorbereitet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Detractors warnen, dass es Israel in einer kostlichen und open-ended militärischen Occupation entfalten könnte, während langfristige regionale Volatilität stöcke. Am Montag haben die israelischen Verteidigungsgeräte neue Evakuierungsordnungen in Rafah, der südlichsten Stadt in Gaza, wo vorherige Luft- und Grundabbrüche bereits ganze Umgebungen leveln.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Ein IDF-Besprecher hat auf X erklärt, dass Israel, Quote, »wir kommen zurück zu intensiven Operationen, um die Fähigkeiten der Terroristen-Organisationen in diesen Bereichen zu zerstören, um Zivilisten sofort in den Al-Mawassi-Korridor zu fliehen.«
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
As we've discussed here on the PDB, this renewed offensive began nearly two weeks ago and has already displaced thousands, including many Palestinians who had only recently returned to their homes during the January ceasefire. Meanwhile, ongoing ceasefire talks remain deadlocked. That should surprise no one.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
As we've been tracking over the weekend, Hamas tentatively agreed to a new Egyptian broker proposal that was modeled on an earlier U.S. offer led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The Egyptian proposal would see the release of five Israeli hostages per week, including American Israeli Eden Alexander.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
In return, Hamas is demanding a return to the terms of the 19 January ceasefire, which included a multi-week pause in fighting, increased humanitarian aid and the start of second phase negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Although Israel initially agreed to the Witkow-Framework, officials now say they will only sign off on a version that includes the release of 11 living hostages up front, followed by the return of 16 bodies by the 10th day of a 40-day ceasefire. Until then, the Israeli government has vowed to press ahead with its military objectives.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
On the ground, the IDF says that its forces are consolidating control over key transit corridors in central Gaza, particularly around the Netzarim corridor, as well as securing perimeter zones closer to the Israeli border.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Am Montag kündigte die IDF, dass sie 50 Hamas-Terroristen getötet hat und ein vorher unbekanntes Halbmeilen-Tunnel-System entdeckt hat, obwohl sie mehrere Räder in die Gegend gedrängt haben während früherer Phasen des Krieges. Die IDF hat auch die Zerstörung eines Hamas-Roket-Manufacturing-Sites eröffnet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Das ist ein wichtiges Entwicklung, weil die Terrorgruppe in den letzten Wochen mit Intermittent-Roket-Firmen in israelisch kontrolliertes Territorium zurückgekehrt hat. With ceasefire negotiations faltering and military operations expanding, Israel's campaign appears to be targeting a new goal, one that may soon extend to the majority of the Gaza Strip. All right, shifting to France.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Right-wing leader Marine Le Pen has been barred from running in the 2027 presidential election following a criminal conviction that threatens to upend the country's electoral landscape. On Monday, a French court sentenced Le Pen to four years in prison, notably two of them suspended.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
and fined her nearly $110,000 for allegedly embezzling more than $4 million in EU funds by misclassifying party staffers as parliamentary aides on payroll. More significantly, the court imposed a five-year ban on her holding public office, a move that takes immediate effect and strips the far-right firebrand of her shot at the presidency.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Though Le Pen has vowed to appeal, French appellate courts can take years to issue a ruling, effectively sidelining her for the foreseeable future. The judge described Le Pen as, quote, at the heart of the embezzlement scheme, citing her lack of remorse and a risk of recidivism as justification for the sentencing.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Nun, das könnte eine Art sein, die Verschiebung von 160.000 neuen Truppen zu interpretieren. Later in the show, Israeli officials say that the IDF will dramatically expand its ground operations in Gaza in the coming weeks to occupy up to 25% of the enclave, upping the pressure on Hamas to release more hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
The ruling has, of course, reverberated through France's fragile political architecture. That's quite the sentence, isn't it? Thank you very much. As regular listeners of the PDB may recall, Le Pen brought down French President Emmanuel Macron's previous government with a no-confidence vote. That was back in December. And his current government is, well, frankly, hanging on by just a thread.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
With Macron constitutionally barred from seeking a third term and no clear centrist successor in place, the court's ruling eliminates Le Pen as a candidate widely seen as a favor to succeed him. In a televised rebuttal, she denounced the ruling as politically motivated attack, likening it to the tactics of authoritarian regimes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
She stated, "...there are millions of French people who are outraged to an unimaginable degree." Before declaring, quote, I'm not going to let myself be eliminated like this, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Le Pen, der politische Führer der Nationalen Rallye Partei, auch genannt als RN, behält ihre Unwissenheit, versuchte, den Fall als Teil eines breiteren Versuches zu zerstören, populistische Herausforderer durch weaponisierte Anti-Korruption-Lagen. Es ist wichtig zu bemerken, dass sie ihre Sitzung im Parlament bis zum Ende ihres Termins behalten wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Aber mit Le Pen aus der Kontention, ist die Partei-Führung nun erwartet, rund um RN-Präsident Jordan Bardea zu präsentieren, der sich schon lange als ihr Verwandter gekümmert hat. Bordea, who has helped the RN appeal to younger voters, said it was not just Le Pen who was unjustly convicted, but, quote, it was French democracy that was killed. Hm, long live the revolution.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Reaction has not been confined to France. Doge-Chief Elon Musk weighed in on X, posting, quote, this is their standard playbook throughout the world, referring to what he described as, quote, radical left efforts to bypass elections through legal warfare. The State Department also expressed concern.
The President's Daily Brief
April 1st, 2025: Is Putin Gearing Up For A Major Offensive Amid Peace Talks? & France's Le Pen Banned From Seeking Office In Bombshell Ruling
Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce labeled the decision part of a broader international pattern involving the, quote, exclusion of people from the political process. Yet despite the gravity of the verdict, Le Pen's political base appears unlikely to fracture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
By Thursday morning, rescue operations had shifted to recovery, with Washington Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirming that authorities no longer expect to find survivors. As of now, 28 bodies have been pulled from the wreckage, 27 from the jet, one from the helicopter. The shattered fuselage of Flight 5342 was discovered in at least three large sections in the river.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
It's Thursday, 30 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, tragic news out of Washington, D.C., where an American Airlines plane carrying 64 people suffered a mid-air collision with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on Wednesday night, causing both aircraft to crash into the Potomac River.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Among those on board were ice skaters, their families, and coaches returning from competitions in Kansas, including Russian-born former world champions. The Kremlin acknowledged the deaths of Russian nationals and extended condolences to their families, though a spokesman said there are no plans for a conversation between President Putin and President Trump over the matter.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Trump briefed late Wednesday, thanked first responders for their efforts. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom flew to Washington overnight, telling reporters that the airline is fully cooperating with investigators and assisting families of those lost.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Isom noted that the PSA jet was on a routine descent into one of the busiest airports in the country when the Black Hawk entered its path, stating, quote, At this time, we don't know why the military aircraft came into the path of the PSA aircraft. According to CBS News, authorities recovered one of the aircraft's two black boxes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Reagan National suspended operations overnight but reopened Thursday morning with airlines scrambling to adjust schedules. In a Thursday press conference, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, just two days into his role, suggested the disaster was preventable, noting both aircraft were flying standard patterns with no reported communications failures.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Investigations are now underway, led by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Black Hawk was conducting an annual night evaluation, which was piloted by an experienced crew and was equipped with night vision goggles. He added that the Defense Department is also actively investigating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
The crash raises fresh concerns about ongoing challenges at the FAA, which has been without a permanent administrator since former Chief Mike Whitaker stepped down on 20 January when Trump took office. Whitaker was the third permanent FAA administrator since 2017, despite the position carrying a five-year term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
During a press conference on Thursday, President Trump did name a new acting head of the FAA. Coming up, as deportations continue across America, with the focus on those illegal immigrants with criminal records or deemed public safety threats, President Trump has announced plans to open a 30,000-person migrant facility at the Guantanamo Bay military base in Cuba. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
President Trump plans to repurpose the Guantanamo Bay military facility in Cuba to house illegal immigrants as his administration plans for ongoing deportation operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Trump said Wednesday that he signed a presidential memorandum ordering the Pentagon to prepare detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay, historically used for holding terrorism suspects, to house as many as 30,000 illegal migrants. He touted the capacity of the Guantanamo facility, saying there are thousands of beds ready to be used to, quote, detain the worst criminal illegal aliens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Then, President Trump has announced plans to open a 30,000-person migrant facility at the Guantanamo Bay military base in Cuba, as his administration gears up for ongoing deportations. But first, our afternoon spotlight. More than 60 people are dead after an American Airlines regional jet collided midair with a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
That's according to a report from the New York Post. Trump previewed the plan while signing the Lake and Riley Act into law, which requires the detention of any illegal immigrant in the U.S. charged with certain crimes, marking the first legislative win of his second term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Trump said, quote, Most people don't even know that we have 30,000 beds in Guantanamo to detain the worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people. Some of them are so bad we don't even trust their countries to hold them because we don't want them coming back. The president added, quote, It's a tough place to get out of.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Trump said the move would immediately double America's detention capacity, paving the way for his administration to initiate their planned campaign of larger-scale deportations. Trump also said it would bring us one step closer to, quote, "...eradicating the scourge of migrant crime in American communities." Leaders in Cuba, however, well, they're not pleased with the development.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
The Cuban president called the move a, quote, act of brutality while claiming the Guantanamo Naval Base sits on, quote, illegally occupied territory. For some background, the U.S. has a long-term lease that began in 1903 from Cuba's government for a naval facility at Guantanamo Bay.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
It's mainly been used since the early 2000s to house terrorism suspects, including those who planned the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. While there were as many as 700 terrorism suspects housed at the facility back in 2003, that number is now down to just 15.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
A small number of asylum seekers intercepted at sea are also kept at the base, which covers roughly 45 square miles of territory on Cuba's southeastern coast. But the idea of using the base as a holding facility for migrants isn't new. The base did once function as a large-scale holding center for migrants. Between 1991 and 1996, During both the H.W.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Bush and Clinton administrations, some 50,000 Haitians and Cubans passed through Guantanamo Bay as the U.S. sorted out asylum claims. Border Czar Tom Holman said Wednesday, "...so we're just going to expand upon that existing migrant center."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
He added that every facility at the base will maintain the highest standards and that detention at Guantanamo would be reserved for the "...worst of the worst." And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 30 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
Army Black Hawk helicopter, sending both aircraft plummeting into the high-sea Potomac River as the jet was on final approach for landing at Reagan Washington National Airport. American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was on final approach to Runway 33 when it struck a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, Black Hawk, at approximately 9 p.m. Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 30th, 2025: Plane Collides With Army Black Hawk In Deadly DC Crash & Trump Preps Guantanamo Bay For 30,000 Criminal Migrants
According to Flight Radar 24, the flight, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, was flying at an altitude of roughly 300 feet when the impact occurred. Onboard were 60 passengers and four crew members. The helicopter carried three crew. The collision is the deadliest air disaster on U.S. soil since November of 2001.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
While it's not yet clear what the Trump administration will do with the 600,000 Venezuelan migrants currently living in the U.S., Noem's rollback reportedly requires that she make a decision on how to move forward by Saturday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The move comes on the heels of a slew of immigration actions from Trump, who declared a national emergency at the border on his first day in office and shut down all crossings with Mexico for migrants seeking asylum. The administration has since dismantled or suspended virtually every single Biden-era program that facilitated the influx of nearly 8 million migrants into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
over the last four years. Collectively, the aggressive policies are already having a major impact, causing illegal migrant encounters at the border to drop by roughly 35% over the first week of the Trump administration. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 30 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Now, as the old saying goes, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Specifically, Iranian officials have told their remaining militias to lay low and avoid any provocations that could escalate regional tensions. And that's according to an exclusive report from The Telegraph.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
It's Thursday, 30 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with reports that Iran has ordered its proxy forces across the Middle East to lay low as the regime grows increasingly concerned about the threat it faces following Donald Trump's return to the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
As regular PDB listeners know, the mullahs have a complicated history with Trump, the man who they've spent years trying to assassinate over the 2020 killing of Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani. Trump engaged in a, quote, maximum pressure campaign against Iran during his first term after pulling the U.S. out of the Iranian nuclear deal, resulting in sanctions that crippled their economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Given their history and Trump's penchant for holding a grudge, well, they likely have good reason to fear his return to the Oval Office. Adding to their concerns, their regional position has been catastrophically weakened due to their proxy war against Israel, which has laid waste to Iran's once-powerful axis of resistance over the past 15 months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Iran's chief regional ally, Bashar al-Assad, has also been ousted from power in Syria, cutting off a key weapons smuggling route for their terrorist proxies. Due to these concerns, Iranian-backed proxy commanders have been told to maintain their defensive positions, but to cease any activity that could be interpreted as aggressive by the U.S. and its regional allies."
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
A senior Iranian source told The Telegraph, quote, the regime feels an existential threat with Trump's return. In Iraq and Yemen, forces have been told not to target any American assets. And if they do, they're explicitly warned against using Iranian weapons, end quote. Meanwhile, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is reportedly fearing for his own life.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
At a recent funeral for two judges who were assassinated last week, Khamenei was spotted wearing a bulletproof vest. The senior Iranian official told The Telegraph, "...the fall of Assad has intensified fears in the regime. There are now fears that they may not be able to hold on to the country after witnessing what happened to Assad, which no one here expected."
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The source added, quote, a large scale operation is underway to identify and arrest Israeli spies and infiltrators. And there are concerns that they may have infiltrated high ranking offices, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
In a rare admission or actually a statement of the obvious, Iran's vice president publicly acknowledged last week that Israel has managed to extensively infiltrate their military and civilian operations. He blamed the impact of international sanctions for leaving the regime vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Additionally, Iran's foreign minister has publicly conceded that Tehran's regional proxies have been dealt, quote, several serious blows by Israel and won't be of much use to Iran until they can rebuild their forces. All of these developments have left Iran feeling cornered, prompting the regime to floor the gas on their pursuit of a nuclear weapon.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
But they're also growing concerned that the U.S. and Israel could strike their nuclear facilities, which would, of course, eliminate their last bargaining chip. Senior Iranian sources said their leaders are currently engaged in extensive talks on how to prevent a possible strike, noting that the regime takes Trump's threats about a return to a maximum pressure campaign seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
A consensus is reportedly forming around pursuing direct diplomatic talks with the Trump administration, though disagreements among Tehran's top brass remain. As we recently discussed on the PDB, Trump reportedly favors a diplomatic approach over a direct military confrontation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
While he's not ruled out direct strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, Trump told reporters last week that he would prefer to bring Iran to the negotiating table to strike a new nuclear deal. Still, when asked in December if the U.S. could go to war against Iran, Trump responded, quote, Well, anything can happen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Meanwhile, the Iranian public is reportedly increasingly turning on the regime due to their floundering economy, and many reportedly are now putting their hopes in Trump. An Iranian small business owner told The Telegraph, quote, people are cursing the regime and hoping that Trump will do something, either sit down and talk with them or bring an end to their rule, end quote. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Later in the show, the new rebel-led government in Syria is making major demands of Russia, calling for reparations to, quote, rebuild trust after a high-stakes meeting between Damascus' new leadership and a Moscow delegation. It kind of makes you wonder what the price tag is for trust in that relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Coming up after the break, Syria's new leadership is demanding reparations from Russia, and a Massachusetts man is in custody after allegedly threatening to assassinate top Republicans. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. turning to Syria, where the fallout from Bashar al-Assad's ouster has left Russia in a precarious position, with the country's new leadership demanding reparations as a prerequisite for rebuilding trust.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
This rupture in relations between Moscow and Damascus could well reshape Russia's military posture in the Middle East. The demand came during the first high-level diplomatic engagement since Assad fled to Moscow in December.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
On Tuesday, Syrian officials, led by Syria's de facto leader and the head of the Islamist group HTS, Ahmed al-Shala, met with a Russian delegation led by the deputy minister of foreign affairs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The Syrian officials insisted on reparations in the form of, quote, compensation, reconstruction, and recovery, pressing Moscow to acknowledge past mistakes and commit to transitional justice to serve the interests of the Syrian people, including accountability for crimes committed under Assad's rule.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The Russian delegation, for its part, reaffirmed its, quote, unwavering support for Syria's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Well, that's nice. But so far resisted any suggestion of wrongdoing. Well, that is shocking. Normally, the Putin regime is very good at self-reflection and accepting responsibility for their behavior.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
A Syrian source familiar with the talks told Reuters that no formal agreement was reached aside from a commitment to further negotiations. The diplomatic standoff comes at a critical moment for Moscow, which is determined to retain its military foothold in Syria. Russia operates two key military installations in the country, the Tartus Naval Base and the Hameimim Air Base.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Now, these bases serve as the Kremlin's primary launch points for operations in the Mediterranean and broader Middle East, as well as for Africa. However, the Syrian government revoked Russian management of the Tartus Naval Base last week, scrapping a 49-year investment contract in order to restrict Russia's presence further.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Plus, a Massachusetts man is in custody now after allegedly threatening to assassinate top Republicans, including newly confirmed Treasury Secretary Scott Besson and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. And in today's Back of the Brief, the new U.S. administration makes another major move on immigration, revoking temporary protected status for over 600,000 Venezuelan migrants.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Moscow's position has only grown more complicated in recent months In December, during the fall of the Assad regime, Russian troops were targeted by Damascus rebel groups led by HTS, with some units reportedly trapped during an offensive Despite this, Russia has reiterated its willingness to aid in Syria's post-crisis recovery, a position that underscores the stakes of maintaining its regional presence
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The new leadership in Damascus is leveraging these challenges to press its demands. A senior Syrian official familiar with the negotiations told Reuters that Shara has called for Russia to return Assad as part of the talks. That's an extraordinary condition that would effectively put Moscow in the position of surrendering its longtime ally.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on whether Assad's extradition was under discussion. Well, let me think about that. Now, Putin can either hold on to two key strategic military bases that further his interests in the Middle East and beyond, or he can hold on to Assad. I wonder where he's going to go with that.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Political analysts warn that Syria's demands could trigger a geopolitical bidding war. Alexander Jokic, a journalist and political analyst, suggested in a post on X that the reparations push could invite the U.S. and European involvement, potentially forcing Russia to either pay a steep price to retain its bases or face total withdrawal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
For now, the future of Russia's military presence in Syria, of course, remains an open question. All right. Shifting stateside, a Massachusetts man was arrested on weapons charges Monday after he approached police outside the U.S. Capitol and confessed to an elaborate assassination plot targeting top Republicans, including newly confirmed Treasury Secretary Scott Besant.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The suspect, 24-year-old Ryan Michael English, approached officers outside the Capitol's south door and, unprompted, declared his intent to surrender, stating, quote, I'd like to turn myself in, leading to his immediate arrest on weapons charges.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Court filings from Tuesday revealed that English was armed with knives and two homemade Molotov cocktails fashioned from 50-milliliter vodka bottles stuffed with cloth drenched in hand sanitizer. English had reportedly considered dying by, quote, suicide by cop after realizing that the heavy security presence would prevent him from executing his attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
And that's according to an affidavit from Capitol Police. A search of English's purse and uncovered a folding knife, a lighter, and additional bomb-making materials, while a subsequent sweep of his vehicle turned up yet more equipment capable of constructing an explosive device, according to investigators.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
English's hit list included House Speaker Mike Johnson and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, along with the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank that apparently he intended to set on fire. But after learning that Scott Besson's Senate confirmation vote was scheduled for Monday via an Internet post, English expanded his targets to include the Treasury secretary.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The Senate confirmed Besson in a 68-29 vote, a result English viewed as further justification for his plot. He later told authorities that his aim was to, quote, depose political leaders and to eerily, quote, send a message to whom and for what remains unknown. Federal prosecutors have charged English with multiple counts.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Well, that's good, including unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying a dangerous weapon and explosive device on Capitol grounds. While officials have not disclosed any known extremist affiliations, his explicit targeting of Republican figures and conservative institutions has heightened concerns over politically motivated domestic threats.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The case remains under investigation, of course, as authorities weigh additional charges and potential extremist connections. Okay, up next, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced Wednesday that the Trump administration is rescinding temporary protective status for over 600,000 Venezuelan migrants. I'll have those details in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
In today's Back of the Brief, President Donald Trump is showing no signs of letting up on his immigration crackdown as he seeks to dismantle the open border policies of his predecessor and fortify the US southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
But first, today's BDB Spotlight. We'll begin in Iran, where a pervasive sense of paranoia is reportedly gripping the country due to Donald Trump's return to the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
In the Trump administration's latest move, newly minted Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on Wednesday that they're revoking temporary protected status for the more than 600,000 Venezuelan migrants currently living across the US. The move undoes another Biden-era policy that allowed millions of illegal immigrants to stay in the U.S. despite violating the law.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
That's according to a report from the New York Post. Revoking the Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, program became a major priority for the new administration after outgoing DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas signed an order extending the program for 18 months, just one week before Trump's inauguration.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Noem chastised her predecessor for signing the extension, accusing Mayorkas of attempting to undermine the Trump administration before leaving office, you think? Noem said, quote, We fought that today. We signed an executive order within the Department of Homeland Security that we are not going to follow through on what they did to tie our hands, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
Now, as a refresher, the Biden administration said, created a humanitarian parole program in 2022 that allowed migrants from Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Cuba to fly directly to the U.S. and be released with work permits and authorization to remain in the country for up to two years. Each and every one of them also got a pony. Roughly 360,000 migrants were entering the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
each year under this program. Once here, parolees could apply for temporary protected status, which shields them from removal based on issues within their home country. The TPS program was also open to migrants from 12 other nations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
But critics of the program have said the criminals have leveraged it to gain access to the U.S., pointing to the violent activity of Venezuela's Trendo Agua gang, or TDA, in American cities. Noem said the new order from DHS will allow federal agents to, quote, evaluate all these individuals that are in our country, including the Venezuelans that are here and the members of TDA, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 30th, 2025: Iran Warns Proxies: Don’t Provoke Trump & Syria Demands Reparations From Russia
The leaders of Iran's Islamic regime have given orders to their regional proxy forces to exercise restraint and tread carefully when it comes to the US, fearing that angering President Trump could spark a crisis in the Middle East that threatens the longevity of their weakened regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
And if there was any doubt about just how aggressive the move will be, Reuters reported on Tuesday that the State Department had already halted new appointments for student and exchange visitor visas, citing an internal memo. The directive marks a dramatic escalation in President Trump's broader effort to confront Chinese influence in American institutions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
It's Thursday, the 29th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a major policy shift at the State Department. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
For years, lawmakers and intelligence officials have warned that China's academic exchange programs are essentially Trojan horses, vehicles for espionage, intellectual property theft, and illicit tech transfers. Now, Washington appears to be answering that alarm with focus.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Many of the targeted students are believed to be tied to Chinese state-backed initiatives aimed at infiltrating American research labs and siphoning off proprietary technology, raising red flags not just in universities, but across the defense and tech sectors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Notably, the administration has already moved to revoke Harvard University's ability to enroll foreign students, many of them Chinese, citing alleged ties to the CCP, though that decision is currently under judicial review after being temporarily blocked by a federal judge.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Meanwhile, the administration has stepped up its broader immigration enforcement measures, intensifying social media screenings for visa applicants and accelerating deportation efforts under Trump's immigration mandate. Beijing, as you might suspect, isn't taking this move lightly. China's foreign ministry vowed to, quote, firmly safeguard the rights of its students abroad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
But the blowback isn't just coming from overseas. One Chinese-born human rights researcher, now based in the U.S., acknowledged Beijing has exploited American academic openness in the past but warned that this new policy could be self-defeating. She stated, quote, this risks undermining America's longstanding position as the global leader in scientific innovation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Looking at the numbers, Chinese student enrollment in the U.S. fell to 277,000 last year, down from nearly 370,000 in 2019. Between tightened visa policies, strained diplomacy, and COVID-era hangover, more students are looking to Europe or heading back to China post-graduation rather than sticking around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
I'd like to point out that this is not the first time that Trump's team has sought to roll back Beijing's soft power incursions into American higher education.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
During his first term, then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spearheaded efforts to shut down what are known as Confucius Institutes, which are CCP-funded cultural centers on American campuses, accusing them of peddling, quote, global propaganda and malign influence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Now, with tensions again escalating between the world's two largest economies, the latest directive signals that there's no appetite for soft peddling. The trade war may have cooled, possibly, but Trump's second term, well, continues to prioritize curbing Chinese influence. All right, coming up next, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
will begin aggressively revoking visas for Chinese nationals, specifically targeting students with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, or those studying in sensitive fields. Later in the show, a legal blow to President Trump's tariff agenda as a federal court steps in to block most of the tariffs. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
federal court blocks Trump from imposing sweeping tariffs, saying that he exceeded his authority. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, there's going to be a very important global summit. It's a summit of BRICS nations, and it'll be held in Rio de Janeiro. This block of emerging superpowers, as you probably know, includes China and Russia, India, and Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
but they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling that effort the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, and of course, that would bring down the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
And while the transition won't happen overnight, the Rio Reset marks a pivotal moment when the BRICS objectives move from possibility Well, toward reality. So you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Might I suggest one thing to do is to check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. To claim your free information kit on gold, it's simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Again, just text PDB to 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about online security and to tell you about a business that's out there that's working hard to protect your online security. I'm talking about DeleteMe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are, well, common enough to make everyone vulnerable. It's easier than ever, you know this, to find personal information about people online, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
But having your address, your phone number, your family members' names just hanging out there on the internet, well, that can have bad consequences in the real world, and it can make everyone, again, vulnerable. With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me, now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, you can get 20% off your Delete.me plan simply by texting PDB to the number 64000. Again, the only way to get that 20% off is just text PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
We've got a major development in the ongoing tariff wars. A federal court in New York just handed President Trump a significant legal defeat, blocking much of his aggressive new tariff policy aimed at nearly every US trading partner. The three-judge panel from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Court of International Trade ruled that the president overstepped his legal authority when he invoked a 1977 law, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEPA, of course it's got an acronym, to justify the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Trump had declared the US trade deficit a national emergency and used that declaration to impose a 10% baseline tariff on nearly all imports last month, plus so-called reciprocal tariffs of up to 50% on countries with which the US runs a trade deficit. While he later suspended those reciprocal tariffs for 90 days, the baseline tariffs stayed in place.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
And before that, in February, Trump had used the same emergency powers to slap tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, arguing that illegal immigration and drug smuggling constituted a national emergency that warranted economic retaliation. Now, well, the court says those actions went too far. In its ruling, the court said the administration's use of AIPA didn't hold up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
We begin with the Trump administration moving to curb Beijing's influence on US campuses, announcing a sweeping plan to revoke student visas for Chinese nationals linked to the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, or involved in sensitive research fields. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the crackdown on Wednesday, framing it as a national security measure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
For one, they declared that America's trade deficits don't qualify as a sudden emergency since the U.S. has run trade deficits for nearly 50 straight years. The court also noted that the tariffs did little to actually address the problems that they were supposedly meant to fix. The decision stems from a combined lawsuit by five small businesses and 12 U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
states, just two of at least seven legal challenges currently pending. The ruling leaves in place some other Trump tariffs, like those on foreign steel, aluminum, and autos, but only because those were imposed under different laws requiring Commerce Department investigations, not presidential discretion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
As for what happens next, well, the case will almost certainly be appealed and could ultimately land in the Supreme Court. In the meantime, the ruling creates uncertainty, trading partners may hold off on concessions, and companies may shift supply chains while the legal battle plays out. Bottom line, the courts are pushing back, and Trump's trade war just got more complicated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 29th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, if you're thinking to yourself, you know, I sure love the PDB, but I wonder if I could listen to the show ad-free. Well, you're in luck. To listen to the show ad-free, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
The move could disrupt the $50 billion international education industry and sever a key recruitment channel for U.S. tech firms. many of which have relied on Chinese nationals in research and engineering, despite growing concerns over intellectual property theft and espionage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 29th, 2025: U.S. Takes Aim At CCP Influence On Campus & A Legal Blow To Trump's Trade Plan
Well, to be fair, the intellectual property theft and espionage by the Chinese regime has been going on for several decades, so you could argue the U.S. government is a little late to the party. The State Department, Rubio said, will coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security to, quote, "...aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students."
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
One detail conspicuously absent from the announcement, well, there was no mention again of whether Putin would be attending. Now, if I were a cynical betting man, I'd say that the sum total of zero progress will come out of the talks in Istanbul on the 2nd of June. Progress, meaningful progress, would require that Putin give up some of his long-standing hardline demands.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
And he's shown no sign of compromise to date. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, the U.S. targets foreign officials who censor Americans online with new visa bans. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I am very pleased to report, ladies and gentlemen, that it is now officially grilling season. That is right. You can fire up the grill if you haven't already.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Now, look, if your grill could talk, here's what I think it would probably say, right? It would probably say something like, hey, stop throwing supermarket mystery meat on me, right? Get something better. And I'm going to tell you where you can get that something better. where I get my beef from, and that's Tri-Tales Beef. Look, Tri-Tales is an amazing fifth-generation, family-run Texas ranch.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
It's not some big box meat factory. They deliver pasture-raised, grazed-finished black Angus beef right to your front door. And right now, in recognition of Memorial Day, they're knocking $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. And when you head over to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll toss in two flat iron steaks for free.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Look, there's no strings, there's no middlemen, just delicious cuts of beef delivered right to your door. So stock up the freezer, get ready to grill like you mean it, and treat your grill and your taste buds with a little respect. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. In today's Back of the Brief, the US State Department is going on offense against foreign censorship of American citizens.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In an announcement on Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that the Trump administration will begin imposing visa restrictions on foreign officials who are, quote, complicit in censoring Americans. Writing on X, Rubio declared, quote, for too long, Americans have been fined, harassed, and even charged by foreign authorities for exercising their free speech rights.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
And in today's Back of the Brief, Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveils new visa restrictions targeting foreign officials who help to censor Americans online. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Today, I'm announcing a new visa restriction policy that will apply to foreign officials and persons who are complicit in censoring Americans, end quote. While Rubio didn't name specific cases, the move comes amid growing concern over Europe's evolving stance on speech rights, especially when it comes to online content.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In the UK, as an example, police recently arrested a retired officer for a social media post warning about anti-Semitism, sparking backlash from lawmakers who said authorities are now enforcing, quote, thought crimes. Additionally, in the UK, authorities have threatened extradition and jail time to US citizens for online posts allegedly inciting violence from abroad.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
London Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley emphasized that individuals inciting racial hatred or violence online, even from outside the UK, could face legal consequences. Rubio's statement also called out governments around the world, including in Europe and Latin America, for trying to pressure U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
tech companies into adopting global content moderation rules that could restrict what Americans are allowed to post online. Quote, Foreigners who work to undermine the rights of Americans should not enjoy the privilege of traveling to our country, Rubio said. The days of passive treatment for those who work to undermine the rights of Americans are over, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Now, that could mean visa restrictions for foreign government regulators, cyber officials, and even members of so-called disinformation boards in allied countries, anyone pushing rules or policies that silence U.S. citizens abroad. The new policy sends a blunt message to the world. If you police American speech, well, don't expect a warm welcome at the U.S. border.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 29th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel. It's a humdinger. Just go to President's Daily Brief. That's at President's Daily Brief right there on YouTube. You can't miss it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
It's a topic that we've covered here on the PDB at length, the threat to national security posed by Chinese institutions and business entities beholden to the Chinese Communist Party that operate in the United States. And today, I want to bring you a story about a Chinese-owned company that's actually already operating inside U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
military bases, and most service members probably have no idea that the CCP is involved. Now, many of you know the store GNC, right? They've got literally thousands of locations located all over the country. You've probably got one in your local strip mall. Do they still have strip malls? I don't know.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
They sell supplements and vitamins and protein powders and a variety of other potions and stuff promoting, or at least promising, a healthy lifestyle. What you might not know is that GNC operates 85 stores on American military installations across the country.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
For example, it's got multiple locations at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, home to over 50,000 troops and the heart of Army Special Operations, might I add, and a store at Fort Drum in New York. That's the headquarters of the 10th Mountain Division. But behind the shelves of protein powder and vitamins is something more troubling. GNC, you see, is owned by Harbin Pharmaceuticals.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
That's a partially state owned Chinese firm with direct links to the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party. In China, the line between the private sector and the state is virtually, what's the word I'm looking for, non-existent. Companies like Harbin Pharmaceuticals aren't independent actors in the Western sense.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
They operate under the oversight of the CCP, which maintains the legal authority to compel corporate cooperation with intelligence efforts. Under China's 2017 National Intelligence Law, all organizations and citizens are required to, quote, support, assist, and cooperate with state intelligence work.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In other words, when a Chinese company operates abroad, especially in sensitive environments, it's not just a business transaction, it's a potential extension of the Chinese regime. Now, this is not a hypothetical threat. It's a reality currently embedded into the daily lives of American troops. GNC stores on base aren't just licensed storefronts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
They're fully operated, staffed, and supplied by the company, the CCP-linked company. That means foreign ownership has direct access to the purchasing habits and health profiles and other data of U.S. service members.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In addition to running a database that contains individual bio details and financial information, the company could also track individuals with specific vulnerabilities like chronic fatigue or anxiety, testosterone deficiencies, or sleep disorders. Over time, well, that information could help paint a portrait of military readiness, deployment cycles, or even personal stress markers or weaknesses.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
All of it, from the CCP's perspective, potentially exploitable. And that's just the analog threat. These stores are also presenting digital risks. What I mean by that is the loyalty programs, the Wi-Fi networks, the promotional QR codes, could be used to collect geolocation data or even serve as vectors for malicious software, opening the door to surveillance or cyber intrusion.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
So, you say to yourself, how did we get here? Well, GNC was once a Pittsburgh-based retailer, but in 2020, amid bankruptcy, it was bought outright by Harbin Pharmaceuticals for $770 million, after Harbin had already taken a 40% stake two years earlier. That acquisition went through with minimal scrutiny, despite warnings from security officials and lawmakers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Since then, the company has grown its footprint to over 4000 stores globally, including dozens on the front lines of America's national security military infrastructure. In an era when foreign land purchases near bases are finally triggering alarm bells, a CCP linked company is selling supplements inside the perimeter of France.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
And because GNC operates under long-term concession agreements, that's a type of retail contract used on military installations, it isn't classified as a traditional government contractor. That means that GNC isn't subject to the same registration and disclosure requirements in the federal system for award management. I know I'm getting a little bit wonky here, but it's important.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In fact, GNC's registration quietly expired back in late 2024, with no mention of its Chinese ownership ever appearing in the database. Hmm, shocking. Now, you may hear this news and think to yourself, well, that seems a bit paranoid, worrying that the CCP could be collecting data on military members through a vitamin and supplements business.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
But the fact is, the Chinese regime's intel apparatus is aggressive, very well-resourced, creative, and patient It would be naive to imagine that the CCP would not take advantage of this level of access to U.S. military facilities and personnel The CCP's intel machine views all information as potentially operationally useful or leverageable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
It would run counter to decades of documented behavior on their part to think that they would treat this type of access in a benign fashion. All right, coming up next, Russia masses 50,000 troops near Ukraine's northeastern border, and Germany vows to help Kiev build its own long-range missiles. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Now, coming up this July, perhaps you have heard about this, maybe because I've told you, but there's going to be a big global summit of BRICS nations happening in Rio de Janeiro. That's quite a posh spot. The bloc of emerging superpowers, including China and Russia, India and Iran, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
And they are calling this effort, here's a catchy name, the Rio Reset. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, and that, of course, would bring down the value of the dollar. And while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
So, you say to yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? May I suggest that you check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. To claim your free information kit, it's simple. Just text PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
It's Thursday, the 29th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And yes, still on the road. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start off today's show with a concerning intrusion onto U.S. military bases.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Again, just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In preparation for a potential summer offensive, Russia is massing more than 50,000 troops near Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region, intensifying fears of a renewed cross-border offensive as the Kremlin continues to stall peace talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed the buildup in comments to his country's national news agency on Tuesday, stating that Russian forces are concentrating both along the border and inside neighboring Kursk.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
The deployment includes some of Russia's most elite combat units, and four villages in the Sumy region have already fallen to advancing Russian forces, that's according to Ukrainian officials. Zelensky warned that Moscow's goal extends beyond Sumy. He said, quote, now they are accumulating troops in the direction of Sumy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
He added that Russia would, quote, do everything to cross the administrative border of the Dnipropetrovsk. That's an eastern region long pummeled by Russian airstrikes. and has so far been spared a full-scale ground assault.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Kyiv believes the immediate aim is to carve out a nearly 10-mile-wide buffer zone, shielding Russian territory from future cross-border raids while forcing Ukraine to thin its defenses along the front. It's not a new idea. Russia first floated that plan in 2024, but shelved it after Ukrainian forces staged their own incursion into Kursk. Now the scheme appears to be back on Russia's planning table.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Zelensky, speaking after an intelligence briefing on Monday, made no effort to hide his exasperation. There's no evidence, he said, that they are seriously considering peace. On the contrary, there's a lot of evidence that they are preparing new offensive operations, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Ukraine's military intelligence backs that claim, saying Russia's long-term objective remains unchanged, full control of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Any gestures toward diplomacy, officials say, are simply delay tactics meant to buy time, replenish arms, and reposition forces for a looming summer push. Efforts to reach even a temporary halt in fighting remain frozen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
As we discussed this month on the PDB, Russian leader Putin rejected a proposed ceasefire during a 19 May phone call with President Trump. Instead, he promised to submit a, quote, memorandum. Oh, that'll help. Detailing Moscow's conditions for a future settlement. That document was due Sunday, but never materialized.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Now, a popular supplements chain with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, is operating inside the wire, raising fears of possible espionage and collection of information on military personnel. Later in the show, Ukraine's president says Russia is massing 50,000 troops near the northeastern border, suggesting that Moscow is preparing for a summer offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
When pressed on the delay, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov pointed to the weekend's 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner swap with Ukraine as the reason. Zelensky dismissed that excuse, calling it a flimsy cover for more foot-dragging.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
He said, "...they talk a lot about diplomacy, but when in the midst of this there are constant Russian strikes, constant killings, constant assaults and preparations for new offensives, this is definitely a diagnosis." Indeed, Moscow's rhetoric has not stopped the rockets.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Russian missile and drone attacks have intensified in recent days, targeting Kyiv and critical energy infrastructure across the country, further calling into question, of course, the Kremlin's claims of restraint.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In response, Zelensky is urging Western allies to ratchet up pressure on the Kremlin, urging Washington and Brussels to enact new and strong sanctions to undercut Putin's war machine and force Moscow to engage seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Officials speaking to the Washington Post echoed Zelensky's call, noting that while Russia may not have the manpower to break Ukrainian lines outright, coordinated Western pressure could still shift the balance. Zelensky bluntly added, quote, Russia deserves full-scale pressure, and given the Kremlin's latest moves, well, it's becoming increasingly difficult to argue otherwise.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Okay, sticking with Ukraine, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's attempt to project solidarity alongside President Zelensky in Berlin yesterday was eclipsed by backlash from his own party over muddled remarks on long-range missile deliveries to Kyiv. Merz had hoped the visit would spotlight European resolve in the face of Russian escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Instead, well, it devolved into a public unraveling of Berlin's defense policy after the chancellor appeared to greenlight the transfer of Taurus cruise missiles, only to reverse course just a day later. The controversy began Monday when Merz declared that there were, quote, no more range limitations on Western-supplied weapons to Ukraine, suggesting a significant shift in Germany's position.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
The statement aligned Berlin with Washington, London, and Paris, which have already authorized strikes inside Russian territory using their respective weapons systems. As we reported here on the PDB, such a move would represent a major policy pivot.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Germany has until now withheld the Taurus system, worried that unleashing a missile with its over 300-mile-plus range might provoke direct retaliation from nuclear-armed Moscow. But by Tuesday, the message had changed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Mertz clarified that his remarks referred only to existing weapons that Ukraine already possesses, and insisted there was no new weapons deal, no new policy, and no consensus with NATO partners. A senior Christian Democratic Union Party lawmaker took to X to accuse the chancellor of sowing confusion at a critical moment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
He posted, quote, There is no sign of Germany finally delivering Taurus cruise missiles because I still see no unity in the coalition and no political will to respond appropriately and with strength and consistency to Russia's massive escalation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Merz's finance minister and the leftist Social Democratic Party leader piled on, insisting publicly there had been, quote, no new agreement that would alter Germany's cautious stance, underscoring deep fractures within the ruling coalition over how far Berlin is willing to go. Instead, the chancellor's rhetorical whiplash deepened frustration both in Kiev and among Germany's allies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
I mean, nothing says I'm interested in having a ceasefire like putting 50,000 of your troops on the invaded country's border. We'll provide the available details. Plus, Germany's leader says he'll help Ukraine build its own long-range missiles. I mean, not personally, but with German know-how and resources. It's a major shift that could take the war deep into Russian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
The Taurus missile system, highly precise, long range and long requested by Ukraine, remains off-limits, with no timeline for reversal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
For those unfamiliar, Germany remains the second-largest military donor to Ukraine after the U.S., but its refusal to send long-range strike capabilities is increasingly viewed as a strategic liability, particularly as those Russian troops we just mentioned mass near Sumy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
In an apparent bid to shift the narrative, Mertz used Wednesday's joint press conference to unveil a new pledge Germany will help Ukraine develop its own long-range missile systems, unrestricted by Western policy He said Germany would, quote, strive to equip the Ukrainian army with all the capabilities that truly enable it to successfully defend the country The chancellor added that Ukraine will be able to defend itself outside of its own territory
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Zelenskyy notably did not press the Taurus issue in public. Instead, he welcomed the broader pledge of long-term defense cooperation. But any momentum from the Berlin meeting was quickly undercut by a surprise statement out of Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov released a statement inviting Ukraine to resume direct peace talks in Istanbul on the 2nd of June.
The President's Daily Brief
May 29th, 2025: How GNC Is Giving China A Foothold on U.S. Military Bases & Russia’s Troop Build-Up
Moscow, Lavrov claimed, will present a new ceasefire proposal focused on the so-called, oh, here they come again, the root causes of the war. Well, you know, you could argue that the root cause of the war was Putin's invasion, but maybe I'm being churlish. Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky is set to lead the Russian delegation once again.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
It's Thursday, the 27th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, Israel is upping the pressure on Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, launching another series of overnight strikes that killed a senior commander of the terror group's elite Radwan force, as well as a group of weapons smugglers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Separately, in another strike on Thursday morning, Israeli forces took out three Hezbollah operatives who were identified as they were transferring weapons in southern Lebanon near the Latani River. The targeted operations followed airstrikes on Sunday and Monday that also took out key members of the terror group, including the commander of the anti-tank unit in Hezbollah's southern front.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, fighting significantly escalated between Israel and Hezbollah over the weekend after militants launched a rocket barrage into Israel on Saturday. Israel responded with two waves of airstrikes in southern Lebanon that targeted dozens of Hezbollah positions, including weapons depots, command hubs, launch pads, and infrastructure nodes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The strikes killed, reportedly, at least seven Hezbollah militants and marked the most serious flare-up with the terror group since last year's U.S.-brokered ceasefire began to unravel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
As a reminder, the terms of the truce, which ended more than a year of hostilities, including two months of full-scale war, required Hezbollah to withdraw its fighters and weapons north of the Latani River, that's roughly 18 miles from the Israeli border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The Lebanese armed forces were to boost deployments in the area alongside UN peacekeeping forces, though they've struggled to reassert control in the south where Hezbollah remains deeply entrenched.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
In exchange, Israel was to withdraw completely from southern Lebanon by the end of January, but that deadline was subsequently extended to February 18th due to Hezbollah's repeated violation of the ceasefire terms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
While most of their forces have since returned across the border, Israel still maintains control over five positions in southern Lebanon, citing the Lebanese army's failure to adequately secure the area and the ongoing threat posed by Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Just last month, for example, the IDF uncovered a scheme involving Iran's Quds Force, which was attempting to smuggle suitcases full of cash to Hezbollah militants in order to help the group rearm. While that plot was thwarted, Israeli airstrikes have continued, with Jerusalem insisting they're aimed at preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its arsenal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
While there's no indication yet that Israel plans to return to a full offensive against the Iranian-backed militants, the renewed fighting this week is putting what remains of the fragile ceasefire to the test, and that's putting it mildly. All right, coming up next, the Trump administration adds 50 Chinese tech firms to the U.S. export blacklist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
That's all in an effort to restrict Beijing's access to advanced American technology, including artificial intelligence. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, no matter how quickly time flies, it's never too late to make progress, and that includes progress with your financial health.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Now, if your credit is under 600, you could increase that number by 28 points in your first month with the credit building application, Kickoff. Kickoff is a smart, legitimate credit hack with no catch, no credit check, no hidden fees, and no interest. It's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see your good behavior, your credit grows fast, Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
With AutoPay, you never have to worry about missing a payment, so you can build credit in your sleep. Sign up in minutes from your phone with no credit check. Kickoff is the number one credit building app out there. So don't wait. Get your first month for just a dollar at getkickoff.com slash Mike. That's M-I-K-E, in case you were wondering.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
That's kickoff without the C. Get 80% off at getkickoff, let me spell that for you, K-I-K-O-F-F dot com slash Mike. You must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike in order to activate the offer. The offer applies to new customers first month only. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The point stat based on Equifax VAM score 3.0 changes for kickoff users starting under 600 who made their first on-time payment between January 2021 and March 2024. Payment and credit activity outside kickoff can have an impact on your credit, and individual results may vary. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Later in the show, the Trump administration is tightening the screws on Beijing, adding 50 Chinese tech firms to the US export blacklist in an effort to restrict the Chinese Communist Party's access to advanced American technology including artificial intelligence. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Trump administration on Tuesday further clamped down on Beijing by blacklisting more than 50 Chinese tech firms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
That's all in an effort to restrict the regime's access to advanced American computing and artificial intelligence technology. In total, 80 entities worldwide were added to the Commerce Department's so-called entity list in its first major move on export controls since President Trump's return to office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The designations handed down by the Bureau of Industry and Security bar American companies from doing business with the listed firms without special government approval. Officials said the move was driven by mounting concerns over China's rapid advances in exascale computing and artificial intelligence, specifically in areas with clear military applications.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Seven of the newly sanctioned companies were flagged for quantum computing development. Another 27 were accused of funneling U.S. origin technologies into Beijing's military modernization pipeline. Among those named were six subsidiaries of Inspir Group, that's a major cloud computing and data player previously targeted by the Biden administration back in 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Two other firms were hit for supplying components to Huawei and its chip-making affiliate, HiSilicon, both of which are already deeply entrenched on the US sanctions list.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Commerce Undersecretary Jeffrey Kessler characterized the blacklist as part of a broader crackdown on the networks that often involve shell companies and foreign proxies that China allegedly uses to quietly acquire sensitive dual-use technologies. Kessler said the designations are clear. The Trump administration will not allow U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
innovation to be repurposed for, quote, high-performance computing, hypersonic missiles, military aircraft training, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Beijing, of course, wasted little time in firing back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
China's foreign ministry condemned the sanctions as a blatant overreach, accusing Washington of, quote, generalizing national security, whatever that means, to strangle China's tech ambitions, according to Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Tensions continue to flare between Israel and Lebanon as leaders in Jerusalem press forward in their campaign to degrade Hezbollah's operations and foil the terror group's attempts to rearm. The latest strikes came overnight on Thursday, with the IDF confirming they took out a senior battalion commander in Hezbollah's elite Radwan force in a drone strike in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The move adds another layer to an already tense U.S.-China relationship, and as we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Trump administration has dialed up tariffs on Chinese imports and signaled a much more aggressive posture toward trade and national security risks stemming from Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
In some ways, this latest round of restrictions echoes the Biden-era strategy of small yard, high fence, targeting select high-risk technologies while avoiding a full economic decoupling. But the Trump team appears poised to widen that fence line. Now, this comes at a time when Chinese AI companies like DeepSeek are beginning to gain serious momentum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Their open-source, low-cost models are rapidly spreading across China's tech ecosystem, putting pressure on American rivals still operating on expensive, closed platforms. Officials in Washington have hinted that enforcement will only get tougher. Investigations into alleged smuggling of restricted chips, especially those manufactured by NVIDIA and advanced micro devices, are already underway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Taken together, the sweeping blacklist underscores Washington's growing resolve to retain its technological edge, particularly in sectors where innovation now moves hand-in-hand with national defense. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 27th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
And if it's Thursday, which I have it on good authority that it is, that means the PDB production machine is whirring away. Can we say whirring away? I don't know. I just did. And they're busy putting together the latest episode of our award-winning weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. Honestly, well, we haven't won any awards, but I think we can all agree it's just a matter of time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
As always, new episodes of The Situation Report hit the airwaves every Friday evening at 10pm and can also be found on our YouTube channel, which you can find at President's Daily Brief, and podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
The commander was one of the highest-ranking members of Hezbollah killed in Israeli operations since a ceasefire took hold last November. That ceasefire is now barely holding together. That's all according to our report from the Times of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 27th, 2025: Israel Eliminates Hezbollah Chief & US Blacklists 50 Chinese Tech Firms In Major Crackdown
Officials with the IDF said the militant leader was involved in directing numerous attacks on Israel and IDF troops during the war last year, and in recent months, quote, continued to engage in advancing terror attacks on the Israeli home front. The military added that they will continue to, quote, operate in order to remove any threat posed to the state of Israel, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
At 1.48 p.m., for example, Waltz wrote that a building had collapsed and there had been multiple positive identifications on a Houthi target. Vance replied, quote, excellent, and Ratcliffe followed with, quote, a good start, accompanied by a string of celebratory emojis. Emojis, really? Let me just repeat that. Celebratory emojis.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Sounds like a group of middle school kids talking about a sports win. Skibbity Ohio. A Pentagon official, speaking anonymously, described the leak as, quote, jaw-dropping in its specificity, noting that such operational data is typically confined to a very small circle to safeguard mission security. Mhm, das macht Sinn.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Diese Sicherheit, scheint es zu sein, wurde nicht nur kompromissiert, sondern hat sich auch für Tage verletzt. Signal, während er enkrypiert ist, ist nicht für klassifizierte Kommunikation erlaubt. Laut einer Pentagon-Memo, die nur einen Tag vor dem Angriff eröffnet wurde, war die App aktiv getargetet von russischen Cyber-Operationen, die real-zeit zur Beobachtung kamen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The irony is, of course, that the leak may have landed in one of the safest possible hands. I'm trying to put a spin on this as positive as possible. Had Goldberg not been the accidental recipient, these messages could have easily ended up in more hostile possession. Well, frankly, they still could have ended up in more hostile possession because the whole chat group could have been monitored.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
And you had to usually add gate to it, whether it's Watergate or whatever it may be. As the Atlantic Publishers leaked text messages from top intelligence and military officials, revealing what was never meant to go public. And in today's Back of the Brief, a tragic story out of Lithuania, where four US soldiers were reportedly killed during training exercises. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
It's a commercially available app. Still, lawmakers from both parties say the episode raises serious questions about the Trump administration's protocols for managing sensitive information. Look, if you were up in arms about the Hillary Clinton server in the basement issue, we all remember that, right?
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
When she was Secretary of State and you railed about the potential for leaks of classified information. Well, you have to be consistent and you have to admit that this signal goat rope is also a problem. You can't be upset about one and not the other, because operational security isn't based on partisan politics.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
OPSEC is the same whether you're Hillary Clinton or members of the Trump administration. The individuals on this group chat made a serious OPSEC mistake. That's just the reality of it. A disconcerting amateurish mistake and there does need to be accountability. Mike Waltz claiming that he's responsible, well, that's fine, that's good.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
But if a lower level person was responsible, they'd be fired at a minimum. You can't maintain a command structure if the rules for the troops don't apply to the senior personnel. And trust me, if one of the troops had been responsible for this type of OPSEC breach, they wouldn't be spared. Alright, coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Tragedy in Lithuania, where four US soldiers have been killed during exercises near the Belarusian border. We'll have those details next. In today's Back of the Brief, we have some tragic news out of Eastern Europe, where NATO officials have confirmed that four American soldiers who went missing in Lithuania perished in a training accident.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The US Army soldiers had been participating in a tactical training mission in the region when they were reported missing on Tuesday afternoon near Lithuania's border with Belarus.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The US Army, alongside the Lithuanian military, quickly mounted a major search and rescue operation, deploying several Air Force helicopters and other resources in an attempt to find the missing servicemen, according to a report from the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
While the bodies of the soldiers have not yet been recovered, on Wednesday, search teams did discover a heavy armored vehicle that had been carrying the soldiers submerged in a swamp.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Die Behörden glauben, dass die vier Soldaten in dem Fahrzeug verletzt wurden, als es sinkt, obwohl die US-Affiziere noch nicht formal ihre Todesfälle beurteilen, sagte Wednesday, dass die Suche-Operationen immer noch anwesend waren. Aber NATO-Secretär General Mark Rutte sagte Wednesday, dass er informiert hätte, dass die vier Soldaten in einem Trainingsanfall gestorben wären.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Ruta did not elaborate, telling reporters, quote, this is still early news, so we don't know the details. This is really terrible news, he said, and our thoughts are with the families and the loved ones. Frühere Berichte sagen, dass die vier Soldaten Teil der 1. Brigade der 3. Infanteriedivision der Armee waren, aus Fort Stewart in Georgia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Sie wurden in einem M88 Herkules-Vehicle ausgeliefert, das ist ein riesiger Armord-Tow-Truck, um ein weiteres schweres Fahrzeug in der Gegend zu retten. Ein US-Armee-Offizier aus Europa sagte, dass die frühere Beweisung war, dass das Fahrzeug aus der Straße und in den Schwamm gedreht wurde, obwohl die Details dieser Zeit sparsam sind.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Offiziere des Pentagonen sagten, sie seien in nahem Kontakt mit den Familien der missbrauchten Servizierinnen und halten sie auf die tragischen Entwicklungen auf.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Wir sollten bemerken, dass die US- und NATO-Waffen in Osteuropa in den Jahren, seit dem russischen Präsidenten Putins 2022-Invasion in die Ukraine, in der Baltikregion, weshalb sie in der Nähe von Belarus befinden, die natürlich ein kritischer Alliier von Moskau ist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The Baltic countries of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia make up NATO's northeastern flank and hold vital strategic importance when it comes to deterring further Russian aggression against the European continent. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 27th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Spekulation is building that the Pentagon is preparing to make a major move in the Middle East, following reports of a mysterious build-up of stealth aircraft at a key military outpost. According to the UK Defense Journal, the US has recently been moving a significant number of military assets Untertitelung des ZDF für funk, 2017 Untertitelung des ZDF für funk, 2017
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Finally, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Untertitelung. BR 2018
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
But the preparations at Diego Garcia suggest an even larger scale air operation could be imminent. The activity also coincides with President Trump's increasingly stern warnings to the Iranian regime over their covert nuclear weapons program, igniting speculation, of course, that strikes on Iran's nuclear sites could be next on the Trump agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Für einen Hintergrund, die Diego Garcia Luftwaffe sitzt strategisch in den südlichen Flächen des Indischen Ozeans und hat lange als Launch-Plattform für US-strategische Bomber und langfristige Angriffsmissionen geholfen. Zum Beispiel hat die Luftwaffe, die wir mit dem britischen Militär teilen, eine wichtige Rolle gespielt in den US-Operationen während der Gulf War in den frühen 1990er-Jahren.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
wie auch für Afghanistan und Irak während der ersten Jahre der globalen Terrorkriege. Ein open source intelligence analysis of military flight tracking data reveals that over the past few days at least 5 B-2 spirit stealth bombers, 7 C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft and 11 KC-135 refueling tankers have arrived at the remote outpost.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Analysts say it appears the base is once again being used as a staging ground. Wir sollten bemerken, dass die B-2-Stealth-Bomben generell für hochwertige Tätigkeiten verwendet werden und die Möglichkeit haben, sowohl konventionelle als auch nukleare Munitionen im tiefen Luftraum zu erzeugen. Die Aktivität wurde zuerst von dem Open-Source-Intelligenz-Spezialisten, dem Intel-Frog, geflaggt.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Nun, trotz dessen Namen, ist Intel-Frog ein sehr respektierter, unabhängiger Analyst, der künftig militärische Flugzeuge betrachtet. He initially reported that some 18 US Air Force KC tankers were being staged at several military bases peppered across the Pacific, including the Travis Air Force Base in California, Honolulu International Airport in Hawaii and Anderson Air Force Base in Guam.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Given the unusually large deployment of tankers in the region, Analysts said it appeared the US military was in the process of pre-positioning aerial refueling assets. That's a key step before strike aircraft can be deployed on a large scale. In recent days, Intel Frog said a number of these tanker assets have been moved from Guam to the basic Diego Garcia, alongside several B-2 stealth bombers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
They were soon followed by the arrival of the behemoth C-17 transport aircraft, suggesting the movement of personnel, supplies and munitions is well underway. Intel Frog and other analysts stressed that these movements are highly irregular, clearly signaling an impending military operation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Now the UK Defense Journal and Newsweek reached out to the State Department and the US Navy for comment on the developments, but did not receive a reply. That's hardly a surprise when it comes to active military planning, particularly in light of the recent leak of US airstrike plans against the Houthis to a journalist from the Atlantic.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
That's a story that we'll have an update on later in the show. Whether this build-up means the Trump administration is preparing to significantly expand their air campaign against the Houthis or turn their sights on Iran, well, right now that's anyone's guess.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
But as we recently covered here on the PDB, President Trump sent a personal letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei just two weeks ago, offering him a choice between engaging in good faith negotiations for a new nuclear deal or facing the full wrath of the American military.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
While Trump said he would prefer to strike a deal, he warned he may be left with no other choice than to handle the situation militarily, threatening, quote, terrible consequences should they refuse to back down.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
In the letter, Trump reportedly gave the regime a two-month deadline to reach a new nuclear agreement, but so far, leaders in the Iranian regime have publicly rejected Trump's overture for a diplomatic solution.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
It's Thursday, the 27th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And yes, I'm still on the road. Somewhere in, I believe it's Europe. I'm not sure, I'll have to check. Let's get briefed. We begin with signs of a major US military build-up at the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The ongoing military campaign against the Houthis, Iran's really last remaining proxy force with any real teeth, has been viewed by many as a clear message to the mullahs that the White House intends to follow through on their threats sooner rather than later. All right. Coming up next, NATO's new chief urges Europe to prepare for its own defense.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
And we break down the latest with Signalgate, as leaked texts from top US officials go public. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, no matter how quickly time flies, it's really never too late to make progress. And that includes progress with your financial health.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Look, if your credit is under 600, you could increase that number by 28 points in your first month with Kickoff, the credit building app. Kickoff is a smart, legitimate credit hack with no catch, no credit check, no hidden fees and no interest. It's simple. You make on-time payments, your credit bureaus see your good behavior and your credit grows fast. Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
And with AutoPay, you never have to worry about missing a payment, so you can build credit in your sleep. Sign up in minutes from your phone with no credit check. Kickoff is the number one credit building app out there. Don't wait. Get your first month for just a dollar at getkickoff.com slash mike.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
That's kickoff without the c. Get 80% off at getkickoff, I'll spell it for you, k-i-k-o-f-f dot com slash mike. Must sign up for getkickoff.com slash Mike in order to activate the offer. This offer applies to new customers first month only. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Pointstat is based on Equifax Vantage Score 3.0 changes for Kickoff users starting under 600 who made their first on-time payment between January 2021 and March 2024. Payment and credit activity outside Kickoff can have an impact on your credit. and individual results may vary. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
In einer Botschaft, die gleichermaßen eine Warnung und Rallye und Schreie war, sagte NATO-Sekretär General Mark Rutte, dass europäische Führer, dass der Kontinent sich vorbereiten muss, auf seiner eigenen Seite militärisch zu stehen, sobald Ängste über den weiterhinen US-Support unter Präsident Trump wachsen. Redet in Warsaw am Montag.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Rutte beurteilte europäische Nationen, auf NATO's founding pledge of collective defense zu reduzieren, während sie auch konkrete Schritte nehmen, um ihre eigene militärische Aufmerksamkeit zu erhöhen. His remarks come amid growing anxiety in European capitals that Washington's longstanding security guarantees are no longer a given, as U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
officials increasingly point to shifting strategic priorities along its borders and in Asia. Trump hat wenig gemacht, um diese Sorgen vor diesem Monat zu lösen. Während er sagte, man müsse NATO stark halten, man müsse es relevant halten, war die Aufmerksamkeit der europäischen Leiter, naja, dünn. V.a.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
nach seinen vorherigen Kommentaren, dass die USA nicht die Mitglieder verteidigen könnten, die nicht die Spenden-Targete treffen. Ruta didn't name Trump directly, but left a little doubt as to the thrust of his message. The NATO chief stated, quote, this is not the time to go it alone. Not for Europe and not for North America, adding that there's no alternative to the alliance.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
He warned that the threats now facing NATO, from Moscow to cyberspace, are too vast and complex to be managed with wishful thinking or uneven commitments. That said, Ruta also didn't mince words about Europe's own responsibilities, saying, quote, "...reassurance is a two-way street." He urged European allies to meet and ideally exceed the alliance's defense spending goals."
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Ruther was candid about Europe's limitations as well, admitting, quote, nothing can replace America's nuclear umbrella, calling it, quote, the ultimate guarantor of our security. Der NATO-Kanzlerkanzler hat auch gesagt, dass er sicher ist, dass Amerika die Artikel-5-Sicherheitswahrnehmung von NATO aufhören wird, dass ein Angriff auf einen ein Angriff auf alle ist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Reports point to B-2 stealth bombers and C-17 transport aircraft either arriving or already on the ground, raising questions about whether Washington is preparing for more strikes against the Houthis or sending a signal to Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Rutas Sprache folgte einer Beratung mit dem polnischen Premierminister Donald Tusk, während der beiden Leiter versuchten, eine klare Botschaft an den Kremlin zu senden. NATO-Unität hält und wächst.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The NATO chief stated, quote, if anyone were to miscalculate and think they can get away with an attack on Poland or any other ally, they will be met with the full force of this fierce alliance, adding that the message needs to be crystal clear to Russian President Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Looking ahead to the NATO summit in the Netherlands this June, Rutte said the alliance is expected to raise the bar on military spending. While 23 of NATO's 32 members are on track to hit the current benchmark of 2% of GDP, Rutte hinted that the new target could rise, quote, well beyond the 3%, to match what he described as a dangerous evolving landscape. Diese Bedrohung ist nicht hypothetisch.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Ostenflächige Mitglieder, wie Polen und die baltischen Staaten, haben sich von möglichen US-Russischen Konflikten, um den Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden, immer stärker verärgert. Die Führer in diesen Ländern fürchten, dass irgendein diplomatisches Ergebnis, sogar etwas favorierbar für Moskau, would give Putin the breathing room that he needs to regroup and come back for more.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Even so, the Secretary General ended his speech on a cautiously optimistic note. He believes that the Summer Summit could mark a turning point, one that strengthens the transatlantic bond, one that modernizes NATO for the world as it is, not the world as it was. Okay, turning stateside. We're learning more about the extraordinary leak of operational military details via the Signal messaging app.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
That's a story that we first reported here on the PDB on Tuesday. An almost full transcript of the messages, published by The Atlantic on Wednesday, reveals that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed precise timelines for U.S. airstrikes on Yemen hours before the operation began. Oh boy. Oh boy. Das Ergebnis ist ein offensichtlicher und unverzweifelter Ausbruch in der operativen Sicherheit.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Nach den unredaktierten Texten hat Hegseth die exakten Launchwindows für F-18-Strike-Package, Drohnenaktivität und Tomahawk-Missile-Strike vor dem Anfang der Mission. One message, sent at 11.44 a.m. Eastern Time on 15 March, reads, quote, Just confirmed with CENTCOM, we are a go for mission launch. He followed that at 12.15 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Later in the show, NATO's Secretary General Mark Rutte is calling for European unity, urging nations to ramp up their defense spending and military production after a blunt warning from the United States. Europe needs to be ready to defend itself. Plus, we'll break down the latest in Signalgate. Oh, there's a catchy name, right? Signalgate. It had to come up with a catchy name.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
The initial wave of F-18s would take off with drones and a second strike package following throughout the afternoon. Hegseth schrieb dann, dass um 3.36 Uhr östlich der zweite Schuss unterwegs war, im Zusammenhang mit der Eröffnung von Seabase-Tomahawk-Missilen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Laut The Atlantic, die erste dieser Botschaften war mehr als 30 Minuten vor dem Ausflug eines Flugzeuges und ungefähr zwei Stunden vor dem Ausflug der Bombe. The attack reportedly killed at least 53 people and was aimed at degrading Houthi terror capabilities that, according to U.S. officials, were threatening commercial shipping lanes and Israeli security interests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Among those in the Signal thread were Vice President J.D. Vance, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Special Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, who notably received the updates from Hexeth while in Moscow, and a variety of others at the top of the command within the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Waltz, who created the group, has acknowledged his role in adding Goldberg and said he's investigating, quote, how the heck he got into this room. Yes, how the heck indeed. I didn't know people still said heck. Oh Gott, ich wusste nicht, ob die Leute immer noch gesagt haben, oh Gott. Der Ausfall in Washington war schwindelig und bipartisan.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Der Vorsitzende des Ausschusses für die Arme, Roger Wicker, zusammen mit Ranking-Mitglied Jack Reed, brauchen einen klassifizierten Brief und eine volle Inspektor-General-Investigation. Nun, das wird alles ausgeschlossen. Wie Sie mich schon gehört haben, ist Washington D.C. dort, wo alle Investitionen gehen, um zu sterben. Nun, ihr Kommitee, aber, überprüft fast alle militärischen Operationen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
A central question now facing investigators is whether any of the information in the messages was classified. Hegseth insists that they were merely, quote, general updates, a claim echoed by the White House, which said there were, quote, no war plans included. But neither Hegseth nor the administration has offered a definitive answer.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
At a Tuesday Senate hearing, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Director Ratcliffe from the CIA each suggested that Hegseth had the discretion to determine what was or wasn't classified in the texts. Well, that is certainly convenient, which essentially claims that the Secretary of Defense has the authority to determine what is considered classified.
The President's Daily Brief
March 27th, 2025: Why Are U.S. Bombers Building Up In The Indian Ocean? & NATO Chief Urges European Unity
Gabbard described the content as, quote, candid and sensitive, but not technically classified. Ratcliffe of the CIA said his own messages were, quote, permissible and lawful. Still, what the Atlantic published reads more like a detailed strike playbook than a set of generic updates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
It's also worth noting that Iran's missile defenses were heavily weakened by retaliatory airstrikes launched by Israel last fall. A high-level government source who spoke to The Telegraph said, "...they're just waiting for the attack and are anticipating it every night, and everything has been on high alert, even in sites that no one knows about."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
It's Thursday, 27 February. Welcome to the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright. Let's get briefed. First up, Iran is bracing for potential strikes on their nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S. as they vow to resist new sanctions from the Trump administration and refuse to compromise on the nuclear issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
A second source added, "...several additional launchers have been deployed, but there's an understanding that they may not be effective in the event of a large-scale strike."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
The report also comes on the heels of comments made by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar earlier this week, who said, quote, a reliable military option is needed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, echoing Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has promised to put an end to Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
But Sa'ar warned that time is running out, saying the Iranian regime is currently playing with ways to weaponize their existing stockpile of enriched uranium, an outcome he said would have a hugely destabilizing impact on the Middle East and kick off a nuclear arms race with other regional powers such as Saudi Arabia. Egypt and Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to a confidential UN report reviewed this week by the Wall Street Journal, the Iranian regime has vastly increased their stockpile of highly enriched uranium in recent weeks and now has enough to produce at least six nuclear weapons. They've amassed more than 600 pounds of 60% enriched uranium as of February 8th. That's up from roughly 400 pounds in October.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Experts say these stockpiles could be further enriched to the weapons-grade level of 90% within a matter of days. Despite their mounting concerns about a potential strike on their nuclear sites, Iran remains as defiant as ever. On Tuesday, after President Trump reimposed aggressive sanctions on Iran's shadowy oil trade as part of his maximum pressure campaign, Iran's foreign minister,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
issued a statement vowing that the regime will not negotiate on their nuclear program under pressure and sanctions from the Trump administration. While President Trump has stated a preference for a reaching and diplomatic solution with Iran, he's also left the door open for military action in partnership with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Trump's National Security Advisor Mike Waltz recently stressed that, quote, all options remain on the table and that the U.S. will accept nothing less than the full dismantling of Iran's covert nuclear program. Up next, we'll look at reports that North Korea is gearing up to send more soldiers to the front lines of Russia's war on Ukraine. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. North Korean soldiers are once again entrenched on the battlefield in Ukraine. Despite suffering catastrophic losses in their first deployment, Pyongyang has apparently doubled down, dispatching thousands more soldiers to reinforce Russia's front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
While the exact number of troops in the new deployment remains uncertain, a report in a South Korean newspaper citing anonymous sources suggests that up to 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent via military cargo planes and ships. Their arrival marks a renewed commitment from Pyongyang, which has now funneled significant manpower into Russia's war machine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed that North Korean troops returned to active combat zones, a claim echoed by South Korea's intelligence agency, which stated, "...following a month-long lull, North Korean troops were placed back in the frontline region of Kursk starting in the first week of February."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
As we've reported here on the PDB, the latest deployment follows North Korea's initial commitment of approximately 11,000 troops to Russia late last year. Now, those forces fought alongside Russian units in Kursk in an effort to retake lost territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Later in the show, we'll look at reports that North Korea is gearing up to send even more soldiers to the front lines of Russia's war on Ukraine, despite suffering heavy casualties on the battlefield. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
In addition to its soldiers, Pyongyang has for some time now supplied Moscow, of course, with artillery shells, missiles, and other conventional weapons, further bolstering Russia's battlefield capabilities. But according to Ukrainian and American officials, North Korean units, despite being drawn from elite special warfare divisions, actually struggled in modern combat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
By January, they had suffered an estimated 4,000 casualties and were withdrawn from the front lines. Even so, military analysts suggest Pyongyang sees this war as an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience in contemporary warfare. The problem? Well, the problem is that North Korean forces remain poorly equipped for the technological and strategic complexities of the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Now, despite multiple intelligence reports confirming their presence, neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has publicly acknowledged the deployment of North Korean troops in Ukraine. I know that's a surprise. That silence extends to broader military cooperation between the two countries, which, according to South Korean intelligence officials, has deepened in troubling ways.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
In exchange for its support, Pyongyang is reportedly receiving food, oil, and concerningly advanced military technology. significantly accelerating its own weapons development programs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Meanwhile, the head of Ukraine's Defense Ministry's main intelligence directorate stated on Sunday that North Korea has become one of Moscow's primary weapons suppliers, now providing roughly half of Russia's artillery ammunition. In addition, Pyongyang has reportedly delivered 170-millimeter self-propelled howitzers, 240-millimeter multiple rocket launchers,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
and nearly 150 ballistic missiles, deepening an alliance that has drawn sharp warnings from Western defense officials. Well, I for one am shocked that Kim Jong-un has not heeded the sharp warnings from Western defense officials. Perhaps they should draft a harshly worded memo and see if that gets Kim's attention.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Iran is reportedly growing anxious that Israel and the US will move to take out its nuclear facilities, as the regime reportedly accelerates their enrichment of near-weapons-grade uranium.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
This surge in military reinforcements comes as Russian and American officials meet in Istanbul for a second round of peace talks. While details of the talks remain few and far between, Moscow's continued expansion of its military capabilities suggests little intention of de-escalating the war in Ukraine. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 27 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And just in case you were wondering what the PDB staff is currently up to, well, the answer is they're slaving away on the very latest episode of our much-loved, I guess you could call it beloved, Weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
As always, the new episode will launch Friday evening at 10pm on The First TV, and of course can be found on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and as you're no doubt aware, podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to an exclusive report from the British Telegraph, leaders in Tehran have placed the country's nuclear facilities on high alert and deployed additional air defense systems around key nuclear and missile sites to guard against potential joint military action by the US and Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 27th, 2025: Iran Reportedly Bracing For US-Israeli Strike & North Korea Doubles Down In Ukraine
Their preparations follow warnings from US intelligence last month that Israel may target Iran's nuclear facilities by the middle of this year in order to deal a death blow to the regime's regional ambitions. Leaders in Israel reportedly see Iran's nuclear sites as uniquely vulnerable due to the collapse of their once-strong network of proxy groups over this past year.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
with children between the ages 5 and 17 making up the majority of infections. As of Wednesday, 18 people have been hospitalized due to the contagion, with most suffering from pneumonia-like symptoms that make it difficult to breathe. DSHS officials did stress, however, that they have not yet seen cases of encephalitis or inflammation of the brain.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
That's a rare but devastatingly serious complication associated with the virus. The state health department is leading the response to the outbreak, but the federal government has been providing vaccines as well as technical and laboratory assistance across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
A spokesman for the office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott said on Wednesday that vaccination teams have been deployed to the affected areas in an attempt to contain the spread of the outbreak and that they were providing, quote, all necessary resources to ensure the safety and health of Texans, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Now, measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to humans, though it was largely considered eliminated from the U.S. back in 2000, following a highly effective vaccination program.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR vaccine, is recommended for all children between 12 and 15 months old, with a second shot given between the ages of four and six, which provides robust protection against infection.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
But vaccination rates, well, they've declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, with most states now below the 95% vaccination threshold for kindergartners that's needed to protect against outbreaks. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 27 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Now, should you be hankering for an ad-free experience, and when was the last time anybody said hankering in a podcast? Simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's really very simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
In just the past few weeks, both the United States and Israel have launched significant air campaigns inside Syria, targeting Islamist groups operating in the country. First, let's talk about the US strikes. U.S. Central Command, or CENTCOM, has been ramping up attacks against the al-Qaeda-linked Haras al-Din organization in northwestern Syria. Since the start of the year, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
It's Thursday, 27 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start in the Middle East, where the U.S. and Israel are intensifying airstrikes in Syria. Now, it seems like just yesterday when Syria was in the news every day.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
drone strikes have hit targets in Idlib province, killing seven members of the group, including a senior finance and logistics official. CENTCOM called these strikes part of its, quote, ongoing commitment to working with allies to disrupt terrorist networks before they can plan and launch attacks. The U.S. military's message here is clear.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
They're determined to keep extremist groups from using Syria as a safe haven. But the U.S. isn't the only one stepping up airstrikes. In the country's south, Israeli warplanes have also been hitting military targets outside Damascus and in southern Syria. According to reports, Israeli jets carried out strikes on Tuesday, hitting sites in the town of Kiswah and the province of Dera.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, made it clear why these strikes are happening. He warned that Israel, quote, will not allow southern Syria to become southern Lebanon, referencing Hezbollah's stronghold in Lebanon. That's a major security concern, of course, for Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Katz also stated that any attempt by Syrian forces or terrorist organizations to establish themselves in the border region will, quote, be met with fire.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Now, Israel has been conducting military operations in Syria for years, primarily targeting Iranian and Hezbollah positions But these latest strikes are part of a broader campaign launched late last year to dismantle Syria's former military infrastructure The goal?
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Well, it's relatively simple, to prevent weapons and military assets from falling into the hands of groups that pose a direct threat to Israel But here's the real problem. While airstrikes can disrupt terrorist operations in the short term, they don't address the underlying issue, which is Syria's lack of security and control.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The biggest challenge for Syria's new government is that it hasn't been able to consolidate a unified national army. When the rebels marched into Damascus, they did so as a ragtag group of fighters from various different factions. Now, officially, all of these various military factions were dissolved on 29 January, but in reality, thousands of these rebel fighters are still active.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Many of them remain part of loosely affiliated militias operating outside of government control. And this, well, this is where things get dangerous. Without a centralized security force, the country is vulnerable to lawlessness, foreign interference, and a resurgence of jihadist groups.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Power is fragmented, with various factions pursuing different goals, some for political influence, others for economic gain through smuggling and organized crime. On top of that, outside players like Iran, Turkey, and the Gulf states are eager to expand their influence.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
They're backing different militias that align with their own interests, fueling instability and making it even harder for Syria to restore order. And, of course, let's not forget about the jihadists. Groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda thrive in power vacuums.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Without jobs or clear leadership or sense of direction, many former fighters could be drawn into extremist networks that offer financial support and a renewed sense of purpose. Bottom line, this is potentially a ticking time bomb.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
With a new interim government in place, the country is still grappling with instability, raising concerns that terrorist groups could be gaining a foothold.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The longer that Syria's interim government goes without establishing military cohesion, the more it risks descending into a fragmented battleground of warlords, criminal groups, and terrorist organizations. And if that happens, while the consequences won't be just felt in the Middle East, it could spark a new wave of global jihadist activity. For now, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
and Israel are trying to keep that worst-case scenario from unfolding, but airstrikes alone won't be enough. The real test for Syria's new government will be whether it can bring the country's armed factions under control before it's too late.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
All right, coming up after the break, Israel and Hamas reach a deal to keep the ceasefire going, and Romania's pro-Russian presidential frontrunner is taken in for questioning. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details, and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Later in the show, Israel and Hamas officials have struck a deal to exchange the bodies of dead hostages for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners The agreement is keeping their fragile ceasefire intact for now Plus, Romania's pro-Russian presidential frontrunner has been taken in for questioning over last November's controversial canceled vote That's a race that he had initially won
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
ExpressVPN prevents hackers from accessing private information by creating a secure encrypted tunnel between devices and the Internet. Think about that. Its encryption is so strong that even a supercomputer would take over a billion years to crack it. And who's got that sort of time? Setup is seamless. Just open the app and tap one button for instant protection.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
It works on phones, laptops, tablets, and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S. customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web, and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
After days of deadlock that threatened to derail their fragile ceasefire, Israel Hamas confirmed an agreement Tuesday to exchange the bodies of dead hostages for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, ensuring that the truce remains intact, at least for now.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
As we've tracked on the PDB this week, Israel had refused to proceed with the scheduled release of 600 Palestinian prisoners since Saturday, protesting what it called the degrading treatment of hostages by Hamas upon their release.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
As our listeners know, the Iran-backed terror group has staged elaborate public ceremonies, parading freed hostages before massive crowds and forcing them to participate in propaganda stunts for each scheduled release of the ceasefire. Officials from the Red Cross and the United Nations condemned Hamas's practice as a gross violation of human dignity.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Hamas, in turn, accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire by postponing the prisoner release, calling it a, quote, serious violation. The terror group insisted that no talks on the next phase, originally slated to begin earlier this month but indefinitely stalled, could move forward until the agreed-upon prisoners were freed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
However, a breakthrough came late Tuesday after a Hamas delegation, led by a senior political official, met with mediators in Cairo. Under the agreement, the bodies of four Israeli hostages will be returned in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners, fulfilling the terms of the ceasefire's first phase.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
In a statement, Hamas said the prisoners previously scheduled for release, quote, will be released simultaneously with the bodies of the Israeli prisoners who were agreed to be handed over The terror group also claimed that additional Palestinian prisoners will be included in the exchange
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
According to the Associated Press, an Israeli official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the agreement but declined to provide further details However, Israeli media reports suggest the exchange could take place at any moment with the remains of the hostages set to be handed over to Egyptian mediation authorities
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Notably, the bodies of the slain hostages will reportedly be handed over without the kind of public spectacle that Hamas orchestrated for its earlier releases This latest development will mark the completion of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement which called for Hamas to return 33 hostages, including eight bodies, in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners With this phase nearing its conclusion, attention now turns to the next round of negotiations
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The timing is critical. The White House's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected to visit the region in the coming days to push forward this second phase of the ceasefire, which has been scheduled to begin on the 1st of March. This next phase will include the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas and a potential roadmap to ending the war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
But, as you might imagine, deep divisions remain. And whether this latest agreement can generate momentum for broader peace efforts, well, is far from certain. Contentious issues, including the future of Hamas's military capabilities, Israeli security demands, and the long-term governance of the enclave, continue to stand in the way of any lasting resolution. All right, shifting now to Romania.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
And in today's back of the brief, a major measles outbreak in Texas has claimed its first life. We'll break down the details and look at who's most at risk. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. I want to start today's show with an update from Syria. Just over two months after the fall of dictator Bashar al-Assad, the country has managed to establish an interim government now led by Ahmed al-Sharra.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The country's ongoing political crisis deepened Wednesday as pro-Russian presidential candidate Colleen Georgescu, whose surprise election victory last year was annulled over alleged Russian influence, was detained for questioning.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The investigation, which includes sweeping allegations against Georgescu and his inner circle, comes just as he was preparing to submit his candidacy for the rerun of the election, which is now set for the 4th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
His supporters rallied outside the prosecutor's office as they see the legal action as a blatant attempt to block his return to the ballot, while authorities argue the case is a necessary response to the compromised original vote. Georgescu, a far-right nationalist, NATO skeptic and vocal critic of Western military aid to Ukraine,
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
sent shockwaves through Romania's political establishment in November when he surged from obscurity to win the first round of the presidential election. That victory, however, was short-lived. The country's constitutional court nullified the results, citing what it called a Kremlin-backed influence operation. Moscow denied any involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Georgescu, for his part, blasted the ruling as a, quote, formalized coup d'etat orchestrated by the country's political elite. While prosecutors have not explicitly named Georgescu in their statements, they confirmed that 47 locations, including the homes and offices of his closest allies, were raided.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Authorities are investigating charges of public incitement, forming a fascist organization, and providing false statements regarding his campaign's funding. Georgescu responded defiantly, taking to Facebook to ask, quote, Where is democracy? Where are the partners who must defend democracy? End quote. The fallout has thrown Romania into political turmoil.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Georgescu's nationalist allies and even his liberal opposition, led by reformist candidate Elena Laskony, now find themselves in rare agreement, both accusing the country's entrenched establishment of using the courts to maintain its grip on power. Laskony, warning of the consequences, said barring Georgescu from the race could ignite mass unrest, calling it a, quote, powder keg.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The case has also drawn international attention. You may remember that speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Vice President JD Vance condemned Romania's decision to cancel the election, calling it an attack on democracy. Vance accused Romanian authorities of using labels such as, quote, misinformation and disinformation as political weapons to silence opposition candidates.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Meanwhile, tech billionaire and close advisor to President Trump, Elon Musk, weighed in on social media, denouncing the constitutional court judges as simply, quote, tyrants. Romania's socialist prime minister defended the country's legal system, but acknowledged that if Georgescu is to be charged, prosecutors must present clear and irrefutable evidence.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
Meanwhile, polls indicate that Georgescu remains the frontrunner in the upcoming election, though it's still unclear whether he'll be allowed to run. With the fate of Georgescu's candidacy hanging in the balance, Romania, well, they're bracing for one of their most contentious elections in decades. Okay, coming up in the back of the brief, a measles outbreak in Texas turns deadly.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
What we know about the situation and who's most at risk. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
In today's Back of the Brief, some tragic news out of Texas, where a recent measles outbreak has claimed its first life. To bring you up to speed, a major outbreak of measles erupted in parts of West Texas last month and has quickly spread across nine counties and parts of New Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
He's a former al-Qaeda member who has since renounced the group. But even with new leadership in place, questions remain about Syria's long-term stability, and concerns are growing that it could become a breeding ground for terrorism. And if recent military action is any indication, those concerns aren't unfounded.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
So far, 124 cases have been logged by health authorities, making it the largest outbreak of the highly contagious respiratory disease in Texas in nearly 30 years. That's according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
On Wednesday, state health officials confirmed that an unvaccinated school-aged child who'd been fighting the disease at a hospital in Lubbock died Tuesday night, marking the first death from measles seen in the U.S. since 2015.
The President's Daily Brief
February 27th, 2025: Why Syria Has Become A Ticking Time Bomb & Israel And Hamas Reach A Deal
The virus has largely spread among rural towns in West Texas, with local health officials finding the highest concentration of cases occurring in, quote, close knit under vaccinated communities in Gaines County. The Texas Department of State Health Services, the DSHS, said Wednesday that nearly all the cases are in unvaccinated individuals or individuals whose vaccine status is unknown.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Suspicions soon fell on Russia, despite initial reports that the crash was caused by a mid-air collision with a flock of birds. Ukrainian national security officials subsequently said that intelligence suggested the flight was likely downed by the Russian military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
It's Thursday, 26th December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Alright, it's, to be fair, the Late Afternoon Bulletin. I'm on the road still. It's the Where's Waldo game. Coming to you this week from East Asia. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Osprey Flight Solutions, an aviation security firm, also conducted an initial assessment of the footage Wednesday evening, which they said implicated Russian military air defense systems due to what appeared to be shrapnel damage on the tail section of the airplane. They said such damage could not have been caused by birds, particularly when considering the altitude that the plane was flying at.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
By Thursday morning, four sources with knowledge of the preliminary findings of Azerbaijan's investigation confirmed to Reuters that the plane was indeed shot down by a Russian air defense system. They added that the plane's communications were paralyzed by electronic warfare systems as they attempted to approach Grozny in Chechnya, Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
The circumstances surrounding the flight's diversion over the Caspian Sea, which took it hundreds of miles off its planned route, were not immediately clear, but officials in Kyiv suggested it was due to a deliberate decision made by Russian officials. A senior national security official in Ukraine told The Wall Street Journal, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Russia should have closed the airspace over Grozny but failed to do so. The plane was damaged by the Russians and was sent to Kazakhstan instead of being urgently landed in Grozny to save lives. Ukraine's military has repeatedly targeted Russia's southern region over the past few months with military drones, a response to Moscow's relentless bombardment of Ukrainian cities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
The attacks have regularly triggered Russian air defenses, and Wednesday was no different, with the Russian Defense Ministry claiming to have shot down some 59 Ukrainian drones over several regions. Some were down in closed airspace over regions bordering Ukraine, and flights to Russia's Kazan airport were temporarily suspended on Wednesday due to the activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
But the airspace where the Azerbaijan Airlines flight was traveling reportedly remained open. An Azerbaijani source told Reuters, quote, No one claims that it was done on purpose. However, taking into account the established facts, Baku expects the Russian side to confess to the shooting down of the Azerbaijani aircraft, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Now, so far, the Kremlin is attempting to downplay the accusations, saying such speculations are inappropriate until the conclusion of the investigation. Leaders in Kazakhstan have also declined to place blame, saying on Thursday that the cause of the crash was still unknown.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Coming up, Pakistan is escalating their fight against the Pakistani Taliban in Afghanistan, unleashing a series of airstrikes that killed at least 46 people late Tuesday night. We'll discuss the implications when we return. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
First, we'll look at the deadly crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines flight over Kazakhstan on Wednesday as evidence mounts that it was likely caused by a Russian air defense system. Then, Pakistan is escalating their fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan, unleashing a series of airstrikes that killed at least 46 people late Tuesday night.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin, admittedly the late afternoon bulletin today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Pakistan's military launched a series of airstrikes late Tuesday night on Afghanistan's Paktika province, leaving 46 people dead and escalating tensions with the Afghan Taliban government, which vowed swift retaliation. According to an update from an Afghan government spokesman on Wednesday, six additional people were wounded in the strikes, which killed mostly women and children.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
The strikes were reportedly aimed at dismantling training facilities and strongholds linked to the Pakistani Taliban, also known as the TTP in Afghanistan. The strikes mark a significant development in Pakistan's ongoing battle with the terror group, which has intensified in recent months as relations between Islamabad and Kabul continue to deteriorate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
For background, the TTP, while pledging allegiance to the Afghan Taliban, operates independently with a stated objective of imposing its version of Islamic law across Pakistan. This goal mirrors the governance style of the Afghan Taliban. who've held power in Kabul since August of 2021, following the Biden administration's somewhat disastrous troop withdrawal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
And when I say somewhat disastrous, I guess I mean disastrous. Pakistani security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the operation to the Associated Press, said the strikes were part of broader efforts to neutralize cross-border terrorist threats. However, conflicting casualty figures have further complicated the narrative.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
The TTP claimed that 50 people, including 27 women and children, were killed, while the Afghan Taliban government condemned the attack, insisting that many victims were refugees from Pakistan's Waziristan region, which borders Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province, previously scarred by TTP terrorist attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Now, it's just the latest incident to raise tensions with the Afghan Taliban government who, not surprisingly, vowed retaliation. But first, our afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with the Christmas Day tragedy out of Kazakhstan, where an Azerbaijan Airlines flight crashed on Wednesday in an incident suspected to be caused by Russian anti-aircraft fire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Adding to the volatility of the situation, Pakistan's Interior Ministry announced the same day that 13 TTP terrorists were killed during a separate intelligence-based operation in South Waziristan. This series of events underscores Pakistan's longstanding challenge in managing threats from the TTP while navigating its delicate relationship with Afghanistan's Taliban-led administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
For years, Islamabad has accused Kabul of providing safe haven for terrorists and failing to curb cross-border attacks, allegations that the Afghan government denies, claiming it doesn't allow attacks on foreign soil. Yet the facts on the ground paint a different picture. Terrorist activity within Pakistan has surged, leaving a trail of destruction and instability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Just last weekend, TTP terrorists killed at least 16 Pakistani soldiers during an assault on a checkpoint in the country's northwest. In March, Pakistan launched similar airstrikes in Afghanistan's border regions, targeting TTP hideouts in an effort to stop the group's growing influence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
With mounting casualties and rising distrust, the already precarious relationship between these two neighbors appears to be unraveling even further. As Pakistan and Afghanistan escalate their rhetoric and military actions, fears are growing of a potential broader regional conflict. That, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 26 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, I think you know it's simple. You just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then... Well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
The flight was heading from Baku in Azerbaijan to Grozny in Russia, but was diverted for unknown reasons over an area where Moscow's air defenses have been engaged in intense aerial battles with Ukrainian drones in recent weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 26th, 2024: Did Russian Air Defense Cause Deadly Azerbaijan Crash? & Pakistan Escalates Attacks On Taliban in Afghanistan
After turning around and flying east over the Caspian Sea, the plane struggled to stay airborne and ultimately went down over western Kazakhstan, killing at least 38 people. And that's according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. Miraculously, as many as 29 passengers survived the fiery crash landing, which was captured by locals on video.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Taiwan sits at the heart of the global semiconductor supply chain, and any conflict there could of course have devastating consequences for the world economy. But beyond that, China's moves are a direct challenge to the U.S.-led order in the Indo-Pacific. Looking ahead to 2025, the big question is just how far China is willing to push its military aggression and how prepared are Taiwan, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
and allied nations to deter a potential conflict? Will Beijing's provocations stop short of an invasion or is it laying the groundwork for a takeover in the not too distant future? Okay, the sixth and final story in our look at 2024 that I wanted to highlight today is North Korea's full-speed push to expand its missile program.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
This year, Kim Jong-un's regime ramped up its weapons tests with each launch, frankly, more brazen than the last. One of the biggest headlines came on October 31st. No, look at that, Halloween, when North Korea launched what it called the world's strongest, in quotes, the world's strongest intercontinental ballistic missile. Now, of course, a lot of that was typical Pyongyang propaganda.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
But the test itself, frankly, was no joke. The missile flew higher and stayed in the air longer than anything they've tested before. It's a big step toward their goal of building a nuclear-armed ICBM that could hit, potentially, the U.S. mainland. Now, they're not quite there yet.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Experts say North Korea still has some work to do, especially with figuring out how to make its warheads survive re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. But here's where things get even more concerning. Moscow might be lending a hand. And when I say might be, I mean Moscow is lending a hand.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
North Korea's blossoming romance with Putin is really, frankly, a simple relationship, trading weapons and now troops in exchange for technical knowledge. If Moscow helps fill in the gaps in a significant way, the technical challenges that North Korea has been facing could disappear a lot faster than anyone expected. Meanwhile, the missile tests have ramped up tensions across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Japan and South Korea are beefing up their missile defenses and the U.S. has been stepping up joint military drills with its allies in the Indo-Pacific to send a clear message to Pyongyang. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 26 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And, as I suspect you know by now, to listen to the show ad-free and simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Couldn't be any simpler. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Syria has now become a geopolitical chessboard, with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Iran scrambling for influence as the country's future. Well, it remains uncertain. And while our focus in this segment is on Iran, there's also Russia. Let's not forget them. Assad's closest military backer. Russia is also maneuvering to secure its interests as a post-Assad Syria takes shape.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
It's Thursday, 26 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, the day after Christmas, of course, we're doing something a little different. As the year comes to a close, we're taking stock of the events that reshaped global geopolitics.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Putin's military spent years helping Assad suppress and kill Syrians in order to maintain power. And now, with two key military bases in Syria, the question is whether the new Syrian leadership has any interest in working with Assad's former BFF. The big questions for 2025. Can Syria stabilize and form a lasting government, or will extremist groups capitalize on the chaos?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Will Iran attempt to destabilize the country further in a desperate bid to restore its influence? And what role, if any, will the U.S. play as this power vacuum unfolds? Our second story, related to the Iranian regime, marks an unprecedented escalation, the direct conflict between Israel and Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
For the first time, these two adversaries moved beyond proxy battles and covert operations to openly exchange missile fire. It shattered decades of shadow warfare and raised fears, of course, of a regional conflagration.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
It began back in April when an Israeli airstrike targeted Iran's consulate in Damascus, Syria, reportedly killing senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC. The Iranian regime retaliated with a barrage of ballistic missiles aimed directly at Israeli territory.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Within hours, Israel countered with strikes on military installations inside Iran, marking the first ever direct engagement between the two nations. Then, in October, tensions erupted again. Israel conducted a series of targeted assassinations, eliminating Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and other high-ranking IRGC generals also went.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Iran responded with yet another missile barrage, further testing Israel's Iron Dome defense system. For decades, Israel and Iran fought each other in the shadows through groups like the Iranian-backed and built Hezbollah at Hamas. Israel relied on sabotage and targeted strikes to blunt Iran's nuclear ambitions. But this year, well, this year broke that mold.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
The open exchange of fire has not only exposed the risk of a broader war, but underscored Iran's advancing missile capabilities. It also laid bare Iran's vulnerabilities. Here's what we're watching in 2025. Will this year's clashes remain isolated incidents or are we entering a new, more dangerous phase of open Iran-Israel hostilities?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Will Iran attempt to rebuild their broken proxies in an effort to continue their often stated objective of removing Israel from the map? And how far is Israel willing to go in its mission to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions? Those are the first two major stories of 2024, both defining regional moments in a year that saw the Iranian regime face unprecedented setbacks.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
All right, coming up, we'll move to Europe, where the war between Ukraine and Russia continued throughout 2024 to shape global power dynamics. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Now, we'll be looking back at the top stories in foreign policy and national security, stories that didn't just make headlines, but altered the direction of the year ahead. Now, this isn't a ranked list, okay? It's not in any particular order of importance. Each story essentially stands on its own. All right, let's get started. We're calling this first segment, A Terrible Year for Tehran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. Next up in our look at 2024 is the war in Ukraine, which is about to enter its third year without major changes to the battlefield. Both sides dug in, and the result has been mounting casualties, massive economic strain, and what feels like a World War I stalemate.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
But despite the slow grind of trench warfare, 2024 wasn't without its surprises. This year, North Korea, bizarrely, got directly involved, sending some 10,000 troops to fight alongside Russian forces. North Korean boots on the ground. Yeah, that's a certain headline for 2024. For Russia, it's been a way to shore up their struggling manpower.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And for North Korea, because they're not doing it pro bono, it's a rare chance to flex their military muscles and deepen ties with Moscow, not to mention to barter their soldiers for Russian weapons technology and assistance. Now, as the war prepares to move into its fourth year, think about that, its fourth year, Europe is feeling the squeeze.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
The war has driven up energy prices, fueled inflation, and sparked heated debates across NATO about how long the alliance can sustain its support for Ukraine. And in the US, that same debate is growing louder. Aid to Ukraine has become a divisive issue in Washington, with some questioning if it's time to rethink just how much we're sending.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And then there's the wild card, North Korea's involvement. It raises the stakes in a way that, well, we haven't seen before, creating more uncertainty about where this war could go next. Looking ahead to 2025, there's one big question, and that is, can there be a diplomatic solution, a negotiated settlement?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
With a new president-elect Donald Trump entering the White House and reportedly focused on striking deals, there is a chance that we could see both sides come to the negotiating table. But will both sides be willing to make compromises after the years of bloodshed? And how will North Korea's involvement shape these talks, if at all?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
And that could be the title of a Broadway musical, although probably not a very entertaining one. Okay, topping the list for Tehran's troubles, the collapse of the Assad government in Syria. 50 years of Assad family rule came to a dramatic and decisive end just weeks ago when rebel forces swept through Damascus, toppling President Assad's regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Our fourth major story of the year is a direct result of our third, and that would be the expansion of NATO. Finland officially joined NATO on April 4th, 2023, becoming the alliance's 31st member, and Sweden then followed suit this year on March 7th, marking a historic enlargement of the alliance into northern Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Now, this expansion, it does have significant implications with Sweden and Finland on board. NATO has bolstered its presence in the Arctic and Baltic regions, enhancing its ability to respond to potential Russian aggression. This move further isolates Moscow, which has long viewed NATO's eastward expansion as a direct threat to its sphere of influence.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Looking ahead to 2025, well, several questions arise. How will Russia respond to NATO's strength in northern flank? Will this lead to increased military posturing or provocations from Moscow? And what does this mean for Europe's overall security strategy?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
The integration of Sweden and Finland into NATO not only shifts the military balance, but influences diplomatic relations and defense policies across the continent. Okay, for our fifth story, we turn to what we on the PDB have been calling Russia's shadow war in Europe. It's a hybrid warfare campaign that's escalated significantly over the past year.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Since its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has increasingly turned to clandestine sabotage and hybrid attacks across NATO countries, attempting to destabilize the alliance and undermine support to Kyiv. According to a report by the Helsinki Commission, there have been roughly 150 Kremlin backed hybrid operations on NATO soil since 2022. That's 150 of them.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
The pace of these operations has only accelerated throughout 2024, with the Kremlin's methods becoming more sophisticated and dangerous. These hybrid operations have taken many forms. Cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, including train stations and energy grids, have caused widespread disruptions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Mass bomb threats often traced to Russian servers have been reported from the Baltic states to southern Europe. Russia's operatives have also targeted NATO military installations, including attempted bomb plots at U.S. bases in Germany and espionage efforts aimed at American military sites in Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Even Russian-orchestrated terrorism plots were thwarted, such as a sabotage attempt at a paint factory in Poland and a bomb plot near Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport. Putin is conducting this effort with an eye towards plausible deniability.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Many of these operations are outsourced to cyber criminals, low-level operatives, or even allied nations like Belarus, allowing Moscow, supposedly, to maintain a veneer of separation while spreading chaos across Europe. Now, you ask yourself, why does this matter? Well, it's a good question to ask yourself. Russia's hybrid warfare, it's not just about creating isolated incidents.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
It's part of a broader strategy to erode NATO's resolve and deter Western nations from supporting Ukraine. By destabilizing European societies and undermining confidence in NATO's collective defense, Moscow hopes to weaken the alliance at its core. As we look to 2025, NATO faces critical questions. How can it confront these hybrid threats while continuing to support Ukraine?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Are the alliance's members prepared to ramp up investments and adopt a wartime mindset to counter this campaign, as the NATO Secretary General suggested? And how can the U.S. and its allies effectively deter Russia's provocations without escalating into broader conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
The fall of his regime is one of the most significant geopolitical shifts in the Middle East in decades. For Iran, the implications, frankly, are profound. The Assad regime was a critical pillar of Tehran's so-called axis of resistance, a network of allies and proxies stretching across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
OK, coming up in our final segment, we'll turn our attention to Asia, where China's aggression toward Taiwan and North Korea's escalating missile tests dominated headlines in 2024. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. For our fifth story in today's look back at 2024, we're heading to Asia to look at China's escalating aggression toward Taiwan, a stark reminder of Beijing's one China policy. That policy asserts that Taiwan is a breakaway province, not a sovereign nation. And China's President Xi Jinping has vowed to retake it by force if necessary.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
This year, Beijing ramped up its military pressure on Taiwan with some of the most aggressive actions we've seen to date. In October, China conducted massive military drills that surrounded Taiwan, a clear message to the world and to Taiwan's leaders that Beijing isn't backing down. Over 125 Chinese aircraft and 34 naval vessels formed a ring around the island during these exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Chinese officials described the drills as, quote, punishment after Taiwan's president gave a speech vowing to resist annexation and defend the island's sovereignty. Then in December, China staged another show of force.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
This time, Beijing deployed nearly 90 ships, including warships and Coast Guard vessels, along Taiwan's waters in what Taiwanese officials called one of China's biggest ever military exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Nearly 50 Chinese aircraft were also detected near the island in just a 24-hour period The exercises came in response to the Taiwanese president's visit to the United States earlier in the month, further, of course, heightening tensions These provocations, the military drills, are part of a long-term strategy to intimidate Taiwan and to test the resolve of the United States and its allies
The President's Daily Brief
December 26th, 2024: Top 6 Global Stories of 2024: A Countdown with Mike Baker
Syria served as Iran's corridor to funnel arms, funds, and logistical support to Hezbollah, its crown jewel in Lebanon. With Assad gone, that corridor is, frankly, severed, and Tehran's regional strategy has taken a devastating hit. But the fallout extends beyond Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
A damning intelligence assessment from the FBI reveals that key Venezuelan government officials have, quote, likely been facilitating the migration of TDA gang members directly into the U.S. The FBI's assessment concludes that the regime of dictator Nicolas Maduro has been essentially using TDA as a proxy force to sow chaos on American streets and undermine public safety throughout the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
A senior official with the Trump administration shared the disturbing findings exclusively with Fox News, which reviewed unclassified portions of the agency's report on the Venezuelan government's covert dealings with TDA. As a reminder, the group was designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the White House earlier this year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
The official told Fox News, quote, These findings should shock Americans, but not the law enforcement community. They reflect the sentiments of numerous other intelligence assessments across multiple agencies, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
The assessment was reportedly based on information gleaned in recent months from domestic law enforcement operations against TDA as the Trump administration works to dismantle the criminal enterprise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
While details of the report remain classified, the FBI warns that over the next six to 18 months, Venezuelan government officials will likely attempt to leverage their relationship with TDA leaders in America to threaten, abduct, and kill Venezuelans living in the U.S. who are vocal critics of the Maduro regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
The FBI said they also expect similar efforts to target dissidents in countries throughout South America. In addition to using the group to destabilize the US, the Maduro regime is allegedly also targeting Chile, Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
We should note that the findings do clash with a classified assessment from the National Intelligence Council that was leaked to the Associated Press last week. That claimed that there was no coordination between TDA and the Venezuelan government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
But Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard blasted the AP report, saying the officials who leaked it, quote, twisted and manipulated the classified assessment to convey the exact opposite findings in an attempt to undermine President Trump's domestic security agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
An official with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, who spoke anonymously to Fox News, confirmed the FBI's assessment, saying the intelligence was, quote, robust and accurate. They said their office has determined that TDA leadership has a cozy relationship with the Venezuelan government, which gives sanctuary to violent gang members.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
They added that senior Venezuelan officials are actively, quote, aiding and abetting their crimes and terrorist activities against the U.S. by enabling them to thrive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
The official likened the Maduro regime's embrace of TDA to failed states in the Middle East like Syria and Libya or the Taliban in Afghanistan, which have welcomed terrorist groups with open arms and use them as proxies to stoke regional discord.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
A White House official told Fox News, quote, Nicholas Maduro is a Marxist dictator who hijacked a once prosperous Venezuela and brought in nothing but total economic collapse and gang takeover. He crumbled Caracas, now overrun with drugs and violence, and wants to do the same across the US by sending his most violent and dangerous criminals into the US communities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
They added that the Trump administration will, quote, use every authority in its power to make sure that these TDA terrorists are kept out of the US. Now, as we've been tracking on the PDB, the Trump administration has made targeting transnational gangs and cartels one of its top priorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
TDA has been at the top of the list, and hundreds of alleged members have already been deported to El Salvador's infamous mega prison, with Trump invoking the controversial Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expedite their removal. Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro has personally condemned the mass deportation of TDA members as illegal kidnappings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
a bit ironic given his regime's well-documented political crackdowns, arbitrary detentions, and state-sanctioned violence against dissenters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
As we discussed earlier today, the Trump administration is also unleashing their legal arsenal against the group, indicting 27 members of the gang earlier this week on federal racketeering charges under the RICO Act for the first time as part of the Justice Department's Operation Take Back America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Coming up next, Russia unleashes a massive missile and drone attack on Kiev overnight, killing at least 12 people and prompting rare condemnation from President Trump. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, good news. Grilling season is here, right? Temperatures are warming up and you got the grill cover off. And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on that grill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
I'm talking about a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales is not some corporate meat factory. It's not a faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture raised, grazed finished, and raised the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman or mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As they say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Mike Baker here. Well, you've probably read all about the tariffs and heard all about the trade wars here on the PDB, and you probably know that it's thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, and it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver lining. It's not just silver, it's actually gold as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
And I think most people may have missed it. You see, what I mean is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. And while the new policies are triggering some significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. But the first step is very simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
It's Thursday, the 24th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Kyiv was rocked early Thursday by one of the deadliest Russian assaults in over three years of war as an onslaught of missiles and drones killed at least 12 and wounded more than 90. The attack hit just hours after peace talks between Washington and Kyiv appeared to fall apart.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Fires raged across four districts of the capital as emergency crews scrambled to dig survivors and victims from the rubble. Ukraine's state emergency service confirmed 42 people had been hospitalized, while search and rescue teams remained deployed in multiple neighborhoods. The attack triggered a swift response from President Trump, who took to Truth Social to post, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
I am not very happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv. Not necessary and very bad timing. Vladimir, stop. Let's get the peace deal done." Well, that should do it. The timing isn't lost on anyone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
The strikes hit after Ukrainian President Zelensky on Wednesday rejected the Trump administration's latest peace framework, one that would grant Russia control over Crimea and permanently shut the door on Ukraine's NATO aspirations. Zelenskyy at a press conference called that framework unconstitutional, stating flatly, quote, There is nothing to talk about.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
First, in a report that speaks volumes about the nature of the Venezuelan government, the FBI has alleged that some top Venezuelan government officials have been facilitating the migration of members of the violent gang Tren de Aragua, known as TDA, into the U.S. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
He reiterated that Ukraine's path to NATO remains non-negotiable and enshrined in the country's national charter. Trump, in response, accused Zelenskyy of dragging out a, quote, killing field, claiming 5000 soldiers a week are dying and insisting the Ukrainian president had, quote, no cards to play in negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
As we've discussed here on the PDB, the peace proposal floated by American officials last week in Paris marks a sharp break from US policy. Since Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea, Washington has consistently refused to recognize the territory as Russian, a stance later codified by Congress. But under Trump's new deal, the precedent would be tossed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Crucially, the president pointed out that the document does not require Kiev to recognize Russia's land grab, just that Washington DC would. Vice President J.D. Vance drove the point home in remarks Wednesday, calling the current offer the final one and warning that the U.S. would, quote, walk away if it wasn't accepted.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Trump echoed the ultimatum, telling Ukraine it could either agree to peace now or risk, quote, fighting for another three years before losing the whole country, end quote. Now, despite the administration's escalating pressure campaign, the diplomatic process has stalled.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
On Wednesday's PDB Afternoon Bulletin, we reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials skipped planned talks in London after it became clear that Kyiv was seeking to revisit an earlier U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
A source close to the Ukrainian delegation told Axios that the latest American offer is viewed in Kyiv as lopsided, granting Russia strategic victories while offering Ukraine only vague guarantees. According to another source, Rubio's withdrawal from the London summit was a direct result of that growing divide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Meanwhile, Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is slated to meet with Russian President Putin on Friday. Moscow, while signaling openness to freeze the war along current front lines, has balked at a key component of the U.S. deal, the proposed deployment of peacekeepers on Ukrainian soil.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
So far, the latest round of diplomacy is, well, shaping up like so many before it, mired in ultimatums, walkouts and no halt in the hostilities. Now, a key problem here is that the Trump administration is basically asking, almost demanding, that Zelensky give in to Putin's demands in order to get a peace deal signed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Now, regardless of what you think of Zelensky, if you were in his shoes, you'd likely also not be inclined to want to give in to the invading country's key demands. The Trump administration is approaching this negotiation from a domestic politics perspective, not a geopolitical perspective. Their goal is to make good on campaign talk about quickly securing a peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
And in that context, well, you can understand why they've drawn up a proposal that leans so heavily in Russia's favor. They just want to get a deal done. They're not looking at the conflict and support of Ukraine in a traditional East versus West perspective. The problem is, everyone else is. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 24th of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Later in the show, Russia unleashes a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv overnight, killing at least a dozen people. It marked the biggest attack on the Ukrainian capital this year and came just hours after peace talks over the conflict appeared to fall apart. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, I know you know this, but I'm going to repeat it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
Owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility, right? You need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. And that's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with their Stopbox Pro. It's a lockbox that gives you instant access to your firearm. There's no electronics or keys or codes required. The five-button locking system responds to your unique input.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
It's built for muscle memory, so you're not thinking, you're reacting. I have a Stopbox Pro at home, and it is an excellent piece of kit. It's extremely well made, it's secure, and it's easy to use, and that's very important. With the Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed. Your firearm stays secure and always within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use code PDB at StopboxUSA.com, but they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. Correct. You heard correct. 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use code PDB at StopboxUSA.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 24th. 2025: FBI: Maduro Weaponizing Gangs Against America & Trump Unloads on Putin & Zelensky
As the Trump administration continues to turn up the heat against the violent Venezuelan gang Trendaragua , We're learning that the criminal group has been reportedly receiving major assistance from leaders in their home nation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
In perhaps his most forceful threat since the war began 18 months ago, Abbas declared, quote, sons of dogs, just release whoever you're holding and be done with it. Shut down excuses and spare us, end quote. He didn't stop there. Abbas called for Hamas to hand over weapons and relinquish governing authority to the PA and transform itself into a political party.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
As of now, Hamas holds 59 hostages, though more than half are believed to be dead. And as the terror group signals some diplomatic flexibility on one hand, its unwillingness to disarm leaves open the question, is this a real path of any sort to peace or just another stalling tactic?
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Coming up next in the back of the brief, a first-of-its-kind legal move as the Trump administration brings racketeering charges against the TDA gang. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, you've probably guessed this already, but the tariffs and the trade wars, it's kind of brought some chaos into the global economy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The Trump administration is using the RICO process to go after Trenda Aragua, Venezuela's violent TDA gang that's made significant inroads into America. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin today with an update from the US southern border, where Mexico's powerful drug cartels are shifting tactics in the wake of President Trump's sweeping crackdown on their migrant smuggling operations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And the potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there is a silver and also a gold lining that I think some people have missed. You see what I mean is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And while the new policies are certainly triggering some financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. Look, the first step is very easy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I know that you know this, but I'm going to mention it anyway.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility, and you need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. That's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with their Stopbox Pro. Look, it's a lockbox. It gives you instant access to your firearm. There's no electronics or keys or codes required.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The five-button locking system, it responds to your unique input. It's built for muscle memory, so you're not thinking, you're reacting. I have a Stopbox Pro at home, and let me tell you something, it's an excellent piece of kit. It really is. It's extremely well-made, it's secure, and it is easy to use, and that's important. With a Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Your firearm stays secure and always within reach. For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use the code PDB at StopboxUSA.com, but they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. That's correct. 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use code PDB at StopboxUSA.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
In today's Back of the Brief, federal authorities are taking the gloves off in their fight against the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, TDA, recently invoking a rare federal law that traditionally is used to go after the American mob. Earlier this week, the US Justice Department
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
According to an exclusive report from NewsNation, the drug barons of Mexico are increasingly pivoting to kidnapping civilians for ransom, including American tourists, to make up for their lost revenue streams. When America's borders were wide open, cartels were making a killing on what they called, quote, floor fees for migrants looking to enter America illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
used the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, or often known as the RICO Act, to charge 27 current and former members of TDA with murder, human smuggling, sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and other crimes. It marked the first time that U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
authorities have used RICO charges to go after the operations of the Venezuelan gang, which was officially designated a terrorist group by President Trump earlier this year. That's according to a report from Fox News. The charges were filed in two separate indictments by the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York as part of what the Justice Department has dubbed, quote, Operation Take Back America. Now, the operation seeks to achieve the, quote, total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations from American communities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
RICO charges are unique in that they allow prosecutors to charge not just individual criminal actors, but associates tied to their broader criminal enterprise. New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch praised the operation, noting it's the first time the TDA has been, quote, named and charged as the criminal enterprise that it is.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The first indictment charged six current members of TDA, while the second charged 21 alleged members, as well as associates of a splinter gang known as Anti-Tren, composed of former TDA members. Officials said 21 of the 27 gang members named in the indictments are currently in federal custody, five of whom were arrested within the past week.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The suspects are accused of committing numerous murders and shootings, forcing young women trafficked from Venezuela into sex slavery, extorting small businesses, and selling a pink powdery drug that's known as pink cocaine. Most of those charged are in their 20s, though the oldest member named in the indictment is 44. They all face multiple sentences of life in prison if found guilty.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Attorney General Pam Bondi hailed the operation, saying, quote, TDA is not just a street gang. It's a highly structured terrorist organization that's destroyed American families with brutal violence, engaged in human trafficking, and spread deadly drugs throughout our communities."
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
She added that the indictments and arrests will, quote, devastate TDA's infrastructure as we work to completely dismantle and purge this organization from our country. As we've been tracking on the PDB, the Trump administration has made targeting the violent gang one of its top priorities and has already deported hundreds of alleged members to El Salvador's mega prison.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 24th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And in case you haven't heard the scuttlebutt, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Basically, migrants would pay cartels for the privilege of passing through their territory as they made their way to the U.S. Cartels also generated significant revenue from human trafficking operations, with migrants paying to be smuggled across the US-Mexico border.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Start your test today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
But those operations have been significantly undermined by the Trump administration's myriad actions to tighten security and block access routes, along with their mass deportation agenda, which has dissuaded potential migrants from making the trek.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
As PDB listeners are aware, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border when he began his second term and deployed thousands of troops to assist border agents in curbing the flow of migrants. Migrant encounters have since dropped to a record low, plunging some 95% in March when compared to the previous year.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The rapid decline is hitting the cartels where it matters most, and that would be in their wallets. And now they're looking for new ways to mitigate their losses. As I mentioned, one tactic that is gaining popularity involves kidnapping Mexican and American civilians for ransom.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
They're targeting those who they think have something to lose, like a lucrative business, or who have family members that are willing to pay a hefty fee for the release of their loved ones.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
While it's difficult to say how many Mexican civilians have been impacted, we do know that two Americans were kidnapped by cartel members earlier this month outside a sports bar in the Mexican border town of Juarez.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
They were held for nearly three days at a house in South Juarez before being rescued by Mexican state police in partnership with the FBI, which provided technical support to track down the suspects. The Americans were found alongside migrants from Central America and China. All had been severely beaten and tortured by the suspects in an attempt to extract ransom payments. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
State Department has since issued travel advisories warning Americans to stay away from at least six Mexican states due to the rising threat. Meanwhile, the state of Chihuahua, where the abduction took place, has been placed under what's called a reconsider travel advisory, with the State Department warning U.S. tourists and government officials to avoid traveling between cities after dark
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
and to only take approved transport, like registered taxis. While the danger is significant, the kidnapping for ransom business is still just a side hustle for the cartels. Their primary revenue stream remains illicit drugs, and as their migrant business dries up, they're reportedly putting a renewed focus on large-scale drug smuggling operations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Authorities in Texas and San Diego have seen a major influx in narcotic smuggling in recent months and are warning that the efforts of the cartels are intensifying. Officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety, for example, said they recently seized more than 500 pounds of cocaine valued at nearly $7 million smuggled inside a tractor trailer at the far port of entry.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
That followed the seizure of nearly 800 pounds of cocaine, valued north of $10 million, in a series of border-crossing busts by Texas state authorities. In San Diego, Border Patrol agents recently seized hundreds of pounds of meth, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, along with firearms and ammunition, in a massive multi-agency operation that led to the arrest of 20 smugglers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
One Texas state official bluntly warned, quote, as illegal border crossings decline, Mexican drug cartels are increasing drug smuggling efforts. U.S. authorities are obviously not sitting idly by. They've been expanding operations using spy planes and drones equipped with advanced radar and infrared sensors in partnership with the Mexican government to track their operations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
In late March, the Trump administration also directed two intelligence agencies to train their surveillance satellites on the U.S.-Mexico border in order to help supplement the ongoing efforts. Additionally, two Navy guided missile destroyers were recently deployed to the region to support drug interdiction efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
All right, coming up next, India responds with force after its deadliest terror attack in years, and Hamas floats a new hostage deal as the Palestinian Authority, the PA, publicly slams Hamas and demands disarmament. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I'm happy to report that it's grilling season. You probably already knew that, right?
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef that you can throw on your grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. Generations of family raising high-quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I must be talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tritails isn't some corporate meat factory. It's not a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Tritails is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site, and they ship it straight to your door. There's no mystery or middleman. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built into their herd, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed, and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
It's Thursday, the 24th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today at the border, where the Trump administration's crackdown is shaking up cartel operations. Now, smuggling networks are shifting and adjusting their targets, and Americans are getting caught in the crosshairs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
It's a great company helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. And this spring, they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating sleep essentials.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
I mean, you know how important sleep is, right? When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged, and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's Bamboo Sheet Set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound, and it is absolutely true. designed to restore, refresh, and revitalize you every night.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve. You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, so you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth Risk-Free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now. Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Welcome back to the PDB. The terror attack that left at least 26 vacationers dead in the long-disputed region of Kashmir has now been claimed by a terror group widely viewed as a front for the Pakistan-based Islamist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, or L-E-T, further igniting hostilities between India and Pakistan, both, might I add, nuclear-armed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
As we reported on Wednesday's PDB, gunmen opened fire on a group of Indian tourists and one Nepalese national on Tuesday in Pahagram. That's a resort town nestled deep in Indian-controlled Kashmir, marking the most lethal civilian massacre in the region in years.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
According to Indian officials cited by the Indian Express, the attackers, believed to consist of seven men armed with automatic rifles, staged a coordinated ambush during a 20-minute firefight in an isolated meadow. The attack wounded at least 17, and in the immediate aftermath, authorities detained over 1,500 individuals across Jammu and Kashmir as part of the investigation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
A manhunt for the terrorists is still underway. Now, the Resistance Front, or TRF, it's a shadowy outfit that Indian intelligence describes as a proxy of LET, claimed responsibility on social media. The justification given by the group claiming responsibility?
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Well, accusations that New Delhi is orchestrating a forced demographic shift by settling over 85,000 so-called outsiders into the Muslim-majority region. TRF, the proxy group of LET, issued a chilling threat, warning that, quote, violence will be directed toward those attempting to settle illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
For those unfamiliar with TRF, the group emerged in 2019 and has since operated as a digital mouthpiece for LET's broader insurgency. Indian authorities say TRF exists largely to give Pakistan plausible deniability, masking LET's hand in Kashmir's militancy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Later in the show, India reels from its deadliest terror attack in years. A militant group has claimed responsibility, and now Indian forces are hitting back hard. Plus, Hamas says it's ready to release hostages. Oh, it's ready now?
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Analysts at the South Asia Terrorism Portal think tank in New Delhi are unequivocal, stating that, quote, all TRF operations are essentially LET operations with shared logistics and recruitment networks. Indian intelligence also links the terror group to cross-border arms and narcotics trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Now, Reuters notes that TRF has spent the past two years issuing death threats to journalists, politicians and civil society figures deemed sympathetic to Indian governance. Pakistan, for its part, continues to deny any link to TRF, while ironically offering the group its, quote, moral and diplomatic support. New Delhi's response to the attack has been swift and forceful.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
In an emergency security briefing chaired by Prime Minister Modi, India suspended its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty, a decades-old pact critical to Pakistan's agricultural sector. The shared Attari border crossing has been shuttered indefinitely. Pakistani military envoys in New Delhi were expelled, labeled persona non grata, and given one week to leave the country.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Visas issued under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation exemption framework have been revoked, and any Pakistani nationals remaining in India under that framework now have reportedly 48 hours to leave the country. India's foreign secretary vowed that the country will, quote, be unrelenting in the pursuit of those who committed acts of terror or conspired to make them possible.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
India's military units across the region remain on high alert, of course. The country's defense minister echoed the sentiment, signaling that retaliatory action, including military action, remains firmly on the table.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
And with both India and Pakistan in possession of nuclear arsenals, this latest escalation in one of the world's most volatile flashpoints could carry consequences well beyond the borders of Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Okay, turning now to the Middle East, Hamas is set to present a new ceasefire proposal in Cairo, one that includes the release of all remaining hostages and a five-year truce with Israel, but with zero intention of disarming.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
According to a Saudi-owned news outlet, the plan envisions a one-phase release of hostages in exchange for an agreed-upon number of Palestinian prisoners, echoing past exchanges that have become familiar flashpoints in this grinding war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
The draft also demands Israeli forces pull back to positions held during the short-lived January ceasefire that was negotiated with help from the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt. That agreement kept IDF troops largely stationed along Gaza's borders, including the strategic Philadelphia corridor. A total halt to Israeli military operations is also a key component of Hamas's proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Under a new truce, as the Palestinian Authority openly criticizes the Iranian-backed group, accusing them, meaning Hamas, of prolonging the war and calling for disarmament. And in today's back of the brief, a major legal strike against a violent migrant gang operating across the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Hamas is further calling for the resumption of humanitarian aid flowing into the enclave, something that Israel cut off in early March in an effort to strong-arm the terror group into accepting a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
As we've covered here on the PDB, the blockade was later justified by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who cited intelligence reports that the Iran-backed group was selling humanitarian aid that it seized to bankroll its war chest.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Now, as part of this latest proposal, Hamas is asking for international guarantees backing a five-year ceasefire and the formation of a technocratic committee to oversee civilian governance in Gaza. It's an idea that originated in earlier Egyptian proposals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Perhaps most politically charged, Hamas signaled the potential to reconcile with Fatah, the rival faction that dominates the Palestinian Authority, the PA. Now, the PA currently governs parts of the West Bank and has long clashed with Hamas over the future of Palestinian leadership. But despite the new diplomatic packaging, Hamas's red line remains unmoved. No disarmament.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
That refusal has, of course, torpedoed past talks, and it would seem that this time is no different. According to the Times of Israel, Hamas has told Arab mediators, it's open to a long-term truce with Israel, complete with a freeze on tunnel construction and weapons production, but surrendering arms is off the table.
The President's Daily Brief
April 24th, 2025: Cartels Deploy New Tactics At The Border & Abbas Torches Hamas
Despite Hamas's attempt to sow the rift with the PA in the draft, its rivalry did take center stage this week when PA President Mahmoud Abbas unloaded a fiery speech on Hamas. Abbas accused Hamas of giving Israel an excuse to prolong its ground offensive and demanded that the terror group release Israeli hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
It's Thursday, 23 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First, a correction that I should make regarding this morning's PDB. While talking about the deportation actions and policies of previous U.S. administrations, well, I got a statistic wrong, fairly significantly wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
They'll also be given orders to summarily detain and immediately deport all illegal crossers that they encounter. That's according to a report from the New York Post. The move stems from Trump's executive order on Monday declaring a national emergency at the U.S. southern border, which ordered the Department of Defense to provide resources and troops to support the activities of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Customs and Border Protection agents. In addition to aiding with arrests, the military will reportedly build border barriers to repel migrants and convert Pentagon bases near the border into temporary holding facilities to house migrants awaiting deportation. The ambitious strategy began with the deployment of 1,500 troops on Wednesday. They'll join the approximately 2,200 U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
National Guard and Reserve Forces already in place along the border. It's unclear when the larger force will arrive. Additionally, Trump fired the head of the U.S. Coast Guard on Tuesday, citing a, quote, "...erosion of public trust." and subsequently ordered the Guard to surge resources to migrant-prone waters, particularly around Cuba and Haiti.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
At the same time, the Coast Guard will step up patrols around Alaska and Hawaii, as well as around the U.S. territories of Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. They've also been ordered to increase patrols of the maritime borders between the U.S., the Bahamas, and Mexico. That's a hotspot for traffickers smuggling migrants and drugs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Trump had already shut down all crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border on Monday, effectively suspending access for migrants seeking asylum in the United States, with the exception of official border crossing facilities. Refugee and parole admissions have also been suspended, and Trump has ended the Biden-era catch-and-release policy that allowed apprehended illegal migrants to go free inside U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
borders. Instead, Trump expanded the powers of border authorities under a process called, quote, expedited removal, which allows the deportation without a court hearing of any migrant who cannot prove that they've been in the U.S. for longer than two years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
It's a seismic policy shift, given that the Biden administration allowed nearly 8 million migrants, and that's a conservative number, to enter the U.S. illegally over the past four years. And of course, that doesn't count the known gotaways. That's a number that could also reach into the millions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Trump's border actions come as targeted arrests of hundreds of illegal immigrants in sanctuary cities across America began on Tuesday. As we discussed on yesterday's PDP, the early arrests and deportations are prioritizing illegal migrants with a criminal record or who have been deemed a potential threat to public safety.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the border, Mexico is bracing for a major influx of migrants due to Trump's mass deportation efforts. The UK Telegraph reported on Thursday that border cities in Mexico have begun building temporary tent cities on football fields, empty blocks of land, and inside gymnasiums.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
The Mexican government is also building nine official shelters in border cities to receive deportees. Coming up, the UN's nuclear watchdog has issued a stark warning on Iran's nuclear program, saying that the Iranian regime is pressing the gas pedal on enrichment. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
I mentioned that as an example of past administration's actions to deport illegal immigrants, the Obama administration during its tenure deported some 400,000 individuals. Well, that number's wrong. The reality is that number was closer to 3 million. My point being, don't get trapped in the hysteria of media and social media of the moment regarding immigration policies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Iran's accelerated efforts to enrich uranium are drawing heightened global concern, with International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi confirming on Wednesday that Tehran is quote, pressing the gas pedal, edging dangerously close to weapons grade levels. Speaking from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, is there anybody not in Davos at this point?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Grossi revealed that the Iranian regime is now enriching uranium to 60% purity at an unprecedented rate, producing over 65 pounds per month, and that is reportedly a fourfold increase compared to previous output. This acceleration places Iran's stockpile at approximately 440 pounds of enriched uranium, far exceeding the threshold needed to produce a nuclear weapon if further enriched to 90%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
By IAEA estimates, only 90 pounds of enriched uranium is needed to make one nuclear bomb. The UN nuclear watchdog chief also noted that Iran is installing advanced centrifuges which, while not yet fully operational, will soon enable Tehran to achieve even higher enrichment thresholds, stating, quote, we are going to start seeing steady increases from now, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Iran's enrichment frenzy, if you can call it a frenzy, follows a sharp diplomatic fallout in November when Western nations issued a censure over Tehran's nuclear activity. In response, Iranian engineers boosted production capacity sevenfold by December. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
and European powers have condemned these developments, asserting that there's no legitimate civilian rationale for enrichment at this level. Well, that statement would be a contender for today's PDB statement of the obvious award.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Yet Iran, with a straight face, might I add, continues to insist its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and claims it has the right to enrich uranium under international law. That's a claim that has failed to dispel global skepticism over their intent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Grossi has called for diplomacy as President Trump returns to the White House, potentially reviving his administration's quote, maximum pressure strategy against the Iranian regime. Trump's first term saw the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, opting instead for sweeping sanctions that crippled the Iranian regime's economy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Officials within the Trump team indicate that a new sanctions package targeting the Iranian regime's critical oil sector could be announced as early as February, setting the stage for renewed confrontation. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged Iran to restore trust through transparency. Well, that would be a first.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Guterres emphasized the need to demonstrate that it does not intend to develop nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, European powers, led by France, Germany, and the UK, are directing IAEA inspectors to produce a special report on Iran's activities in the first half of 2025. This report then could form the basis for reinstating UN sanctions set to expire in October of this year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Now, would it be churlish of me to point out that while the IAEA and the UN dither around for months drafting a report, which no doubt will be scintillating, Iran at its current pace could at the same time then become a member of the global nuke club. And I'd like to point out that I did just use the word dither. You're welcome.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
The specter of renewed sanctions and Tehran's growing uranium stockpile is fueling fears, of course, of a military confrontation in the Middle East. Grossi underscored the importance of diplomacy, stressing, quote, we don't want more wars, end quote. Well, to be fair, I'm not sure that the we he's referring to includes Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Take the time to look at what happened in the past, and you may find out that there's not much new under the sun. All right, for this afternoon. First, we'll begin at the US southern border, where President Trump plans to deploy some 10,000 troops to beef up security and aid in the swift arrest and deportation of illegal crossers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
I mean, after all, their regime is the cause of most of the instability and chaos in the Middle East currently. The reality is that the mounting tensions and the Iranian regime's defiance leave the international community with a rapidly closing window for possible de-escalation. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 23 January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com. And of course, word on the street is that to listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdppremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
Then, the UN's nuclear watchdog has issued a stark warning on Iran's nuclear program, saying that the mullahs are, quote, pressing the gas pedal on enrichment in the wake of Trump's return to the White House. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 23rd, 2025: Trump To Deploy 10,000 Troops To Southern Border & Iran Floors The Gas On Their Nuclear Ambitions
President Trump's immigration crackdown is now in full swing, with preparations reportedly underway to dramatically beef up security at the southern border with U.S. soldiers. According to an Internal Customs and Border Protection memo, Trump plans to deploy as many as 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border to aid Border Patrol agents as they work to seal off all entry points into America.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
While the cruise release provides relief to their families and the maritime industry, the Red Sea region remains a geopolitical pressure cooker, with tensions threatening the safety of critical shipping lanes and the broader stability of global trade networks. All right. That, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 23 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
It was the first time that Trump got candid about how he plans to pressure Moscow to come to the negotiating table and also included some direct shots at Putin's leadership, according to a report from Politico.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Now, to listen to the show ad-free, should you be so inclined, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See? Told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
While Trump said he has a good working relationship with Putin and loves the Russian people, well, that's nice, he criticized Putin's stewardship of the Russian economy, which he said is, quote, failing due to the Kremlin's myopic focus on continuing the war on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
It's Thursday, 23 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with President Trump's tougher-than-expected stance on Russia, threatening massive tariffs and sanctions if Vladimir Putin doesn't strike a deal to end the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Trump said he does not want to financially harm the Russian people, but warned that Putin will leave him with little choice if he refuses to negotiate. In his post, Trump stated, "...I'm going to do Russia and President Putin a very big favor. Settle now and stop this ridiculous war. It's only going to get worse.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
If we don't make a deal, he said, and soon, I have no other choice but to put high levels of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States and various other participating countries." The president added, quote, we can do it the easy way or the hard way. And the easy way is always better. It's time to make a deal. No more lives should be lost, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Now, just how effective these proposed sanctions would be remains an open question. Trade ties between the U.S. and Russia have already been severely diminished significantly. since the war broke out, with Russian exports to the U.S. dropping from some $29.6 billion in 2021 to just around $2.9 billion in 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Analysts note, however, that the international community was concerned that Trump would begin lifting Russian sanctions once he returned to the White House and that Putin hoped Trump would give him an economic reprieve. It appears that that may not be the case.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
As we've been tracking on the PDB, Trump had previously stated that he could end the war within 24 hours of assuming office, though he walked back those lofty ambitions earlier this month, telling reporters he hoped to resolve the conflict within six months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Separately, retired General Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, has set a goal of ending the war within Trump's first 100 days. Since Trump's inauguration on Monday, he's significantly escalated his rhetoric towards the Putin regime.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Putin had offered glowing praise on Monday of Trump's, quote, courage during the 2024 campaign and congratulated him on his return to office. But during a press conference Monday evening in the Oval Office, Trump issued his harshest critique to date of Putin and his leadership, saying he was, quote, destroying Russia by not making a deal. Trump continued, quote, he can't be thrilled.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
He's not doing so well. It's not making him look very good. Russia is bigger. They have more soldiers to lose, but that's no way to run a country, end quote. Well, he's not wrong. It's hard to overstate the carnage on the front lines, with Russian troop losses now exceeding a staggering 800,000. That's a number that includes both killed and wounded.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Then there's the domestic front, where Russia faces persistently high inflation, labor shortages, and interest rates that are sitting at an historic high of 21% due to the ongoing war. Putin, for his part, said Monday that he was ready to engage with the Trump administration on the subject of reining in nuclear arms and ending the war in Ukraine, though he qualified his statements,
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
warning that Russia's territorial gains in eastern Ukraine must be accepted by the West if they want talks to get off the ground. But many in the West remain skeptical that his supposed interest in a peace deal is genuine, particularly since the Kremlin's rough proposals for peace amount to little more than a full Ukrainian surrender.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky has expressed a willingness also to make a deal to end the brutal conflict. Following Trump's inauguration, Zelensky said, quote, Ukrainians are ready to work together with Americans to achieve peace, real peace. This is a chance that must be seized, end quote. President Trump has indicated he plans to meet with both Zelensky and Putin in short order.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Later in the show, Russia suffers a major setback in Syria as the new government of Syria terminates a 49-year contract for a critical port, costing Moscow a key foothold in the region. Plus, big news on artificial intelligence. President Trump unveils the Stargate project, pledging $500 billion over four years to revolutionize AI infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Their representatives for the Kremlin have said no preparations are underway at this time. All right, coming up next, Russia loses a critical foothold in Syria as its port contract is terminated. And President Trump announces the Stargate project, a $500 billion plan to transform AI infrastructure. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Sticking with Russia, the Putin regime has just suffered an embarrassing blow to their strategic interests in the Middle East, as Syria's new leaders move to boot Russian forces out of the country.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
On Tuesday, Syrian media reported that the new rebel-led government terminated a 49-year investment agreement with Russia that allowed Moscow's forces to have a long-term military presence in the Mediterranean. It had been brokered back in 2019 under ousted leader Bashar al-Assad after Russian forces intervened on behalf of the dictator during their bloody civil war.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The agreement pertained to Russia's naval base at the port of Tartus along Syria's western coast. It's a critical outpost that provided Russia with their only access point to the Mediterranean Sea. The base also functioned as the main transit hub for Russian military assets into African countries, a key strategic interest for the Putin regime.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Syrian officials said Tuesday they had requested that all Russian forces leave the port completely and that all revenue from the port's operations would now go solely to serving the interests of the Syrian state. Under the agreement with Assad, Russia had kept 65% of the port's profits. Apparently, the other 35% went straight into Assad's pocket.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Moscow had been planning to invest some $500 million to modernize the port, but since the fall of the Assad regime on December 8th, questions had swirled over whether the Kremlin would be able to keep their only real military foothold in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
While the Russians spent the better part of December attempting to negotiate a settlement with the rebel group HTS to keep their base in Tartus, the discussions bore little fruit, obviously. In late December, the Kremlin began withdrawing large amounts of military equipment and troops from the TARDIS base and moving their naval ships out into open waters where they sat in a holding pattern.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The Russians continued staging various equipment at Tartus for transfer in early January, but Syrian forces subsequently moved to block Russian ships from re-entering the port. After news broke out of the canceled lease on Tuesday, however, satellite images showed Russian vessels entering the port to collect their equipment, suggesting they were now engaged in a full evacuation from Tartus.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The Kremlin has yet to comment on the embarrassing development, but it will significantly damage their ability to project power across the Middle East and Africa. UK military intelligence released a statement Tuesday saying, "...there is no comparable alternative base for the Russian Navy in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Its ability to logistically support both its military and its private military contractors in Africa..." as well as limiting the reputational damage incurred through the fall of the Assad regime, will almost certainly be priorities for the Russian government." All right. Shifting back to the U.S., there is major news in the world of artificial intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
And in today's back of the brief, Yemen's Houthi movement, the Houthi rebels, announced the release of the crew of a cargo ship that they seized back in November of 2023. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Now that he's back in the Oval Office, it appears President Trump is talking a tougher stance with Russian President Putin than many had anticipated.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
OpenAI, the company widely known for its creation of ChatGPT, is partnering with Oracle, Japan's SoftBank, and the UAE's sovereign wealth fund, MGX, to launch what's been dubbed the Stargate project. Now, if you thought this was going to be a sequel to the 1994 film starring Kurt Russell and James Spader, well, you'd be wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
This $500 billion initiative seeks to establish a network of artificial intelligence infrastructure across the United States. The new company, unveiled at the White House by President Trump, marks the most extensive AI infrastructure endeavor in history. Well, AI has a relatively short history, so there's that.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
With $100 billion in immediate funding and the remainder projected over the next four years, the Stargate project aims to generate an estimated 100,000 jobs to meet the soaring global demand for AI-driven data centers.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Trump, standing beside OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, stressed the critical nature of the venture, declaring, quote, I'm going to help a lot through emergency declarations because, well, we have an emergency, end quote, underscoring the urgency of maintaining AI leadership within the United States.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Altman called the venture, quote, the most important project of this era, crediting Trump's administration for its support. According to the information, a leading technology outlet, this colossal undertaking has been in the works for over a year. Construction of the first data center has already begun in Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
with Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison confirming plans for additional sites across the nation. The project has drawn substantial contributions from major tech players, including NVIDIA, Microsoft, and British chipmaker ARM, a rare alignment among global technology leaders. This initiative is part of a broader surge in AI-related investments.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Microsoft, one of OpenAI's primary backers, announced plans to pour $80 billion into AI data centers this year. The company is also spearheading a $100 billion joint venture with BlackRock and MGX. Meanwhile, Amazon has unveiled multiple AI-focused projects valued at $10 billion in just recent months. The timing couldn't be more critical.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Industry analysts anticipate a dramatic increase in demand for data center capacity. A report last year by consulting firm McKinsey estimates global demand will triple by 2030, necessitating the construction of twice as much infrastructure as was built in the past two decades. However, the challenges, as you might imagine, are significant.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Critics warn of the environmental toll associated with the massive water and energy demands of these facilities. Land availability, regulatory hurdles, and national security concerns tied to foreign investment, particularly from MGX and SoftBank, also pose significant questions. Former President Biden, remember him?
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
In one of his final acts before entering retirement, enacted policies to restrict exports of AI-related chips to certain countries and encouraged clean energy use for data centers built on government land. These moves aimed to bolster U.S. control over the AI sector while addressing environmental concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Despite these obstacles, the Stargate project positions the United States to cement its position as a global leader in AI development. By aligning industry titans with strategic federal support, the project seeks to secure long-term American tech dominance. At least that's the idea.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Coming up in the back of the brief, a 14-month nightmare is coming to an end for the crew of the cargo ship Galaxy Leader as Yemen's Houthi rebels announce their release after being seized back in November of 2023. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
In today's Back of the Brief, Yemen's Houthi terrorists released the 25-member crew of the Galaxy Leader, that's a cargo ship seized in November of 2023, in what the Iran-backed terror group claims is a gesture of support for the Israeli and Hamas ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday to threaten the Putin regime with massive tariffs and sanctions on Russian products if they fail to strike a deal to end the nearly three-year-old war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The crew, comprising Filipinos, Mexicans, Romanians, Bulgarians, and Ukrainians, was handed over to Oman after months of international diplomacy led by the United Nations International Maritime Organization, or IMO, and other stakeholders. Houthi-run television announced the move, citing the Gaza ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The Galaxy Leader, a Bahamian-flagged vehicle carrier operated by the Japanese shipping company NYK, was intercepted by Houthi forces using a helicopter while sailing from Turkey to India. The vessel was targeted due to its indirect Israeli ownership links.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Documents from the Isle of Man Government Companies Registry reveal the vessel's connection to an Israeli businessman and co-owner of its parent company, Raycar Carriers.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
As we've been tracking on the PDB, the Houthis' maritime aggression has escalated over the past 15 months, with attacks involving missiles, drones, and small boats targeting dozens of merchant vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These assaults have resulted in two ships being sunk, the deaths of four crew members, and significant disruptions to global shipping.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
Many companies have had to reroute vessels from the Suez Canal to the longer, more expensive route around the southern tip of Africa, underscoring the economic toll of the Houthis' terror attacks. In conjunction with the Gaza ceasefire, the Houthis signaled a reduction in their campaign.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The terror group announced the lifting of sanctions on most vessels, excluding those registered in Israel or wholly Israeli-owned. The leader of the Houthis warned, however, that future actions would depend on Israel's adherence to every stage of the ceasefire agreement. International organizations welcomed the crew's release as a positive step.
The President's Daily Brief
January 23rd, 2025: Trump Gives Putin An Ultimatum & The Stargate Project Explained
The IMO Secretary General called it a, quote, moment of profound relief for the crew, their families, and the broader maritime community. The UN Special Envoy for Yemen encouraged the Houthis to continue de-escalation efforts, including ending all maritime attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
The shooter has been identified as 30-year-old Chicago native Elias Rodriguez, a far-left activist and alleged member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. That's a Marxist pro-Palestinian group that has an anti-genocide pledge posted to their social media pages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
It's Thursday, the 22nd of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed in an anti-Semitic attack in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night. The shooter is an alleged far-left activist who shouted, "'Free Palestine!' and, "'I did it for Gaza!'
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Rodriguez reportedly stood inside the museum and pretended to be a witness after the shootings before claiming responsibility for the targeted attack after police arrived on the scene. As he was being handcuffed, bystanders said he shouted, quote, free Palestine and, quote, I did it for Gaza while holding a Hamas-style red keffiyeh headscarf.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
In a statement, the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. said, "...Yaron and Sarah were our friends and colleagues. This evening, a terrorist shot and killed them as they exited an event at the Capitol Jewish Museum in D.C. The entire embassy staff is heartbroken and devastated by their murder. No words can express the depth of our grief and horror at this devastating loss."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Israel's ambassador to the U.S. said Yaron had just purchased a ring earlier this week and was preparing to propose to Sarah next week in Jerusalem. He added, "...they were in the prime of their lives. They were a beautiful couple who just came to enjoy an evening in Washington's cultural center."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a statement saying, "...my heart aches for the families of the beloved young man and woman whose lives were suddenly cut short by a vile anti-Semitic murderer."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
The event, hosted by the American Jewish Committee, was attended by roughly 50 people and was reportedly organized to discuss how multi-faith organizations could partner to bring humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
The shooting, which took place in Capitol Hill, has obviously left the Jewish community shaken and comes amid the backdrop of ongoing violent anti-Semitic uprisings taking place on American college campuses. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi told reporters Wednesday night, quote, We'll be doing everything in our power to keep all citizens safe, especially tonight, our Jewish community.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
President Trump also offered his condolences to the families of the young couple, saying, quote, These horrible D.C. killings, based obviously on anti-Semitism, must end now. Hatred and radicalism have no place in the USA. So, what else do we know about the shooter?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Well, Rodriguez is alleged to have a long history of far-left activism, reportedly participating in various marches over the years with groups like Black Lives Matter, the People's Congress of Resistance, and Answer Chicago. That's a group that has organized numerous pro-Palestine marches.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
According to the Jerusalem Post, Rodriguez made a political donation to the campaign of former President Joe Biden in 2020. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago, he previously worked as an oral history researcher with the History Makers. That's a nonprofit that describes itself as a, quote, digital repository for the black experience.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
A biography of him on their website has since been taken down. Now, as I mentioned, he was also allegedly a member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, the PSL. It's a group that advocates revolution against capitalistic systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
We should note, however, that representatives for the Party for Socialism and Liberation said that Rodriguez was not an active member of the group, saying he only had a, quote, brief association with one branch that ended in 2017. In a statement, the group said, quote, We reject any attempt to associate the PSL with the D.C. shooting. We know of no contact with him in over seven years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
We have nothing to do with this shooting and do not support it, end quote. Now, by early Thursday morning, authorities had surrounded the shooter's home address in Chicago, and Dan Bongino, deputy director of the FBI, said the shooting had the full attention of the bureau.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Bongino later said, quote, targeted attacks of anti-Semitic violence are typically carried out by spineless, gutless cowards, and the penalties will be harsh as we tighten up this investigation and run down any additional leads, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Coming up next, the British government suspends free trade talks with Israel and issues a wave of sanctions against settlers in the West Bank over Israel's expanded military campaign in Gaza. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your financial health. I know that's everyone's favorite subject, isn't it? But it is important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Now, look, when your credit isn't perfect, it can, well, it can really feel like the system is stacked against you. But there's a company out there waiting to help. And that company is Kickoff. That's Kickoff without the C, so K-I-K-O-F-F. Kickoff gives you the smartest tools to build real credit fast.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
while being arrested." We'll have those details later in the show. The British government has suspended free trade talks with Israel and issued a wave of sanctions against Israeli settlers in the West Bank after promising to take, quote, concrete actions if leaders in Jerusalem did not end their expanded military campaign in Gaza. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
With transparent, affordable plans starting at just, get this, $5 per month, no hidden fees and zero interest, Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit. And it's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see the good behavior, and your credit can grow fast. Users with credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year with Kickoff.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
With over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there is a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app. Start building credit with Kickoff today and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's 80% off the normal price when you go to getkickoff.com slash Mike today. That's Kickoff without the C. Getkickoff.com slash Mike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new kickoff customers first month only. Subject to approval, offer subject to change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points, Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024 for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score, and individual results may vary. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Well, this July, maybe you've heard about this, but this July, there's a big event coming up, and it's the Global Summit of BRICS Nations in Rio de Janeiro. Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes Russia and China, India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling this effort the Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for US dollars could decrease, of course, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Well, first thing I'd suggest, check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
UK-Israeli relations now have plunged to their lowest level in decades after British Foreign Secretary David Lamy suspended negotiations over a new free trade deal, escalating pressure over Jerusalem's renewed military offensive in Gaza and restrictions on aid. Lamy announced the suspension of negotiations, citing what he called, quote, egregious policies by the Netanyahu government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
We begin with news out of Washington, D.C., where two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed by a gunman Wednesday night who later yelled, free Palestine, while being arrested. The two slain staffers were identified by Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as Yaron Lashinsky and Sarah Milgram, a couple that were soon to be engaged.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
As part of the measures, the UK sanctioned three individuals, two so-called, quote, settler outposts in the West Bank, and two organizations accused of inciting violence against Palestinians. The foreign secretary said, quote, blocking aid, expanding the war, this is indefensible and it must stop, adding that history will be Jerusalem's judge.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Lamy also summoned the UK's Israeli ambassador to the Foreign Office, where UK Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer condemned Israel's blockade as quote, cruel and indefensible. Israel fired back. A foreign ministry spokesman dismissed the sanctions as quote, unjustified and regrettable, brushing off the trade freeze by claiming negotiations weren't progressing anyway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Across the channel, European Commission officials said that they were reviewing the EU's trade agreement with Israel in response to the spiraling humanitarian toll. EU Foreign Policy Chief Gajek Halas said a majority of member states backed sending a message, though she declined to offer specifics on enforcement or timing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
The UK sanctions and diplomatic pressure came just a day after a joint warning from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who vowed, quote, concrete actions if Israel didn't ease aid restrictions or rein in its offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the joint criticism, calling it, quote, a huge prize for Hamas. In the UK, Lamy faced mounting calls in the House of Commons to go further. Some lawmakers urged recognition of a Palestinian state and stronger economic measures, while a handful demanded that he label Israel's military campaign a, quote, genocide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Lamy instead described the actions as, quote, monstrous and driven by extremism. Starmer, meanwhile, said, quote, We cannot allow the people of Gaza to starve. He reiterated his call for a ceasefire, framing it as the only viable route to securing the release of hostages still being held captive by Hamas. He also slammed Israel's humanitarian efforts as, quote, utterly inadequate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
As we've discussed this week on the PDB, Israel allowed a small convoy of food and supplies to enter Gaza, but the UN humanitarian chief described the shipment as a, quote, drop in the ocean of what is needed. Israeli officials said dozens more aid trucks have since entered the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Macron, meanwhile, indicated that recognizing a Palestinian state is no longer, quote, taboo and suggested Paris may revisit its cooperation agreements with Israel. France and Saudi Arabia are expected to co-host an international summit on the two-state solution in June. While much of Europe ramps up pressure, the U.S. has held back. But U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee lashed out Tuesday, calling U.K. and French criticism, quote, hypocritical and historically tone-deaf. He told an Israeli radio station, quote, These are countries who were attacked by the Nazis. They didn't settle for a draw. They bombed the heck out of Germany. That's what ended the war, end quote. Referencing, of course, Israel's military campaign.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Huckabee warned that pushing Israel to halt the war prematurely would let Hamas, quote, claim they won, accusing London and Paris of emboldening the terrorist group while failing to demand the complete dismantling of its operations. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
They were attending an event for young professionals at the Capitol Jewish Museum, hosted by the American Jewish Committee, on Wednesday evening in the heart of Washington, D.C. Now, as authorities report, they say that around 9 p.m., while standing outside the museum, the gunman approached the couple and opened fire, killing both. That's according to a report from the Jerusalem Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free, well, you know what to do, I suspect. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And when you get a break in your busy schedule, do take a minute to check out our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
It's chock full of informative stuff. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds to tell you about a great home fitness company. Of course, I'm talking about Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
Jacked Up Fitness makes amazing gym equipment for home use, making it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts. And of course, strength training is key to your overall fitness. Now, as an example, their all-new X Series, it elevates home fitness to a whole new level.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
The Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a Power Rack Pro at my place, and it is tremendous. It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulating pulley arms, how often have you said that, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
And if you're new to strength training, don't worry. They offer a free Get Jacked Up program that has full-body video workouts. You just press play and follow along. It's that simple. Look, take control of your fitness. Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for their free training program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 22nd, 2025: Who Is Pro-Palestine Activist Who Killed 2 Israelis In DC? & UK Suspends Trade Talks, Sanctions Israel Over Gaza Campaign
And when you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, well, use my promo code BAKER, B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Portnov's killing has reignited speculation of a broader campaign targeting remnants of the Yanukovych regime. In 2015, three former MPs from Yanukovych's party died by suspected suicide. That same year, a pro-Russian journalist and another former lawmaker were shot dead in Kyiv, fueling theories of a coordinated effort to eliminate old regime insiders.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
So far, Kyiv has stayed silent on Portnov's death. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief. Canada is eyeing a role in Trump's high-tech Golden Dome initiative. The missile defense system promises protection from next-generation threats and closer U.S.-Canada military ties. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
suggests Israel was already making preparations to strike Iranian nuclear facilities, a move that could kick off a fresh conflict in the Middle East and would represent a serious break with President Trump, who's still hoping to find a diplomatic solution to Tehran's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Now, this July, I suspect you've already heard about this, but it's important. This July, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations to be held in Rio de Janeiro. That sounds like a posh spot. The bloc of emerging superpowers, which includes China and Russia, India and Iran, well, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
And they're calling that effort, what's a clever name, the Rio Reset. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, of course, bringing down the value of the dollar. Now, while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
So you ask yourself, how can you help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, might I suggest you check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. To claim your free information kit on gold, just text PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Look, with an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to tell you about a great home fitness company. I'm talking about Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Well, Jacked Up Fitness makes amazing gym equipment for home use, making it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts. And of course, strength training is key to your overall fitness. As an example, their all-new X-Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The PowerRack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a PowerRack Pro at my place, and it is outstanding. Great construction. It's just like being at the gym. It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulating pulley arms, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
And if you're new to strength training, don't worry. They offer a free Get Jacked Up program that has full-body video workouts. Simply press play and follow along. It's really that simple. Take control of your fitness. Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for their free training program. You won't regret it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
When you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, just use my promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com. In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump's ambitious plans for a futuristic space-based missile defense shield to protect the U.S. from next-generation aerial threats is catching the eye of America's northern neighbor.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
It's Thursday, the 22nd of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with revealing new intelligence. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Of course, well, not to put too fine a point on it, but the Iranian regime doesn't represent an existential threat to the U.S. It does, however, represent an existential threat to Israel. So, Israel and the U.S. naturally view Iran from different perspectives, which, of course, earns me the PDB statement of the obvious award for the day.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, Trump announced Tuesday plans for a multibillion-dollar project to build a new comprehensive air defense system dubbed the Golden Dome. And it appears Canada wants in. Hmm. Canadian leaders are already in, quote, active discussions with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
on joining the endeavor as part of broader negotiations currently underway regarding trade and national security prompted by Trump's imposition of steep tariffs earlier this year. That's according to a report from the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
While details of the proposed missile shield remain vague, Trump said the Golden Dome will set a new standard for regional defense, protecting against ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as, importantly, advanced hypersonic weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The president teased Tuesday that Canada had expressed keen interest on being included under the new security umbrella, telling reporters, quote, We'll be talking to them. They want to have protection also, so as usual, we help Canada. The project will have an initial investment of $25 billion, but is expected to cost at least $175 billion in total. I suspect that total could rise.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
It's not yet clear how Canada would participate in the system's development and how much money they would contribute toward its construction, but, as you might imagine, Trump stressed that he would be looking to ensure the Canadians, quote, "...pay their fair share."
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
A spokesperson for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday, quote, Canadians gave the Prime Minister a strong mandate to negotiate a comprehensive new security and economic relationship with the U.S. To that end, the Prime Minister and his ministers are having wide-ranging and constructive discussions with their American counterparts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The spokesperson added that, quote, these discussions naturally include strengthening NORAD and related initiatives such as the Golden Dome, end quote. A partnership on the project would be natural, frankly, as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
and Canada already collaborate through the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, a system responsible for defending North American airspace and waters from potential threats. But NORAD has long needed modernizing to better defend against increasingly sophisticated weapons such as hypersonic missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Trump says the Golden Dome is the answer to those threats and has vowed to have it fully operational by the end of his second term. The Golden Dome will reportedly involve technologies across land, sea, and space, including space-based sensors and interceptors.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Analysts have speculated it will probably work by employing thousands of satellites to spot and track missiles and fire interceptors from orbit to neutralize any potential incoming missiles. There you go. But as I mentioned on yesterday's PDB, significant doubts remain about the project's viability, particularly the incredibly short time frame that President Trump has outlined to build the shield.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Now, while it may be inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, that system has the much simpler task of defending a nation a fraction of the size of the continental U.S., Adding Canada to the mix would require the Golden Dome to be able to defend against aerial threats on an enormous geographical scale, something that some experts say is simply not possible.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
But Trump projected his usual optimism when making the announcement, saying, quote, we'll have it done in three years, end quote. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 22nd of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The officials stressed that it remains unclear if Israeli leaders have made a final decision on whether or not to attack, but said the likelihood, quote, has gone up significantly in recent months, particularly as Jerusalem grows increasingly frustrated with the Trump administration's approach to Middle East diplomacy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, which you can do, very simply, might I add, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Bakern, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
They point to recently intercepted Israeli communications along with observations of Israeli military movements that suggest that a strike could be imminent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
According to sources familiar with the intelligence, the Israeli military has been quietly redeploying munitions and other assets to strategic locations and just recently completed a round of air exercises that may have simulated possible strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. Some U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
officials said the moves may simply be geared at sending a message to Iran of the consequences that they'll face if they don't abandon their uranium enrichment program. But others, well, are concerned that the activity means Israel may choose to act unilaterally.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
They note that Israeli officials have routinely expressed their desire in private to take out Iran's nuclear capacity, fearing the mullahs are attempting to use diplomacy as a distraction as they increase the enrichment efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
In April, the UN's nuclear watchdog warned that Iran now possesses roughly 605 pounds of uranium enriched up to 60%, which they could theoretically convert into weapons-grade material within one to two weeks. Leaders in Israel also reportedly see Iran's nuclear sites as uniquely vulnerable due to the collapse of their once-strong proxy network over the past year.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz bluntly warned the mullahs earlier this month that if they continue to wage a proxy war on the Jewish state, they'll meet the same fate as their other regional allies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the now-deposed Assad regime. He added that Israel was prepared to act alone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
officials believe that Israel is preparing to strike Iranian nuclear facilities, setting the stage for possible conflict, even as Washington pursues a diplomatic path with the mullahs. Later in the show, a shocking look at cartel brutality south of the US border.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The sources said Israel's decision will ultimately come down to what kind of nuclear deal ends up materializing, if any. One person familiar with U.S. intelligence told CNN, "...the prospect of a Trump-negotiated U.S.-Iran deal that doesn't remove all of Iran's uranium makes the chance of a strike more likely."
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
As a reminder, the Trump administration has been conducting diplomatic talks with the Islamic regime since early April of this year. While U.S. officials described the fourth round of negotiations on the 11th of May in Oman as encouraging, the discussions have yet to yield any concrete results.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The impasse is reportedly over whether or not Iran will be allowed to continue the domestic enrichment of uranium at a lower level for what they dubiously claim are civilian purposes. President Trump has repeatedly insisted that any deal must include Iran's full abandonment of enrichment activities. That's an outcome that Iran's leadership continues to reject.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reiterated that message in a Sunday interview with ABC News, stating, "...we cannot allow even 1% of an enrichment capability, calling that red line non-negotiable."
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Still, at various points over the past few weeks, Witkoff and other senior officials have given contrasting in its answers on whether they will allow Tehran to maintain their so-called civilian nuclear program, leaving Israeli leaders on edge. A source told CNN, "...I think it's more likely they strike to try and get the deal to fall apart if they think Trump is going to settle for a bad deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The Israelis have not been shy about signaling that to us, both publicly and privately." But Israel finds itself in a tough spot. For one, Netanyahu does not want to alienate Trump and risk fracturing U.S.-Israeli ties by launching a strike without at least tacit approval from the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Additionally, Israel does not have the capabilities to deliver a death blow to Iran's nuclear program without American support, as they lack the bombs required to penetrate facilities that are buried deep underground. While Trump has repeatedly threatened strong military action if Iran does not yield to his demands, a source said the U.S. is currently unlikely to help Israel carry out the strikes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
For now, negotiations continue, with another round of talks potentially in the works for later this week in Europe. But it appears Israel may soon run out of patience with Trump's diplomatic approach. All right, coming up after the break, grisly cartel killings uncovered on a remote Mexican ranch, and a former pro-Russian Ukrainian official is gunned down outside a school in Madrid.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's take just a few seconds to talk about financial health, right? Oh, yeah, everybody's favorite subject, but it's very important. Now, look, when your credit isn't perfect, it can really feel like the system is stacked against you, right? But there's a company out there able to help, and that company is Kickoff. That's K-I-K-O-F-F.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Officials have uncovered another suspected death camp in rural Mexico, this time a 40-acre ranch where victims were allegedly tortured, murdered, and incinerated. Plus, a murder mystery in Spain. A former top Ukrainian official with deep ties to the pro-Russian regime is gunned down outside an American school in Madrid, Spain.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Kickoff gives you the smartest tools to build real credit fast. Look, with transparent, affordable plans starting at just get this $5 per month, no hidden fees and zero interest, well, Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit. And it's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see good behavior, and your credit can grow fast.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Users with credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year with Kickoff. With over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there's a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app. Start building credit with Kickoff today, and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's right, $1. That's 80% off.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The normal price when you go to getkickoff.com slash Mike today. That's kickoff without the C. Getkickoff.com slash Mike. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new kickoff customers first month only. Subject to approval and offer subject to change. Average first year credit score impact of 84 points. Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
for kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score, and individual results may vary. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Another cartel-run death camp has been uncovered in western Mexico, where victims were allegedly tortured, murdered, and incinerated on a sprawling 40-acre ranch operated by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Local activists in Colima State unearthed a site where investigators discovered charred bone fragments, burned-out vehicles, and partially buried corpses, some reportedly still smoldering when authorities arrived. The property, roughly the size of 80 football fields, was described by one official as a narco-execution ground where victims were, quote, sewn in the soil.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Grizzly photos from the scene show bones protruding from the dirt, shredded clothing, and scattered pieces of ID cards believed to belong to the victims. About 40% of the remains are buried and burned, some chemically, while the rest were dumped or partially buried. A state security official told the Financial Times, quote, that area is infested with guys from the Jalisco cartel in armored cars.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
They would bring people up there to torture them and then bury them. So far, only three of 42 bodies have been identified, mostly men aged 25 to 39. This isn't the first time that the property has drawn the attention of federal forces. In 2018, it was raided and a high-ranking trafficker was arrested in connection with both drug smuggling and the assassination of a former Colima governor.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
And in today's back of the brief, Canada is considering joining President Trump's ambitious new missile defense program, dubbed the Golden Dome. We'll take a look at why Canada wants in and what it means for North American security. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
But whatever disruption that that caused was short-lived. Criminal groups quickly resumed using the ranch as a disposal site. The discovery underscores a broader truth in Mexico's long-running drug war, the sheer impunity with which these criminal groups operate. Over 120,000 people have disappeared in the past two decades.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Years of half measures and political paralysis have left authorities often reluctant to challenge powerful cartels directly, leaving victims' families to search for justice on their own. Now, there are growing signs that the violence may be entering a more dangerous phase.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Footage circulating on social media appears to show dozens of heavily armed New Generation fighters alongside members of Los Chapitos, that's a Sinaloa cartel faction, led by the sons of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman. In the video, a man off-camera declares, quote, this is just about to get started. The rumors are true. The alliance between the New Generation cartel and La Chapito is confirmed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Though the video's exact date remains unclear, its circulation follows a DEA intelligence bulletin warning of a potential alignment between the two groups, former enemies now apparently joining forces. If confirmed, such an alliance would represent a tectonic shift in Mexico's criminal underworld.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
New Generation and Los Chapitos have long been at war, both with each other and with rival similar factions like Los Mayos. American officials believe New Generation may be strategically backing Los Chapitos in a bid to outmaneuver the Mayos and consolidate control over trafficking routes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
In a memo released earlier this month, the DEA cautioned that Jalisco New Generation was, quote, capitalizing on the conflict between the Los Mayos and Los Chapitos fractions by choosing sides in favor of their former rivals, end quote. The agency warned that such a merger could dramatically, quote, expand these groups' territories, resources, firepower, and access to corrupt officials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
and the ripple effects wouldn't be confined to Mexico. The DEA cautioned that this alliance could accelerate the northbound trafficking of fentanyl and other synthetic drugs while fueling the southbound flow of firearms and cash.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Okay, shifting to Spain, Andriy Portnov, a notorious former aide to pro-Russian Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovych, was gunned down outside a private school on Wednesday in a killing that bore the hallmarks of a targeted political hit.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Portnov, a lawyer and the former deputy head of Yanukovych's regime, was shot multiple times by several gunmen as he approached his car outside the American School of Madrid. Spanish authorities say multiple assailants opened fire, striking him three times, including once in the head. He died shortly after emergency crews arrived. The attackers fled on foot into a nearby wooded area.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
We'll begin today with reports that Israel may make good on their threat to go it alone against Iran if the Trump administration attempts to pursue a new nuclear deal that Jerusalem views as too weak. Newly intercepted intelligence shared exclusively with CNN by multiple U.S. officials
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Police cordoned off the scene and launched a manhunt, but no arrests have been made. The school, which serves over 1,000 students from the U.S., Spain, and dozens of other countries, confirmed that the shooting occurred just after morning drop-off of students. Administrators notified parents that all students were safe.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
The victim, they said, was believed to be the father of a student, though official identification was still pending. As investigators comb the scene, suspicions are swirling. Portnov fled Ukraine alongside Yanukovych in 2014 after the pro-European Maidan uprising ousted the government and remained in exile until returning to Kyiv in 2019.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Though the Ukrainian government never imposed sanctions on him, Portnov was sanctioned by the US Treasury in 2021 under the Magnitsky Act, which targets foreign officials accused of human rights violations and corruption. The department said he was, quote, credibly accused of using his influence to buy access and decisions in courts and undermining reform efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, Portnov bolted again, despite a national ban preventing military-age men from leaving the country. Ukrainian authorities later opened a case examining his possible role in the annexation of Crimea. That quickly disappeared.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Portnov's name resurfaced in late 2024 when Ukrainian civil groups petitioned for sanctions, accusing him of judicial meddling and targeting journalists, including leaking personal information of Radio Free Europe reporters. Despite over 25,000 signatures, the cabinet dismissed it, citing insufficient grounds.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Now, with his murder under investigation in Spain, the specter of retribution has re-entered the conversation, obviously. Spanish investigators are treating the shooting as a high-priority homicide with international ramifications. Well done, Poirot. It's the latest in a string of violent incidents on Spanish soil linked to the broader Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Back in 2022, a Ukrainian embassy staffer in Madrid was wounded by a bomb in the mail.
The President's Daily Brief
May 22nd, 2025: Leaked Intel: Israel Poised To Strike Iran’s Nuclear Sites & Ukrainian Official Assassinated
Additional explosives were sent to the Spanish Prime Minister and other high-profile targets A Spanish man was later arrested for the campaign, which authorities said was designed to pressure Madrid into pulling back support for Ukraine And just last year, a Russian military pilot who defected to Ukraine was found shot dead in a parking garage in a southern Spanish province
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
According to a report from the Telegraph, each barge is equipped with an extendable road bridge that's about 400 feet long, roughly the length of one and a third football fields, die aus Wasser, Müll, Seewallen, Minen und anderen Beach-Obstakalen vorbeikommen können, um auf östlichen Straßen oder festem Boden außerhalb eines Beaches zu erreichen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Das Design soll als flottierbaubare Pferd funktionieren, um Truppen, Tanks, Truppen und anderes schweres Equipment zu ermöglichen, direkt auf die Schuhe zu fliegen. Responding to the footage, an analyst with Naval News remarked, "...anyone wondering what an invasion of Taiwan might look like now has a fresh visual clue."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Notably, the barges would allow the Chinese military to reach beaches previously considered unsuitable for amphibious landings without the need for first taking control of a Taiwanese port. Additionally, the barges feature stabilizing jack-up pillars for operation in poor weather conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
They can also be connected to one another in an end-to-end configuration, which was seen during the recent exercises, effectively creating a lengthy bridge to an enemy shoreline. Naval Analyst H.I. Sutton erhielt erst die Berge im Januar dieses Jahres, nachdem Fotos herausgefunden wurden von ihnen, die nahe der Guangzhou Schiffshalle in Südchina befanden sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Die Schiffe sind seit 2022 in Entwicklung, aber glauben, dass sie letztes Jahr auf nur ein paar Monaten aufgebaut wurden. Sutton sagte, sie hätten zahlreiche zivilisierte Anwendungen und erscheinen, so zu nennen, ausgestattet für einen amphibischen Angriff auf Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
While the recent footage of the barges was quickly scrubbed from social media, the fact that China allowed details of these vessels to leak to the public suggests the CCP wants to send a message to Taiwan and the West that they have the capabilities to swiftly take the island.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
It's a noteworthy development, particularly since US military officials have long said that China lacks the capability to mount a ground invasion from the sea on Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
An analyst with the Council on Geostrategy explained to The Telegraph, "...a core problem for China in invading Taiwan is getting the necessary heavy equipment over the strait, and the solution to that problem is what we're seeing with these barges."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Traditionally, Taiwan has relied on its natural geography and limited beach landing sites for defense, but the reach of these new barges could change that equation, complicating Taiwan's defense strategies and allowing Beijing to bypass heavily defended ports.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Es ist Donnerstag, der 20. März. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Lass uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst einmal. China's new amphibious assault barges are sparking fresh concerns that the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, is in the early stages, or at some stage, planning a potential full-scale invasion of Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
While these developments don't signal an imminent invasion of course, given the CCP's continued military harassment of the island democracy, which escalated significantly throughout 2024, international observers are growing anxious. It comes amid concerns over the CCP's expanded naval fleet, which now has more ships than the US Navy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
And, I suppose an interesting factoid to wrap up this segment, since 2019, China has built the equivalent of the entire British Royal Navy, producing at least 39 more ships. Coming up next, Israel unleashes a new wave of airstrikes overnight across Gaza, following the collapse of their fragile ceasefire with Hamas. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the afternoon bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Israel pummelte Gaza overnight in a new wave of airstrikes, reportedly killing dozens, as the IDF ramps up its renewed ground operations following the collapse of the fragile ceasefire earlier this week, according to hospital reports cited by the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
At least 58 people were killed in the latest round of Israeli bombardment, adding to the mounting death toll since the resumption of hostilities on Tuesday. Die Offensive, jetzt wieder in vollem Schwung, konzentriert sich auf die Anforderungen von Israel auf die Entfernung von Hostagen, während Hamas die verabschiedeten Verabschiedungszeiten ausgeschlossen hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Wie es steht, bleiben 59 Hostagen in Gaza mit israelischer Intelligenz, die beurteilt, dass mindestens 34 davon tot sind. Die erste Phase des Ausbruchs sah Hamas 25 lebende Flüchtlinge verlassen und die Körper von acht anderen zurückgeben, um für rund 2.000 palästinensische Gefühle auszutreten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Aber der israelische Kriminalminister Netanyahu verteidigte die Entscheidung, militärische Aktionen zu beenden, argumentierend, dass Hamas wiederholt zerstörte und versuchte, mehr Flüchtlinge freizuführen. In a video posted on X, the Prime Minister said, quote, For the past two weeks, Israel did not initiate any military action, hoping Hamas would change course.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Well, that didn't happen, end quote. Israel holds Hamas responsible for shattering the truce, accusing the terror group of stonewalling negotiations. Hamas, in turn, claims Netanyahu violated the agreement and is putting hostages, quote, at risk of an unknown fate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Auf dem Boden wurde der IDF am Dienstag bestätigt, dass seine Kräfte in Gaza targetierte Aktivitäten durchführen, um strategisches Territorium zu bekämpfen. Dies betrifft die Erweiterung der Sicherheitszone des Netsarim-Korridors. Das ist ein kritischer Streit der Lande, der Nord- und Süd-Gaza unterscheidet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Es ist wert zu bemerken, dass der Korridor während des Januar-Zweifels von Israel geschlossen wurde, kurzfristig hunderttausende Tausende Palästinenser zwischen den beiden Regionen zu ermöglichen. But with movement now restricted again, Israel has warned that Hamas' refusal to release more hostages will carry consequences.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz doubled down on those warnings, issuing a direct message to Gaza's inhabitants, stating that evacuations from battle zones will, quote, begin again soon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Katz erhielt auch den Vorschlag von Präsident Trump, Hamas zu verlassen, die restlichen Flüchtlinge zu verlassen und zu verlassen, die Palästinenser zu erzählen, dass so zu tun andere Möglichkeiten für sie eröffnen werden, zum Beispiel, in andere Orte der Welt zu gehen, die natürlich für ihre Selbstverschmutzung von der Enklave drängen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Die Zerstörung des Krieges hat massiven Protesten in Israel eröffnet. Am letzten Dienstag flotten Tausende von Demonstranten die Straßen außerhalb der Knesset in Jerusalem, beurteilen Netanyahu, den Konflikt zu verlängern, um seine verbreitete Koalition zu behalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Die israelischen Polizisten klatschten mit Protestanten, verbreiteten Strafkontrollmessungen und machten mindestens ein Dutzend Angriffe. Am Donnerstag rettete Hamas mit einer frischen Barrage von Rekordfeuern, drei langfristige Missilien aus Süd-Gaza nach Zentral-Israel zu launchen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Sirenen bläherten über Tel Aviv, als ein Roket durchgeführt wurde, während die anderen zwei in offenen Bereichen landeten, ohne Schmerzen zu verursachen. With no immediate diplomatic breakthrough on the horizon, the ceasefire's collapse has set the stage for renewed fighting that obviously complicates US and regional mediation efforts to forge a lasting truce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Später im Show eröffnet Israel eine neue Wende von Luftwaffen über Nacht über Gaza, nach dem Verlust ihres fragilen Sturzfeuers mit Hamas, als die IDF sich vorbereitet, die Grundoperationen im Enklaven aufzuräumen. Aber zuerst unser heutiges Nachhinein-Spotlight. Wir beginnen in China, wo die Regimes-Militär ihre neuen D-Day-Style-Assault-Berge entdeckt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 20th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you are undoubtedly aware, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It could not be any easier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
Das ist ein ominöses Zeichen für ihre möglichen Pläne, Taiwan zu invadieren. Fotos, die auf chinesischen Sozialen Medien-Plattformen vorgelegt wurden, zeigen, dass die chinesische Armee amphibische Landungs-Exerzise mit den Schiffen im Südchina-Sea durchführt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 20th, 2025: China's Massive 'Invasion Barges' Spotted & Israel Unleashes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Collapse
China hat bemerkt, dass sie mindestens fünf dieser Schiffe gebaut hat, die aus dem Portable Mulberry Harbors, die von Britannien entwickelt wurden, für die Normandie-Landungen in der Zeit der Zweiten Weltkriege, inspirieren. They've got unique features that analysts say are tailored to facilitate a ground invasion from the sea.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
That's an aggressive plan to fortify Europe's defense industry and lessen reliance on American military technology. The strategy, outlined as EU leaders meet at the European Council Summit today, prioritizes investment in missile defense systems, artillery, ammunition, drones, cyber warfare tools, and border security.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
At the heart of the Readiness 2030 framework is a mandate requiring EU members to procure at least 65% of their military equipment from EU suppliers, Norway or Ukraine. The initiative comes with a substantial financial backing.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
It's a newly created $164 billion loan program earmarked for EU-aligned defense projects, along with incentives for governments that prioritize European manufacturers over American firms. The move is a, well, it's frankly a seismic shift, especially considering that U.S. defense companies historically supplied nearly two-thirds of the EU's military equipment.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
But European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen defended this plan, stating, quote, the security architecture that we relied on can no longer be taken for granted, end quote. The strategy takes a page from RepowerEU. That's the EU's successful energy initiative that slashed dependence on Russian gas after Moscow weaponized its supply.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
France has long championed a, quote, bi-European defense policy, but resistance is expected from countries like Poland and the Netherlands, which favor American-made weaponry. Still, EU officials acknowledge the United States remains a vital Western ally. With the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Mexican authorities recently descended on the Izaguirre Ranch in the western state of Jalisco after a group of volunteers searching for their missing loved ones received a tip about a mass grave hidden at the abandoned ranch just outside of Guadalajara.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
focusing elsewhere and Russia's military ambitions looming, the EU's pivot toward military self-reliance marks a defining moment that could alter Europe's security landscape in the years to come. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 20th of March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
And not that I need to remind you, but to listen to the show ad-free, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
It's Thursday, the 20th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a grisly discovery in Mexico. Volunteers searching for missing loved ones uncovered what appears to be an extermination site used by drug cartels, complete with burned remains and underground cremation ovens.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
When they arrived at the ranch, officials found underground cremation ovens, burned human remains, bone fragments, hundreds of pairs of shoes, discarded clothing and children's toys. That's according to a report from The New York Times. They even found multiple figurines of Santa Muerte, the Mexican folk saint of death, revered by criminals and drug traffickers throughout the country.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
As the investigation progressed, authorities also uncovered at least 96 shell casings of various calibers and metal gripping rings likely used to bind the victims. The grisly discovery has raised fears that the New Generation Jalisco Cartel, which previously operated the ranch, likely carried out mass killings at the property.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
It's unclear how many people died at the ranch, and authorities have yet to identify any of the remains, but the more than 700 personal items found scattered across the property hint at a disturbingly high number of victims.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Even for a country that is sadly acclimated to episodes of brutal cartel violence, the images send shockwaves through the community, with local media outlets referring to the site as a, quote, extermination camp.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The discovery grabbed the attention of Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum, who directed the state attorney general's office to take over the investigation over concerns that local officials may have engaged in a cover-up.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The findings also provoked outrage among cartel victims' families and human rights groups, who renewed their demands that the Mexican government make cracking down on the cartels their top priority.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
A security analyst based in Mexico City told the New York Times, quote, the number of victims that presumably could have been buried there is enormous, and it resurfaced the nightmarish reminder that Mexico is plagued with mass graves.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
According to the government, more than 120,000 people have been, quote, forcibly disappeared in Mexico since 1962, when record-keeping first began, though the families of victims warn that number is likely far higher.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
While the government has not officially determined who is behind the mass killings on the ranch, suspicion, as mentioned, has fallen on the new generation Jalisco cartel, which first emerged in the early 2010s.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
They've since garnered a reputation as one of the most violent criminal groups in Mexico, and frankly, that's no small feat, given their competition from groups like the notoriously brutal Sinaloa cartel. The New Jalisco Generation Cartel is a major trafficker of the deadly opioid fentanyl, as well as meth, but have since diversified their criminal schemes to include large-scale human trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
According to a report from the New York Times, as the cartel rapidly expanded in recent years, authorities in the region noted a marked increase in homicides, disappearances, and the discovery of mass graves.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Indira Navarro, the leader of the group Searching Warriors of Jalisco that first discovered the extermination camp, confirmed that a number of people have contacted the group since the site became publicized, saying they were unwittingly recruited by the New Generation Jalisco Cartel through false job offers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
They would reportedly be told to meet at a bus station in Guadalajara before being taken to the ranch, where they were trained with weapons and in grisly torture techniques. They also said the ranch served as a disposal site for the victims of the cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Horrifically, the young recruits would reportedly be forced to take part in the torture and killing of victims, and if they refused, were sometimes fed to wild animals. According to the New York Times, Navarro said, quote, this is not a horror film. This is our reality and people should know about it, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The discovery of the Jalisco Ranch comes as Mexico faces economic pressure from the Trump administration to crack down on the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
In recent months, the Mexican government has been bringing the fight to drug cartels with renewed vigor, dispatching some 10,000 troops in early February to towns and cities along the border, including cartel strongholds like Juarez and hundreds more to Sinaloa State. It's the main hub for fentanyl trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
A series of high profile arrests, drug seizures and fentanyl lab busts have followed, striking at least a temporary blow to cartel operations. Officials recently said they've made nearly 1,000 arrests since the crackdown began and seized nearly as much fentanyl in the last five months as they did in the previous year. All right. Coming up next, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
We've got the details. Later in the show, the U.S. military launched another round of strikes on Houthi strongholds in Yemen. Now, the attacks have forced Houthi leaders into hiding, cutting off communications as they scramble to respond. Plus, President Trump engages in a, quote, very good call with Ukrainian President Zelensky, with the pair discussing steps toward a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
strikes Houthi strongholds, forcing leaders into hiding, while President Trump picks up the phone and calls President Zelensky, saying a ceasefire remains, quote, on track. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB. The U.S. has intensified its airstrike campaign against the Houthis, this time shifting focus to the Iranian terror proxy's leadership stronghold in Yemen's Saddaa province.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
On Tuesday night, U.S. fighter jets pounded multiple sites, including the al-Safra district. That's a key weapons depot and training location. The Houthi-run Al-Masra news channel reported more than 10 strikes in the area, which Yemeni sources describe as one of the terror group's most heavily fortified locations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
As we've been discussing here on the PDB, the Houthis have waged a relentless conflict against U.S. and allied forces in the Red Sea, launching missile and drone attacks that have forced global shipping routes into disarray.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden typically handle about 12% of the world's trade, but with attacks making those waters increasingly dangerous, many vessels have been forced to reroute around Africa. But the pressure on the rebel group is mounting.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Yemeni sources tell Reuters that Houthi leadership has gone underground, cutting off communications and abandoning mobile phones in an effort to evade detection. The only senior figure seen in recent days was Mohammed Ali Ahouti, and that's the head of the Supreme Revolutionary Committee. And he was filmed riding a public bus in disguise before delivering a speech in Sana'a's Sabine Square.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The terror group has also scrambled to relocate weapons, digging new trenches and bunkers in an effort to shield its arsenal from U.S. surveillance. Yet intelligence suggests that the ongoing U.S. airstrikes are targeting those newly established sites, continuing to weaken the Iran-backed terror group's operational capacity. Despite these setbacks, the Houthis remain defiant.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Their military spokesperson claimed that they again launched cruise missiles and drones at the USS Harry Truman carrier group, marking the fourth attempted strike on U.S. warships in a 72-hour period. The Pentagon, however, has not confirmed any damage, dismissing Houthi claims as, quote, exaggerated and misleading.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
President Trump continues to place the blame squarely on the Iranian regime, warning that Iran will be held responsible for any continued attacks. While reports indicate Iran has scaled back direct military assistance to the Houthis, U.S. intelligence suggests logistical and material support continues.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Trump reinforced that stance on Truth Social Wednesday, vowing that the Houthis, quote, will be completely annihilated and warning Iran to cease all supply shipments to its proxy. The commander in chief's message was blunt. U.S. forces will continue to inflict, quote, tremendous damage upon the Houthi barbarians until the terror group halts its Red Sea attacks. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Central Command confirmed that, quote, continuous operations against Iran backed Houthi terrorists will persist until maritime security is restored. Meanwhile, Iran's position appears increasingly conflicted. As we reported Wednesday, two senior Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran issued a verbal warning to the Houthis last week, urging them to scale back hostilities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
But the Houthis publicly rejected any calls for restraint. Not that I'm cynical, but, well, there is a chance that Iran's claims that they've asked the Houthis to refrain from their attacks is simply window dressing designed to give the mullahs plausible deniability while still allowing their proxy to continue making waves in the Red Sea. The coming days will reveal whether sustained U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Again, and not to beat that dead war horse, but this ceasefire talk with Zelensky only means something if Putin decides that he wants to stop waging war on Ukraine. And in today's back of the brief, the European Union is unveiling a new initiative to cut reliance on U.S. military supplies.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
pressure can cripple the Houthis' operational capacity or if the terror group can somehow endure and escalate its attacks. All right. Next, I want to turn your attention to the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Following a tumultuous 24 hours, which included a phone call between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin, followed shortly after by continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and energy sites, President Trump said Wednesday that ceasefire talks are back on track after what he described as a, quote, very good call with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The pair spoke for an hour on Wednesday morning, just one day after Trump held a nearly two-hour phone call with Putin. To bring you up to speed, during the phone call on Tuesday, Trump and Putin agreed to immediately commence negotiations at a neutral site in the Middle East for a potential peace deal, while in the interim...
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
putin agreed in theory to a 30-day limited ceasefire now that would be a very limited ceasefire in the sense because they basically only agreed to halting attacks on ukrainian energy infrastructure
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
But even that tentative agreement was thrown into question by Wednesday morning, after Ukrainian officials said Russia launched a massive drone and missile bombardment overnight that struck two hospitals in northeastern Ukraine and an energy substation in the eastern Donetsk region. Those are accusations which Russia denied.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Ahead of his call with Trump, Zelensky pointed to the Russian attacks overnight as proof that Putin is not being honest about his intentions. Well, that would be a shock, saying, quote, Putin's words are very much at odds with reality. It appeared hopes for a limited truce were already at risk of disintegrating.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
But after the call with Zelensky, Trump claimed that, quote, we are very much on track, while Zelensky said the conversation was positive, frank, and very substantive. Zelensky even went on to say that, quote, together with America, with President Trump, and under American leadership, lasting peace can be achieved this year. So what happened during the phone call?
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Well, most notably, Zelensky officially agreed to the partial ceasefire with Russia covering energy and other civilian infrastructure, though it remains unclear how the tentative agreement will be formally implemented and enforced. Perhaps more surprisingly, Trump appeared to soften his stance toward Kiev.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Zelensky reportedly requested additional air defense systems, particularly U.S.-made Patriot missile systems, and Trump agreed to work with him to fulfill the request. Trump also pledged to keep providing Kiev with military and intelligence assistance, despite the Kremlin's demand on Tuesday that ongoing aid be halted. Furthermore, President Trump told Zelensky that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
could help run Ukraine's electrical facilities and nuclear power plants as a kind of security guarantee, reportedly saying that, quote, American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure, end quote. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio later confirmed the details of the call and said a delegation from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
will hold discussions with Russian and Ukrainian officials next Monday and Tuesday in Saudi Arabia to work out the technical details of the partial ceasefire and potentially expand it to include a halt on fighting in the Black Sea Rubio suggested that these discussions could provide the basis for a broader accord to bring the war to a permanent end
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
With intelligence warning that Russia could be ready for war in five years, the EU is making moves to bolster its own security. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin in Mexico, where the violence and depravity of the nation's drug cartels is once again on display following the gruesome discovery of what authorities are calling an extermination camp.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
It's encouraging progress, to be sure, but as we've been tracking, Putin is still sticking to a long list of demands for a lasting peace that Kiev is not likely to accept. Much will likely hinge on how willing the Kremlin is to make concessions next week to move the discussions forward. And so far, well, they've shown no willingness to back off their list of hardline demands.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Acknowledging the chaotic nature of the discussions this week, White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said Wednesday, quote, Shuttle diplomacy is difficult. It's tough, but we are going back and forth at every level, driving both sides toward a ceasefire and driving both sides toward the end of this war, end quote. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Okay, coming up in the back of the brief, the EU, the European Union, unveils a new defense strategy to cut reliance on U.S. military supplies, preparing for a potential conflict with Russia in the coming years. We'll have those details next. In today's back of the brief, the European Union unveiled an ambitious security strategy aimed at reducing its dependence on U.S. military suppliers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
The move urges member states to prioritize European defense firms as intelligence warns of another looming war with Russia. The EU's push for military self-sufficiency is a direct response to growing concerns that Washington's commitment to European defense is, well, uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Last month, the Trump administration signaled a shift in focus, prioritizing border security and Indo-Pacific threats over European defense. That's a stance that accelerated efforts within the EU to secure its own military capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 20th, 2025: Grisly Cartel ‘Extermination Camp’ Uncovered & Houthi Leaders Go Into Hiding
Europe's security calculus has already been reshaped by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but NATO intelligence now suggests Moscow could be in a position to launch another attack on the continent within the next three to five years. With that threat, the European Commission on Wednesday rolled out its Readiness 2030 initiative.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The Iranian-backed terror group built a stage where they displayed four coffins containing the remains of Shiri Bibas, a 33-year-old mother taken on 7 October, along with her two sons, Ariel and Kefir, who were just four years old and nine months old when they were kidnapped by Hamas, as well as 83-year-old Oded Lifshiz, a peace activist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
It's Thursday, 20 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
On the backdrop of this stage was a banner with photos of all four victims. Above that was a bloody picture of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, depicted as a vampire, with an inscription that read, quote, War criminal Netanyahu and his army killed them with missiles and Zionist warplanes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The coffins also had a picture of each victim, with text reading, Date of arrest, October 7th, 2023, along with a photo of Netanyahu over which was written, quote, The killer. There was also a banner that threateningly read, quote, the return of the war equals the return of your prisoners in coffins, as well as a placard that said, quote, we never forgave nor forgot, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
As the coffins were placed on stage, crowds of spectators cheered and shouted anti-Israeli taunts. Among the crowd were reportedly Palestinian prisoners recently released in the current hostage ceasefire deal, and they were supposed to be exiled from Gaza under the terms of the agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Among those spotted was Mohammed Abu Woda, who orchestrated a 1996 bus bombing that killed more than 40 Israelis. The remains were then transferred into the custody of officials with the International Committee of the Red Cross, though the transfer was complicated by Hamas's display.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
On Wednesday, ahead of the handover, the Red Cross called for privacy and dignity in the release, saying, quote, we must be clear, any degrading treatment during release operations is unacceptable. When Hamas made it clear on Thursday that they intended to turn the transfer into a depraved spectacle, officials with the humanitarian group initially refused to participate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
First, Hamas provoked international outrage with a barbaric display as they returned the bodies of four deceased hostages on Thursday, including the two youngest captives taken during the 7 October 2023 terror attacks, parading their coffins in front of a crowd of cheering spectators in Gaza who shouted anti-Israeli slogans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
But Hamas subsequently threatened not to transfer the slain hostages at all. While Red Cross workers initially attempted to shield the remains from view with large white screens, an official eventually signed Hamas documents on the stage and Khan Yunus put an end to the ordeal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The Red Cross then transferred the bodies to the custody of IDF and Shin Bet forces within the Gaza Strip, who brought the remains back to Israel for official identification. Upon arriving in Israel, the coffins were wrapped in Israeli flags and a rabbi recited Psalm 83. In a statement, Netanyahu said, "...we embrace the families and the heart of the entire nation is torn.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
My own heart is torn, so is yours. And all the world's heart should be torn because this demonstrates who we are dealing with, what we are dealing with, with such monsters." Hamas's actions even provoked outrage in the Arab world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Saudi Arabia's Grand Mufti, the country's highest Muslim religious authority, condemned Hamas's barbarity, saying, quote, "'What we saw today in Gaza is a disgrace to Islam, an act of blasphemy against Allah and a sin,' end quote. All four of the victims had been taken during the brutal 7 October attacks from a kibbutz in southern Israel and spent 503 days in Hamas captivity."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Many Israelis had clung to hope that Shiri Biba's two sons might still be alive, but those hopes were dashed on Thursday. Israeli officials are currently examining the remains of the victims at a forensic lab in Tel Aviv, though for now, the exact circumstances of their deaths remain unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Up next, the Trump administration moves to designate TDA, MS-13, and a number of Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. I'll be right back. Running a business isn't easy, I know that firsthand. As a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
And that's where Ramp comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses. Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
For finance teams that are buried in busy work, well, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend approximately 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. Think about how ineffective that is. Well, RAMP changes that. freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions, and making the switches effortless.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp. Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. One more time, that's ramp.com slash pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Cards are issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and as they say, terms and conditions apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bolton. The U.S. State Department has officially designated eight transnational crime syndicates, including the Sinaloa Cartel and the Venezuelan gang Trendo Agua, or TDA, as foreign terrorist organizations, all part of the White House's ongoing crackdown on transnational crime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Later in the show, the Trump administration moves to designate TDA, MS-13, and a number of Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations in their latest crackdown on transnational crime. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The move follows President Trump's executive order signed on his first day in office, which instructed federal agencies to prioritize the classification of violent criminal syndicates as foreign terrorist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The order set a 14-day deadline for Secretary of State Marco Rubio to coordinate with top national security officials, including the Secretaries of Treasury and Homeland Security, the U.S. Attorney General, and the Director of National Intelligence to develop a framework for these designations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Acting on that directive, Rubio issued a public notice in the Federal Register on Thursday declaring that these groups pose a, quote, unusual and extraordinary threat to national security, foreign policy, and economic interests. The designation was made under Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
It's a legal mechanism that expands federal authority to target these organizations with severe penalties. Among the eight groups named is MS-13, the notoriously violent gang with deep roots in the US and Central America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
The designation grants sweeping powers to federal agencies, particularly the Department of the Treasury, to impose sanctions, freeze assets, and enforce travel bans on members and affiliates. The order also invokes the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, framing the issue as a national emergency.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
It states unequivocally, quote, it is the policy of the United States to ensure the total elimination of these organizations and their ability to threaten the territory, safety, and security of the United States through their extraterritorial command and control structures. Experts say the designations could redefine America's approach to combating cartel-driven violence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Joseph Humeyer, executive director of the Center for a Secure, Free Society, told Fox News that the move is a fundamental shift in how the United States combats organized crime. Humeyer stated, quote, Trump just put all of them on notice, adding, quote, This said, we know you're here, we know you're up to no good, and we're going to come after you, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
While the long-term impact remains to be seen, the move provides law enforcement with a broader set of legal tools to financially and operationally dismantle these crime groups within America's borders. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 20 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me. at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
We'll begin in Gaza, where Hamas turned the release of four deceased Israeli hostages, including a mother and her two young children, into a bizarre and barbaric spectacle. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Hamas announced earlier this week that they would be returning the bodies of four hostages on Thursday, including the two youngest captives taken during the 7 October attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
And as you've no doubt heard from your friends and family, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 20th, 2025: Hamas Holds Sick Propaganda Ceremony For Dead Israelis & White House Designates Latin American Cartels As Terrorist Organizations
Hamas decided to use the somber moment to stage a propaganda ceremony, inviting local Gazans and militants to spectate and broadcasting the scenes across Arab television channels. That's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
In recent months, Sudan's army has pushed RSF fighters out of key areas in the capital of Khartoum and central Sudan, forcing the paramilitary group to entrench itself in the vast swaths of territory that it still controls. The RSF planned to use the event to formally and rather ironically unveil a, quote, government of peace and unity.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
However, the signing of the proposed governing charter was postponed. RSF officials claimed the delay was due to ongoing negotiations with the Sudan's People's Liberation Movement North, known as SPLMN. That's a powerful faction that controls much of Sudan's famine-stricken south.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
While the SPLMN has historically stayed neutral in the war, an alliance with the RSF could expand its territorial reach and political influence. The group's leader, who spoke at Tuesday's event, voiced support for drafting a new constitution and restructuring Sudan's governance in the days ahead, calling for a, quote, new social contract.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
But the RSF's self-styled pro-democracy image came under fire almost immediately as fresh allegations of atrocities surfaced. Sudanese officials accused RSF fighters of massacring civilians in Sudan's south this week, where over 200 people were reportedly killed in a brutal three-day assault on two villages.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
According to Reuters, survivors described RSF forces opening fire on civilians as they attempted to flee across the Nile River. Sudan's foreign ministry put the death toll at 433. Meanwhile, in Sudan's western region, RSF forces stormed a refugee camp last week, killing dozens, and that's according to aid groups. As for whether the RSF can establish a government, that remains an open question.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
The diplomatic spat, if I could use the word spat, how often do you hear that, began on Tuesday after Trump suggested Zelensky was responsible for starting the war in Ukraine, which, for those who need reminding, began after Russian dictator Vladimir Putin invaded the country in February of 2022. And that, of course, was after Putin annexed Crimea from Ukraine back in 2014.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Even at Tuesday's event, the SPLMN leader acknowledged Sudan's long history of peace efforts that subsequently collapsed into renewed bloodshed. But the RSF is not without powerful backers. The United Arab Emirates continues to provide financial and military support to the group, with foreign officials suggesting that Abu Dhabi is determined to keep its Sudanese proxy from losing the war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
It's worth noting that the UAE's involvement isn't purely ideological. Oh, really? Reports indicate the Gulf nation is leveraging its influence to secure access to Sudan's gold and other natural resources. And, well, there's an odd concept. Natural resources and wealth at the center of conflict in the third world. Who would have thunk it?
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
If the RSF moves forward with its breakaway government, Sudan could slide deeper into fragmentation, mirroring the post-Qaddafi reality in Libya, where rival factions carve the country into competing power centers, further complicating regional diplomacy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Coming up next in the back of the brief, we'll look at reports out of Israel that Iran, in partnership with Turkey, is covertly working to smuggle money to Hezbollah. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
It's Thursday, 20 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, relations between the U.S. and Ukraine are taking an ugly turn, well, that's putting it diplomatically, as Presidents Trump and Zelensky engage in an escalating war of words, with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
In today's Back of the Brief, Israeli leaders are sounding the alarm on ongoing Iranian efforts to smuggle large sums of money to Hezbollah militants in Lebanon to help the battered terrorist group and Iran's proxy rebuild their military operations. During a meeting in Israel on Tuesday with a bipartisan group of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
senators, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Turkey of covertly working with the mullahs in Tehran and the IRGC to facilitate their efforts to refill Hezbollah's depleted coffers. That's according to a report from the Times of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
A statement from the foreign minister's office warned, quote, There is an intensified Iranian effort to smuggle money into Lebanon for Hezbollah to restore its power and status. This effort is being carried out, among other channels, via Turkey and with its cooperation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
As I'm sure our listeners are aware, Hezbollah was, until recently, the most well-armed and well-financed militant army in Iran's so-called Axis of Resistance. But through a very methodical military campaign that began last summer, Israel laid waste to Hezbollah's leadership and decimated their military infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
On 27 November, a beleaguered Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire deal with Israel, ending two months of full-scale war, though the deal has, well, frankly, barely held together. But Iran is eager to help the terror group rebuild so they can once again threaten Israel and strengthen Iran's regional power base, which has been significantly diminished over the past year.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Iran could previously rely on smuggling cash and weapons through Syria. But as you know, since the fall of the Assad regime in December, they've had to pursue other options. And it appears that Turkey is helping to fill that void. For context, Turkish President Erdogan has been a highly vocal critic of Israel ever since the beginning of the war in Gaza, even openly expressing support for Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Speaking to reporters at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, Trump chastised Ukrainian officials for protesting his administration's bilateral talks with Russian diplomats in Riyadh, claiming that Kiev could have secured a favorable settlement with Moscow years ago, but failed to act in their own best interests. or in Moscow's best interests, depending on your point of view.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
While Turkey's relationship with Iran is a complicated one, with the two countries finding themselves on opposite sides during Syria's civil war, It appears that they have found common cause in trying to undermine Israel's security. Would you look at that? It's true. The old saying, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. I guess that's why it's an ancient saying.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
The Israeli foreign minister's office did not elaborate on how Turkey is aiding in the finance of Hezbollah, though Turkish banks have previously been accused by the U.S. of funneling money to the terror group. The warning comes just one week after Israeli officials exposed an Iranian scheme to smuggle suitcases full of cash to Hezbollah via Beirut's international airport.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
That's a story which we reported right here on the PDB. The Lebanese government has since taken measures to indefinitely bar civilian flights to Beirut from two Iranian airliners to cut off these transfers. But reports indicate that tens of millions of dollars may have already made its way into the hands of Hezbollah. Well, okay, into the pockets of Hezbollah leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 20 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, it is so simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Trump remarked, quote, Today, I heard, oh, well, we weren't invited. Well, you've been there for three years, he said. You should have never started it. You could have made a deal, end quote. The president also increased pressure on Zelensky to hold elections, which were suspended last year under Ukraine's ongoing period of martial law, declared following Putin's invasion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Now, it's worth noting that Russia has been highly critical of Ukraine's suspended elections, rather ironically implying the emergency martial law declaration makes Zelensky an illegitimate leader, as opposed to Putin, who, of course, has always fixed his elections. That has been a regular talking point for Putin and his minions for quite some time.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Now, Zelensky fired back at Trump on Wednesday, accusing the president of living in a Russian-made, quote, disinformation space. adding that he would like to see, quote, more truth with the Trump team. He also directly criticized the Riyadh talks, saying he would not accept anyone making decisions regarding a settlement to the war behind Kim's back. Well, as you can imagine,
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Those critiques did not go over well with Trump, who posted a lengthy attack on Zelensky to Truth Social on Wednesday, mocking the leader as a, quote, modestly successful comedian, accusing him of misusing U.S. aid, and of generally doing a, quote, terrible job as president. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Trump stated, quote, he refuses to have elections, is very low in Ukrainian polls, and the only thing he was good at was playing Biden like a fiddle. Trump added, quote, a dictator without elections, Zelensky better move fast or he's not going to have a country left, end quote. This is quite the spat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Needless to say, Trump's comments caused international uproar, that's putting it diplomatically, particularly among NATO allies who accused the president of peddling Russian propaganda and marginalizing a critical regional ally.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Stateside, congressional Democrats also slammed Trump, well, there's a shock, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, he loves a camera, calling Trump's comments disgusting and accusing him of openly siding with a, quote, thug-like Vladimir Putin. According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, even some congressional Republicans appeared troubled by Trump's remarks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana said he disagreed with Trump's suggestion that Ukraine somehow started the war. And Senator Susan Collins of Maine also said she disagreed, though most in the GOP stopped short of directly criticizing Trump. Well, that's because they have to worry about getting reelected. And that is the prime driver of politicians in Washington on both sides of the aisle.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Putin himself seemed to delight in the escalating war of words. Again, not a surprise. Claiming Wednesday that, quote, no one is excluding Ukraine and adding that there was no need for a, quote, hysterical reaction to Russia's bilateral talks with the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also waded into the drama, saying Trump's comments are a sign that he understands Moscow's position. But the Trump administration appeared to be unconcerned with the fallout. Vice President J.D. Vance shared Trump's post to his ex-account, saying, quote, I just wanted to make sure that no one missed it.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
President slamming the Ukrainian leader as a, quote, dictator. Later in the show, we'll have an update on the ceasefire in Gaza, as Hamas signals that they are willing to release all the remaining hostages at once, provided that the truce moves into the second phase, once again proving that Hamas is very adept at controlling a narrative.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Later on Wednesday, in an interview with the Daily Mail, Vance slammed Zelensky's comments about the Riyadh talks as, quote, disgraceful, adding, quote, the idea that Zelensky is going to change the president's mind by badmouthing him in public media. Everyone who knows the president will tell you that is an atrocious way to deal with this administration, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Regardless, the remarks have put Trump's special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, in a rather awkward position. That is putting it mildly. Kellogg arrived in Kiev on Wednesday for his first face-to-face meeting with Zelensky, speaking to reporters upon his arrival.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Kellogg said he looked forward to having, quote, good substantial talks and said that his mission was to, quote, listen to the concerns of Ukraine and report them back to Trump to, quote, ensure we get this thing right, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
While there's no telling how this diplomatic hoo-ha will impact the Trump administration's pursuit of a negotiated settlement to the war, Zelensky's defiant response underscores a widening gap between the White House and leaders in Kiev regarding the conflict and suggests that the Ukrainian leader will not accept attempts by any outside party to dictate the terms of a potential peace deal. Well...
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
To be fair, that's because they are the invaded country and Putin is an existential threat. So it's reasonable to say that Ukraine has a vested interest in the terms of any potential peace deal. That is not a controversial statement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Coming up after the break, we'll have an update on the ceasefire in Gaza, as Hamas signals that they're willing to release all the remaining hostages at once, provided that Israel meets certain conditions. Plus, Sudanese paramilitaries announce plans to form a breakaway government as their bloody civil war grinds on. I'll be right back. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Look, as a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend about 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% of their time on strategy. Think about how ineffective that is.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Well, RAMP changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions. Make the switch, and it's effortless. Over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. It's very simple. Ramp.com slash pdb. One more time. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Cards are issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and as they say, terms and conditions apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Plus, Sudan's civil war takes another bloody turn, as Sudanese paramilitaries announce plans to form a breakaway government. And in today's Back of the Brief, we'll look at reports out of Israel that Iran, in partnership with Turkey, is covertly working to smuggle money to Hezbollah in an attempt to help the Lebanese militants rebuild their military operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. And look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right?
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details, and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
ExpressVPN prevents hackers from accessing private information by creating a secure encrypted tunnel between devices and the Internet. Think about that. Its encryption is so strong that even a supercomputer would take over a billion years to crack it. And who's got that sort of time? Setup is seamless. Just open the app and tap one button for instant protection.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
It works on phones, laptops, tablets, and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S. customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web, and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Welcome back to the PDB. Hamas has signaled a willingness to release all remaining Israeli hostages in a single exchange, framing the move as an accelerated commitment to advancing the second phase of a broader ceasefire agreement. How magnanimous of them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
The proposal on Wednesday from the Iran-backed terror group marks a shift from the agreement's initial release schedule, which called for the exchange of three Israeli hostages for several hundred Palestinian prisoners each week. The ceasefire, in effect since 19 January, despite persistent accusations of violations, is now entering a critical juncture.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Hamas is set to return the bodies of four Israeli hostages on Thursday, followed by the release of six living hostages on Sunday and another transfer of four bodies next Thursday. Israeli authorities have confirmed the imminent return of the remains, but have not publicly identified them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
The conclusion of this initial six week phase on the 1st of March will leave 58 hostages still in Hamas custody, with Israeli intelligence estimates suggesting that 34 of them are dead. Hamas insists its new proposal is a demonstration of its commitment to resolving the conflict. That, of course, would be the conflict that they started. But I digress.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
A senior Hamas official told AFP, quote, We have informed the mediators that Hamas is ready to release all hostages in one batch during the second phase of the agreement rather than in stages, end quote. It's important to note that the negotiations over the second phase were initially scheduled to begin in early February, but they faced continued obstacles.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Now, that could be construed as unfortunate behavior by a U.S. ally and NATO member. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Israel's foreign minister said Tuesday that talks would start this week to establish a more permanent end to the war, but as of Wednesday, no timeline had been confirmed. A major sticking point remains Israel's refusal to withdraw troops from the Philadelphia corridor, and that's a strategically vital stretch along Gaza's border with Egypt.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has also demanded the total disarmament and removal of Hamas from power in the enclave, though who would actually govern Gaza in the terror group's absence remains unresolved. In a move that could signal a shift in Israel's negotiating strategy, Netanyahu has appointed Ron Dermer, a close adviser and former ambassador to Washington, to lead Israel's delegation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Dermer replaces the heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, who often clashed with Netanyahu over his reluctance to advance negotiations. Meanwhile, as our regular PDB listeners are aware, President Trump has floated a proposal to relocate Gaza's roughly 2.3 million residents and place the territory under American administration for a decade long reconstruction effort.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
The idea has been roundly rejected by regional actors, including Egypt, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, all of whom oppose any forced displacement of Palestinians. Gulf states are now pushing their own alternative reconstruction plan, which will be discussed at an emergency summit in Riyadh on Friday, hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
Just one day after an American delegation met with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia to begin peace negotiations, President Trump lashed out at Ukrainian President Zelensky, calling the leader a, quote, dictator in a fiery rant that risks significantly complicating efforts to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
More formal talks are set to follow at an Arab League summit in Cairo on the 4th of March. The coming days will determine whether Hamas's latest proposal, combined with the eventual beginnings of phase two negotiations, can usher in a prolonged peace in the Gaza Strip. All right, shifting now to Kenya.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
where Sudan's paramilitary rapid support forces, known as the RSF, took a major step toward establishing a breakaway government on Tuesday, staging a political event in Nairobi despite battlefield losses and allegations of war crimes. The event, attended by hundreds of RSF supporters, was led by the paramilitary group's deputy leader, Abd al-Hakim de Gallo, a figure already under U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
sanctions for orchestrating violence and human rights abuses. For background, Sudan's war erupted in April 2023 when the RSF and Sudan's military, once uneasy allies in a joint coup, turned against each other in a brutal contest for power. The conflict has since devastated the country, leaving tens of thousands dead, displacing more than 12 million people. Think about that, 12 million people.
The President's Daily Brief
February 20th, 2025: Trump Brands Zelensky A 'Dictator' & Sudan's Paramilitaries Pursue Breakaway Government
and triggering a famine that international aid bodies fear could be the deadliest in decades. Tuesday's event laid bare the RSF's political aspirations as it struggles to offset military setbacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Now, protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Pick up the phone and speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold today. You may have heard me say this before, but I'm going to say it again because it's important. They have been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
So far, the group has identified at least three other mass grave sites, along with two smaller ones, and estimate the total number of victims of the Assad regime since the civil war began in 2011 to be in the hundreds of thousands. That's according to our report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Opposition groups and rescue workers are still sifting through the sites and collecting evidence of the many human rights abuses committed by Assad's government over his 24-year reign. They say more than 150,000 people are still considered missing, though many were likely tortured and killed by what international war crimes prosecutors have called Assad's state-run machinery of death.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Stephen Rapp, a former U.S. war crimes ambassador at large, toured the mass grave sites in Syria on Tuesday and said what he saw was, quote, sickening. Assad reigned over his country with a bloody fist and engaged in a level of brutality not seen since Hitler. Rapp told Reuters, "...we really haven't seen anything quite like this since the Nazis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
From the secret police who disappeared people from their streets and homes, to the jailers and interrogators who starved and tortured them to death, to the truck drivers and bulldozer drivers who hid their bodies, thousands of people were working in this system of killing."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
So go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Thursday, 19 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, disturbing discoveries from Syria, where mass graves found following the downfall of the Assad regime suggest hundreds of thousands of people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Rapp, who is working with Syria's transitional government to document war crimes evidence for future trials, described it as a highly organized system of state terror. Separately, the International Commission on Missing Persons in The Hague said they'd received data indicating that there are as many as 66 mass grave sites scattered throughout Syria, though these reports remain unverified.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
The scale of the crimes are staggering, and officials say it will likely take a considerable amount of time for a full picture of the abuses perpetrated by the Assad regime to emerge. Currently, they're working to collect DNA samples to identify the regime's many victims.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Residents living near one of the mass grave sites said that since 2012, there was a regular stream of refrigeration trucks delivering bodies which were dumped into long trenches dug by bulldozers. They said the military oversaw the operation and anyone who got too close to the activity would end up a victim themselves.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
No one who opposed the regime was spared, with rescuers finding men, women, children, and the elderly in the graves. One resident told Reuters, quote, this is the place of horrors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Now, as we discussed on last week's PDB, Syria's rebel coalition has also focused international attention on the Assad regime's infamous prisons and detention centers described by locals as, quote, human slaughterhouses. The prisons, or more appropriately, death camps, stood as a reminder of the violent consequences that faced those opposing the regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Human rights groups say the regime engaged in systematic torture and secret mass executions. Others were tortured to death by being deprived of food, water, and medicine, their bodies then dumped into the mass graves, now being uncovered. As mentioned, more than 150,000 people are still believed to be missing throughout Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Some may still be trapped in secret detention centers, though local residents say they have little reason to hope that their relatives and friends are still alive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Rebel leader Abu Muhammad al-Jilani has vowed to bring the perpetrators of Assad's reign of terror to justice, telling supporters last week, quote, we will not hesitate to hold accountable the criminals, murderers, security and army officers involved in torturing the Syrian people, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Coming up, Ukrainian President Zelensky is warning the West that Kyiv doesn't currently have the military strength to retake their captured territory from Russia. We'll discuss what this means for the future of the conflict after the break. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
In a striking admission, Ukrainian President Zelensky stated on Wednesday that Kyiv lacks the military capacity to reclaim all Russian-occupied territories captured since 2014, a rare public admission of the challenges that Ukraine faces in its counteroffensive efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Despite his sobering acknowledgement in an interview with French outlet Le Parisien, Zelenskyy remains consistent in his refusal to legitimize Moscow's control over these regions, asserting that any recognition of Russian sovereignty would amount to condoning Kremlin aggression. Zelenskyy stated, quote, this is not about compromise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
This means Putin will get away with everything again, and this is impossible, end quote. It's important to note that Ukraine's constitution prohibits the surrender of its territories, a point Zelensky emphasized during the interview, stating, quote, legally, we cannot give up our territories, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
But the Ukrainian leader also expressed hope that Western nations can exert pressure on Russian President Putin to engage in meaningful negotiations, suggesting diplomacy could offer a way forward.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Reflecting on the war's early stages in the interview, Zelensky criticized the West for failing to provide Ukraine with adequate military support, implying that a more robust response might have altered the current front lines. For context,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
According to data from the Ukrainian monitoring project Deep State, Russia presently controls roughly 43,000 square miles, or 18% of Ukrainian territory, and that's an area comparable in size to the U.S. state of Virginia. Notably, this includes Crimea and parts of the Donbas region, territories seized back in 2014.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
were tortured and killed under the repressive regime since the civil war began back in 2011. Then, an update on the war in Ukraine, as President Zelensky warns the West that Kyiv doesn't currently have the military strength to retake their captured territory from Russia. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022, Moscow has annexed additional territories through basically sham referendums, claiming sovereignty over four Ukrainian regions, even though its forces only partially occupy them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Although faced with these grim realities, Ukraine has still managed to reclaim over 16,000 square miles of land since 2022, yet progress has basically stalled since 2023, despite Kyiv's summer counteroffensive that year and its August 2024 incursion into Russia's Kursk region. Moscow's forces still maintain control over critical areas and are even advancing in regions such as Donetsk and Kharkiv.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
The ongoing relative territorial deadlock underscores the challenges of achieving a decisive military victory. In compounding matters, Politico reports that Putin insists that Kyiv must withdraw from all four annexed regions as a precondition for peace talks. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 19 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, should you be so inclined, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
I want to begin with an update out of Syria, where mass graves uncovered since the overthrow of the Assad regime are exposing some of the worst war crimes and human rights abuses since Nazi times.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 19th, 2024: Mass Graves Expose Assad's 'Machinery Of Death' & Zelensky Admits Ukraine Cannot Reclaim Lost Territories
Officials with the Syrian Emergency Task Force, a US-based Syrian advocacy organization, said they believe there are more than 100,000 bodies buried at a mass grave discovered on the outskirts of Damascus, and that it's likely just a portion of the victims tortured and killed under the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Now, protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold today. You may have heard me say this before, but they have been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. That's a lot of years in a row, frankly. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
And in today's back of the brief, Ukraine unveils a cutting edge laser beam weapon reportedly based on UK prototypes that could soon be targeting Russian jets. And yes, I did say laser beam. Apologies to Austin Powers fans. But first, today's B2B spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
In today's Back of the Brief, Ukraine revealed its development of a high-powered laser weapon called Trident. One Ukrainian commander claims the cutting-edge technology is ready to shoot down Russian jets and could revolutionize their air defense capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Revealed at a defense industry conference by the commander of Ukraine's unmanned systems forces, Triton was described as fully operational and capable of neutralizing targets at distances exceeding one mile. The commander further stated that efforts to improve its capabilities are underway.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Notably, this marks Ukraine's first public acknowledgement of the system, positioning it as only the fifth nation to field such cutting-edge laser capabilities. So, you ask yourself, how does this high-power laser weapon work? It's a good question.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Trident employs a concentrated beam of light to destroy its targets, an approach that could prove critical in countering Russian fighter jets and hypersonic missiles, which can travel at nearly 4,000 miles per hour and evade conventional defenses. According to the Telegraph, Ukraine's Triton system is reportedly modeled on the UK's Dragonfire prototype, following shared designs earlier this year.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The British system, known for its precision, capable of hitting a coin from half a mile away, costs just $12 per shot. Ukraine's adoption of this technology could also address Russia's frequent drone barrages with essentially a cost-effective and highly accurate solution.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The then-UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps hinted in April that Dragonfire's technology could be tailored to meet Kyiv's needs, calling its potential battlefield impact as possessing, quote, huge ramifications. Shapps emphasized that the system didn't need to be, quote, 100% perfect for Ukrainians to begin using it.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
For the UK, Dragonfire was initially expected to enter service in 2033, but recent developments have accelerated its deployment to as early as 2027 for the Royal Navy. Ukraine's Triton, however, appears battle-ready now, and that's a development that could alter the dynamics of air defense in its nearly three-year-long war with Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The system reflects Kyiv and the West's increasing focus on technological innovation to bolster its military capabilities in an effort to counter Russia's aggression. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 19 December. Look, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
And as you've likely read in the newspaper's gossip section, to listen to the show ad-free, it's very simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See? Told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The downfall of Syrian strongman Bashar al-Assad has exposed a sprawling, multi-million dollar drug smuggling network that helped prop up his regime and fuel addiction and unrest, of course, across the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Since Assad's overthrow on December 8th at the hands of Islamist rebels, dozens of industrial-scale manufacturing and trafficking facilities producing an amphetamine-based stimulant have been uncovered. all parts of a side hustle orchestrated by the Assad regime that pulled in an estimated $2.5 billion annually.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The massive financial windfalls helped Assad offset the impact of crippling international sanctions during the height of the Syrian civil war and, of course, enrich regional allies like Hezbollah, who helped facilitate the trade. That's according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. The drug in question is called Captagon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
It's a methamphetamine-like substance that has soared in use throughout the region since 2018, particularly in the Arab Gulf states. Over the years, smugglers have trafficked hundreds of millions of these pills, which are now, unfortunately, wildly popular with civilians across the socioeconomic spectrum.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
They're used by everyone, from taxi drivers, students logging late hours, workers trying to stay alert, and militia fighters looking for a bit of courage on the battlefields. Arab elites are also said to enjoy partaking in Captagon recreationally, with the most popular markets for the drug said to be in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The drug's regional popularity fueled tensions between Syria and its neighbors, particularly with Jordan, which has spent the last two years conducting targeted airstrikes inside Syria in an attempt to stymie the activity of the traffickers. But with the ousting of Assad, the sprawling narcotics empire has started to unravel.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Rebel fighters began seizing facilities being used to manufacture Captagon in the days after Assad fled for Russia, putting some to the torch. The rebels uncovered these drug factories hidden inside government military bases and other sites affiliated with senior officials of the deposed regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The Maze Air Base in Damascus was apparently a central hub for the operation, as was a car trading company in the port city of Latakia and a potato chip factory in the suburbs of Damascus, which was linked to Assad's brother.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The rebels invited journalists to tour some of the facilities in recent days where they reported seeing thousands of Captagon pills stuffed inside a random assortment of items for shipment like fake fruit, ceramic mosaics, and electrical equipment.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
While the Captagon trade was hardly a secret, the facilities uncovered by rebel forces offer the first hard evidence that the Assad regime was the primary force behind the drug smuggling network. For more than a decade now, most of the global supply of Captagon has been produced in Syria, particularly after Assad began industrializing production sometime in 2018.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
An expert on the Captagon trade told the Wall Street Journal, quote, you can imagine the manpower, the resources that were required. It penetrated so many elements of the regime, its political apparatus, patronage networks, the security apparatus, end quote. The annual global Captagon trade pulled in an estimated $10 billion per year, with the Assad regime directly netting roughly $2.5 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Assad's brother, who commanded the Syrian military's elite 4th Armored Division, oversaw production and distribution, reporting directly back to the former president. The Syrian rebels, led by the militant group HTS, have pointed to the narcotics operation as a prime example of the Assad regime's moral and financial corruption.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Rebel leader Abu Muhammad al-Jalani vowed to supporters on Friday to eliminate any last vestiges of the trade from the country, saying, quote, "...today Syria is being cleansed." So, you ask yourself, what happens to Syria's narcotics empire now that Assad is gone? Well, unfortunately, it's a bit like whack-a-mole.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
It's Thursday, 19 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And look at that. I'm back off the road after a few weeks in Europe and the Middle East. Here I am back in the compound, bringing you the PDB in full VistaVision and surround sound stereo. So let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
While a short-term supply reduction in the trade is expected, analysts say that due to widespread demand throughout the Middle East, manufacturing will likely just shift to other countries as other criminal elements look to fill the void. All right, coming up next, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
officials warn of a ticking time bomb in Syria's makeshift ISIS prisons, and police crack down on a brutal gang-linked kidnapping and torture plot in Colorado. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. We're going to stay in Syria, where American officials are sounding alarm bells over a looming crisis, and that would be a potential mass jailbreak of ISIS fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Now, as we've reported here on the PDB, thousands of ISIS fighters and their families remain detained in makeshift prisons overseen by the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF. That's a U.S.-backed coalition primarily led by Kurdish groups. These Kurdish-led forces have led the fight against ISIS, but their position is increasingly under threat.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Originally intended as temporary holding facilities, the prisons now hold detainees in, well, essentially legal limbo, as home countries from Iraq and Syria to Europe and North America refuse to take them back. And frankly, who can blame them?
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The situation has obviously become more complex following the collapse of the Assad regime, and officials now warn that an ISIS resurgence could hinge on whether the U.S. and its allies can keep these prisoners contained.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
We'll start the show with more fallout from the Assad regime's collapse in Syria, which has reportedly upended the Middle East's most profitable drug empire, pulling back the curtain on a massive trade that fueled war and social crises across the region. Later in the show, U.S. officials sound the alarm over what they're referring to as a ticking time bomb in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The SDF has been one of America's most reliable partners in the fight against ISIS, but Turkey, a NATO ally, views the Kurdish-led SDF as a threat and has launched repeated attacks on them through Turkish-backed militias. These strikes have forced the SDF to divert attention away from guarding prisons to defending their territory. A fragile U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
brokered ceasefire near the northern city of Manbij is providing a glimmer of hope, though not much. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently traveled to Ankara to discuss extending that agreement, with Kurdish leaders signaling their willingness to maintain the talks and establish a demilitarized zone under U.S. supervision. Still, U.S. officials are, rightly so, deeply concerned.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
One senior counterterrorism official described the situation as a ticking time bomb, warning that if Turkey's proxy forces continue their attacks, a major jailbreak could be imminent. Meanwhile, critics in Washington are urging the U.S. to do more to shield the SDF from Turkish aggression, arguing that such attacks ultimately benefit ISIS. Adding to the tension, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
forces conducted dozens of airstrikes last week against ISIS leaders, signaling a commitment to preventing the group's resurgence. Central Command Chief General Eric Carrillo visited U.S. troops and SDF fighters in Syria before traveling to Baghdad for high-level discussions. He issued a firm warning that the U.S. will hold any organization accountable if they support ISIS.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
As it stands, around 900 American troops remain in Syria to train and support the SDF. There are no plans to increase that number or shift their mission, but with a new U.S. administration on the horizon, the long-term strategy in Syria is anything but certain. All right, shifting to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Police in Aurora, Colorado, arrested 14 suspects tied to a brutal kidnapping and assault linked to the notorious Trenda Aragua, or TDA, Venezuelan prison gang that infiltrated the city and captured national headlines. The gang members, a mix of men and women, ripped a migrant couple from their home Monday night, taking them to a separate apartment where they endured hours of torture.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Aurora police revealed the victims were restrained, pistol-whipped, beaten, and in one case stabbed, though injuries were reportedly not life-threatening. The suspects also looted the couple's residence. In a desperate bid for freedom, the victims promised not to contact authorities, only to dial 911 as soon as they escaped early Tuesday morning.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Aurora Police Chief Todd Chamberlain confirmed TDA's possible involvement, labeling the scene as, quote, The police chief acknowledged the difficulty in identifying suspected TDA members due to a limited intelligence sharing between the U.S. government and Venezuelan authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Speaking at a press conference Tuesday, Chamberlain stated, quote, we're not going to rest until every individual who mistreated another human being is in custody, end quote. Homeland Security has also joined the investigation. Now, the arrests have refocused the national spotlight onto a complex, an apartment complex called the Edge at Lowry, and it has been notorious for violent crime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
You may remember earlier this year, the viral video of surveillance footage capturing armed gang members breaking into an apartment, fueling outrage among residents, state and federal lawmakers, and that became a heated topic in the presidential debates.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Thousands of ISIS fighters, remember them, still held in makeshift prisons, a security nightmare waiting to unfold. Plus, a violent gang crackdown in Colorado in the United States. Police break up a kidnapping ring at an apartment complex overrun by Venezuela's Tren de Aragua, or TDA, syndicate.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
A recent spree of shootings and break-ins has forced several tenants to flee, including a couple whose car was riddled with bullets during a shootout. The couple told local news outlet KDVR, quote, "'It's been a nightmare,' describing how they fortified their door with five locks." before relocating with assistance from city council member Danielle Jurinsky.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Now, Jurinsky has long sounded the alarm about TDA's growing influence in Aurora, accusing state and federal leaders of negligence, telling the New York Post, quote, This is what I've been saying for months now, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
The city council member added that Democrat Colorado Governor Jared Polis previously dismissed her warnings regarding TDA's infiltration as, quote, Additionally, Chief Chamberlain didn't hold back criticism of the current Biden administration blaming immigration policies for creating an environment ripe for criminal exploitation, stating, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
We have individuals who come to this country, get dropped off into a community, and have absolutely no infrastructure, no support, and no guidance from the federal government, end quote. Well, he would not be wrong in that assessment. Aurora, like many other cities, continues to struggle with the influx of migrants, many of whom arrive from Denver. Ooh, look at that.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
A sanctuary city that received a minimum of 40,000 migrants over the past two years. Meanwhile, the edge at Lowry is now under police lockdown, as authorities intensify efforts to detain additional suspects. Remaining residents grapple with the uneasy reality of living in a city increasingly affected by gang violence and systematic failures, with little apparent relief in sight. Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Coming up in the back of the brief, Ukraine unveils a laser weapon inspired by UK prototypes with claims that it's ready to take down Russian fighter jets. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill.
The President's Daily Brief
December 19th, 2024: Syria’s Drug Empire Collapses & ISIS Prison Crisis Looms
Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Looking to diversify your savings? Well, schedule a free consultation with Birch Gold Group, the precious metals specialist. Look, just text PDB to 989-898 and you'll receive a free no-obligation information kit and learn how to convert an existing IRA or a 401k to a gold IRA. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898. It's Thursday, the 17th of April. Welcome to the BDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Let's start with what Israel had in mind. According to the report, officials in Tel Aviv had drawn up plans for a multi-phase attack aimed at setting back Tehran's nuclear ambitions by a year or more. Initially, they hoped to pair airstrikes with commando raids on underground nuclear sites.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
But when it became clear that the commando teams wouldn't be ready in time, Israel pivoted to a broader bombing campaign, one that would have required American aircraft, intelligence, and logistics in order to be successful. And here's where the U.S. comes in. As we've been reporting here on the PDB, US military assets have been building up across the region for weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
A second aircraft carrier, missile defense systems, and long-range B-2 bombers were deployed to Diego Garcia, moves that were publicly framed as part of the ongoing conflict with the Houthis in Yemen. But privately, officials now say that the firepower was also about preparing for a potential operation against Iran. Even basing US fighters in Israel was reportedly under consideration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
The CIA director, John Ratcliffe, was dispatched to Jerusalem to sit down with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and the head of Mossad. They discussed various options, including not just direct strikes, but covert sabotage operations and tighter sanctions enforcement. But as planning progressed, reportedly, cracks began to show inside the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence at DNI, presented a new intelligence assessment warning that military action could spiral into a broader regional war. Her concerns were echoed by top officials, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Vice President J.D. Vance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Even National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, normally one of the most hawkish voices on Iran, began questioning whether the Israeli plan could work without massive U.S. involvement. Ultimately, President Trump decided to hold off. According to The Times, he informed Netanyahu during his visit to Washington that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
would not support an attack, at least not while Iran has signaled a willingness, as limited as it may be, to negotiate. The White House is now pursuing a short-term diplomatic window with Tehran to reach a new nuclear agreement. But while Trump has chosen diplomacy, at least for now, he hasn't ruled anything out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
After the Netanyahu meeting, he told reporters, "...if it requires military, we're going to have military. Israel will obviously be the leader of that." In the meantime, U.S. intelligence and military officials are continuing to work with Israel to weigh other options, including covert action. So the message from the White House?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Well, it's that talks are happening, but time is limited, and the military option is still on the table. Coming up next, reports say Hamas is broke and struggling to pay its operatives, adding a financial crisis to its lengthy series of military setbacks. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I'm very happy to remind you that it's now grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
And I'm also happy to give you this pro tip. I'm about to tell you where you can get the finest beef you can throw on that grill. It's from a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, this isn't some corporate meat factory or some faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Tri-Tales is a fifth generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman or no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you may have heard about them recently. They've thrown the global economy into chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there's a silver lining that some people might have missed. Well, it's actually silver and gold. You see, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with new reporting on a major decision from President Trump. A planned Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear facilities was reportedly scrapped after top U.S. officials raised doubts, preferring instead to try and reach a deal with the mullahs on their nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. Now, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. It's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
The first step is to text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Hamas's war chest is reportedly drying up fast as Israel's renewed military offensive and tightened aid restrictions have choked off the cash pipelines that once fueled the Iran-backed terror group's ability to pay its fighters and officials. The effects are rippling across the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
According to Arab, Israeli, and Western officials, salary payments have ceased entirely for many of the Hamas members. At the same time, senior operatives, including those in the political wing, received only half-pay during Ramadan last month.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Rank-and-file terror operatives have been hit the hardest, reportedly averaging around just $200 to $300 per month, complicating recruitment efforts and weakening internal cohesion. This financial unraveling comes after years of stockpiling resources.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Before launching the 7 October 2023 terror attacks on Israel, Hamas relied heavily on a mix of foreign aid, most notably $15 million in monthly cash deliveries from Qatar, and domestic income streams that included taxes on commercial goods, customs duties, and the resale of humanitarian aid that it had seized or stole or imported.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
It also drew support from fundraising networks stretching as far as West Africa, South Asia, and even the UK, with much of its financial reserve reportedly held in foreign accounts. Well, much of it was pilfered by the top Hamas officials over the years and stuffed in their pockets and their foreign accounts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
In recent weeks, the IDF has said it killed a prominent money changer and several senior Hamas figures involved in salary distribution. Intelligence officials report that many others have been forced into hiding, disrupting the terror group's courier and checkpoint systems that Hamas historically used to pay its fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
As one open-source researcher focused on Gaza's economy put it, quote, even if they sit on large amounts of cash, their ability to distribute it would be very limited right now. Any attempt to move money through physical means could now, of course, draw direct Israeli retaliation via airstrike. In response... Hamas has turned to more desperate tactics.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
In the early weeks of the war, the group reportedly seized up to $180 million from local banks in Gaza, including the Bank of Palestine, and began imposing new fees on Gaza merchants, customs charges on imports, and selling off humanitarian goods that it intercepted. But those measures, well, offered only temporary relief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
During January's ceasefire, Hamas was able to slightly replenish its financial reserves when aid deliveries resumed. That window closed in March, when Israel sealed Gaza's borders and imposed tighter controls on humanitarian shipments.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
As we discussed on today's BDB, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed this week that Israel is pursuing a new aid distribution mechanism designed to bypass Hamas entirely by working with vetted civilian partners. Katz defended the blockade as a necessary measure to break what he described as Hamas' model of monetizing humanitarian aid to fuel its war machine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Later in the show, Hamas isn't just facing military losses in its war with Israel. The group is reportedly in a cash crunch, struggling to pay its fighters. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Well, it turns out the U.S. came closer to a potential war with Iran than many realized.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
That monetization, according to Israeli officials, has become so central to Hamas's economic model that military planners are now re-evaluating how aid is screened, not just for security risks, but also for resale value.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Even with an estimated $500 million stashed somewhere in Turkey and as much as $3 billion believed to still be circulating inside Gaza, the group's access to those funds has been sharply curtailed. The consequences are already taking shape. As the IDF presses deeper into Gaza and anti-Hamas demonstrations surface in some areas,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
Intelligence officials say the financial strain is accelerating a slow disintegration of Hamas's internal command and control. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 17th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
And as four out of five doctors will tell you, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 17th, 2025: Trump Calls Off Strike On Iran & Hamas Struggles To Pay Fighters
According to the New York Times, President Trump recently put the brakes on a planned Israeli strike against Iran's nuclear program after a fierce internal debate within his own administration. The strike, which could have been launched as soon as next month, would have required significant U.S. military support. And for a while, it looked like Washington might provide it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. In today's back of the brief, a leak investigation is rattling the Pentagon's top ranks as three senior officials have been placed on administrative leave, including a close advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Dan Caldwell, an advisor to Hegseth, was reportedly escorted out of the building earlier this week.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Also sidelined and escorted out of the Pentagon was Darren Selnick, the Pentagon's deputy chief of staff. Both Caldwell and Selnick previously worked for a nonprofit veterans group that was run by Hegseth. In addition, Colin Carroll, the chief of staff to Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg, was placed on leave on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The three are now under scrutiny as part of an internal probe into unauthorized disclosures. Sources say more personnel changes may be on the horizon. The fallout stems from a memo issued last month by Joe Casper, Hegseth's chief of staff. That memo called for an aggressive investigation into leaks and even authorized the use of lie detector tests if needed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Officials say the investigation is ongoing and could expand further depending on what's uncovered. According to a source familiar with the matter, Caldwell is accused of leaking classified documents to members of the press.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
While no formal charges have been filed yet, his removal, combined with Selnick's suspension, signals a serious clampdown on internal leaks that appear to have caught Pentagon leadership off guard. Caldwell's background offers some insight into why he was trusted with a sensitive role. He's a veteran of the Iraq War and previously worked at Defense Priorities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
That's a think tank focused on non-interventionist foreign policy. We have a foreign policy, but we don't like to intervene. Caldwell's name recently surfaced in an Atlantic article detailing internal Defense Department discussions about U.S. airstrikes on Houthi targets.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Washington, meanwhile, insists that the program can't continue as is. And in today's back of the brief, a shakeup at the Pentagon. Three senior Defense Department officials, including a top advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have been placed on leave as part of a leak investigation. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The report said Caldwell was tapped by Hegseth to represent the department in text message chains that included strike planning and policy debates. The timing of the memo that launched this probe is also drawing attention. It was issued the same day that the Pentagon and White House strongly denied rumors that Elon Musk, remember him, had received a classified briefing on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
war plans with China. For now, the Pentagon is staying tight-lipped about the internal investigation. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 17th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, I suspect you know what to do.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
China appears to have made overtures to the Trump White House in the ongoing trade war with the U.S. After weeks of tit-for-tat retaliatory trade measures, ooh, say that three times fast, Beijing is now signaling it may be open to negotiations, but only on its terms. According to Bloomberg, Chinese officials are laying out several conditions before they'll come to the table.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Among the top demands, more, quote, respect from President Trump and his team. That reportedly includes dialing back disparaging comments from U.S. cabinet members and maintaining a more consistent negotiating posture. More specifically, it would probably require an apology from Vice President J.D. Vance, who last week said that America was borrowing money from, quote, Chinese peasants.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Apparently, and this is not a surprise, the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, didn't take too kindly to that comment. China also wants the White House to address concerns around American sanctions in Taiwan. Specifically, Beijing is pushing for a rollback of targeted sanctions on Chinese firms and officials. On Taiwan, Chinese officials insist the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
scale back military and diplomatic support, viewing it as interference in what they consider internal affairs. Finally, Beijing also wants the US to designate a point person to oversee talks. China has no preference, apparently, for who that is, but they want the person to be clearly speaking and acting with Trump's authority. It's reported that Xi Jinping also wants a pony.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
A spokesman for China's foreign ministry put it this way, quote, If the U.S. really wants to resolve the issue through dialogue and negotiation, it should stop exerting extreme pressure, stop threatening and blackmailing, and talk to China on the basis of equality, respect, and mutual benefit, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
At the White House, Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt responded earlier this week, saying President Trump is open to reaching a deal, but that Beijing needs to make the first move. This all comes as the White House has confirmed that certain Chinese products are now subject to tariffs as high as 245%. Meanwhile, the economic toll on China, well, is becoming harder to ignore.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
According to the South China Morning Post, container shipping traffic is plummeting on Trans-Pacific routes. Bookings from China are down between 30 to 60 percent over the next three weeks, forcing some shipping companies to cancel routes altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
A market intelligence firm cited in the report, Liner Litica, said the tariffs have effectively priced many Chinese exporters out of the American market, especially smaller manufacturers in southern China who simply can't absorb the cost. So while Beijing may not like the pressure campaign, the numbers suggest that it's starting to take a bite out of China's exporting.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
And for now, they're inching toward the negotiating table. At least, apparently, it seems that way. Whether that leads to a deal or a deeper standoff could come down to how both sides play during the next few weeks. All right, coming up next, Hamas rejects Israel's latest ceasefire proposal, and Iran draws a red line ahead of nuclear talks, declaring uranium enrichment is non-negotiable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, I'm pleased to announce that it's grilling season. I'm also pleased to give you this pro tip about where to find the finest beef to throw on the grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. So, of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Look, this is not some corporate meat factory. It's not some faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman. There's no mystery here.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about sleep.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right? When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged, and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker compound, and it is absolutely true.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
designed to restore, refresh, and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve. You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, so you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth Risk-Free for 100 nights.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now. Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's bestselling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Welcome back to the PDB. Hamas has rejected a new ceasefire proposed by Israel that offered a 45-day pause in fighting the release of hostages and negotiations on disarming terror factions in Gaza, stalling what mediators had hoped might be a breakthrough in efforts to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
It's Thursday, the 17th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off with another update on the heated trade conflict between the U.S. and China. After days of back-and-forth retaliations and recriminations, Beijing now says it's open to talks, but only if President Trump shows some respect.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The proposal, delivered to Hamas by mediators in Cairo over the weekend, was seen by Egyptian officials as a pivotal opportunity to shift the trajectory of the conflict. Speaking to NPR on Tuesday, mediators said there'd been cautious optimism that an agreement could be reached within weeks, but that optimism faded amid hardline positions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
As part of the proposed deal, Hamas would free 10 living hostages over the course of the six-week truce, roughly half of those believed to be alive in Gaza, starting with Israeli-American Eden Alexander on the first day. In exchange, Israel would free nearly 1,400 Palestinian prisoners and terrorists, many serving life sentences.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
During the 45-day ceasefire, Israel and Hamas would begin, quote, day-after negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent end to hostilities, including terms for the disarmament of Hamas and other Gaza-based terror factions. If those talks produced an agreement, the remaining hostages would be freed before the six-week period expired.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
According to mediators, the offer also includes a provision to ease Israel's restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid, including food, fuel, and medicine, into Gaza. However, Israel demanded the establishment of a new distribution mechanism to prevent the diversion of supplies by Hamas. That's a point that remains under active discussion.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Yet, even as the proposal offered a diplomatic off-ramp, Egyptian officials cautioned that Israel could shred any potential ceasefire if a deal does not include U.S. guarantees for a permanent end to the war. While Hamas has expressed willingness to release additional hostages, it's firmly rejected Israel's demand for disarmament, calling it a non-starter.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The terror group insists that any agreement must include a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, a permanent cessation of fighting and international guarantees to begin reconstruction in the territory where more than 90 percent of homes have been damaged or destroyed. And that's according to U.N. estimates.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
It's important to note that on Tuesday, Hamas claimed it had lost contact with the guards responsible for holding Eden Alexander, blaming Israeli airstrikes for severing communications. Israel declined to comment on the allegation. Israeli officials have not publicly disclosed the full details of the proposal, but have continued to apply military pressure on Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Netanyahu made a surprise visit to Israeli troops stationed in northern Gaza and reiterated the government's stance, stating, quote, we insist that our hostages be released and we insist on achieving all of our objectives for the war, end quote. The following day, the Israeli military revealed that it's preparing for a broader offensive if negotiations should fail.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Defense Minister Israel Katz has repeatedly warned that if the hostages are not released soon, Israel will launch a wide-scale ground campaign to eliminate Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces said no deadline has been set for a full invasion and that the timing would be left to political leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The IDF warns that a major ground offensive would likely derail ceasefire negotiations entirely, yeah, that seems likely, and further endanger the 59 hostages still believed to be in Hamas custody. All right, turning to Iran, where in a sharp escalation ahead of high stakes nuclear talks, the regime's foreign minister declared uranium enrichment, quote, non-negotiable, rejecting U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
demands for the full dismantlement of its nuclear program. The statement from Foreign Minister Abbas Arachi lands just days before he's scheduled to meet President Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, for a second round of negotiations, this time in Rome on Saturday.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The meeting marks a continuation of the highest-level contact between the two nations since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord in 2018 and reinstated sweeping sanctions as part of his maximum pressure campaign. Since returning to office, Trump has doubled down on that approach while also signaling openness to a new deal, although on his terms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
But the diplomatic rift deepened this week after Witkoff appeared to reverse course. On Monday, he told Fox News that Washington would accept capped uranium enrichment up to 3.67%. Now, that's the limit that was imposed under the original 2015 nuclear deal. But by Tuesday, Witkoff hardened his line, declaring in a post on X that Iran must, quote, stop and eliminate enrichment altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Later in the show, Hamas has rejected Israel's latest ceasefire offer. Ooh, look, I'm currently wearing my not-surprised face. The proposal called for a pause in fighting, the release of more hostages, and even talks on disarming Gaza militants. But Hamas isn't budging.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
He added, quote, A deal with Iran will only be completed if it is a Trump deal, insisting any final arrangement must dismantle Iran's nuclear infrastructure in its entirety. The pivot drew swift condemnation from the foreign minister of Iran. He told reporters after a cabinet meeting, quote, Iran's enrichment is a real accepted matter.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
He added, quote, we're ready to build confidence in response to possible concerns, but the issue of enrichment is non-negotiable, end quote. He closed with a warning that continued mixed messaging from Washington would only deepen mistrust and result in problems.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
His warning was echoed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who acknowledged that while talks had begun on a promising note, they remained on uncertain ground. In remarks broadcast on state TV, Khamenei said, quote, the negotiations may or may not yield results, calling Iran, quote, pessimistic about the other side, but confident in its own position.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Adding to the stakes, Axios reports Trump convened top national security officials at the White House this week to prepare for the talks. Trump told reporters, quote, they can't have a nuclear weapon and they've got to go fast, threatening harsh consequences if the Iranian regime delays or defies U.S. terms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Despite the heated rhetoric, both sides have signaled that Saturday's meeting will explore a framework for future negotiations. And notably, the first round of talks was described as, quote, constructive by both delegations. But as the clock ticks, Iran does continue to ramp up its nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
It's now enriching uranium to 60 percent purity, which is far above civilian energy needs and dangerously close to weapons grade levels. Tehran insists the program is for peaceful purposes, yet it's barred international inspectors from accessing key facilities, heightening suspicions, of course, about its intentions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Whether the upcoming negotiations lead to a diplomatic breakthrough or collapse in a stalemate may hinge on whether either side bends on what Trump has called the bedrock principle that the mullahs cannot have a nuclear bomb. No nukes for you.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Okay, coming up next on the back of the brief, a Pentagon leak investigation sidelines three senior officials, including a top advisor to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you know, that ugly trade war, it's thrown the global economy into chaos, right? That's not a statement of the obvious.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
Oh, wait, it is a statement of the obvious. Look, potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on everybody. But there is a silver lining that some people have missed. And actually, it's not just a silver, it's a gold lining as well. Look, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from these sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
And in part, they're not budging because, well, frankly, they really don't care how many Gaza residents have died as a result of Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks and Israel's subsequent response. Plus, the latest on negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Iran's foreign minister says uranium enrichment is non-negotiable just days before talks resume in Rome.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
And while these new policies are triggering some significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 17th, 2025: China Finally Blinks In Tariff War & Gaza Talks Collapse Again
The first step is to text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
In einem Statement hat Netanyahu gesagt, dass Hamas an Teilen des Vertrages mit den Mediatorn reingegangen hat. Notabene hat Netanyahu nicht spezifisch gesagt, welche Elemente des Vertrages an der Sache waren. Hamas hat aber Netanyahu's Anliegen negiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Ein Mitglied des Terrorgruppes Politiker-Wing hat seine Bemühungen zur mediativen Zerstörung, die von Qatar, Ägypten und den Vereinigten Staaten am Montag erhoben wurde. In einem Interview mit einem arabischen TV-Outlet hat ein Hamas-Senior-Offizier Netanyahus-Allegungen als unabhängig genannt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Die konflikten Narrativen haben Angst vor der Abschaffung des Vertrages, der erwartet wurde, dass ein Ende zu den 15 Monaten der Krieg in Gaza kommt. International expressed his appreciation for the roles of outgoing President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump in brokering the ceasefire deal with a phone call on Wednesday. Despite the external backing, Netanyahu faces domestic opposition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Hi, Mike Baker here. I'm currently in the Middle East, crossing the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan by camel during a month-long expedition to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. But don't worry, Mike Slater has got you covered on the President's Daily Brief while I spend my time pouring the sand out of my boots.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Hardline members within his coalition government are staunchly opposed to any negotiations with Hamas, even if it secures the release of hostages held since 7 October 2023. Several of these coalition members threaten to resign if the ceasefire deal proceeds, potentially prompting the dissolution of Netanyahu's administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
The Israeli president and moderate cabinet members have urged fellow ministers to support the agreement, emphasizing its humanitarian importance. As we covered on the PTB earlier today, the proposed ceasefire would unfold in three critical phases.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
The initial phase involves the release of 33 hostages by Hamas, including American nationals, in exchange for Israel freeing 1,000 Palestinian detainees who were not implicated in the October 2023 terror attack. Additionally, Israeli forces would begin gradually withdrawing from densely populated centers such as the Philadelphia corridor.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
und in der letzten Phase wird Hamas erwartet, dass die Wesen der geschlossenen Flüchtlinge zurückkehren und die Versuche, Gaza zu rekonstruieren, beginnen. The deal's implementation now hinges on overcoming last-minute obstacles and securing approval from Netanyahu's cabinet. If finalized, the ceasefire is slated to take effect on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Coming up next, we'll explore the growing controversy surrounding Russia's recruitment of Indian men into its military, who they lure with promises of work and educational opportunities. More on that after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
ExpressVPN reroutet 100% deines Vertrags durch sichere, encrypted Servern, sodass dein ISP deine Browsing-Historie nicht sehen kann. Weil all dein Vertrag durch ihre Servern fließt, wissen Internet-Service-Anbieter jede einzelne Website, die du besuchst. Weißt du das? Und sie halten an dieser Information.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Und weißt du, dass in den USA ISPs legal ermöglicht sind, diese Information an Advertisern zu verkaufen? Das ist wahr. ExpressVPN arbeitet auf all deinen Geräten und ist einfach zu nutzen. Und das ist wichtig. Einfache einfach die App. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Turning our attention to Russia. The Putin regime is facing blowback from their allies in New Delhi over their schemes to recruit young Indian men to fight on the front lines in the war of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
According to an exclusive report from the Washington Post, the recent death of an Indian man working for the Russian army has brought renewed focus to this thorny issue among India's leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
While it's true that New Delhi has a thriving diplomatic relationship with Russia, the Kremlin's use of their citizens on the battlefields in Ukraine could potentially drive a wedge between the two eastern powers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Nearly a hundred Indians have been lured to Russia with false promises of work and educational opportunities, duped by an international network of employment agents and social media influencers working on behalf of the Kremlin. Some even promise high wages for low-skilled jobs like driving, cooking, plumbing and electrical repairs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Once they arrive in Russia, however, the deception becomes painfully clear. The recruits allegedly have their passports confiscated and are then coerced into signing contracts with the Russian military that they can't even read. They're then sent into combat, receiving little or no training before being deployed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
According to officials with the Indian government, at least 10 of their citizens have now been killed on the front lines in Ukraine. The latest victim was a 32-year-old electrician from the southern state of Kerala. He was killed earlier this month, and his death has provoked a sharp response from the Indian officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Thanks, Mike. It's Thursday, 16 January 2025. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Slater filming for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. Today, it appears the breakthrough ceasefire deal reached yesterday between Israel and Hamas is already at risk, as Israeli leaders delay a vote on the draft agreement, accusing Hamas of making last-minute demands that go back on their promises.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
On Tuesday, a spokesman for India's Ministry of External Affairs told the Washington Post, "...the matter has been strongly taken up with the Russian authorities in Moscow, as well as with the Russian Embassy in New Delhi today. We have also reiterated our demands for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals." No surprises here, but Moscow has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
But following the death of several Indian men on the front lines last year, Indian officials raised the issue with their Russian counterparts. The Indian Prime Minister then directly pressed Vladimir Putin on the matter during a visit to Moscow in July. In September, Russia released 45 Indians that had been pressed into service, but nearly 20 still remained trapped on the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
And it's unclear if the Kremlin plans to return any more of these conscripts to India. The two countries continue to expand their economic and military ties, but analysts expect this to remain a recurring point of tension. We should note, however, that this is hardly unique to India.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
As the war in Ukraine drags on, Russia has been desperately trying to replenish their frontline forces without having to engage in a full-scale mobilization of their own citizens, something that remains widely unpopular with the Russian population.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
To plug holes in their ranks, Russia has turned to recruiting mercenaries and unsuspecting foreigners whenever they can find them, including Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. In late November reports emerged that Russia was partnering with the Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen to traffic hundreds of Yemeni men to the battlefield of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
There were also reports in February that some 15,000 men from Nepal had been enlisted into the Russian military, and many of their fates still remain unclear. Russia has focused their efforts on impoverished nations, where promises of lucrative jobs in Russia are often too enticing to ignore.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
With Russian troop losses now exceeding 800,000, a number that includes both wounded and killed, we expect Moscow to continue engaging in these foreign recruitment schemes. And that is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 16 January. To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
I'm Mike Slater, Slater Radio, on Instagram and Twitter. To follow me, I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay safe and spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
Later in the show, Russia is reportedly recruiting Indian men into its military with promises of work and educational opportunities, only to deploy them to the front lines in the war of Ukraine. The recent death of an Indian man in Ukraine has reignited the issue, fraying otherwise strong diplomatic ties between New Delhi and Moscow. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 16th, 2025: Last Minute Crisis For Gaza Ceasefire Deal & Russia's Schemes To Lure Indians To Ukraine's Front Lines
I want to return to our coverage of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delayed a scheduled vote to finalize the agreement, citing last-minute demands from the terror group as the reason for the postponement. Netanyahu sagte, dass die Thursday-Meeting nicht weitergehen würde, bis Hamas auf solche Anforderungen zurückgezogen wäre.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Hey, Mike Baker here. Still overseas on a trek through the vast desert, and it is vast. Five riders, ten camels, 700 miles, it's been an amazing experience, all to raise awareness for the UK's Special Forces Benevolent Fund. While I'm out, Mike Slater is stepping in to deliver the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The Eaton and Palisades infernos became the second and fourth most destructive blazes in state history. The fires, fanned by fierce winds that carried embers across the county, have consumed more than 63 square miles, an area three times the size of Manhattan, leaving the drought-stricken terrain scorched and unrecognizable.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
However, the first phase of the ceasefire must still clear procedural hurdles. According to The Hill, Israel's wartime cabinet will vote on the agreement, followed by Israel's parliamentary body, with appeals to the Supreme Court permitted within 24 hours. If finalized, the ceasefire could start as early as Friday, with the first group of hostages released on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
In a testament to the scale of the crisis, fire crews bolstered by reinforcements from nine states, Canada and Mexico, working around the clock to safeguard the next high-risk neighborhoods. Despite the challenges posed by the winds, aerial operations persist, with planes dousing hillsides and homes in blankets of flame-retardant chemicals.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
You'll see some pictures of really nice or celebrity homes covered in this pink paint film. That's the flame retardant chemicals. Meanwhile, the L.A. County Sheriff's Department has arrested about 50 individuals for crimes ranging from looting to arson, including three suspects who were caught attempting to set fires in areas already ravaged by wildfires.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The causes of the major blazes, however, remain undetermined. One of the men who was arrested with a blowtorch in his hand turned out to be an illegal immigrant from Mexico. He was arrested and kept on violating his probation, so he's already been arrested before.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
While the Eaton and Palisades fires have shown minimal spread this week despite the red flag conditions, fire officials caution that the situation remains perilous. Firefighters and state officials are holding out hope that improved weather conditions forecast for Friday and Saturday could bring a measure of relief to the region and its residents.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
That is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 16 January. To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater from the podcast Politics by Faith and host of the morning show on Sirius XM Patriot. We'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay safe and spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office expressed optimism, signaling that although there are still some outstanding details in the framework, they're resolvable. In the initial six weeks of the three-phase agreement, Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, prioritizing women, children, the elderly, and the ill.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The hostages will be released incrementally, starting with three on the first day, followed by weekly releases until all 33 are freed. Israel believes the majority of these hostages are alive. President Joe Biden confirmed that American hostages would be among some of the first released during the initial six weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
However, questions remain over which of the seven known hostages, three presumed alive, will be included. Hamas is also required to provide updates on the hostages' status within the first week. According to NBC News, in exchange, Israel will release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners not implicated in the 7 October 2023 attacks. Also, I just want to be clear about that.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
33 Israelis for over a thousand Palestinians. Also under the first phase, Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from population centers. They will, however, remain in the Gaza-Egypt border, known as the Philadelphia corridor, and maintain a buffer zone inside Gaza. The dimensions of the buffer zone have yet to be determined.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Humanitarian aid will flow into Gaza through the Rafah Crossing, coordinated by Egypt, with hundreds of trucks expected to deliver relief daily to the 2.3 million residents, 90% of whom are displaced. The United Nations pledged to scale up aid delivery during this period.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
In remarks from the White House, Biden credited coordination with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, commending their shared commitment to the deal's success.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Trump, who in previous weeks had an unofficial deadline tied to his 20 January inauguration, praised the agreement on truth social, stating, quote, With this deal in place, my new national security team, through the efforts of Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will continue to work closely with Israel and our allies to make sure Gaza never again becomes a terrorist safe haven.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Negotiations for the second phase of the agreement are set to commence 16 days after the first phase is implemented. President Biden revealed this phase focuses on a permanent end to the war. In addition, this phase will see the release of the remaining Israeli hostages and the complete withdrawal of Jerusalem's forces from the Gaza Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The third and final phase, again, this is all as it's written right now, all subject to change, will address repatriating deceased hostages and launching a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
This international initiative, led by the United Nations, will reportedly span three to five years and include the rebuilding of homes, infrastructure, and providing compensation for affected individuals. Egypt, Qatar, and the United States will oversee the agreement's implementation to ensure compliance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The agreement follows 411 days of intense negotiations and represents the first significant stopping of violence since a week-long truce that expired back in December of 2023. While the ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for regional stability, its success hinges on unwavering adherence to the accord.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Thanks, Mike. It's Thursday, 16 January 2025. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
For now, the international community remains cautiously optimistic, recognizing that this fragile truce may serve as a foundation for enduring peace. Coming up next, Poland's prime minister accuses Russia of planning terrorist attacks targeting global airlines, and President Joe Biden lifts Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. All those stories when we get back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Today, we begin in the Middle East, where after 15 months of war and countless failed negotiations, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal that will pause fighting in Gaza and see the phased release of the hostages still being held in the battered enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Welcome back to the PDB. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. I want to turn to Eastern Europe, where Poland's leaders sound in the alarm on Russia's intensifying shadow war against Ukraine's Western allies. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk accused Russia on Wednesday of planning acts of sabotage across the world, including, quote, acts of airline terror.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
He leveled the bombshell accusation during a press conference alongside the Ukrainian President Zelensky, saying the Kremlin is covertly working to destabilize European nations and stoke paranoia in order to drive a wedge between Kiev and the West. Tusk said, quote, I will not go into details.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
I can only confirm the validity of fears that Russia was planning acts of air terror, not only against Poland, but against airlines around the world. While Tusk did not elaborate or point to a specific incident, he was likely in part referencing a plot by Russian agents first reported in early November to plant explosives aboard cargo planes bound for the U.S. and Canada.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
For some background here, back in July, two incendiary devices were shipped from Lithuania using the German logistics company DHL. They later exploded at the DHL logistics hub in Germany and Birmingham, England, kicking off a massive multi-country investigation into the cause.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The investigation led to the arrest of four suspects in Poland in October who were accused of being Russian agents and charged with sabotage or terrorist operations on behalf of a foreign intelligence agency. The Wall Street Journal subsequently reported that the events were part of a larger Russian plot authorized by the Kremlin's military intelligence agency, known as the GRU.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Western intelligence sources said the July incidents appeared to have been test runs designed to figure out how to get such incendiary devices aboard planes bound for North America. In the test runs, they used electric massagers implanted with a magnesium-based flammable substance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Once the Russians learned how to bypass air cargo screenings, they reportedly planned to expand the operation with the goal of igniting fires aboard cargo and passenger planes. Moscow, of course, has repeatedly denied any involvement in the DHL hub explosions. That's not a surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
We do know, however, that the Biden administration sent a warning to the Kremlin last summer, urging them to stop the operation during a mass casualty event should one of those packages explode in the air. The incident is just one example of the Putin regime's escalating belligerence as the war against Ukraine continues to grind on.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Later in the show, an update on the Putin regime's shadow war against the West as Poland's prime minister accuses Russia of planning terror attacks targeting global airlines. Plus, outgoing President Joe Biden stuns both Republicans and Democrats by lifting Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Russia has been waging a campaign of sabotage against allies of Ukraine across Europe since the war began, with the attacks increasing in 2024. Russia's hybrid warfare tactics involve arson attacks, espionage, cyber attacks, targeted assassinations, and the sabotage of critical infrastructure. It aims to spread panic among the European public and sow doubts about supporting Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Recently, Russia has been accused of sabotaging European transport infrastructure on multiple occasions, jamming GPS signals used by airliners in several Baltic countries. Moscow is also suspected of being behind increased attacks on critical communication infrastructure, such as undersea fiber optic cables.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Senior officials in Kiev have warned that Russia may soon escalate its hybrid warfare tactics beyond covert acts of sabotage, and that NATO must do more to deter Moscow's belligerence before it's too late.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Shifting gears, outgoing President Joe Biden may be headed for retirement come Monday, but his final days in office are proving to be intensely controversial among both Republicans and Democrats. Biden left supporters and critics in shock on Tuesday as he abruptly lifted Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism less than a week before he set to exit the Oval Office.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The move drew bipartisan condemnation as it undoes a host of longstanding sanctions aimed at Havana's communist government. Additionally, the Biden administration said they would be suspending a provision of the Helms-Burton Act, which allows Cuban exiles in the U.S. to file claims against Havana and seek financial compensation over seized assets.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Officials in the White House defended the decision, saying the conciliatory actions were made in deference to the Catholic Church, which has been negotiating the release of hundreds of political prisoners that remain in Cuban custody. They also claimed that Cuba has not provided any support for international terrorism over the past six months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
which they apparently feel is enough justification to remove Cuba from the terror sponsor list. Shortly after the White House announcement, Cuba's president said his government would gradually begin releasing 553 prisoners held on the island, though he said this was due to successful talks with leaders from the Vatican, not because of the Biden administration.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
In fact, Cuban officials criticized President Biden's actions as, quote, too little, too late. If President Biden was hoping to win praise from the American left, he was also gravely mistaken. The move is not sitting well with many from President Biden's own party, particularly Democrats in Florida, a state that hosts a large population of Cuban exiles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Sources close to Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Freed told Axios that she was blindsided and enraged by President Biden's decision. The Florida Democratic Party subsequently released a statement condemning the action and imploring the White House to reverse course.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Politically, they fear it will further alienate Latino voters in the state who have already been increasingly voting Republican in recent years. They make up the 19 percent of voters in Florida and are wary of Democrats espousing views that they see as sympathetic to the socialist regimes. Many of them fled.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
And in today's Back of the Brief, we'll have an update on the devastating wildfires burning around Los Angeles as powerful winds returned Wednesday, jeopardizing efforts to contain the blazes. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Representative Jared Moskowitz, a moderate Florida Democrat, told Axios that President Biden was, quote, literally sinking the Democratic Party in the state of Florida. He added, quote, Florida's a red state and Biden just waved the white flag of surrender.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Now, with President-elect Donald Trump set to be sworn into office on Monday, many expect him to simply reverse the Biden administration's decision and reimpose the existing sanctions. But a spokesman for Trump said the incoming administration would likely respond by imposing more aggressive sanctions, quote, with broader effects than last time.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
We should note the decision came on the eve of Florida Senator Marco Rubio's first confirmation hearing to be U.S. Secretary of State. Rubio, a Cuban-American who helped write Trump's Cuba sanctions in 2017, condemned the action during the hearing on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
He noted Cuba's ties to Iran and Venezuela, their support of guerrilla terrorist groups in South America, and friendly relations with Hamas and Hezbollah. Rubio stated at the confirmation here and quote, nothing that the Biden administration has agreed to in the last 12 or 18 hours binds the next administration, which starts on Monday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Coming up on the back of the brief, an update on the devastating wildfires burning around Los Angeles, where dangerously windy weather is complicating efforts to bring the blazes under control. Still more on that when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
A diplomatic breakthrough from the Middle East emerged on Wednesday as a ceasefire agreement to end the 15-month war between Israel and Hamas was finally achieved, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and of course the United States. Qatar's Prime Minister heralded the accord, describing the hard-won agreement as a pivotal first step towards peace.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. In today's Back of the Brief, thousands of Southern Californians remain on edge as powerful winds returned Wednesday, threatening to fuel the wildfires that have claimed at least 25 lives and reduced more than 12,000 structures to ash.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
The National Weather Service issued dire red flag warnings across Los Angeles County, calling the conditions, quote, a particularly dangerous situation. That's actually a higher rating than a red flag warning. It's yellow flag, orange flag, red flag, and they almost never issue the next flag. It's actually a purple flag. A particularly dangerous situation. That's what it's officially called.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
This is when the humidity is especially low and sustained winds are over 30 miles per hour. Gusts yesterday reached 55 miles per hour. Some residents face the harrowing prospect of immediate evacuation orders still. As of now, more than 82,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, while 94,000 fall under the umbrella of evacuation warnings. It means get ready to go.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Not to mention the horrible air quality right now of fires that have burned for a week. Despite the weather challenges, there was a glimmer of progress on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 16th, 2025: Israel, Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal In Gaza & Biden's Parting Gift To Cuba Angers Democrats
Firefighters seized a brief reprieve from the relentless winds and managed to contain nearly half of the Eaton Fire north of Los Angeles near Pasadena and encircle one-fifth of the Palisades Fire, which has left the affluent Pacific Palisade neighborhood in ruins. The fires, which ignited just over a week ago, rank among California's most catastrophic.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense, no middlemen, no mystery. It's just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness and rich marbling and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
German police have arrested three Ukrainian nationals suspected of plotting to mail explosives from Germany in a coordinated campaign to disrupt Western logistics networks. According to prosecutors, the plan involved sending booby-trapped packages from inside Germany to addresses in Ukraine, where they were designed to detonate during transit.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and frankly, your grill will thank you. In today's Back of the Brief, it's not often that you read a story about President Trump helping foreign nationals cross into the United States. But, well, here we are.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Mexico's top security official has confirmed that 17 family members of cartel leaders crossed into the U.S. last week as part of a deal between the Trump administration and the son of former Sinaloa cartel boss Joaquin El Chapo Guzman.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The security official said in a radio interview Tuesday that the family members of Ovidio Guzman Lopez, El Chapo's son, entered the country through Tijuana and were met by U.S. agents on the other side. Video footage shows the group calmly walking across the border with suitcases in hand. The move appears to be part of a cooperation agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Guzman Lopez, who was extradited to the US in 2023, has reportedly been negotiating a plea deal in exchange for information on rival cartel members. His attorney began those discussions back in January. According to the official, the fact that Guzman's relatives were allowed to enter the US without interference, despite their family ties, makes it evident that the Department of Justice cut a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
There you go. That's what we would refer to as a statement of the obvious. He also noted that Mexican authorities were not actively pursuing any of the family members at the time. As for the U.S. government, well, they've said very little publicly about the arrangement. But the same day this border crossing was confirmed, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Attorney's Office announced fresh charges against several cartel leaders, including narco-terrorism. Now, that's a designation being used for the first time since the Trump administration labeled cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon, speaking from the Southern District of California, didn't mention the family directly, but had a message for the rest of the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Quote, "...you are no longer the hunters, you are the hunted. You will be betrayed by your friends, hounded by your enemies, and ultimately find your face in a courtroom." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The movement of the family members indicates that the Trump administration does appear willing to make deals with cartel figures if it means flipping insiders, gaining intelligence, and bringing top-tier targets into U.S. courtrooms. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 15th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at bdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that, and you can do it very simply. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
And finally, if you could, take a minute out of your busy day to check out our YouTube channel, At President's Daily Brief. It's chock full of episodes, and it won't leave you with that gassy, bloated feeling that you get from so many of the other YouTube channels. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
It's Thursday, the 15th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with a foiled terror plot in the heart of Europe. German authorities say they've disrupted a Russian-backed sabotage operation designed to cripple Western logistics by setting packages on fire mid-flight. Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The suspects were detained in recent days in both Germany and Switzerland. Authorities alleged they were recruited by individuals, quote, presumed to be working for Russian state institutions and were preparing attacks on cargo transport systems in Germany.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Prosecutors say at least one of the suspects had already conducted a test run in late March, sending packages outfitted with GPS trackers from the city of Cologne. Officials say the plot was disrupted in its early stages, but the implications are serious because, well, as you know, at least if you're a regular listener to the PDB, this is not an isolated incident.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Just last year, Europe was rocked by a string of parcel bombings. In July, three devices exploded, one in Birmingham in the UK, one in Leipzig in Germany, and another near Warsaw in Poland. Each package had been sent through the same courier network and disguised to look like ordinary consumer goods. Adult toys and massage pillows, to be more specific. Ah, ordinary consumer goods.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Hmm, concealing explosives inside an adult toy. So many possible jokes. And yet, let's move on. Inside, investigators found timers made from cheap Chinese electronics, cosmetic tubes filled with flammable nitromethane gel, and wiring intended to trigger fires mid-flight. Western security officials quickly pointed the finger at Moscow, describing the attacks as part of a broader sabotage campaign.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
And they warned the consequences, well, could have been far worse, obviously. In at least one case, German authorities noted that a delayed flight may have saved lives. Had the device ignited on schedule, it could have brought down the aircraft.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
From train derailments to warehouse fires, Russian intelligence has been accused of waging a covert war across Europe, using third-party operatives, criminal proxies, and low-tech tools to create maximum disruption with minimal fingerprints. In France last year, fires broke out at multiple logistics hubs just weeks apart, including one that shut down a major Amazon distribution center near Lyon.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Investigators there suspect arson, with French intelligence reportedly linking the incidents to pro-Russian operatives acting on indirect orders. In Poland, authorities thwarted a sabotage attempt on the country's rail infrastructure, arresting individuals allegedly paid by Russian handlers to derail trains carrying NATO military equipment bound for Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Meanwhile, in the UK, MI5 and other agencies have reportedly been tracking a network of individuals tied to Russian intelligence who are believed to be behind a series of mysterious fires and break-ins at military-linked sites. The strategy appears to be simple but effective.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Sow chaos, raise insurance costs, erode confidence in Western infrastructure, and stretch the resources of security agencies. And the threat doesn't stop at Europe. US officials have quietly increased scrutiny of foreign packages arriving from Europe, especially after intelligence suggested the sabotage campaign could target transatlantic shipments.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
As for this latest plot, authorities aren't yet sure if any additional packages made it into the mail stream. As a public service announcement, if you do receive any adult toys in the mail, be sure to give them the once-over. Investigations are ongoing, and prosecutors say more arrests could follow. Now, Russia, for its part, and here's a surprise, denies any involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
But the pattern is becoming harder to ignore. Moscow is leveraging deniable assets to wage a covert war, not on militaries, but on civilians and civilian supply chains. All right, coming up after the break, the EU hits Russia with fresh sanctions ahead of ceasefire talks, and President Trump lands a $200 billion jet deal with Qatar during his Middle East visit. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me tell you about a great company that's out there that could help you with your online security, and that's important, right? DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online, well, at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Later in the show, the European Union just approved a new round of sanctions on Russia, warning that even tougher measures are coming if Putin won't agree to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the U.S. and its allies. Or, and this is just a thought, how about you start with the tougher measures? Plus, Trump gets another deal during his swing through the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
It's easier than ever, you know this, to find personal information about people online. And having your address, your phone number, your family member's names hanging out on the internet, well, it can have actual consequences in the real world. And have you ever been a victim of identity theft, harassment, or doxing? Well, if you haven't, I suspect you probably know someone who has.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
And Delete.me can help. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. And now we have a special discount for PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan by texting PDB to 64000. The only way to get that 20% off, of course, is just to text PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The European Union reached a preliminary agreement on what would be its 17th sanctions package against Russia, warning it will be formally enacted if the Kremlin continues to reject the White House's proposed 30-day ceasefire. The thinking being, I suppose, well, the first 16 sanctions packages didn't work, so maybe the 17th will be the charm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the agreement, sealed Wednesday by EU ambassadors, is the culmination of a week-long pressure campaign, including a Monday deadline set by Germany for the Kremlin to respond to Washington's overture. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared, quote, this war has to end. We will keep the pressure high.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The proposed sanctions once again take aim at Russia's so-called shadow fleet. That's a network of aging, uninsured oil tankers deployed to skirt, avoid Western export controls, as well as individuals and firms tied to Moscow's defense and illicit procurement networks. The full package is expected to get the green light from EU foreign ministers next week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
According to the Commission, 189 additional vessels will be added to the EU's blacklist of 153 tankers already barred from European ports and services, bringing the total to over 340. These ships, EU officials say, have engaged in deceptive practices, cutting transponders, faking shipping data, and quietly transferring cargo at sea.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
As our listeners will recall, EU officials have stated that some of the vessels are now under investigation for suspected sabotage against critical European infrastructure, including the suspected sabotage of internet cables in the Baltic Sea. But the sanctions reach far beyond maritime assets.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The package also includes a ban on EU-origin chemicals that could be repurposed for missile production and a fresh blacklist of 75 individuals and over 30 companies. Among the firms named are entities operating out of Kazakhstan, Serbia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and the UAE.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Countries that European investigators believe are helping Moscow procure dual-use components in defiance of previous rounds of sanctions. The move comes as Ukrainian President Zelensky is slated to meet with Russian officials in Istanbul sometime today for direct peace talks in a format endorsed by President Trump. Whether Russian President Putin will attend remains uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
In the latest show of economic diplomacy, Qatar has signed a $200 billion agreement to buy 160 Boeing jets, which begs the question, do they have enough parking spaces for 160 jets? And in today's back of the brief, Mexico's top security official confirms that 17 family members of high profile cartel leaders recently crossed into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Zelensky made his position clear, warning that if Putin, quote, does not arrive and instead plays games, it's the final point that he does not want to end the war, end quote. For European diplomats, the message is just as direct. Officials in Brussels have tied final approval of the 17th package of sanctions to whether Moscow takes the ceasefire offer seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
On Tuesday, a Commission spokesman confirmed that, quote, in the absence of a ceasefire, we are indeed looking into further sanctions, end quote. Earlier this week, French President Emmanuel Macron went even further, suggesting that the West is prepared to broaden the pressure campaign to Russia's energy and financial sectors.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Macron made it clear, "...our objective is to achieve a 30-day ceasefire on land, air, and sea to discuss the issue of territories and security guarantees." While the current draft cleared the ambassadorial level without major objections, it now faces a more formidable test next week when foreign ministers must approve the measures unanimously. That hurdle has proven problematic in the past.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Hungary, a vocal critic of efforts to isolate Moscow, has delayed or threatened to derail multiple rounds of sanctions, especially those touching on oil and gas. Although Budapest offered no resistance this time, officials remain wary that its opposition could return in the enactment process.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
For now, though, the 17th package of sanctions stands as a calibrated pressure campaign designed to force Moscow's hand. Should the ceasefire be rejected, EU leaders are already preparing the ground for an even broader sanctions offensive against Russia's war economy. Okay, turning to President Trump's ongoing Gulf State diplomacy tour.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The president secured another major win, this time with a landmark $96 billion aircraft deal between Boeing and Qatar Airways. The agreement is part of more than $1 trillion in accords aimed at deepening U.S.-Qatar defense, trade, and energy ties. The deal, unveiled during Trump's visit to Doha, the first ever by a sitting U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
president, includes 160 wide-body aircraft with purchase options for another 50, making it the largest jet order in Boeing's history. How about that? It also stands as the biggest widebody engine sale on record for General Electric Aerospace, which manufactures the aircraft's engines. The order spans Boeing's next-gen 777X and the 787 Dreamliner models.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Trump and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani presided over the signing ceremony at the Royal Palace, flanked by the CEOs of Boeing and Qatar Airways. The president called the agreement a, quote, new level in bilateral relations and praised the emir as a, quote, outstanding man.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Although the 777X remains central to the agreement, the aircraft is, well, still in development and not expected to enter commercial service until at least 2026. That is about six years behind its original schedule. But the Boeing order, well, that was just the opening act.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Trump and the emir inked a broader portfolio of high-dollar agreements covering defense procurement, energy infrastructure, and joint ventures in tech and logistics. According to the White House, the total value of signed and pending deals exceeds $1.2 trillion, including over $243 billion in finalized contracts.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Among the highlights is a $2 billion agreement for U.S.-built unmanned aerial systems, a $1 billion counter-drone package from Raytheon, and a $38 billion statement of intent for joint investment projects aimed at strengthening regional air and maritime defense. Much of those investments will bolster U.S. operations at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
That's the largest American military installation in the Middle East. Trump's visit to Qatar marked the second leg of his Gulf tour, following Tuesday's multibillion-dollar defense and energy agreements with Saudi Arabia. The president is expected to wrap up his trip today in Abu Dhabi, where talks with the UAE president will center again on investment for deepening ties with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
as part of a deal struck between the Trump administration and the son of a former Sinaloa cartel boss. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We begin today with a foiled terrorist plot in Europe, one that German officials say bears all the hallmarks of a Russian state-sponsored sabotage effort.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
While commerce dominated the itinerary, Trump and the Qatari emir discussed escalating flashpoints in the region, chief among them, of course, Iran's nuclear program. Trump reiterated his commitment to his administration's maximum pressure sanctions strategy against the Iranian regime, stating, quote, I have a feeling it's going to work out.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The historic visit culminated in a state dinner at Lucille Palace, where Trump praised the Qatari hosts for their, quote, unbelievable splendor and warmth. The president called the trip a, quote, milestone in a new era of U.S.-Qatari relations. He called the series of deals a decisive win for American industry, diplomacy, and strategic positioning in the Gulf.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, over a dozen Mexicans cross the U.S. southern border into America, but this time with the blessing of the Trump administration. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, you may have heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations. It's going to be held in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
The bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia, India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as global currency. That's right. And they're calling this the Rio Reset. That's a catchy title. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
And while the transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how can you protect your hard-earned dollar savings? I'll tell you. One way is to check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. It's that simple. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers. Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before the July real reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
Again, just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me take just a few seconds of your time to talk about an important subject, right? Eating smart, eating healthy. And a big part of that effort, and you know this probably, I'm sure, is knowing where your food comes from, right? Knowing how your food is raised and how it's handled.
The President's Daily Brief
May 15th, 2025: Russian Terror Plot Foiled In Germany & Trump Lands A Deal In Qatar
After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, I guarantee you somebody else will, and that somebody will likely be some large faceless corporation. Now, also, if you're a fan of beef like I am, I'm about to tell you something really good. This is where you can go to turn for the highest quality beef. And, of course, I'm talking about a great business called Tri-Tales Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Putin said that while Russia agrees with the proposal for a ceasefire in principle, well, there are nuances and also serious issues that still need to be resolved before the process can move forward. Everything from nuances to serious issues, that pretty much covers the whole spectrum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
It's Thursday, the 13th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Leading off, U.S. officials have arrived in Moscow to try and sell the Kremlin on a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. But Russian President Putin, well, he's already pushing back on the proposal, saying that it does not go far enough.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
He listed a number of these issues, including resolving the Ukrainian incursion in Russia's Kursk region and a clear plan for the West on how they plan to enforce the ceasefire and monitor potential violations. Putin said, quote, the idea itself is good and we, of course, support it, but there are questions we have to discuss, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
He suggested there would need to be additional negotiations to resolve these outstanding issues with the U.S. and U.S. allies and hinted at holding a phone call with President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Putin's response came as Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, arrived in Moscow to meet with the Russian leader and other Kremlin officials to try to move the needle on the ceasefire, though by all accounts, he does have his work cut out for him.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Meanwhile, President Trump quickly responded to Putin's press conference, telling reporters at the White House that Putin's remarks were, quote, promising, but, quote, incomplete. and that he was willing to speak with the Russian strongman to secure a ceasefire deal. Trump added, quote, Hopefully Russia will do the right thing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Now, Putin's remarks echoed those made earlier in the day by his chief foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, who essentially dismissed the U.S. brokered proposal, saying it would give nothing to Russia while allowing Ukraine to regroup at a time when Kyiv's military is on the back foot. It's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
He told Russian state television, quote, This is nothing other than a temporary respite for the Ukrainian military, nothing more. It only gives the Ukrainians an opportunity to gain strength and to continue the same thing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Ushkov added, quote, our goal is a long-term peaceful settlement that takes into account the legitimate interests of our country and our well-known concerns, end quote. Yes, they're all about peace. As we've been tracking on the show, Moscow's forces have been engaged in a renewed counteroffensive in recent days aimed at recapturing the Russian Kursk region from Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Ukrainian forces are losing ground fast, now controlling less than 60 square miles in Kursk, down from the roughly 500 square miles of territory that they held last year. Putin even visited the region on Wednesday, calling for the total expulsion of Ukrainian troops from the territory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
On Thursday, Russia claimed to have recaptured Sudzha, that's a key town in Kursk, and one of Ukraine's last strongholds in the region. given the momentum of his military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
It appears that Putin feels he has the stronger negotiating hand when it comes to these potential peace talks and will likely not agree to any deal that doesn't address his long-term security objectives and reflect Moscow's battlefield gains. These include demands for Ukraine to renounce their pursuit of NATO membership and withdraw from four Russian-occupied regions in eastern Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Those are demands that leaders in Kyiv strongly oppose. While President Trump appears eager to continue engaging with the Kremlin, he indicated on Wednesday that he is prepared to exert financial pressure to force Moscow to the table if need be. Trump said, quote, I could do things financially that would be very bad for Russia. I don't want to do that because I want to get peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
But in a financial sense, yes, we could do things that are very bad for Russia. It would be devastating for Russia, end quote. Now, it's unclear at this stage what sanctions the White House may be referring to and how they would be enforced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Over the past three years, Moscow has managed to avoid the worst effects of existing sanctions through the support and input from primarily China, Iran, and North Korea. Okay, coming up next, the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen are once again threatening to resume attacks on Israeli ships operating in regional waters. I'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
I know, it's shocking that Putin wouldn't just quickly agree to a ceasefire when he believes he has the upper hand and Kyiv isn't holding any cards. Later in the show, as the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen once again threaten to resume attacks on Israeli ships,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. A source with Yemen's Houthi rebels say the terror group is taking extreme measures to safeguard its leader as he and his Iran-backed organization renewed threats this week to target Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea via missile and drone strikes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Last week, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi had set a four-day ultimatum warning that naval operations against Israel would resume unless Jerusalem lifted its blockade on aid shipments into Gaza. Well, that deadline has now expired. On Wednesday, al-Houthi made good on his threat, announcing in a speech that the terror group would escalate attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has been clear. Assistance to Gaza will remain restricted unless Hamas agrees to extend the current ceasefire terms under conditions favorable to a lasting peace. But for the Houthis, the blockade is a provocation, one that they view as a violation of previous agreements.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
In a statement to Newsweek, a Houthi source doubled down on the group's stance, stating, quote, a siege for a siege until the siege on Gaza is lifted, end quote. However, the Houthis in the past held a loose definition of what constitutes an Israeli ship, suggesting that other vessels could be targeted as well. The threat of Israeli retaliation does loom large.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Netanyahu's government has already issued warnings with Israeli energy minister Eli Cohen previously suggesting al-Khouti could suffer the same fate as the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah leaders who have been assassinated. But the Houthis appear unfazed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
According to the source, the terror group is bracing for the possibility of Israeli strikes, acknowledging the risk and stating, quote, as for targeting leaders and the policy of assassinations, we are proceeding with extreme caution. Yet the source added that simultaneously, the terror group is prepared to make sacrifices and not turn away.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Since Hamas launched its terror attacks on Israel back on 7 October, 2023, the Houthis entrenched themselves within Iran's axis of resistance. Since 7 October, they've carried out more than 100 attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea and Suez Canal, one of the world's most vital maritime corridors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Houthi strikes have rattled global trade, of course, driven up shipping costs, and disrupted supply chains, with implications far beyond the Middle East. Unlike Hamas and Hezbollah, which suffered heavy senior leadership losses under Israeli bombardment, the Houthis have largely weathered American and Israeli airstrikes, and this resilience, well, has only heightened U.S. concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
The group is taking heightened measures to safeguard their leader from suffering the same fate as the leadership of Hezbollah and Hamas. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. U.S. officials are in Moscow today to make a direct appeal to Russian leaders to agree to a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine, but the talks may be doomed before they even get underway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Just last week, as we reported here on the PDB, Secretary of State Marco Rubio formally designated the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization. And that's a move underscoring Washington's alarm over the group's expanding military reach and growing influence in the region. For the Houthis, this latest confrontation could bring them into even greater conflict with the West.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Trump has demonstrated his willingness, of course, to target top adversaries, as seen in his first term with the 2020 drone strike that killed Iranian Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani. Now, with tensions mounting, both President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu may be weighing similar action against Houthi leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 13th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, it's very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
As we noted on this morning's PDB, Kremlin officials appeared less than enthused about the recent U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine endorsed by leaders in Kyiv, though they had yet to issue a formal response, saying they wanted to hear more details from the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 13th, 2025: Putin Pours Cold Water On Ceasefire Hopes & Houthis Threaten To Resume Attacks On Israeli Vessels
Well, on Thursday, Russian President Putin gave a press conference where he said Moscow would not agree to an immediate end to the fighting in Ukraine, instead advocating for a deal that leads to a, quote, lasting peace and the elimination of the root causes of the war, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. But wait, I thought Russia was the root cause of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
While some passengers managed to flee during the chaos, the BLA took hundreds hostage, reportedly threatening to blow up the train with a rocket launcher if the hostages did not comply. From there, the details of the standoff become, well, muddy. Reporters said this is partly due to the poor cell phone service in the remote area where the attack occurred.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Some reports said the Pakistani army managed to rescue 168 hostages on Tuesday, though the circumstances of their recovery remain unclear. Another 178 hostages were reportedly rescued on Wednesday, though these numbers also vary depending on the report.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The BLA had threatened to start executing the remaining hostages within 48 hours unless authorities met their demands for the release of Baluch political prisoners and activists. The military responded by mobilizing hundreds of troops, including members of their special forces, and deploying their air force to provide reconnaissance.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
President Trump's trade war is once again escalating as allies retaliate, and the president threatens new tariffs, sparking fears that a global recession could be looming. As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, the Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum from Canada and all other U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
During their final rescue operation, Pakistani special forces reportedly stormed the train, first taking out the suicide bombers, before moving from carriage to carriage, killing all the remaining militants.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Prior to the announcement of the final rescue operation, the BLA claimed Wednesday to have executed as many as 50 hostages and killed 50 others, including Pakistani soldiers, while engaging in firefights over the course of the two-day standoff. But the Pakistani army put the death toll much lower, saying 21 hostages and four security troops were killed as a result of the hijacking.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Neither account could be independently confirmed by The Washington Post or The New York Times. For some context, militant attacks in the Balochistan province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, have surged by more than 80 percent over the past year. The BLA is the largest of several ethnic armed groups currently fighting the government.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Their grievances include rampant poverty and neglect by the government, and they've been demanding a larger share of the wealth produced by regional mines and mineral deposits. Pakistani officials say the train attack was orchestrated by terror leaders operating out of Afghanistan and urged the Taliban to crack down on their operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
So far, the Taliban-led government in Kabul has not commented on the incident. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 13th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Now, if you love the PDB, but you've always wondered what it would be like to have it without ads, well, you can make that bucket list item happen simply by becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
It's Thursday, the 13th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start off with tariffs and the trade war. Perhaps you've heard about it. Well, the trade war is now escalating worldwide as Canada hits the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
trading partners on Wednesday over what the president argues are severe trade imbalances with U.S. allies that are undercutting American businesses and workers. Just hours after the new levies took effect, Canada struck back by imposing a 25% reciprocal tariff on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
steel and aluminum products, as well as on machine tools, computers and servers, display monitors, sports equipment, and cast iron products. In total, Canada's retaliatory economic measures cover some $20 billion worth of American goods, and that's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The economic tit-for-tat promises to have far-reaching consequences for the price of everyday goods, as Canada serves as the largest foreign supplier of steel and aluminum to the U.S. Last year, the U.S. imported some 3.2 million tons of aluminum from Canada, valued at roughly $16 billion and roughly $20 billion worth of steel.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Canada's finance minister, Dominique LeBlanc, issued a condemnation of President Trump's tariff blitzkrieg, which began in earnest last week, saying, quote, We will not stand idly by while our iconic steel and aluminum industries are being unfairly targeted, end quote. Shortly after Canada hit back, officials in the European Union announced their own economic retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the 27-member bloc would impose counter-tariffs on $28 billion worth of U.S. goods beginning on the 1st of April, which will cover a laundry list of items, including American beef, poultry, bourbon, bourbon, seriously, not a tariff on bourbon, motorcycles, peanut butter, and jeans.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
If implemented, the tariffs will cost impacted companies billions of dollars, a financial hit that they'll most likely pass along to consumers in the form of higher prices in both the U.S. and EU. We should note, however, that these products account for a relatively small portion of the giant EU-U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
commercial relationship, though the liquor industry warned that their sector will suffer, quote, devastating financial consequences. von der Leyen said Wednesday, quote, we deeply regret this measure. Tariffs are taxes. They're bad for business and even worse for consumers, end quote. But she stressed that the EU is eager to resume trade negotiations with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
to find a mutually beneficial solution and avoid further economic retaliation. von der Leyen added, quote, We firmly believe that in a world fraught with geopolitical and economic uncertainties, it's not in our common interest to burden our economies with tariffs, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU endorsed her sentiments, urging the Trump administration to de-escalate and find a negotiated outcome as soon as possible. They said the intensifying tariff war will only serve to hurt consumers and stifle job growth on both sides of the Atlantic. But President Trump, well, doesn't appear to be in a conciliatory mood.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
He quickly hit back on Wednesday, threatening even more duties if the EU follows through with their tariffs come the first of April. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, quote, whatever they charge us, we're charging them, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
with a 25% reciprocal tariff on steel and aluminum products, while the European Union vows to raise tariffs on up to $28 billion worth of U.S. goods. It's a veritable tariff palooza. Later in the show, the Kremlin has issued their first response to a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Britain was the only outlier in this tariff tit-for-tat, and note that I have used the term tit-for-tat twice now in today's PDB, as they take a more cautious approach to the escalating trade war, according to a report from the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Wednesday that while he was disappointed by Trump's steel and aluminum tariffs, he does not plan to retaliate just yet, instead advocating for a more pragmatic response. He said he was hoping to negotiate a new trade deal with the Trump administration that includes tariff exemptions to avoid any potential economic fallout.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Still, he stressed that the UK will, quote, keep all options on the table. Zooming out, the uncertainty over tariffs is raising fears about the looming risk of recession. A stock sell-off since the beginning of March has wiped out nearly all the gains made in the aftermath of Trump's victory in the November presidential election. And J.P.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Morgan's chief economist recently revised their economic forecast, warning this week that there is now a 40% chance of a U.S. recession occurring sometime this year. But not everyone is feeling so glum about the economic outlook. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
steel producers celebrated Trump's new tariffs, saying it will give a much-needed boost to domestic steel manufacturing, create jobs, and close a system of exemptions that have long allowed foreign producers to avoid tariffs. All right, coming up next, the Kremlin has issued their first response to a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
And British authorities have arrested the Russian captain of a cargo ship involved in a collision with a U.S.-flagged tanker full of jet fuel in the North Sea. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
As Washington pushes for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, the Kremlin remains noncommittal, saying they're waiting for further details from the U.S., while making it clear that any agreement must reflect Moscow's recent battlefield gains and broader security concerns. As we've tracked here on the PDB, this proposal comes as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
reversed its stance on military aid to Ukraine, agreeing on Tuesday to resume weapons shipments and intelligence sharing after Kiev consented to the temporary ceasefire arrangement during negotiations in Saudi Arabia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The White House confirmed that National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has since spoken with his Russian counterpart about the proposal, with the Kremlin now reviewing the outcome of the Saudi talks. Speaking to reporters in Ireland on Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio laid out his vision for an immediate ceasefire, saying, quote, End quote. And you know what? I'd like a pony.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that they're waiting for details from the Trump administration, while stressing that their territorial gains must be addressed as part of any deal. Plus, the captain of a cargo ship involved in a catastrophic collision with a U.S. flag tanker in the North Sea has been arrested by British authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
But none of that wishful thinking is going to come to anything unless Moscow decides it's in their best interests to sit down at the negotiating table. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplayed American speculation that Moscow would seek to tie a ceasefire to sanctions relief, but emphasized that Russia would first assess, quote, detailed information from U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
officials before issuing a formal response. Rubio underscored the need for European involvement in any future security framework for Ukraine, stating that Washington alone could not provide the necessary guarantees to satisfy all parties. He added that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
was hoping for a positive response, but if the answer from Russia is no, then it would reveal a lot, he said, about the Kremlin's true intentions. Really? Is there a mystery surrounding the Kremlin's true intentions? I thought they made their intentions pretty clear when they invaded Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Rubio's remarks track with broader discussions among European leaders about long-term security arrangements for Ukraine. British Defense Minister John Healey recently told reporters that accelerated work on building a, quote, coalition of the willing from Europe and beyond to support Ukraine is ongoing.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
France's defense minister also confirmed that roughly 15 countries are currently exploring new security commitments as part of the evolving framework. Back in Washington, President Trump told reporters that he had received, quote, positive messages regarding a potential truce, but he declined to elaborate.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Ukrainian forces appear to be losing ground in Russia's Kursk region. The Kremlin claimed further advances on Wednesday as Russian President Putin visited the region. It was his first visit since Ukrainian troops captured it in August of 2024. During Putin's visit, he called for the complete defeat of Kiev's troops in Kursk.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Independent Russian media analyzing Ukrainian open source maps reported that Ukraine now controls less than 60 square miles in Kursk. That's an area smaller than Washington, D.C. And it's a dramatic drop from the over 530 square miles that they held just last year. The shifting front lines are likely to factor heavily into Russia's negotiating posture. And by that, I mean they will factor heavily.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
A senior Russian official told Reuters that Putin would struggle to sign off on any ceasefire without specific security assurances. Putin has long dismissed ceasefires as temporary fixes, instead pushing for a broader settlement with binding guarantees.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
In June, he outlined demands requiring Ukraine to renounce NATO membership and withdraw from four Russian-occupied regions, conditions that Kiev has categorically rejected as illegitimate territorial claims. Putin has also insisted that Ukraine shrink its military and has stated that he will not approve of any EU or international peacekeeping troops inside Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
While Washington and Kyiv weigh the possibility of a short-term truce, Moscow's battlefield calculus and sweeping demands suggest that a durable peace deal remains, at best, a questionable prospect. Okay, shifting to the North Sea. A cargo ship, captained by a Russian national, collided earlier this week with a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
flag tanker, setting both vessels ablaze and triggering national security concerns due to the ship's history of failed safety inspections. Now, here's the background. On Monday, the Portuguese-flagged Salong cargo ship slammed into the Stena Immaculate, that's a nearly 600-foot U.S.-registered tanker, while it was anchored about 10 miles off the English coast.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The tanker, by the way, was loaded to the gills with U.S. military jet fuel. A criminal investigation has been opened and the captain, a Russian national, is being probed for manslaughter over the deadly incident.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The tanker, again, was anchored, not moving, just bobbing there, all 600 feet of it. Now, I'm not a ship's captain, but you would think it might not be that hard to avoid hitting an anchored 600-foot tanker. And on board the Stena Immaculate? Well, 220,000 barrels of aviation fuel designated for U.S. military operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The impact triggered a fireball that engulfed both vessels, forcing the British Coast Guard into a large-scale rescue operation. While responders managed to extinguish the flames on the Stena Immaculate by Tuesday, the Salong remained ablaze until Wednesday afternoon.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
One Salon crew member is presumed dead after search efforts were called off on Monday, while the remaining 13 crew members were rescued, alongside all 23 that were aboard the Stena Immaculate. In the wake of the disaster, British police arrested the Salong's 59-year-old captain on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Yeah, gross negligence would seem to fit, though formal charges have yet to be filed. Ernest Russ, the German company that owns the vessel, confirmed that the captain is a Russian national, while the ship's 14-person crew was composed of Russian and Filipino nationals.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
While British authorities have stated there's no immediate evidence of foul play, the incident is under heightened scrutiny due to the Stena Immaculate's role in U.S. military logistics. Managed by U.S. firm Crowley, the vessel is part of the Pentagon's tanker security program. It's a fleet of commercial ships contracted to supply fuel for the military during times of need.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
And here's where it gets even more troubling. Port inspection records show that the Salong was a ticking time bomb. A July inspection in Dublin flagged multiple steering-related deficiencies, including unreadable emergency steering position communications and faulty compass readings. Again, not a ship captain, but you would think that steering and navigational tools would seem to be important.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Ten deficiencies were sighted, ranging from defective fire doors to malfunctioning alarms. A follow-up inspection in Scotland in October uncovered additional issues, yet the ship was still allowed to operate. That history is now central to the investigation. Experts are questioning how, in an era of advanced navigation technology, such a catastrophic collision could even occur.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
And in today's Back of the Brief, hundreds of hostages have been freed by Pakistani security forces after separatist militants wearing suicide vests hijacked a passenger train on Tuesday in an attack that left dozens of people dead. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Martin Boyers, chief executive of a neighboring port, called the crash inexplicable, telling CNN, "...it seems a mystery. All the vessels now have very highly sophisticated technical equipment to plot courses and to look at any obstacles or anything they've got to avoid." The UK's Marine Accident Investigation Branch is leading the probe, working alongside American and Portuguese authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, hundreds of hostages have been freed by Pakistani security forces after separatist militants wearing suicide vests hijacked a passenger train on Tuesday in an attack that left dozens of people dead. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
In today's Back of the Brief, we take you to Pakistan, where security forces stormed a train on Wednesday that had been hijacked the previous day by separatist militants, killing all 33 attackers and ending a deadly two-day hostage standoff.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
The train came under siege on Tuesday in the isolated mountains of the country's Balochistan province by dozens of members of the Baloch Liberation Army, or the BLA.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
Officials described it as one of the deadliest militant assaults Pakistan has seen in years, claiming the lives of at least 21 hostages and four security soldiers, though we should stress that due to the remote location, casualty reports currently vary widely.
The President's Daily Brief
March 13th, 2025: Global Tariff War Escalates & Russia Responds To US Ceasefire Proposal
According to a report from Reuters, on Tuesday, the BLA militants blew up the railway tracks with rockets and began firing on the train, the Jafar Express, which was carrying more than 400 passengers, including at least 150 members of Pakistan's security forces. After forcing the train to a stop, dozens of militants wearing suicide vests stormed the train.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Der Angriff kommt nur einen Tag vor, bevor US-Vizepräsident J.D. Vance, ukrainischer Präsident Zelensky und andere fremde Führer sich an einer großen Sicherheitskonferenz in dieser Stadt treffen. Das ist ein Bericht aus dem Wall Street Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Der Anwalt, ein 24-jähriger afghanischer Asylbeherr, der offensichtlich von der Polizei bekannt war, wurde schnell von lokalen Offizieren verhaftet, die beruflich einen Schuss in sein Auto getötet haben, bevor sie ihn in Behandlung genommen haben. Während die Details des Anwaltes immer noch vorliegen, haben die Offiziere gesagt, dass mindestens 28 Menschen verletzt wurden, insbesondere Kinder.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Ambulanzen sind auf die Szene gestiegen und die Offiziere sagten, dass mindestens zwei der Verletzten in kritischer Situation sind. While authorities don't believe the attack is connected to Friday's Munich Security Conference, it occurred just one mile from an upscale hotel in central Munich that is hosting the event.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
The US Secret Service released a statement saying that there was no, quote, protective impact to the Vice President, but noted that they are closely monitoring the heightened security situation. The suspect, whose name has not been released, had recently had his asylum claim rejected and was on a watch list for his connections to theft and drug offenses. The attack unfolded just after 10.30 a.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
local time in Germany, when the Afghan man overtook a police vehicle and accelerated a Mini Cooper vehicle into the back of the crowd, which was gathered there for a union rally. Bavarian Governor Marcus Schoder said, quote, this is simply terrible, that once again someone rammed their car into a group of people, there are a lot of injured, and then he said it's a slap in the face, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
The incident comes as Germany still reels from a car-ramming attack on a Christmas market by a Saudi national in December that killed six individuals and left nearly 300 injured. It also comes less than a month after German police arrested an Afghan man suspected of killing two people, including a two-year-old, in a stabbing attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
The latest attack is likely to have significant repercussions for Germany's general election, which is now just 10 days away. Due to the recent episodes of migrant violence, immigration of course has emerged as a major focal point in the race.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who is not expected to be re-elected, attempted to take a hardline stance at a campaign stop on Thursday, saying that the driver involved in this latest attack, quote, must be punished and he must leave the country, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
But many in Germany feel their leaders have completely failed on the issue of unchecked migration and are now turning to either the far-right Alternative for Germany Party, which has been surging in the polls of late, or the conservative Christian Democrat Union of Germany Party, or CDU, which currently has a 10-point lead in the race.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Friedrich Merz, the CDU's leader and frontrunner to become the next chancellor, Er sagte am Montag, dass die Sicherheit der Menschen in Deutschland unsere Hauptpriorität sein wird. Jeder muss sich in unserem Land wieder sicher fühlen. Etwas muss in Deutschland verändern. Kommen wir zum nächsten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Hamas regiert, die Erlösung von Hostagen in Gaza zu beenden, wie geplant, erscheinend eine große Begründung zu lösen, die mit Israel den fragilen Zerstörer zerstört hat. Ich habe diese Details nach der Pause. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand. As a business owner, I have seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
With endless receipts, approvals and expense tracking slowing everything down. Well, that's where RAMP comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, well, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend some 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. Think about that. Think how ineffective that is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Well, RAMP changes that, freeing up your time to focus on forecasting, growth and high-impact decisions. Making the switch is effortless. Look, over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp. And it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Es ist Donnerstag, der 13. Februar. Willkommen bei der BDB Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst. Ein afghanischer Migrant hat vor dem Freitag vor der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz in Deutschland einen erwarteten Terrorattack vorgelegt, die mindestens 28 Menschen verletzt hat, insbesondere Kinder.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Once again, That's ramp.com.pdb. Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC. And as they say, terms and conditions apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
After days of uncertainty, Hamas announced Thursday that it would proceed with releasing Israeli hostages according to the previously agreed timeline, backtracking on threats to suspend a core stipulation of the ceasefire agreement amid escalating tensions with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
The reversal followed threats from President Trump that he would let, quote, all hell break out in Gaza and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's vow to resume, quote, intense fighting if Hamas failed to comply. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Israeli military reservists have begun massing along the border in anticipation of a possible breakdown of the agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Earlier this week, the Iran-backed terror group accused Israel of violating the terms of the three-week-old ceasefire by not allowing aid into the enclave. The terror group declared it would withhold hostages in response.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
However, in a statement published on its website, Hamas has a website, Hamas announced that it would, quote, continue its position of implementing the agreement and release three hostages on Saturday. Dieser Schiff folgte dem, was Hamas als positive Diskussionen mit Katar und Ägypten beschrieben hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Zwei wichtige Mediator, die natürlich die initiale Ausstattung gebrochert haben, die im Januar mehr als 15 Monate nach der Kriegsparty durchgeführt wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Hamas' Hauptanforderung an die Mediator in Kairo war, für erhöhte humanitären Hilfe, insbesondere zusätzliche Schelter, medizinische Versorgung, Feuer und schweres Equipment für die Entfernung von Ruhe, die Ressourcen, die Mediator gefordert haben, zu bieten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Israel has not immediately responded to Hamas' latest statement, but the group's decision to move forward with the hostage releases could help maintain the fragile truce, at least for now. The larger question remains whether the ceasefire will hold beyond its first phase, which is set to conclude in early March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
No substantive negotiations have taken place regarding the second phase, which would require Hamas to release all remaining living hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Dieser Perspektiv ist bereits von Netanyahus Hardline-Alliys, die argumentieren, dass militärische Operationen völlig auslösen müssen, um Hamas auszulösen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Bis jetzt sind 73 israelische Flüchtlinge in Gefängnis, obwohl rund halb davon glaubt, tot zu sein ist. Das, was die Situation weiter unangenehm macht, ist Trumps Vorschlag, Gaza's 2-Millionen-plus-Besitzer zu entfernen und sie in anderen Ländern zu versetzen. Das ist ein Plan, der sowohl Palästinenser als auch arabische Nationen stark verteidigt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Aber Netanyahus Koalition hat die Idee verabschiedet, es als notwendigen Schritt zu bewegen, um Israel's langfristige Sicherheit zu sichern. Trump hat gefordert, dass der Einsatz von reichen arabischen Staaten finanziert wird, um einen Nachkriegs-Szenario zu erwischen, in dem Israel die Kontrolle von Gaza mit den USA übernimmt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Egypt has signaled a willingness to engage with Trump on a broader peace initiative. In a statement Tuesday, the Egyptian foreign ministry pledged to work toward a, quote, comprehensive and just peace in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Cairo is now preparing to host an emergency Arab summit on 27 February, after President Trump extended an open invitation to the Egyptian president to discuss the matter at the White House. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 13 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments for me, and I hope you do, please reach out at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Später im Show macht Hamas auf ihre Anstrengungen, die nächsten Auslösungen der Flüchtlinge abzulehnen, um das fragilste Feuerwerk in Gaza wieder auf den Weg zu bringen. Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittagspotlight. Terror hat sich wieder einmal im Herzen Deutschlands getroffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
And as always, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Very simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Vielen Dank.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 13th, 2025: Another Terror Attack In Germany & Hamas Agrees To Resume Hostage Releases
Fast 30 Menschen wurden am Dienstagmorgen verletzt, als ein afghanischer Migrant ein Auto durch eine Gruppe in München rammte, in dem, was die Behörden bezeichnen, als eine erwartete Angriff. Echt? Ein afghanischer Migrant fährt sein Auto durch eine Gruppe in München und die Behörden glauben, dass es ein Angriff sein könnte. Gute Arbeit, Poirot.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Gabbard, eine ehemalige demokratische Bundeskanzlerin aus Hawaii und ein Lieutenant Colonel in den US-Armee-Reserven, war einer von Trumps kontroversierteren Picks und hatte intensives Pushback von Mitgliedern ihrer ehemaligen Partei während ihrer zerstörten Konfirmation, sowie von einer Hälfte von GOP-Skeptiken.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
There were widespread reservations about her qualifications for the role, as well as concerns about her past views on Russia, support for NSA-Whistleblower Edward Snowden and a controversial 2017 meeting that she held with now-deposed Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. But the bulk of the GOP holdouts were ultimately swayed to vote yes by Senator Tom Cotton.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
He's the chairman of the Select Committee on Intelligence and Vice President J.D. Vance, who reportedly coordinated a last-minute campaign to persuade the Republican skeptics and push Gabbard over the line. Stunden nach der Wahl am Donnerstag wurde sie offiziell in ihre Position gezwungen, bei Att. Gen. Pam Bondi während einer Zeremonie im Oval-Office.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Gabbard, der einmal als Präsident als Demokrat, aber in 2022 die Partei verlassen hat, hat geplägt, die Prioritäten der Agenzien unter ihrer Angelegenheit zu refokussieren und hat gearbeitet, die öffentliche Vertrauen in die Intelligenzgemeinschaft zu restaurieren, die, wie sie argumentiert hat, unter der vorherigen Administration weaponisiert und politisiert wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
In what could prove to be a major diplomatic breakthrough, President Trump revealed that he held what he described as a, quote, lengthy and highly productive phone call with Russian President Putin on Wednesday morning, seeking a peace deal to end Moscow's three-year-old war on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
In remarks from the Oval Office, Trump praised her service record, saying, quote, End quote. In her new role as DNI, Gabbard will oversee the 18 agencies that make up the U.S. intelligence community and function as Trump's senior advisor on all intelligence matters.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
As part of her duties, she will also be charged with preparing the president's daily intelligence brief, which, while not as interesting or insightful as Mike Baker's president's daily brief, is still important. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 13 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
And as all the cool kids know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
It marked the first conversation between the President and the Russian strongman since Trump's return to office, as well as Putin's first contact with a sitting U.S. President since February 2022, after contact was broken off following Putin's invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Now, the conversation reportedly lasted for an hour and a half, during which the pair agreed to start negotiations immediately to bring the war to a close. In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump said, quote, We both agreed we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the war with Russia and Ukraine. We agreed to work together very closely, including visiting each other's nations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
We've also agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately." Now Trump said that a delegation led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of the CIA John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz,
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will lead the talks and expressed hopes that a negotiated settlement could be achieved in the very near future, though he refrained from outlining a timetable. The call came in the wake of a prisoner exchange on Tuesday that saw Russia release Mark Fogle.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
He's an American teacher who was detained in Russia for three and a half years, which White House officials said marked a thawing of relations between Moscow and Washington. Following his call with Putin, Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Zelensky, who he said is also eager to pursue a peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Now, Zelensky has long expressed a willingness to engage with Putin on a, quote, just settlement to the war, and suggested earlier this week that he would consider trading areas of Russia's Kursk region, currently occupied by Kiev's forces, in order to gain back some of Ukraine's lost territory.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Trump added that a meeting is being set up on Friday at the annual Munich Security Conference in Germany between Zelensky, Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Rubio, though details of what they will discuss were not disclosed. So, what might the Trump administration's plan for peace look like?
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
While the White House is keeping details of their strategy close to the vest, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave a preview of some of the broader aspects of their plan during a meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Wednesday. Hegseth echoed Trump's past statements that any negotiations must acknowledge some harsh realities, including...
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
that Ukraine will not be able to regain the roughly 20% of territory seized by Russia since the war began, along with Crimea and the eastern Donbass region. He also said Kiev's potential membership in the NATO alliance is not, quote, a realistic outcome. Hegseth told his fellow NATO military allies, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Hegseth added that any durable peace deal would need to rely on robust security guarantees from European allies, not the US.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
He endorsed proposals to send a coalition of European peacekeeping troops to Ukraine to enforce any potential settlement, but, most critically, said they should only be deployed as part of a non-NATO mission, meaning, importantly, that they would not be covered under the alliance's mutual defense clause.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
The Defense Secretary's remarks reflected Trump's intent to make Europe shoulder most of the financial and military burden of any settlement to the war. But Zelensky said earlier this week that U.S. muscle is critical to achieving any lasting peace deal and suggested he could woo Trump with economic incentives. Now, I'm not sure if Zelensky actually used the word woo.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, Trump has spoken of striking a $500 billion deal with Ukraine to access the country's rare earth minerals in exchange for continued financial and military assistance from the U.S. Still, the Defense Secretary said the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Es ist Donnerstag, 13. Februar. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. All right, let's get briefed. Wir beginnen heute mit Präsident Trump, der erklärte, dass die Negotiativen, um den Ukraine-Krieg zu beenden, sofort beginnen werden. nach einem Anruf, den er mit Wladimir Putin gehalten hat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
has other global priorities that require our focus, namely the threat from China, and said Wednesday that Europe must provide the overwhelming share of future lethal and non-lethal aid to Ukraine. He added, "...the United States remains committed to the NATO alliance, but the U.S. will no longer tolerate an imbalanced relationship, which encourages dependency." Alright, coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Israel calls up Reservists as the Gaza ceasefire teeters and in Ukraine a top official is exposed as a Russian mole. I'll be right back. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand. As a business owner, I have seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache, right? With endless receipts, approvals and expense tracking slowing everything down.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Well, that's where RAMP comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses. Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
For finance teams buried in busy work, well, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend some 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. Think about that. Think how ineffective that is. Well, RAMP changes that, freeing up your time to focus on forecasting, growth and high-impact decisions. Vielen Dank für's Zuschauen. That's ramp.com.pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC. And as they say, terms and conditions apply.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Welcome back to the BDB. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu delivered a clear-cut warning to Hamas, declaring that if the terror group does not release more hostages by midday Saturday, Israel will abandon the ceasefire and resume military operations in the Gaza Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Netanyahu's ultimatum came after Hamas on Monday abruptly postponed the next scheduled hostage release, accusing Israel of violating the terms of the fragile three-week-old truce. The Iran-backed terror group alleged that Israeli forces carried out deadly shootings, obstructed humanitarian aid deliveries and barred Palestinians from returning to northern Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Die News kommt, als der US-Defensivsekretär Pete Hegseth die EU- und NATO-Defensivchefs beurteilt, dass Ukraines Ziel, seine 2014-Border zurückzukommen, nicht realistisch ist. Later in the show, as the Gaza ceasefire hangs by a thread, Israel has begun calling up military reservists in preparation for renewed conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Following an emergency meeting with Israel's security cabinet, which unanimously backed his stance, Netanyahu vowed, "...if Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon, the ceasefire will end and the IDF will return to intense fighting until Hamas is finally defeated."
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
As our listeners know here on the PDB, Netanyahu's statement closely followed President Trump's own warning to Hamas on Monday, in which he threatened that if hostages weren't released by, quote, Saturday at 12 o'clock, then, quote, all bets are off and all hell is going to break out.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
However, on Tuesday, a Hamas spokesman reaffirmed the terror group's commitment to the truce, though he did not reverse the delay in hostage releases. In an interview with NBC News, the terror group's spokesman dismissed Trump's threat, stating that Gaza was already, quote, living in a state of hell.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
The Hamas spokesman added, of course, that's entirely the fault of Hamas, given that we started this mess by slaughtering Israeli citizens during the 7 October attacks. Okay, fair enough. He didn't actually say that last bit. I mean, frankly, the Hamas spokesman is not known for being self-aware and contrite. The stalled exchange would have been the sixth such swap since the ceasefire began.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Under the first phase of the truce, which took effect on 19 January and is set to last for 42 days, Hamas hat so far released 16 of 33 hostages, along with 5 Thai nationals. In return, Israel freed over 730 Palestinian prisoners. Still, 76 hostages remain in the Strip, at least 35 of whom are believed to be dead.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Meanwhile, Trump has continued to push his own vision for Gaza, arguing that its over 2 million residents should be relocated so the U.S. could take control and develop the territory into the Riviera of the Middle East. On Tuesday, Netanyahu confirmed that Israel's Security Cabinet had formally endorsed Trump's proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
The fragility of the ceasefire has also spurred a flurry of regional diplomatic efforts. The Arab League Secretary General announced plans to revive the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, which offered Israel normalized relations in exchange for Palestinian statehood.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Egypt, a key mediator in the ceasefire agreement, is set to host an emergency Arab summit on 27 February, shortly after Trump extended an invitation to the Egyptian president for discussions at the White House. As uncertainty mounts, Israel has begun mobilizing military reservists in preparation for a possible return to full-scale combat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reinforced Netanyahu's warning, bluntly stating, quote, End quote. Katz ging weiter, suggerierte, dass eine, Quote, neue Gaza-Wahl die Wege für Israel aufbauen könnte, um Trumps steigende Vision für die Enklave zu implementieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Okay, wir gehen jetzt in die Ukraine, wo die Intelligenz-Service einen großen Sicherheitsabbruch am Montag entdeckt hat, erneut die Head of Kyivs Antiterrorist-Center als russischer Mole gearbeitet hat. Ja, das würde als einen großen Sicherheitsabbruch qualifizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Plus a bombshell in Ukraine, where intelligence officials revealed that one of the nation's most powerful men has been secretly working for Russia. And in today's back of the brief, President Trump scores a major win as Tulsi Gabbard is confirmed by the Senate as the new Director of National Intelligence after a very tough confirmation battle. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was arrested personally by Vasyl Malyuk, who is chief of the Security Service of Ukraine, or the SBU. Malyuk accused the suspect of passing classified intelligence to the Kremlin's Federal Security Service in exchange for cash and reportedly out of ideological loyalty, but mostly cash.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Die SBO hat den ehemaligen Sicherheitsbeamten, die sensiblen Informationen zu Moskau ein Minimum von 14 Mal übernommen. Die Investoren haben die Rund-die-Klopfe-Wiretapps verwendet, die Zugang zu den Verbrecherns mobilen Geräten und Computern erhoben und sogar die verurteilten Vertreter der encrypted Kommunikationen infiltriert.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Meliuk in einem Video, das auf der SBU-Website veröffentlicht wurde, sagte, wir mussten praktisch zusammenleben mit ihm, erklärte, wie Investitionen seine Kontakte mit russischen Operativen dokumentierten. Die Agentur hat keinen Eindruck gemacht, um ihre Verurteilung zu lösen, die Verurteilung der Verurteilung als Rat zu markieren und zu unterschreiben, dass er nicht alleine gearbeitet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Seine russischen Handlern waren beruflich ehemalige ukrainische Offiziere, die Jahre früher die pro-western Euro-Mädchen-Revolution unterstützt hatten, bevor sie nach diesen Protesten nach Moskau fliehen. Für Kyiv ist dieser Fall mehr als nur ein Gewinn einer Konterintelligenz.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Die SPU-Chef hat bemerkt, dass Zelenskyy sich in der Lübeck-Unterkunft gehalten hat, während der Unterkunfts-Intelligenz-Operation, die letztendlich die Türen auf Moskau geöffnet hat. Not only did Ukraine neutralize an embedded Russian asset, but officials also disclosed that the SBU fed disinformation to the suspect, allowing for false intelligence to reach Russian command.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Malyuk stated, quote, We continue to self-clean our ranks, signaling that Kiev's hunt for infiltrators is, well, far from over. All right, coming up in the back of the brief. Tulsi Gabbard secures a key role in President Trump's national security team, overcoming a fierce Senate confirmation battle to become the new Director of National Intelligence, the DNI. I'll be right back with the details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
In today's Back of the Brief. After an uphill battle in the U.S. Senate, Tulsi Gabbard has been confirmed to President Donald Trump's Cabinet as the next Director of National Intelligence, the DNI.
The President's Daily Brief
February 13th, 2025: Ukraine Negotiations Set To Begin & Gaza Braces For Renewed Conflict
Gabbard becomes Trump's 14th successful Cabinet confirmation, following a 52-48 vote on Wednesday that fell largely along party lines, with the exception of Senator Mitch McConnell, who was the lone GOP holdout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
You know, people often ask me, Mike, how do you start your day? Okay, well, to be fair, no one's ever asked me that. But if they did, I'd say I start the day with a hot, tasty mug of Blackout Coffee. Blackout Coffee is a terrific American family-owned business, and they're focused on producing premium coffee. That's it. Fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The Biden administration issued a new national security memorandum on Wednesday, outlining essentially a roadmap on how to counter this growing alliance in the East, which the White House dubbed the new axis of upheaval. They also refer to it as a quartet of chaos, but I'm going to stick with the axis of upheaval, according to a report from Voice of America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Two senior White House officials said the classified national security document was designed to help the incoming Trump administration understand the new geopolitical landscape and build its approach so they can hit the ground running on day one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
While Trump could reject the guidance, a senior administration official said the document is nonpartisan, telling reporters, quote, I don't think they'll see anything in it that is trying to box them in or tilt them toward one policy option or another, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The classified memo was described in general terms to reporters during a briefing on Wednesday, but has not been publicly reviewed due to its sensitive findings. It reportedly outlines four broad recommendations aimed at containing Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. It calls for improving U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
government interagency cooperation, faster sharing of information among allies regarding these adversaries, bolstering preparations to manage simultaneous crises involving these countries, and better calibrating and coordinating sanctions and other economic tools to leverage them for maximum impact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Well, after reading that list, I'd argue that you don't need to be a senior national security official to come up with those suggestions. The White House officials said that despite their warming ties, China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea have not yet coalesced into a cohesive bloc that directly threatens U.S. security, and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
must lead a full-court press with our allies to ensure the status quo doesn't change. The memo notes that Russia's main goal is to meet its wartime needs for military equipment and manpower in Ukraine, which of course has caused them to rapidly expand their ties with North Korea and Iran, who are, again, as reported here on the PDB, providing the Kremlin with military aid.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB, for 20% off your first-time purchase. It's Thursday, 12 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
As you know, North Korea in particular has become deeply involved in the Ukraine war, recently sending some 10,000 combat troops to bolster the ranks of the Putin regime. In return, North Korea, which seeks to diversify its alliances, avoid sanctions, and crawl out from China's shadow, they're receiving fuel, fighter aircraft, missile defense, and space technology from Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
According to the memo, the Putin regime has also, quote, de facto accepted North Korea as a nuclear weapon state. Iran, also eager to find new ways to dodge Western sanctions, primarily seeks to bolster their flailing economy. But the memo singles out China as the wild card, describing them as the economic and military heavyweight of the group that poses the biggest direct challenge to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
on the global stage. Again, I don't think you need to be a national security official to come up with that assessment. China is benefiting from Russian technical know-how, partnering with the Putin regime on building next-generation military technology. Russia is also currently conducting joint patrols in the Arctic region with China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
But the officials noted that unlike the other three nations, China is economically interdependent with the rest of the world, which could be leveraged by the incoming Trump administration to create fissures within the group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The White House also pointed to the recent upheaval in Syria, where both Russia and Iran failed to come to the aid of their ally Assad, as evidence that cooperation between these countries still has its limits.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
An unnamed administration official said, "...this realignment sort of raises for China the question about what kind of future it wants to see, and if it really wants to be all-in with this grouping."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The Trump transition team has yet to respond to the memo, but has promised sweeping foreign policy changes when the president-elect returns to office in January, including an economic crackdown on both Iran and China. Coming up, an update on the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as we learn that the accused shooter, Luigi Mangione, intends to plead not guilty. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Luigi Mangione, accused in the high-profile killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, intends to plead not guilty despite mounting evidence tying him directly to the crime. Police arrested Mangione on Monday at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
First, ahead of President-elect Trump's return to the White House, the Biden administration has issued a final national security memorandum warning of the stark dangers posed by China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, who they dubbed as the new, quote, axis of upheaval.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
He's facing forgery and firearm-related charges while battling extradition to New York, where he's charged with second-degree murder for Thompson's shooting outside the Manhattan Hilton on 4 December. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Mangione's lawyer, Thomas Dickey, said his client will plead not guilty to all charges.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Dickey firmly stated, quote, I haven't seen any evidence that Mangione is the shooter. Well, apparently then the lawyer hasn't looked at the evidence. The NYPD commissioner offered a starkly different perspective on Wednesday, as you might imagine, pointing to forensic evidence that seems, well, well, fairly damning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The commissioner revealed that a 3D-printed ghost gun recovered during Mangione's arrest matches the shell casings found at the crime scene. So, okay, step one, that would qualify as evidence. These casings were inscribed with phrases critical of the health industry, including, quote, delay, deny, and defend. The evidence doesn't stop there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Investigators discovered Mangione's fingerprints on a water bottle and a kind bar left at the scene. That would be more evidence. A cell phone found in a nearby alley also bore his prints. Huh. The evidence keeps mounting, though further NYPD analysis is still underway on that device. According to CBS News, a notebook found during Mangione's arrest could be a game changer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
What was his lawyer thinking of when he made that claim that he hasn't seen any evidence? The notebook allegedly contains grievances against the health insurance industry and a chilling claim of responsibility for Thompson's murder. Well, that also would be, I suppose, a clue. Law enforcement suggests Mangione initially considered using a bomb but opted for a firearm to avoid harming bystanders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
NYPD officials have called the document key to understanding his motive. Meanwhile, the shockwaves from Thompson's assassination are reverberating throughout the healthcare industry in Manhattan. Ominous posters targeting healthcare executives have appeared, carrying messages like, quote, Wanted, denying medical care for corporate profit. Healthcare CEOs should not feel safe, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
The slogans on some posters eerily mirror the phrases found on the bullet casings, sparking fears, of course, of copycat violence by psychotics. These posters, now widely shared online, have stirred alarming conversations. As you may have seen on social media, some users have celebrated Thompson's murder, even encouraging further attacks on healthcare leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
In response to these online threats, the NYPD issued a bulletin Tuesday, warning that the posters could represent a potential, quote, hit list, and urging executives to ramp up security measures. Health insurance companies are taking these threats seriously while that's good.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Many have removed images of their leadership from public websites and are reexamining their safety protocols due to the growing public resentment towards the industry. The tension is palpable, with healthcare executives across New York City on high alert as investigators continue to connect the dots in this still-ongoing case.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Then, an update on the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as we learn that the accused shooter, Luigi Mangione, intends to plead not guilty, despite a mounting pile of evidence tying him to the killing. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, December 12. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free, well, you know what to do. You become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. See, it's very simple. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 12th, 2024: Biden Warns Trump Over New 'Axis Of Upheaval' & Suspect in CEO Slaying To Plead Not Guilty
President Biden is using his final days in office to offer the incoming Trump administration some advice on the pressing threats posed by the warming relations between America's chief adversaries, namely China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Officials said the, quote, memorandum of understanding aims to boost military coordination on areas of engineering, security, and cybersecurity to push back against foreign interference. It also seeks to establish a cost-sharing model to cover services provided to U.S. warships and auxiliary vessels operating in the waterway, with the goal of keeping it cost-neutral.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
It's Thursday, the 10th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, tensions between America and China over the Panama Canal are heating up. as the U.S. inks a new defense and security pact with Panama, and China accuses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of, quote, spreading rumors and sowing discord.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
While the broad framework represents some progress for the U.S. regarding President Trump's stated goal of reasserting dominance over the Panama Canal, we should stress that the language of the agreement remains exceedingly vague. Officials with the Panama Canal Authority emphasize that the agreement is simply a starting point for more cooperation that will, quote, be developed in later stages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
But there are currently some conflicting reports about how comprehensive the framework will be. Hegseth claimed on Wednesday that U.S. and Panamanian officials were finalizing a document that would grant U.S. warships and auxiliary vessels priority toll-free passage through the canal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
But Panamanian officials have not confirmed such a deal, and Panama's president has previously pushed back against the concept of granting the U.S. special privileges in the strategic waterway. Still, it appears slow but steady progress is being made to bolster military ties between the U.S. and Panama. As a further show of partnership, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
is preparing to deploy the Comfort, that's a Navy hospital ship, to the region in the coming weeks. Now, Hegseth's visit provoked a fierce reaction from China, as you might imagine, which the Trump administration has long accused of working to capture the Panama Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
During his trip, Hegseth repeatedly warned that China's military presence in the Western Hemisphere is becoming too large and vowed to, quote, take back the strategic waterway from Chinese influence. On Wednesday, Hegseth said, quote, "'Make no mistake, Beijing is investing in operating in this region for military advantage and unfair economic gain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
They operate military facilities and ground stations that extend their reach into space. They exploit natural resources and land to fuel China's global military ambitions.'" He added that the U.S. and Panama must work together to, quote, prevent war by robustly and vigorously deterring China's threats in this hemisphere, end quote. He also made it clear that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
was committed to taking steps to counter China's control over port infrastructure in Panama. It's an issue that has been in the spotlight since Trump returned to office. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
asset firm BlackRock is pursuing a deal to take over control of two ports anchoring both ends of the Panama Canal from a Hong Kong-based company, though the deal is at risk of falling apart at this point after China opened an antitrust investigation into the matter.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Hegseth warned that China could use their holdover port infrastructure to conduct surveillance activities across Panama and undermine U.S. interests, though Panamanian officials have consistently downplayed the threat from the CCP. Hegseth bluntly declared Wednesday that, quote, the U.S. will not allow China to threaten the canal's operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Well, as you can imagine, leaders in China didn't take too kindly to the statements. A spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry hit back on Wednesday saying Hegseth had, quote, maliciously attacked China, was engaging in a form of diplomatic blackmail, and was, quote, spreading rumors and sowing discord in an attempt to sabotage China-Panama cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
The spokesman continued, quote, Everyone knows who wants to control the Panama Canal. The U.S. side should take a look in the mirror to see who really threatens the security and development of other countries, end quote. The war of words over Panama comes as relations between the US and China, well, continue to deteriorate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
As we covered earlier on the PDB, the US and China are now engaged in a fierce trade war with the US, placing a 125% tariff on Chinese goods on Wednesday and China countering with an 84% tariff on American products. So far, well, it doesn't appear that either side plans on backing down anytime soon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
All right, coming up next, a Russian-American ballerina who had been wrongfully detained in Russia for more than a year was released from Kremlin custody on Thursday in a prisoner swap with the U.S. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Have you heard about the Maha movement? Of course, I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again movement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Later in the show, a Russian-American ballerina who had been wrongfully detained in Russia for more than a year was freed by the Kremlin on Thursday in the latest prisoner swap with the U.S. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Tariffs aren't the only serious point of contention currently between the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority. When you work out regularly, you feel better, you look better. Come on, you know that. It positively impacts your entire being and everything that you do. That's why I am very excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team at Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Look, their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro has everything you need for a full body workout at home. Seriously, this is an amazing setup. You got to check it out. The cable crossover system with integrated 200-pound weight stacks and the Smith machine allows you to do hundreds of exercises, basically everything and anything that you can do at the gym you can now do at home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
If you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers complete video workouts. Just press play and follow along. Now, my Power Rack Pro just arrived at the house this week, and our three teenage boys and I are ready to hit it hard. Look, my boys are, I guess, like all sons, right? They want their titles shot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Now, I'm not getting any younger, but I think with the Power Rack Pro at home, I can hold them off for a bit longer. Getting into a consistent home fitness routine is easy with Jacked Up Fitness. And at the end of the day, you know this, there's nothing more important than your health. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code BAKER. Come on, no more excuses. Go to getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In a prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Russia on Thursday, Russian-American Senya Karelyna was released from Kremlin custody despite tensions remaining fraught between the two countries. As listeners of the PDB know, this is a story that we've been tracking for quite some time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
For background, Karelyna, a dual citizen and former ballet dancer, was arrested while visiting family in Russia in January of 2024. She was later sentenced to 12 years in a Russian penal colony on charges of treason, all stemming from just a $51 donation that she made to a Ukrainian charity on the day that Russia launched its full-scale invasion back in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Her detention became a flashpoint in U.S.-Russia relations. Moscow claimed the donation funded the $51 donation, might I add, funded tactical gear, medical kits, and even ammunition for Ukrainian fighters, dollars going a long ways, a charge that American officials, of course, labeled wildly disproportionate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Complicating matters further, the donation was made while Karelyna was on American soil, raising legal and moral questions about Russia's reach. Her boyfriend, Chris Van Heerden, summoned up the outrage in blunt terms, stating, quote, she didn't do this in Russia as a Russian citizen. She did this in America as an American citizen. The man that Moscow received in return is Arthur Petrov.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
and China, as tension builds over the Trump administration's push to exert more influence on the Panama Canal. Chinese Communist Party officials are now accusing Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth of deliberately attempting to sow discord in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
He's a German-Russian dual national and is accused of something, well, far more consequential, helping orchestrate a clandestine smuggling network that funneled US-made microelectronics to the Russian military via shell companies. Now, those components were later recovered from damaged Russian weapons on the Ukrainian front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Petrov was arrested in Cyprus back in 2023 and extradited to the U.S. FBI Assistant Director James Smith called his case a prime example of Russia's efforts to circumvent Western export controls after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who led the back-channel talks alongside a senior Russian intelligence official, told the Wall Street Journal, quote, Today, President Trump brought home another wrongfully detained American from Russia. The exchange occurred in Abu Dhabi.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the development early Thursday, stating, quote, American Senya Karelina is on a plane back home to the U.S. For the Trump administration, the deal marks a continuation of its assertive approach to hostage diplomacy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
As we covered here on the PDB in February, President Trump secured the release of Mark Fogel, a longtime American teacher in Moscow, who'd been held since 2021 over a small amount of prescribed marijuana. Approximately 10 Americans remain imprisoned in Russia, including Stephen Hubbard, who's enduring a near seven-year sentence for allegedly serving as a mercenary in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
That's a claim that his family firmly denies. The U.S. designates him as wrongfully detained. For now, the Associated Press reports Karelyna will touch down on American soil later Thursday at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, while the Trump administration continues to push for the release of the other Americans still held in Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 10th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, you know what to do. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
The latest flare-up came during a trip by Hegseth to Panama earlier this week, where he met with Panamanian leaders in the hopes of strengthening ties to counter what he described as China's quote, malign influence in the region. Now, after a day of meetings, Hegseth announced Wednesday that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 10th, 2025: China Seethes As Panama, US Sign New Security Agreement & Russian-American Ballerina Freed In Latest Prisoner Swap
and Panama had officially signed a new defense and security pact that outlines plans for increased military cooperation between the two nations while reaffirming Panamanian sovereignty over the strategic trade passage. That's according to a report from Fox News.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The Chinese government, with a straight face, also emphasized its, quote, neutral position on the war in Ukraine. Sorry, I tried to say that without laughing. Something it has maintained publicly since Russia's full-scale invasion began. Still, the capture of Chinese nationals, if confirmed...
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
While announcing the pause, President Trump singled out China for their, quote, lack of respect when it comes to international trade and said he was raising the tariff on imports from our third largest trading partner from 104% to a staggering 125%. That's effective immediately. We should also mention that a 10% baseline tariff on almost all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
would be a major development, of course, potentially drawing Beijing deeper into the geopolitical fallout of the conflict So far, there is no public evidence that the Chinese government has sent troops to assist Russia However, intelligence officials in both Ukraine and the West have long warned about growing military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing, including the transfer of dual-use technologies and battlefield equipment
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Analysts caution that even a limited number of Chinese fighters on the ground, especially if tied to unofficial militias or private security contractors, could further complicate Beijing's efforts to remain above the fray diplomatically. The presence of Chinese nationals in a Russian uniform, even unofficially, would be a major diplomatic headache for Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 10th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to this show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Start your testing today for one euro per month on shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
It's Thursday, the 10th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with President Trump hitting pause on his reciprocal tariffs for 90 days. We'll look at the reasons behind the reversal and how the markets reacted to the news.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
imports that was implemented on Saturday will remain in place, as will the 25% tariff on all foreign-made automobiles and the 25% global tariff on imported steel and aluminum. Still, investors were jubilant. Look at that, they're jubilant, with the stock market posting one of its largest rallies in history. The S&P 500 climbed more than 9% on the news. That's its biggest one-day gain since 2008.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
And the Dow Jones Industrial Average ended nearly 3,000 points higher, its best day since March 2020. The tech-heavy Nasdaq, meanwhile, oh, listen to me, I sound just like a business reporter, closed up more than 12%, the largest one-day jump for the index since 2001, and its second best day ever. That's according to a report from CNBC.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The news also quelled fears of a looming economic downturn, at least for now, with Goldman Sachs revising their probability of a recession from 65% down to 45%. And when, of course, was the last time you heard anyone use the word quelled.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
It's not entirely clear what prompted the turnaround by President Trump, who as recently as Monday said his administration was not considering a pause on the new tariff regime. But in a post to Truth Social on Wednesday, the president said he decided to pump the brakes to allow time for U.S. officials to negotiate new trade deals with targeted countries.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
President Trump wrote that, quote, He added that since none of these countries, unlike China, have implemented retaliatory measures since he unveiled his tariffs, he was more than happy to give them a little more breathing room to work on finding a resolution, saying, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The White House may have also been influenced by the bloodbath on Wall Street over the past week, which erased trillions of dollars from stock markets and caused a spike in U.S. government bond yields, according to a report from Reuters. President Trump said Wednesday that he, quote, saw last night that people were getting a little queasy, a little yippy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
When it comes to China, however, he vowed to continue tightening the economic screws, saying, quote, Hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S. and other countries have been no longer sustainable or acceptable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
For now, White House officials said they would not be releasing a list of the more than 75 countries that have reached out to negotiate, though analysts said that the EU, the European Union, is likely at the top of the list. On Monday, EU leaders offered to eliminate all industrial tariffs on the U.S., but President Trump did not appear to be swayed by the idea at the time.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Just ahead of the tariff pause on Wednesday, the 27-member European bloc voted to approve a 25% retaliatory tariff on some $18 billion worth of U.S. goods, though the levies were not set to be implemented until April 15th and are now expected to be paused as negotiations get underway. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Treasury Secretary Scott Besson argued that Trump had used the threat of tariffs to create, quote, maximum negotiating leverage for himself. Besson said, quote, this was his strategy all along, and you might even say that he goaded China into a bad position. They responded, they have shown themselves, he said, to the world to be the bad actor, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Trump later said that he remains open to negotiations with China, but would first prioritize trade talks with nations that did not officially enact retaliatory measures over the past week. It's been a whiplash-inducing saga when it comes to Trump and his tariffs. And while investors are celebrating, the complex work of negotiating new trade terms with the rest of the world is just beginning.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Later in the show, Ukraine's top general says Russia's spring offensive is already underway, centered in the country's northeastern Assumi region. We'll bring you the latest from the front lines. Plus, after slashing foreign aid, the Trump administration is now walking some of it back, quietly reinstating several programs, including those providing emergency food relief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
It's a huge task, especially with just a three-month window to execute. Economic uncertainty also remains regarding the escalating tariff war with China, given that they export some $400 billion in goods to the U.S. each year. But when it comes to next steps, Trump struck an optimistic tone, saying, quote, We'll see how it all works out. I think it's going to work out amazing. End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
All right. Coming up next, Ukraine says Russia's spring offensive is underway near Sumy. And the Trump administration quietly walks back some of its foreign aid cuts, reinstating key food relief programs. Those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Have you heard about the Maha movement? Of course, I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again movement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority, and that is so important. It's why I'm excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team at Jacked Up Fitness. Look, their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro has everything you need for a full-body workout at home.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The cable crossover system with integrated 200-pound weight stacks and the Smith machine allows you to do hundreds of exercises. Basically, everything and anything you can do at the gym, you can now do at home. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers complete video workouts. Just press play and follow along.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
My Power Rack Pro arrived at the house earlier this week, and our three teenage boys and I are ready to hit it hard. Look, Jacked Up Fitness builds solid, rugged equipment. It'll stand up to your toughest workouts. And one of the keys to good health, as you should know, is being consistent with your exercise. Getting into a consistent home fitness routine, well, it's easy with Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
At the end of the day, there's nothing more important than your health. Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for free access to the program. When you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, well, save 10% with my promo code Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R, just like you imagined. Come on, no more excuses. Go to GetJackedUp.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In an interview Wednesday, Ukraine's military chief confirmed that Russia has launched a new offensive in northeastern Ukraine as large assaults are being observed in possible defiance of President Trump, who's weighing whether Moscow is serious about peace. Oh, well, here's a spoiler alert. They're not.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In an interview Wednesday with Ukrainian news outlet LB, military chief Oleksandr Serkiy confirmed what Ukrainian President Zelenskyy previously warned for the Sumy region in February, stating, quote, This offensive has already begun. The military chief added that Russian attacks across the front line have nearly doubled in the past week.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In the Kremlin's latest push, the heaviest concentration appears along Ukraine's northeastern border and in the embattled Donetsk region. Since late March, Ukrainian units and drone surveillance reported a sharp uptick in Russian movements of vehicle caravans, troop deployments and tactical units now massing with renewed coordination and aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In Donetsk, the Kremlin is applying pressure near a key logistics hub that Kiev once used to stage reinforcements and supplies. A Ukrainian reconnaissance officer told local press that Russian forces are advancing in larger numbers, backed by armor and fresh manpower. The officer stated, quote, We see it on the drone footage and we hear them talking about it on the radio intercepts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
We'll explain what's changing and why. And in today's Back of the Brief, an update on a story that we brought you yesterday, as Beijing denies that a significant number of Chinese nationals are fighting alongside the Russian army. I guess it just depends on your definition of significant. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The chatter suggests that Moscow is laying the groundwork to encircle Ukrainian positions in the area. To the south, the fight for control of a village in Zaporizhia is intensifying. Should Russian units break through to the border, it would mark the first time since early 2022 that Russia has brought new Ukrainian territory under partial occupation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The Ukrainian military mapping platform Deep State now places Russian forces within four miles of the region, prompting evacuations along the border. As longtime PDB listeners may recall, along Ukraine's northeastern front near Russia's Kursk region, Ukrainian forces are retreating amid a 30 percent spike in engagements since 23rd of March. That's according to Ukraine's general staff.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
While Ukrainian commanders point to signs of dwindling Russian armor as a potential limiting factor, they concede that Moscow's strategy of relentless waves of ground troops continues to pose an encirclement risk there In some areas, officials report Russian casualties of up to 50 troops per day And yet, Russia's territorial gains remain modest.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Britain's Ministry of Defense reports that Russia's rate of advance has declined from 280 square miles in November to just 55 in March. For reference, that's roughly the size of Washington, D.C. Despite Trump's signals that he may soon reevaluate Russia's willingness to engage in peace talks, Moscow appears to be escalating its war effort instead.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week that Trump is expected to decide, quote, So far, the signs point in the opposite direction. Yeah, that would be the case. Shifting to the U.S., President Trump's administration has reportedly reversed course on foreign aid cuts, restoring several emergency food assistance programs just days after scrapping them.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
At the center of the storm is USAID Acting Deputy Administrator Jeremy Lewin, who has previously been identified as a member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Internal emails obtained by Reuters reveal that Lewin instructed staff Tuesday to reverse terminations of at least six recently canceled U.S. foreign aid programs for emergency food assistance.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
These included World Food Program, or WFP, initiatives in Lebanon, Syria, Somalia, Jordan, Iraq, and Ecuador, regions where food insecurity remains acute. Sources also confirmed his restoration of four additional grants to the International Organization for Migration Across the Pacific, suggesting a selective yet sweeping rollback.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In a message to USAID staff, Lewin acknowledged the chaos, writing, quote, Sorry for all the back and forth on awards, adding, quote, There are a lot of stakeholders and we need to do better about balancing these competing interests. But not all programs have been revived. Emergency funding for Taliban-controlled Afghanistan and Houthi-held Yemen remains suspended.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said the Trump administration had, quote, serious concerns that aid in those countries might benefit terror groups.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Bruce told reporters Tuesday, quote, There were a few programs that were cut in other countries that were not meant to be cut that have been rolled back and put back into place, while insisting that the administration remains committed to humanitarian assistance.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In a whirlwind turnaround, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday a 90-day pause on his sweeping global reciprocal tariffs, sending stocks soaring after a week of intense market volatility. The announcement came just hours after the reciprocal tariffs officially took effect. though one country was not granted a reprieve. Care to guess which one?
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The reversal came just one day after the administration had terminated over $1.3 billion in foreign aid across more than a dozen countries, including Somalia and Syria. According to Stand Up for Aid, an advocacy group of current and former American officials, WFP contracts canceled over the weekend accounted for more than $463 million.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Among those cuts, the most severely affected country was Somalia, where nearly $170 million in WFP funds for food assistance, child nutrition, and humanitarian air support had been slashed. In Syria, $111 million in food aid was cut. The World Food Programme warned Monday that the loss of USAID, quote, could amount to a death sentence for those dependent on food aid.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Humanitarian organizations and lawmakers quickly sounded alarms, decrying the cuts as catastrophic and demanding an immediate reversal. It appears their pressure worked, at least in part. Officials say mounting unrest from within the administration as well as blowback from Capitol Hill drove the last-minute pivot. Still, the landscape remains unsettled.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
And aid operations in several regions remain in bureaucratic limbo, subject to rapid-fire reversals and opaque decision-making from Washington. According to Reuters, the overhaul's principle is to eventually fold USAID into the State Department, a restructuring that critics argue would slash its independence. Senate Democrats on the Foreign Relations Committee minced no words.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Oh, they were mincing no words in a letter sent Tuesday to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling the plan, quote, unconstitutional, illegal, unjustified, damaging and inefficient, end quote. I guess they ran out of other negative words. For now, while a portion of the aid has been restored, the broader instability surrounding U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
foreign assistance has left humanitarian groups and recipient nations on edge. And in today's Back of the Brief, an update on a story that we covered yesterday. Beijing now flatly denies reports that large numbers of Chinese nationals are fighting alongside Russian troops. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
In today's Back of the Brief, an update on that story we brought you yesterday about Chinese nationals being captured while fighting alongside Russian troops in Ukraine. Chinese officials are denying the reports, calling the allegations, quote, entirely unfounded.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Ukrainian President Zelensky said over the weekend that Ukrainian forces had detained two Chinese citizens in the Donetsk region, accusing them of operating with Russian military units. According to Zelensky, Ukrainian intelligence now believes as many as 150 Chinese nationals may have been recruited to fight for Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
Beijing quickly responded, rejecting the claims and stating it had received no such confirmation from Ukrainian authorities. A spokesperson for China's foreign ministry said the government has strict rules prohibiting Chinese citizens from joining foreign militaries or participating in overseas conflicts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 10th, 2025: How The World Is Reacting To Trump’s Tariff Pause & Russia’s Spring Offensive Begins
The spokesperson added that China was seeking more information through diplomatic channels and reiterated that the country has not provided any military assistance to either side in the war. That's what they claimed. The truth is, Chinese economic support to Russia over the past three years has kept Putin's war machine chugging along.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
However, during a tense press conference, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Maroney suggested that the true number is in the thousands, making it the most destructive fire in Los Angeles' history. Adding to the chaos, evacuation orders expanded deep into Malibu, a neighboring community still reeling from the Franklin Fire that burned 4,000 acres just a month ago.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
It's Thursday, 9 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we'll begin with the devastating fires in Los Angeles, where firefighters are battling to contain massive blazes tearing through the city.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
The Palisades Fire remains at zero containment. Further inland, the Eden Fire is also delivering devastation to the region, doubling in size within hours. The fast-moving blaze scorched 10,600 densely populated acres north of Pasadena. Los Angeles County Fire estimates roughly 970 structures there have been destroyed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has reported at least five fatalities, alongside what it described as, quote, a number of significant injuries to residents and firefighters. As of now, 13,000 structures are under imminent threat from the blaze, prompting tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. Like the Palisades blaze, the Eden fire remains at zero containment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Further west, the Hurst Fire in the San Fernando Valley erupted with shocking speed, ballooning to over 100 acres within 15 minutes of the initial blaze. The fire has since spread rapidly into the Angeles National Forest. By Wednesday night, it consumed 855 acres, forcing thousands to flee. Fire crews have managed just 10% containment on that blaze.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Meanwhile, the Sunset Fire in Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills neighborhood, though smaller at 60 acres, which is roughly the size of 45 football fields, has fire officials on high alert due to its explosive growth potential. According to CAL FIRE, the wildfire grew by half its size in under an hour.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Now, as residents grapple with the unprecedented destruction, political fallout has already begun. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has come under fire for being overseas in Ghana when the blazes began returning just yesterday, despite advance warnings of extreme fire risk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Criticism has been particularly sharp regarding her administration's budget cuts, which slashed Los Angeles Fire Department funding by nearly $18 million in the current fiscal year, with comparisons to prior budgets showing that the year-over-year reduction is actually closer to $30 million.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Public outrage is growing after reports surfaced of dry fire hydrants, that would be fire hydrants with no water, in some of the neighborhoods hit hardest by the wildfires. In a strange moment, Mayor Bass was confronted by a Sky News reporter who asked if she owed residents an apology for her absence while homes were burning. She didn't respond.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
She basically froze like a deer in the headlights, stood there in silence for almost a minute, and then walked away. And that is, frankly, not a case study in leadership. Governor Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency earlier this week, has deployed more than 7,500 firefighters, air tankers, helicopters, and water tenders to combat the blazes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Later in the show, we'll dig into reports that Israel is calling for an international summit, or at least considering calling for an international summit that would divide Syria into different administrative divisions in order to guarantee the safety and rights of Syrian ethnic groups. But first, the PDB Afternoon Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
On Wednesday, President Biden issued a major disaster declaration unlocking federal funds for those affected. In a rare move, Biden also canceled his final overseas trip as president just hours before departure for Rome and the Vatican in order to stay in Washington and oversee the firefighting response. Okay, well, fair enough.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Biden, nor really any president, actually oversees a firefighting response. The White House just happened to realize that the optic of Biden hobnobbing in Rome in the Vatican while Los Angeles burns wouldn't make for good TV.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Biden's decision to forego his trip, which included meetings with Pope Francis, Italian leadership, and a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, underscores the severity of the crisis, or, I suppose if you were being churlish, underscores the sensitivities of the White House to what would definitely be a bad look. Now, the cause of the wildfires remains under investigation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
The fires collectively scorching some 42 square miles, and that's an area nearly the size of San Francisco. They follow a warm summer and a prolonged drought that left vegetation dangerously dry. And that, of course, is a recipe for wildfires.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Poor forestry management and water policies could be another factor, as could be an outdated utility system that could have played a role in sparking some of these fires.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Coming up next, we'll take a look at reports that Israeli government and security officials have reportedly been holding covert talks about the future of Syria, including an initiative for an international summit to break Syria up into different administrative divisions. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
I want to give you an update on the wildfires raging through Los Angeles. They've destroyed entire neighborhoods and forced nearly 180,000 people to evacuate. Let's start with the Palisades fire. It first broke out Tuesday afternoon and has already become the most destructive wildfire in LA's history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Ever since the Islamist group HTS overthrew the Assad regime in Syria last month, concerns have been mounting in Israel about the risks of a resurgence in sectarian violence that could once again destabilize the country and region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
In the immediate aftermath of Assad's downfall, Israel moved to seize the former demilitarized zone along their border with Syria and capture several strategic positions, including the Syrian peak of Mount Hermon, as a precaution to guard against attacks from radical groups.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Now, we're learning that Israeli government and security officials are mulling over a covert plan to split Syria into different administrative divisions, or cantons, in order to guarantee the safety and rights of all Syrian ethnic groups. That's according to a report from the Times of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
The initiative would include holding an international summit to discuss the finer details of how to break up the country, though little other information is known about the classified discussions. But according to sources who spoke with the newspaper Israel Hayom, a chief concern for Israel is the safety of Syria's Druze and Kurdish minorities under the new HTS-led government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
While HTS has vowed to unify the many ethnic factions within Syria, their ties to Turkey, which has long fought the Kurds in Syria's northern territories, have left Israel doubting whether their pledges of unity are in fact genuine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Israeli leaders also feel that their northern border with Syria is now vulnerable, given that the Islamist groups who are in power don't appear to be committed to upholding a decades-old Israel-Syria ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
A source confided to Israel Chaom, quote, "...the main fear is that an idea that is identified with Israel will necessarily not be accepted in Syria, which is why the discussions on the matter are classified," end quote. Top officials in Israel's security establishment have reportedly been discussing the possibility of splitting the country ever since Assad's ouster.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Energy Minister Eli Cohen emerged as the leading advocate for an international summit where the issue could be debated, including what degree of autonomy the divided cantons would have. He argues it would also give Israel an opportunity to garner international support for military operations in Syria against threats posed by HTS forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
The covert talks reportedly intensified at a Security Cabinet meeting two days ago led by Defense Minister Israel Katz, and further discussions involving Prime Minister Netanyahu are expected imminently. But the news of these talks, well, it's not sitting well with Turkish President Erdogan. Remember him?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
He said Monday that Turkey stands ready to intercede on behalf of HTS if attempts are made to break up the country. Now, as I've mentioned, Turkey has long viewed Syria's Kurdish forces as a threat, and with HTS in charge, leaders in Ankara are now in a position to influence how the country's new government is shaped.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
This fire has already ravaged the upscale Pacific Palisades neighborhood and is being fueled by hurricane force winds with gusts of up to 100 miles per hour. Now, these are part of the Santa Ana winds, which are common in Southern California during the cooler months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Erdogan said, quote, we will not consent to the disintegration of Syria or the disruption of its unitary structure under any guise. If we see a risk in this regard, we will take the necessary steps swiftly, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 9 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
Now, as you've probably seen on billboards all around town, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 9th, 2025: LA Wildfires Intensify & Israel Mulls Plan To Break Up Syria
As of this morning, the fire has consumed more than 17,000 acres and crept dangerously close to iconic landmarks including Sunset Boulevard, the Santa Monica Pier, and the Hollywood sign. The scope of destruction is, well, staggering. Late Wednesday, Cal Fire confirmed that 300 structures had been destroyed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
The agreement, announced Thursday morning, establishes a new framework for trade between the US and the UK, though the deal is not yet finalized, with officials saying the finer details will be worked out in the coming weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
The trade deal will leave in place a 10% US baseline tariff on British imports, while the UK will lower its baseline tariffs on US goods from 5.1% to 1.8%, according to a report from Reuters. The US will also drop import taxes on British steel and aluminum or aluminium from 25% to zero and reduce the 27.5% tariff on British automobiles to 10% for a quota of 100,000 vehicles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
That's almost the exact number of cars exported by Britain to the US last year. Britain in turn has agreed to drop tariffs on some $700 million in US ethanol imports from 19% to 0% in a major win for the agricultural sector. They also agreed to increase market access for some $250 million worth of US beef, poultry and other farm products, as well as soft drinks, cereal and other goods.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Zudem sagte Bundeskommissar Howard Lutnick, dass die Vereinigten Königskräfte in den USA 10-Billionen-Dollar-Ausgabe von Boeing-Fahrzeugen verkaufen, und dass die Vereinigten Königskräfte für Rolls-Royce-Jet-Motoren freiwillige Importe erlauben würden. Details über andere kritische Sektoren, wie z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
UK-Pharmazeutik-Importe, waren unbekannt, aber eine White-House-Faktschicht sagte, dass Maßnahmen gemacht werden würden, um eine sichere Suppleschiene für Pharma-Produkte zu schaffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
All told, the White House said the new trade deal will create $5 billion in new annual export opportunities for American producers, while the 10% baseline tariff will generate, according to the report, some $6 billion in new annual revenue for the U.S. President Trump held it as a historic breakthrough, saying, "...it opens up a tremendous market for us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
This is now turning out to be, really, a great deal for both countries." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, meanwhile, called it a, quote, really fantastic historic day, adding, quote, this is going to boost trade between and across our countries. It's going to not only protect jobs, but create jobs, opening market access, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
As I noted, however, other specifics of the new trade arrangement still need to be hammered out. At a press conference Thursday morning in the Oval Office, President Trump said, quote, the final details are being written up in the coming weeks. We'll have it all very conclusive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Es ist Donnerstag, der 8. Mai. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz reden. Erstens. Präsident Trump verabschiedet einen neuen Handelsvertrag mit Britannien. Der erste große Vertrag hat er erreicht, seit er seine Pläne an den US-Tradingpartnern vorgelegt hat, reizende Tarife aufzunehmen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
While the agreement is certainly an encouraging sign, we should note that the US and UK were already discussing a new economic relationship before Trump's rollout of sweeping reciprocal tariffs in early April, which he later paused for 90 days. Es ist auch wert zu erwähnen, dass die USA eines der wenigen Länder sind, mit denen die USA ein Defizit nicht ausüben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Im Jahr 2024 hatte die USA einen Verlust von ungefähr 12 Milliarden Dollar mit Britannien, und es bleibt ein wichtiger Markt für US-Exporte von Öl und Gas. Investoren reagierten positiv auf die News, signalisierend ihre Hoffnung, dass der Deal mit der UK die Tür für die White House öffnen wird, um frische Verträge mit anderen Ländern zu negotieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Alle großen US-Stockindexe rallierten nach dem Erkennung, mit dem Dow Jones-Industrie-Wert über 600 Punkte. Der Breakthrough-Vertrag mit der UK kommt kurz vor den kritischen Vertragsgesprächen zwischen den USA und China, dieses Wochenende, den ersten direkten Vertragsgesprächen, seit der Tarifwahl letzten Monats begann.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
US-Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Senior US Trade Representative Jameson Greer will meet in Geneva, Switzerland with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifong to break the ice on the subject of mutual de-escalation. The talks will reportedly run from May 9th until May 12th.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
and will cover possible reductions to Trump's 145% tariffs and Beijing's 125% retaliatory tariffs, as well as potential exemptions for specific product categories critical to both the US and Chinese economies. During his Oval Office press conference on Thursday, Trump said the U.S. was headed for a, quote, very good weekend with China, adding, quote, China has a tremendous trade surplus with us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
We just can't have that. We're going to have a very good relationship, but on our terms, end quote. Despite Trumps optimism, experts say that they don't expect a major breakthrough as direct trade talks resume. Financial analysts say the talks will likely only serve as a starting point for more detailed negotiations, which many expect could drag on for quite some time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Coming up next, violent anti-Israel protests return to Columbia University. That's not a surprise. Where police arrested dozens of students Wednesday night after they seized the school's main library. On a positive note, it might have been the first time that any of these gormless halfwits saw the inside of the library. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk fashion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Specifically, let's talk dude style, shall we? I mean, if you're looking to upgrade your look, fellas, the only company that you need, I'm here to tell you, is True Classic. True Classic has one mission, to make sure guys look good and feel even better. They've nailed fit, feel and price across your entire wardrobe. Not just tees, but hoodies, jeans and active wear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Everything you need to level up your everyday style. But True Classic isn't just about great clothes. Their brand DNA is built on being highly intentional in everything they do. From creating high-quality essentials to delivering five-star customer service to giving back to the communities, every detail is done with purpose.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
True Classic offers a fit that's snug where you want it and relaxed where you need it. No weird bunching – ooh, nobody needs bunching – no awkward tight spots, you don't need those. Just a clean, effortless fit that works. Forget overpriced designer nonsense and skip the cheap throwaways. True Classic delivers premium essentials built for real life.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Grab yours at Target or Costco or head to trueclassic.com slash pdb today. Mike Baker hier. Let's talk dieting and weight loss. Right? I know. Favorite topics for all. Now, are you a yo-yo dieter? Have you heard that term before? I suspect you have and you know what it means. You diet and you lose weight, but you gain it all back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Die Erkennung kommt kurz vor den pivoten Gesprächen zwischen den USA und China, die diese Woche in Geneva stattfinden werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Studies show that that type of behavior can increase your risk of heart attack, of stroke, type 2 diabetes and other health problems. Das Ausbrechen deiner Yo-Yo-Diät ist eine der Hauptgründe, weshalb Ärzte LEAN erschaffen haben. LEAN ist ein Supplement, es ist keine Injektion und du brauchst keine Präscription. Die Wissenschaft hinter LEAN ist beeindruckend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Seine natürlichen Zutaten schützen den Gewichtsschaden in drei mächtigen Wegen. LEAN hilft, gesundes Blutgewebe zu erhalten, es hilft, den Appetit und die Wünsche zu kontrollieren, und es hilft, Fett zu brennen, indem man Fett in Energie konvertiert. If you're tired of losing weight and gaining it back, and you want to lose meaningful weight at a healthy pace, Lean was created for you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Let me get you started with 20% off when you enter code PDB20 at TakeLean.com. That's code PDB20 at TakeLean.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Later in the show, violent anti-Semitic protests have returned to Columbia University, where police arrested dozens of students Wednesday night after they seized the school's main library in one of the largest and most chaotic demonstrations since last year's pro-Palestinian campus uprisings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
More than 100 anti-Israel protesters stormed Columbia University's library Wednesday night, sending hundreds of students scrambling for safety in one of the most disruptive campus demonstrations since last year's Gaza War protests, resulting in dozens of arrests.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
The late night violence unfolded as Columbia and other elite universities faced mounting federal scrutiny, along with escalating pressure from the Trump administration to crack down on campus anti-Semitism and to restore order. By the time police cleared the building, 78 protesters had been arrested and two others issued summonses, that's according to the NYPD.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Weißt du, was die NYPD auch tun sollte? Sie sollten die Liste der 78 Protestanten, die verhaftet wurden, auslesen und es klar machen, wie viele von ihnen wirklich Studenten sind und wie viele von ihnen Außenseiter-Aktivisten sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Videos aus der Szene zeigten geheimnisierte Offiziere, die Studenten in Zip-Tüten zu Wartezimmern, als die Chance für, Quote, freie Palästina, naja, das ist originell, über die Ivy-League-Kampus geklopft wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
University officials said the occupation forced roughly 900 students to flee Butler Library, many abandoning laptops, backpacks and notes as the confrontation intensified just days before final exams. Acting University President Claire Shipman, who assumed the role in March after her predecessor's resignation over botched protest handling, well, she minced no words.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
She said the reading room had been defaced and damaged in disturbing ways and with disturbing slogans. One spray-painted threatening message read, quote, We will always come back for Palestine. Schittmann beschrieb, dass ein öffentlicher Sicherheitsarbeiter auf einem Gürtel geflogen wurde und ein anderer für Verletzungen getreten wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Sie nannte den Protest eine Bedrohung an die Sicherheit der Studenten und beurteilte es, indem sie sagte, dass das Gewalt und Vandalismus eine Bibliothek hijacken, das hat nichts mit unserem Campus zu tun. Organisatoren aus der Gruppe Columbia University Apartheid Divest. Schauen wir mal, das Akronym wäre C.U.A.D. Hm, ich wundere, ob sie gedacht haben, dass das eine Worte bezeichnet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
claimed responsibility, calling for the library to be renamed the Basel Al-Haraj Popular University after a Palestinian activist killed by Israeli forces in 2017. Now, honestly, kids, I don't think that's going to happen. In a statement, the group said the demonstration aimed to, quote, disrupt Colombia's profits and legitimacy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Before police arrived, campus security had locked the library's doors, briefly triggering a pushing match outside as demonstrators pressed to get in. As tensions rose, the demonstration spilled into the streets beyond campus gates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Wednesdays Disruption came just hours after a contentious House Education and Workforce Committee hearing on anti-Semitism in higher education, where three university presidents were grilled over their handling of hate speech and the protection of Jewish students, echoing last year's testimony by then Colombian President Namat Shafik.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
You have to ask, are these protests that spring up on campuses, are they just grassroots spontaneous events or are there national and international organizations behind them that provide funding and communications and logistical support? Really? You have to ask? I mean, is the Pope Catholic? Ooh, speaking of which, we have a new Pope. We'll cover that in detail in tomorrow morning's PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Es schlägt auch ein weiteres Kapitel in Columbia's escalating stand-off with the Trump administration. In March the White House canceled $400 million in federal funding to the university, citing its failure to discipline student agitators or prevent anti-Semitic incidents on campus. The administration followed up with a list of demands. Ban masks at protests? What?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Well, that would be disappointing for a lot of these protesters. I mean, dressing up in masks and keffiyehs and helmets is kind of their cosplay moment. The list also called for the university to enforce existing conduct rules, hold student groups accountable, and re-evaluate Columbia's Middle East Studies curriculum. Columbia vowed to comply, but federal pressure has only intensified.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
ICE hat Fox News gesagt, dass es jetzt die Anwesenden beobachtet, um zu bestätigen, ob sie internationalen Studenten sind oder, ehrlich gesagt, ob sie überhaupt Studenten sind. Der Staatssekretär Marco Rubio hat bemerkt, dass die Administration die Visa-Eligibilität überprüft. Hunderten von Studenten-Visas sind bereits unter den Administrationen breiter Krackdown auf Campus-Unrest überwiesen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Meanwhile, New York Mayor Eric Adams praised the NYPD's response, saying the city, quote, stands with Jewish students. Governor Kathy Hochul echoed that support, thanking law enforcement and university security for ensuring student safety. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 8th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's easy. Just become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was easy. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Nun, dieses Juli, und vielleicht habt ihr es gehört, aber dieses Juli wird es ein globaler Summit der BRICS-Nationen in Rio de Janeiro geben. Der Block von erneuerbaren Supermächten, das China, Russland, Indien und Iran betrifft, treffen sich mit dem Ziel, den US-Dollar als globale Währung zu zerstören. Und sie nennen es das Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
As the BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for US dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, the Rio Reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, well, what can you do? I'll tell you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and the Rio reset. Text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 8th, 2025: Trump Announces First Trade Deal Ahead Of Critical China Summit & Violent Antisemitic Protests Return To Columbia University
Alright, let's jump into today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with a major economic update, as President Trump inks what he called a, quote, breakthrough trade agreement with the United Kingdom, the first major deal reached since the President triggered a global trade war through his sweeping tariff agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
In today's Back of the Brief, a new report out of the Department of Defense has revealed that former President Biden's ill-fated Gaza floating pier was a more disastrous project than previously known. As you may recall, back in March of 2024, the Biden administration greenlit the building of a floating pier off the coast of Gaza as part of a broader initiative to get aid into the battered enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
And in the back of the brief, remember former President Biden's floating dock for Gaza? Well, the one that was going to be used to deliver aid? That one. A new Pentagon report reveals it didn't just cost hundreds of millions, it also left more than 60 U.S. service members injured. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
But the project quickly turned into a $230 million boondoggle and was shut down after just 20 days of being operational. In short, the controversial project was a large-scale failure that became a source of embarrassment for the previous administration. Now we're learning, according to a report from the Pentagon's inspector general, that more than 60 U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
service members were injured during the construction and operation of the pier. The IG report also found that the Army and Navy failed to properly plan, prepare, train for, and coordinate the mission, and that the Biden administration ignored multiple warnings that the project was not meeting safety standards. Just a reminder, in case you didn't follow the saga of the Gaza dock,
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The pier was made up of two components, a large floating dock made up of steel segments and a two-lane, 1,200-foot causeway. The causeway part of the project was composed of a series of interconnected 40-foot steel pieces linked together and attached to the shore.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The shaky design left the pier vulnerable to the elements, and it suffered repeated damages and was relocated multiple times due to adverse weather. Last May, the Pentagon had said three of the more than 1,000 U.S. troops that were involved in executing the project suffered non-combat injuries while operating the pier, with one medically evacuated with critical injuries.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
One of those injured tragically died in October while under long-term medical care. That's according to the New York Post. The new Inspector General report, however, put the number of injured troops at 62. Now, while it's not exactly clear why that figure has not previously been disclosed, it appears it may have to do with the negligent planning that went into building the structure.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The report states, quote, "...the Army and Navy did not allocate sufficient maintenance, manning, or training, and also, quote, did not organize, train, and equip to a common joint standard."
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
It further states that the pier's designers, quote, did not fully consider mission-specific information requirements such as beach conditions, average sea states, and other factors that affect the ability to successfully plan and conduct operations, end quote. Yes, when designing a floating pier, well, no point in considering the beach or sea conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
In addition to the staggering $230 million price of building and operating the pier for 20 days, the report said the disorganized nature of the construction contributed to the damage of 27 watercraft and other equipment that cost roughly $31 million in repairs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
We should note only a fraction of the aid that the pier was intended to deliver ever made its way into Gaza over the 20 days that it was operational. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 8th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
And, of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that, and you can do it very simply. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Ukrainian forces are intensifying their campaign of drone warfare inside Russian territory just as some world leaders arrive in Moscow for Russian President Putin's Victory Day celebrations on Friday, commemorating, of course, the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
On Tuesday evening, the two Ukrainian drones were reportedly shot down by Russian air defenses as they made their way towards Moscow. The activity came less than one day after Ukraine bombarded a dozen regions of Russia in a massive aerial attack that forced Moscow's four airports to temporarily suspend flights.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
While no casualties were reported in the Moscow region during the attack, Russia's defense ministry said that their air defenses had intercepted a total of 105 Ukrainian drones, including 19 near the Russian capital. That's according to a report from The Guardian.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
But at least two people were injured in the Kursk region during the bombardment, while infrastructure damage was reported in the southern Russian city of Voronezh The drone barrage also shut down nine other regional airports and triggered fresh concerns over the security of Russia's domestic airspace just before Victory Day on Friday
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The drone campaign appears to be an effort by leaders in Kyiv to unnerve the Kremlin ahead of the country's most symbolic holiday. 29 foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, will be in attendance. Kyiv, however, has remained silent on the strikes. They come ahead of a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire recently announced by Putin, set to begin on the 8th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The Kremlin described the move as a humanitarian gesture, intended to coincide with Victory Day ceremonies, which will feature a major military parade in Moscow's Red Square. Now, if one were cynical of Putin's motives,
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
One could suspect the only reason he's called for the ceasefire is to try and avoid the embarrassment of Xi Jinping and other leaders ducking for cover as Ukrainian drones buzz the parade. Ukrainian President Zelensky has rejected the ceasefire proposal as little more than a public relations maneuver designed to placate visiting dignitaries.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Notable attendees besides Xi include Putin allies Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. That's quite the cabal. Zelensky issued a veiled warning to Putin and the dignitaries bound for the parade, recently stating, "...we cannot be held responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation."
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Zelensky elaborated, saying arsons or explosions could be carried out in the Russian capital in an attempt to blame Ukraine and further inflame diplomatic tensions at a time when the U.S. is pursuing a peace deal. As a reminder, Zelensky continues to back a more expansive 30-day ceasefire proposed by Washington that the Putin regime has so far rejected.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, brushed off Zelensky's remarks as, quote, just a verbal provocation, nothing more. But the Kremlin appears to be erring on the side of extreme caution. Security measures have been tightened across Moscow, with critical facilities in the capital being placed under reinforced protection.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The Kremlin has also redeployed a number of air defense systems to the region. Medvedev issued a threat of his own against Ukraine, saying, quote, "...in the event of a real provocation on Victory Day, no one will guarantee that the 10th of May will come in Kiev."
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The festivities mark the largest gathering of foreign leaders in Russia since Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, a display of support that the Putin regime, of course, will undoubtedly capitalize on to show that they're not isolated on the foreign stage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Military units from 13 countries, including China, will participate in the Red Square parade alongside Russian troops and military vehicles Notably, however, the Kremlin has said that North Korean troops who have been fighting and dying alongside Russian forces will not take part in the parade Those North Korean troops, of course, are for cannon fodder, not parade grounds But representatives of the hermit kingdom will reportedly be in attendance
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Ukraine, meanwhile, has asked EU leaders to gather in Kiev on the same day in a show of diplomatic unity as fighting continues to rage along the front lines. All right, coming up after the break, another U.S. Navy jet crashes into the sea and a terror suspect deported from the U.S. is now in custody in Brazil after allegedly plotting a mass attack at a Lady Gaga concert. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, you likely know me as a former CIA dude, as a businessman and host of the really popular, very popular President's Daily Brief podcast. But I'm also, well, a bit of a fashion guru. And that's true. Guys stop me on the street all the time asking for style advice. And that's when I tell them about True Classic.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
True Classic has one mission, to make sure the guys look good and feel even better. They've nailed fit, feel, and price across your entire wardrobe. Not just tees, but hoodies, jeans, activewear, everything you need to level up your everyday style. But True Classic isn't just about great clothes. Their brand DNA is built on being highly intentional in everything they do.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
From creating high-quality essentials to delivering five-star customer service to giving back to the communities, every detail is done with a purpose. True Classic offers a fit that's snug where you want it and relaxed where you need it. No weird bunching, who needs that? No awkward tight spots, just a clean, effortless fit that works. Forget overpriced designer nonsense, right?
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Skip the cheap throwaways. True Classic delivers premium essentials built for real life. Grab yours at Target or Costco or head to trueclassic.com slash pdb today. Welcome back to the PDB. For the second time in less than two weeks, a $60 million F-A-18 Super Hornet has splashed into the Red Sea off the deck of the USS Harry Truman, this time during a failed landing attempt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Preliminary reports indicate a possible malfunction of the arresting gear during the landing sequence on Tuesday, forcing both the pilot and the weapons systems officer to eject moments before the aircraft struck the water. The pair were rescued by helicopter and sustained only minor injuries. That's according to a source familiar with the matter who spoke to CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
It's Thursday, the 8th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today in Moscow, where foreign leaders are gathering for Vladimir Putin's big Victory Day celebrations, even as President Zelenskyy delivers a stark warning. Ukraine can't guarantee their safety.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The aircraft remains submerged in the Red Sea. The Pentagon has acknowledged the incident and stressed that the jet was not brought down by enemy fire. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated, "...we can confirm that this aircraft was not struck by the Houthis." adding that the carrier strike group remains, in his words, quote, fully mission capable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Well, that is exactly what they said after the previous loss of a jet. As we reported on the PDB in late April, another $60 million Super Hornet rolled off the flight deck while under tow in the hangar bay. In that case, Navy officials said the carrier executed a sudden evasive maneuver to dodge incoming fire from Houthi terrorists, causing the tow crew to lose control of the jets.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
No injuries were reported Taken together, the back-to-back incidents underscore mounting operational strain aboard the Truman, which has come under near-constant harassment from the Iran-backed terror group since deploying to the region back in December CNN reports that the carrier was targeted by Houthi fire as recently as Tuesday morning, the same day as the crash
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
As we've been tracking, in a surprise turn that same morning, President Trump, in a news conference at the White House, declared a ceasefire deal with the Houthis. The commander-in-chief told reporters, quote, they just don't want to fight, adding the U.S. would accept their, quote, capitulation and halt airstrikes on Yemen immediately.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Although ongoing reports from the Houthi political wing have not officially conceded defeat. Now, the Truman's current deployment has been anything but routine. In December, one of its F-18s was accidentally shot down by the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg. Both aviators survived. In February, the carrier collided with a civilian merchant vessel while transiting the Mediterranean near Egypt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The investigation into this latest incident, well, it remains ongoing. All right, moving on to Brazil. A man recently deported from the US is now accused of plotting a mass casualty attack at Lady Gaga's record crowd-setting concert in Brazil, reportedly with plans to livestream child executions and bomb the stage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Authorities arrested 44-year-old Luis Da Silva and a 17-year-old boy just hours before Saturday's show on Copacabana Beach, which drew more than 2 million fans, surpassing even Madonna's all-time record for a solo performance.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Now, I'll be honest, I do pride myself on being a font of useless knowledge, but I had no idea that Madonna previously held the record for crowd attendance at a solo performance. Investigators say De Silva had planned to carry out a, quote, satanic ritual during Gaga's performance, accusing the singer herself of promoting Satanism and LGBTQ plus values. His alleged goal?
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
To kill children during the concert and broadcast the murders live online.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
According to investigators, Da Silva operated a violent extremist network on the messaging platform Discord, where he and his teenage accomplice trafficked in child pornography, anti-LGBTQ plus extremism, and misogynistic propaganda, all while attempting to radicalize others, particularly minors, into carrying out similar acts of terror.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
The psycho freak's online activity reportedly tipped off investigators. Police say the plot included the use of Molotov cocktails and explosive backpacks. The arrests were part of a wider multi-state crackdown spanning four Brazilian states where nine additional suspects were also taken into custody.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
One of them, a 16-year-old, confessed to producing hate content for Da Silva's network, though he denied participating in the bombing plans. Of particular concern is the fact that Da Silva had only been deported from the U.S. last month. The circumstances behind his deportation remain murky.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Later in the show, a second $60 million Navy fighter jet crashes into the sea in as many weeks, raising questions about what's happening on America's carriers Plus, a suspected terrorist recently deported from the U.S. and now in custody in Brazil was allegedly plotting to carry out a mass attack at a Lady Gaga concert with a plan to livestream executions and bomb the stage
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Brazilian authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding his removal from the U.S., including whether U.S. officials flagged him as a threat. Shockingly, I do mean shockingly, da Silva was arrested solely on an illegal firearms charge. He was released on bail earlier this week in a decision that has, as you might imagine, sparked outrage across Brazil. Let me repeat that.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
He was released earlier this week. The 17-year-old accomplice, meanwhile, has been charged with possession of child pornography, but authorities have not confirmed whether he remains in custody. Despite the scale and seriousness of the threat, Lady Gaga and her team were never informed of the plot.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
In a statement following the concert, a representative of the singer said, quote, prior to and during the show, there were no known security concerns, nor any communication from police or authorities to Lady Gaga about any potential risks, end quote. Authorities later defended the decision not to warn Gaga, arguing that public disclosure could have sparked panic among the massive crowd.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
For her part, Gaga is keeping a poker face. See what I did there? She hasn't commented publicly on the incident. Police say that their rapid intervention helped pull the concert back from the brink of a mass casualty terror event, saving Gaga fans from the edge of disaster and letting them dance to the edge of glory instead. Yeah, I'm sorry. I didn't write that line, but I did agree to read it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
So, yeah, I apologize. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief. What was billed as a humanitarian triumph has quietly turned into a costly fiasco. A new Pentagon report says former President Biden's floating pier for Gaza injured more than 60 American service members during its construction and short, limited operation. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Let's talk about dieting and weight loss. I know, it's everybody's favorite topic. Now, are you a yo-yo dieter? You've probably heard the term before, and you know what it means, right? You diet, you lose weight, but you gain it all back. Well, studies show that that type of behavior can increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Breaking free of your yo-yo diet pattern, well, it's a main reason that doctors created Lean. Lean is a supplement, not an injection, and you don't need a prescription. The science behind lean is impressive. Its natural ingredients target weight loss in three powerful ways.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Lean helps maintain healthy blood sugar, it helps control appetite and cravings, and it helps burn fat by converting fat into energy. If you're tired of losing weight and gaining it back and you want to lose meaningful weight at a healthy pace, well, lean was created for you. Let me get you started with 20% off when you enter code PDB20 at takelean.com. That's code PDB20 at takelean.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, maybe you've heard about this, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro. The bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia, India and Iran, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. They're calling it the Rio Reset. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
dollars will decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility, well, toward reality. So, what can we do about it? Well, I'll tell you. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
May 8th, 2025: Will Ukraine Crash Putin’s Big Parade? & Another Navy Jet Lost
Claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and the Rio reset. Text PDB to 989-898-TODAY.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Military officials also warn that Ukraine will likely deplete their stockpile of interceptors for the US Patriot missile systems that defend their cities from Russian bombardment within the next two to three months. And that's according to a report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Aufmerksamkeit über die verdächtigen Wettbewerbsimpfungen, die die flächendeckende Schwierigkeit haben könnte, sagte ein anonymer ukrainischer Offizier, dass es nach dem Wettbewerb sehr schwierig für uns sein wird. Es wird nicht ein totaler Verlust sein, aber wir werden von Bereichen mehr schnell zurückgezogen werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
The White House announced its decision to halt all military aid to the war-torn nation just three days after President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy engaged in a televised argument in the Oval Office last Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
The move was quickly followed with the suspension of all intelligence sharing between the US and Ukraine, depriving Kyiv of critical battlefield insights that could tip the scales in favor of the Russian military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
As we discussed earlier on the PDB, officials with the Trump administration said Wednesday that the pauses will remain in place until Ukraine comes to the negotiating table and a viable timeline for peace talks with Russia is established. Of course, it would be interesting to know if Russia has actually agreed to come to the negotiating table and under what conditions and with what demands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Ukraines Leaders are now scrambling to mend fences with the Trump administration. On Wednesday, Zelenskys Chief of Staff held a productive call with White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and scheduled a meeting with US officials for the, quote, near future to discuss potential negotiations with Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
In the meantime, Ukraine is doing all they can to accelerate their own domestic production of ammunition and drones, though they don't have the ability to replace what the US has been providing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Over the course of the more than three-year-long war, the US has served as the single largest military aid supplier to Kyiv, giving approximately $70 billion in weapons and ammunition, according to the US State Department. Einer dieser Waffen sind advanced air defense systems, ballistic missiles and long-range artillery rockets, Munitions, that European allies can't readily replace for Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Analysts have said the military aid cutoff will hinder the Ukrainian military's ability to conduct long-range strikes inside Russian territory, but the biggest immediate concern for Kyiv is the impact on their defensive stockpiles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Eine Verlust von Antifahrzeugen und Luftschutzordnungen, besonders für die US-Patriot-Batterien, könnte die ukrainischen Städte auslösen, und viele Offiziere sind fürchtet, dass der Putin-Regime den vorliegenden Abstand auslösen wird, gemeinsam mit dem Abstand in der Intelligenz, um die ukrainische Bevölkerung weiter zu bombardieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Officials say even a temporary shortfall will force their military into making difficult decisions on what it will prioritize to defend, with one official asking, quote, Do you defend an airfield or a power plant or a factory making weapons? End quote. Nun, die Bedrohung ist allzu real, mit dem russischen Militär in den letzten Tagen eine Reihe von sterblichen Aero-Attacken eröffnet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Am frühen Donnerstag wurde ein russischer Drohnenstrahl auf einem Schiffsaal in der Stadt Sumy von einem zivilen Arbeiter getötet. Das kam, nachdem ein russischer Missil ein Hotel in einer Stadt in der Zentralukraine am letzten Dienstagabend zerstört hat. Das hat vier Menschen getötet und 31 verletzt, obwohl die Rettungsarbeiter immer noch durch das Dschungel fliegen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Nach den Angriffen sagte Zelenskyy, es müsse keine Pause in der Druck auf Russland geben, um diese Krieg und Terror gegen das Leben zu stoppen. Nun, um nicht negativ zu klingen, aber es scheint etwas zu spät für das zu sein, könnte man sagen, die Pause der Militär- und Intelligenzsupport der Ukraine ist nicht genau die Druck auf Russland.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Coming up next, President Trump vows to make shipbuilding great again, ordering the most aggressive push to bolster America's commercial and military ship production in half a century. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Trump administration is moving to overhaul American shipbuilding with a draft executive order aimed at countering China's grip on the global maritime industry. The plan seeks to revitalize commercial and military ship production through financial incentives and reforms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Präsident Trump beantragte die Initiative, die Titel MAKE SHIPBUILDING GREAT AGAIN, während einer gemeinsamen Anrufe an den Kongress am Dienstag, die Pläne bewegte, einen Maritime Industrial Base Office innerhalb des White Houses National Security Councils zu erstellen, um den Eindruck zu führen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Es ist Donnerstag, der 6. März. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Lass uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst der letzte Fallout von der Ordnung der Trump-Administration, die Militärhilfe in der Ukraine aufzuhalten, als Offiziere in Kiew beurteilt haben, dass sie in einem Monat aus kritischen Ammunition-Supplies ausgehen könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Die Regierung argumentiert, dass China durch Non-Market-Praktiken mehr als 200-mal die Kapazität Amerikas, die sich um Wirtschafts- und Sicherheitsthreaten befinden, eine Shipbuilding-Industrie gebaut hat. Dieser Maritim-Aktion-Plan, der von mehreren föderalen Agenzien gesperrt wurde, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
von den Departementen der Verteidigung, der Verbrauch, der Staat, der Transport und der Landwirtschaft, zentriert sich auf einen Maritim-Sicherheits-Gesetz, welcher durch Tarife und Steuern in den nächsten neun Jahren finanziert werden würde. Der Plan designiert auch Maritim-Opportunity-Zonen, die Hinweise bieten, Schiff-Building-Businessen in bestimmten Regionen zu eröffnen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Eines der wichtigsten Elemente ist eine Nachhaltigkeitsausgabe auf Außengeschäfte, die zusätzliche Zehntausendpreise auf Schiffen von Mexiko oder Kanada ausführen. Die Departement der Nachhaltigkeitsaufgabe wird die Aufmerksamkeit an amerikanischen Orten überprüfen, die Ausgabe der Ausgaben und die Sicherheitsmaßnahmen aufbauen, um Komplizierung zu ermöglichen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
The administration is also taking aim at the military procurement process, ordering the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE of course, overseen by Elon Musk, to conduct a three-month review of Navy and Homeland Security acquisitions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Ein bestimmter Fokus ist, was die Trump-Affizienten nennen, unverantwortliche Navy-Vorgaben-Offiziere, die verurteilt werden, die Schiffsproduktion zu verlängern und die Kosten durch exzessive rote Tape zu steigern. Die White House drückt nach einer mehr strengen Prozesse, um die Verkaufs- und Ausgaben zu erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
On the labor front, Trump's initiative revives key elements of the Shipyard Accountability and Workforce Support, or SAWS, program, because frankly nobody loves an acronym like the government and the military love an acronym. und die SAUS hat versucht, die Waren für die Nuklearschiffshäuser durch Vertragsvergleiche zu erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Die Biden-Administration hat die SAUS vorher gefeuert, während der Kongress es über Transparenz-Bedrohungen gefeuert hat. Unter Trumps Plan würde die Navy in die Existenzfonds reichen, um die Warenvergleiche durchzuführen und die Betreuung in Schiffshäuser zu erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Der eingestellte Antrag beantragt auch eine 45-Tage-Schiffenbau-Revue, um Verluste und Kostenverluste in kritischen Navy-Programmen zu beurteilen, z.B. Submarine, unmanned Systems und surface Schiffe. Eine ähnliche Review im letzten Jahr hat signifikante Schwierigkeiten auf der ganzen Industrie ausgewertet, die Sorgen über die Militärfähigkeit des Militärs, seine maritime Fliege zu bewältigen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Experten sagen, dass diese Initiative den größten aggressiven Druck darstellt, den amerikanischen Schiffsbau in einem halben Jahrzehnt zu beherrschen, wenn man die Vergleiche mit dem 1970en Merchant Marine Act von Präsident Nixon darstellt, welches die federalen Löhne in den domänischen Schiffsprodukt investiert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
With China dominating global shipbuilding and tensions escalating in the South Pacific, the Trump administration argues that a revitalized maritime industry is essential to national security and economic sovereignty. Well, they're not wrong. Whether Congress and industry leaders will back the plan, that remains an open question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
But at least for now, it does appear to be gaining bipartisan support. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 6th March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
And as the end of the week approaches, I can confirm that the PDB staff is hard at work producing our latest episode of America's favorite weekend news show, the PDB Situation Report. Now I... Honestly, I don't know that it's actually America's favorite weekend news show. It's not a scientific assessment or it's not based on extensive surveys, but it's got a nice ring to it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Später in der Show weist Präsident Trump zu, Quote, machen Schiffesbau wieder großartig, als er eine Geschäftsordnung prägt, die sich auf die Griechenland-Grippe auf der globalen Maritimen Industrie konzentriert. Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittag-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on the First TV, we launch a brand new episode of the Situation Report. Also, of course, it's available on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and all the podcast platforms out there in podcast land. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
Mit Präsident Trump, die alle militärische Hilfe nach der Ukraine pausiert, nicht zu erwähnen, die Unterstützung von Intel, sind die Führer in Kiew Warnung, dass sie bald eine gefährliche Schwachstelle von wichtigen defensiven Waffen haben können.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 6th, 2025: When Will Ukraine Run Out Of Weapons? & Trump Drafts Order To 'Make Shipbuilding Great Again'
The Ukrainian Prime Minister said on Tuesday that while the country's troops are currently well equipped to continue fending off Russian attacks, they will run out of ammunition by the beginning of the summer.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The president said that the Chinese regime has failed to take meaningful action to crack down on illicit manufacturing operations and that tariffs are the best remedy to force the CCP into action. But China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also pushed back on this justification, saying, "...the fentanyl issue is a flimsy excuse to raise U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Pressuring, coercion, or threats are not the right way of dealing with China." And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 6 March. Now, if you have any questions or comments or polite suggestions or humorous anecdotes, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
And as you've undoubtedly heard from your favorite celebrities, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
That's a move that came soon after the Trump administration paused all military aid to the war-torn nation. White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said the pauses in assistance will remain in place until Ukraine agrees to come to the table for peace talks with Russia. That's according to a report from Axios. The consequences for Ukraine are, well, immediate.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
It's Thursday, 6 March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with the news that U.S. and Ukrainian officials have agreed to meet for negotiations, just days after Washington cut off military aid and then intelligence sharing, leaving Kiev in the dark as the war rages on.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
A source with knowledge of the situation told Axios that the suspension of intelligence sharing will severely undercut Ukraine's ability to conduct attacks inside Russian territory and will likely also hamper the Ukrainian army's defensive operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
While Ukraine will continue to receive intel support from NATO members other than the U.S., the move by the White House will undoubtedly negatively impact Ukraine's capabilities. Ukraine relies heavily on U.S. intelligence to predict Russia's next battlefield moves.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
It also provides an invaluable tactical edge for Kyiv, allowing them to track Russian troop movements and positions for weapons guidance and targeting. The move provoked further alarm among European allies, who are obviously already anxious over Trump's diplomatic overtures to Moscow. It also rattled some congressional Republicans.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Trump, said he was, quote, very worried about the long-term consequences for Ukraine's security. But while the actions are extreme, the pressure campaign does appear to be yielding some results.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
According to a source close to the Ukrainian government, the intelligence-sharing pause was the key factor that prompted Zelensky to issue a public statement on Tuesday expressing regret for his public argument with Trump. That's a message he reiterated in a letter to Trump that the president read aloud during his address to Congress on Tuesday evening.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
In the note, Zelensky said he was ready to sign a minerals deal with the U.S. and work towards a peace deal, while praising Trump's, quote, strong leadership on the issue.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
That was followed by news that Zelensky's chief of staff spoke with White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz Wednesday to discuss, quote, the next steps toward a just and lasting peace, and that a meeting had been scheduled for the near future to discuss potential negotiations with Russia. Zelensky later mentioned the renewed dialogue in his daily address, saying, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
CIA Director John Ratcliffe said in an interview that the quick turnaround from Ukrainian leaders proved Trump's tough approach is working.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
He said following the verbal brawl at the White House last Friday, Trump was left with serious doubts about Zelensky's commitment to the peace process, and that the pauses on weapons supplies and intelligence sharing were intended to make Zelensky rethink the current approach to diplomacy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
But Ratcliffe added that the measures will likely be lifted once a viable timeline for peace negotiations is established. Waltz later echoed these sentiments, saying, quote, Now, not to point out the obvious, but I think I'm about to.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
we still haven't seen any indication from Moscow that they're willing to sit down at the negotiating table, nor is there any indication that Putin intends to soften his hardline demands. It's unclear whether the White House plans on taking a hardball approach to dealing with Putin as they have with Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
All right, coming up next, the Trump administration rejects an Arab-backed Gaza reconstruction plan at the same time as the Arab states again reject the Trump administration's proposal. While the White House now confirms that they've held secret talks with Hamas over U.S. hostages. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
We'll have the latest. Later in the show, the Trump administration has rejected a long-awaited Gaza reconstruction plan backed by Arab leaders, standing by its own vision of transforming the territory into the Riviera. Of course, Arab states responded by declaring that the U.S. proposal to relocate the population of Gaza isn't going to happen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Welcome back to the PDB. The Trump administration has outright dismissed a Gaza reconstruction proposal backed by Arab leaders, doubling down on its own vision that calls for the removal of Palestinians and the transformation of Gaza into a quote Riviera under U.S. ownership.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes defended the rejection Tuesday night, insisting that the Egyptian-led plan, presented at the Arab summit earlier in the day, fails to account for what he called the, quote, "...currently uninhabitable state of Gaza, citing extensive destruction and the presence of unexploded ordnance."
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Hughes stated, quote, adding that the administration looks forward to further discussions on reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
As we've been following here on the PDB, unlike Trump's plan, which centers on the removal of Palestinians from the enclave, all 2.3 million of them, the Arab-backed initiative sought to keep Gaza's residents in place, sidelining Hamas while establishing an interim governing body, one that, over time, would hand power to a reformed Palestinian authority.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The ultimate goal of the Arab-backed plan would be to unify Gaza and the West Bank under a single Palestinian state. Speaking at the summit in Cairo, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas reiterated his commitment to holding general elections in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem for the first time in nearly two decades, saying, quote, "...if circumstances are suitable," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has remained vague about his own vision for post-war Gaza, but has signaled open support for President Trump's, quote, different Gaza plan, rejecting both Hamas and the PA as governing entities. Israeli officials, for their part, have made it abundantly clear that a two-state solution is not on the table.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The Arab-backed $53 billion reconstruction plan, endorsed by multiple regional powers, envisions clearing the millions of tons of debris and rebuilding Gaza by 2030. The blueprint includes an ambitious economic framework anchored by shopping malls, an international convention center, and even an airport all within five years. But cracks in regional unity were evident at the Cairo summit.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Key financial backers, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the United Arab Emirates, were conspicuously absent, raising serious doubts about the plan's viability. Algeria's president outright boycotted the event, dismissing it as being, "...monopolized by a limited and narrow group of Arab countries."
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Egypt's president emphasized that any lasting peace depends on the creation of a Palestinian state. The reconstruction plan itself acknowledged the challenge of disarming Hamas, stating that any such effort would only succeed with, "...a clear horizon and a credible political process." But Hamas has flatly rejected any move to strip the terror group of its weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
A senior Hamas official told Reuters, "...the weapon of the resistance is a red line and it is not negotiable. We will not accept any deal to trade weapons for reconstruction." Despite issuing conflicting statements on its own role in Gaza's future, Hamas has also hinted at a willingness to step aside on the condition that any leadership transition remains strictly an internal Palestinian matter.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Plus, President Trump unloads on Hamas, declaring that if they don't release the hostages now, it's, quote, over for you. And in today's back of the brief, China fires back at the new U.S. tariffs, warning that it's prepared for, quote, any type of war with the United States. We are, as they say, living in interesting times. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Another Hamas official told Saudi state-owned media, "...as long as there is national consensus, Hamas will not be involved in the governance."
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
For now, with the Trump administration pushing for an overhaul of the enclave, Israel refusing to recognize either Hamas or the PA as legitimate authorities, and Arab states rejecting the notion of relocating the entire population of Gaza and divided on how to move forward, well, the future of Gaza's governance and reconstruction remains deeply uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
And just like that, I win the PDB Statement of the Obvious Award for today. Okay, staying in the Middle East, President Trump is making it clear to Hamas that he wants the hostages released, and he wants them released now. On Wednesday afternoon, Trump posted a message on Truth Social, which read, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
He went on to call the terror group sick and twisted and declared that he's sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, adding that not a single Hamas member will be safe if they don't comply. He also addressed the people of Gaza, to whom he said, quote, Trump's statement came after Trump met with a group of freed hostages in the Oval Office earlier in the day.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
It was also revealed yesterday for the first time that the administration has been engaging in direct secretive negotiations with Hamas, aiming to secure the release of American hostages in Gaza and potentially broker a broader deal to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The White House confirmed the talks on Wednesday following an exclusive report from Axios, marking a major departure from Washington's long-standing refusal to engage with groups that it designates as terrorist organizations. The negotiations, led by Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler, took place in Doha over the past several weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt confirmed that Israel had been consulted, though some Israeli officials reportedly learned of the talks through other channels. While the discussions primarily centered on securing the release of American hostages, they also touched on broader efforts to free all remaining captives and to establish a long-term ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
But as of now, no agreement has materialized. White House envoy Steve Witkoff had been scheduled to visit Doha this week for a meeting with Qatar's prime minister regarding ceasefire negotiations, but that trip was abruptly scrapped on Tuesday night after U.S. officials determined there was, quote, no progress from the Hamas side. Currently, 59 hostages remain in captivity.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Israeli officials have confirmed that 35 are dead, while intelligence reports suggest that 22 remain alive. The status of two others is unclear. Now, among the captives are five Americans, including 21-year-old Eden Alexander, who was believed to be alive. Four other American hostages have been declared dead by Israeli authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The direct talks come as the 42-day ceasefire, part of the first phase of the broader deal, expired on Saturday without an agreement to extend it. Though fighting has not resumed, Israel has halted all humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, where 90% of the population has been displaced.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Israeli officials say withholding aid is an attempt to pressure Hamas into accepting a deal that Jerusalem claims has U.S. backing. Levitt, speaking at Wednesday's briefing, stressed that President Trump views these negotiations as, quote, the right thing for the American people, saying, quote, there are American lives on the line.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, China responds to the new U.S. tariffs with a bold warning, saying it's prepared for, quote, any type of war with the United States. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The Trump administration is continuing to put the screws to Kiev following last week's Oval Office dispute between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. U.S. officials confirmed Wednesday that the CIA and intel community temporarily suspended all intelligence sharing with Ukraine earlier this week.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
We will pay peanuts for it and we can make billions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Welcome back to the PDB. In today's back of the brief, China has issued a stark warning to the U.S. after the Trump administration doubled tariffs on Chinese goods to 20% on Tuesday. As we discussed earlier this week, officials with the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, quickly hit back, retaliating with a 15% tariff on U.S. exports of chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, and a 10% tariff on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Now, they're warning the U.S. that they will not bend to the economic pressure and are ready to fight, quote, any type of war, according to a report from the BBC. The fiery remarks came as Chinese leaders announced Wednesday they will boost their defense spending by 7.2% over the next year.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
In a statement on X, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, quote, If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we're ready to fight till the end, end quote. Now, it's the strongest rhetoric we've seen from China since President Trump began his second term and suggests that the U.S. could be in for a long trade war with a defiant CCP.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
Chinese leaders appear eager to demonstrate their confidence in their economy's ability to grow despite the new tariffs, which they decried the previous day as a form of economic intimidation and bullying by the U.S., But whether China can weather this storm remains uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
The CCP has been grappling with persistently low consumption, a ballooning debt bubble, a property crisis, and high rates of unemployment, particularly among the younger population. Still, their premier warned Wednesday that China must stand firm as, quote, "...changes unseen in a century are unfolding across the world at a faster pace."
The President's Daily Brief
March 6th, 2025: Trump Leaves Ukraine In The Dark & White House Negotiations With Hamas
As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, Trump imposed the tariffs due to the high levels of fentanyl that continue to pour into the U.S., as China serves as a main manufacturing hub for the deadly opioid.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Zelensky acknowledged that even if Kyiv is offered a pathway to NATO membership, the process could drag on for years or even decades, and that in the meantime, nuclear weapons could deter Vladimir Putin from attempting to invade Ukraine again. Zelensky said, "...what will be defending us against this evil? Will we be given nuclear weapons? Then let them give us nuclear weapons."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
It's Thursday, 6 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, we'll begin in Ukraine, where President Zelensky has requested that the US provide Kyiv with nuclear weapons as an alternative security guarantee if NATO membership remains off the table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
During the interview, Zelensky noted that Ukraine once had a stockpile of nuclear weapons that they inherited after the fall of the Soviet Union, but voluntarily gave them up in 1994 after receiving security assurances from the US, the UK, and believe it or not, Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Zelensky was highly critical of that decision, arguing that the security guarantees lacked real teeth, well apparently so, leaving them vulnerable to Russia over the long term. He wants to avoid putting Ukraine in a similar position under any potential peace plans offered by the Trump administration. The Ukrainian leader continued, quote, Let's do this. Give us back nuclear arms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Give us missile systems. Help us finance a million-strong army. Or deploy your contingents in parts of our country where we want stability so that people feel safe, end quote. But Zelensky's hopes are likely to be dashed by the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Retired General Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, dismissed the idea during an interview on Wednesday night, arguing that it was a non-starter. Kellogg said, quote, the chance of them getting their nuclear weapons back is somewhere between slim and none. And that's frankly, so there'd be none. Let's be honest about it, he said.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
We both know that's not going to happen, end quote. Kellogg did confirm that plans are underway for meetings between President Trump, Zelensky, and Putin, and said both sides would need to make significant concessions if peace is to be achieved.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
But a timeline is still unclear and the administration remains tight-lipped on how they plan to bring the nearly three-year-old conflict to a just resolution. Coming up, an update on President Trump's proposal for a U.S.-led takeover of the Gaza Strip as Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz instructs the IDF to prepare plans to allow Palestinians to voluntarily leave the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
We'll discuss the implications and how President Trump's special envoy to Ukraine is responding. Then, following President Trump's remarks proposing a U.S.-led takeover of the Gaza Strip, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the IDF to prepare plans to allow Palestinians to voluntarily leave the enclave. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, instructed the IDF Thursday to draft a plan allowing Palestinians to voluntarily leave the enclave, aligning with President Trump's proposal for a U.S.-led takeover of the territory. Though details remained vague, Katz lauded Trump's initiative, suggesting it could, quote, allow a large population in Gaza to leave for various places in the world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
The plan would reportedly offer exit options via land crossings with potential, quote, special arrangements for departures by sea and air. Katz framed it as granting Palestinians the, quote, freedom to leave and emigrate, as is customary everywhere in the world, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Now, as we discussed on today's PDB, Katz's comments followed Trump's remarks on Tuesday alongside Prime Minister Netanyahu, in which he suggested that the U.S. should take a, quote, long-term ownership position of Gaza, redevelop it, and resettle its displaced population.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
However, Trump's proposal has faced intense pushback, as you might imagine, with human rights organizations accusing him of advocating for ethnic cleansing. Netanyahu, in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday, defended the idea, stating, quote, the actual idea of allowing first Gazans who want to leave to leave. What's wrong with that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
He added that the displaced Palestinians could return if necessary. The push for so-called voluntary emigration has long been championed by Israeli hardliners, who view mass Palestinian resettlement as a resolution to the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
In the early months of the Israel-Hamas war, Netanyahu's government lobbied allies, including the US and the UK, to pressure Egypt into accepting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. Now, that effort was met with broad rejection, as regional leaders feared Israel would permanently block their return.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Neighboring countries such as Jordan have largely refused to accept Palestinian refugees, citing economic burdens and security concerns. Katz's plan marks a notable shift in Israeli policy, as Israel has maintained a strict blockade on Gaza since 2007, when Hamas took power following Israel's withdrawal after nearly 40 years of occupation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
In announcing his instructions to the IDF, Katz called on countries that recently recognized Palestinian statehood, such as Spain, Ireland, and Norway, to open their doors to Palestinian refugees, stating that refusal would expose their, quote, hypocrisy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Spain's foreign minister swiftly rejected Katz's idea, stating, quote, "'Gazan's land is Gaza, and Gaza must be part of the future Palestinian state,' end quote." On Thursday morning, Trump took to Truth Social to clarify his comments from earlier in the week, claiming that Israel would hand over Gaza to the U.S. after hostilities cease and the population was resettled elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
It's important to note that the president insisted that no American troops would be needed and that Palestinians would be, quote, resettled and far safer in more beautiful communities with new and modern homes in the region, end quote. For now, Katz's directive remains an early-stage plan with no clear timeline or logistical framework.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
However, as both Trump and Israeli hardliners push for Palestinian resettlement, the debate over the enclave's future intensifies. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 6 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
And of course, as you may already know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See how simple that is? I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Ukrainian President Zelensky is revealing his conditions for ending the war with Russia, and they come with a major ask from the United States. Provide Kyiv with nuclear weapons to serve as a deterrent. Oh, is that all you want?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Zelensky made the request on Tuesday during an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, arguing that if there is to be any lasting and just peace in Eastern Europe, Ukraine must be granted meaningful security guarantees by the U.S. and Europe that will keep the Putin regime at bay.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 6th, 2025: Zelensky Reveals Conditions For Ending The War & Israel Prepares For Palestinian Exodus From Gaza
Now, while Zelensky would prefer to be granted NATO membership, he said if the Trump administration remains opposed to their accession to the alliance, nuclear weapons would serve as a viable alternative. So you either put us in NATO, or how about you give us some nukes?
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
It's a coalition of militias and rebel groups. It's important to note the SDF plays a critical role in maintaining security at makeshift refugee camps, housing over 50,000 people and also guarding more than two dozen detention facilities holding approximately 9000 ISIS fighters. Pentagon officials warn that a sudden U.S. withdrawal could severely undermine these operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Without American support, the SDF may be forced to shift its focus toward other military priorities, potentially abandoning security at the camps and prisons, and that's a scenario that could lead to the mass release of the ISIS detainees. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, the Mexican government has initiated Operativo Frontera Norte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
That's sending 10,000 troops to Juarez and other border cities. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, Mexico is unleashing their military along their northern border with the U.S., following through on an agreement struck Monday between Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum and Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Later in the show, major Middle Eastern powers, including Saudi Arabia, are pushing back against President Trump's surprise proposal for the U.S. to take control of Gaza. But not everyone is rejecting the idea. One key Israeli leader is calling it, quote, creative and interesting. Well, it is that. Plus, the Pentagon is reportedly drawing up plans to pull all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
On Tuesday, Mexican authorities announced the deployment of some 10,000 military troops to various towns and cities along the border as part of a mission dubbed Operativo Frontera Norte, or Operation Northern Border. Their primary directive is to curb drug trafficking into the U.S., particularly the deadly opioid fentanyl, which continues to fuel rampant addiction and deaths across the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
That's according to our report from the El Paso Times. It was an attention grabbing show of force by Mexican authorities, with their Secretary of National Defense posting videos showing hundreds of troops lined up to board military transport planes and convoys of army trucks departing from military bases in Mexico City in the pre-dawn darkness on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
They'll reportedly be spread out across notable cartel hotspots like Tijuana, Mexicali and Juarez. In exchange, the Mexican government has requested that the U.S. do more to curb the trafficking of firearms from the U.S. to Mexico. The action comes after a brief diplomatic tiff between Mexico and the U.S. over trade tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Mexican imports on Saturday that were set to take effect by the end of Monday, arguing that they were needed to encourage Mexico to do more to counter fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration. Scheinbaum had previously threatened to retaliate with tariffs on U.S. goods, creating fears of a looming trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
But Scheinbaum and Trump were able to settle the dispute during a phone call on Monday after Scheinbaum agreed to deploy 10,000 Mexican soldiers to the border In turn, Trump agreed to delay the imposition of those tariffs for at least a month Still, some observers are calling the operation an example of, quote, performative foreign policy and question just how much of a material impact it will have on drug trafficking and migrant smuggling
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
They note that Mexico already had at least 9,000 Army and National Guard troops stationed along the northern border in the first half of 2024 and it had little impact on the illicit trade of Mexico's violent cartels In 2021, Mexico also deployed 10,000 troops to border cities under an agreement with former President Biden to reduce migration, though as we know
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
It's Thursday, 6th February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Now, hey, if I look a little haggard, right, and I suspect I do, well, it's because I've been on the road for a while. And as they say, it's not the years, it's the mileage.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Some 8 million illegal migrants would subsequently pour across the border in the years that followed. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, 6 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as all the cool kids know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See how simple that is? I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, from the road, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
troops out of Syria in as little as 30 days if the White House gives the order. And in the back of the brief, it appears that President Trump's tariff strategy, it's sort of a carrot and stick approach without the carrot, is bearing fruit as Mexico deploys 10,000 military troops to its northern border with the U.S., But first, today's PDB Spotlight. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
immigration authorities are taking the gloves off in their fight against the Venezuelan gang Trendo Agua, or TDA, a group that has fueled some of the most brutal and violent migrant crimes across the country in recent years.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
in the early morning hours of wednesday federal agents with u.s immigration and customs enforcement ice raided several apartment complexes in aurora colorado that the gang had taken over last year and transformed into drug and prostitution dens as a reminder the greater denver area has long been a hot spot for illegal immigration due to the capital's status as a sanctuary city and has been a high priority for president trump's border czar tom homan
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
as he enacts the president's deportation agenda. ICE agents had reportedly spent days surveilling the properties before executing the raids dubbed Operation Aurora. Well, there's a clever name. We're going to conduct an operation in Aurora. What should we call it?
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Among others, they were allegedly trying to nab an unnamed senior member of TDA who's become a powerful cocaine kingpin in the Denver area, according to sources who spoke with the Daily Mail. We don't know whether the suspect in question was apprehended, but sources on the grounds that at least six men were seen being taken away in handcuffs at the Whispering Pines apartment complex.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Now, Whispering Pines was one of at least three apartment complexes in the region that crews of gun-wielding TDA members seized last year. As you may recall, members were caught on surveillance video last summer at one of the complexes, breaking into units and terrorizing residents before engaging in a shootout that severely injured at least one person.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Officials with ICE said they carried out raids at three separate apartment complexes on Wednesday that served as strongholds for the gang's operations. In a statement on social media, ICE officials said, quote, 100 plus members of the violent gang TDA were targeted for arrest and detention in Aurora, Colorado, today by ICE and its partners, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
The operation is part of the Trump administration's nationwide blitz against the Venezuelan gang, which the White House designated a foreign terrorist organization just late last month. The gang grabbed national attention last year after they overwhelmed the Aurora apartment complexes, which they quickly turned into drug and prostitution operations, pimping out migrant women and children.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
They would also charge residents at the complexes fees and violently assault those that pushed back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
In one incident, members of the gang threw boiling water on a migrant woman who refused to pay In another high-profile incident back in December, 14 suspected members of the gang were arrested for kidnapping and torturing a migrant couple that lived at one of the properties The complexes became major moneymakers for the gang and helped fuel their rapid expansion across America where they've engaged in all manner of violent crimes
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Look, I'm back out in the Middle East to join the amazing team as they complete the epic journey across 1,100 kilometers of desert from northwest Saudi to Aqaba in Jordan. It's all for the benefit of the UK Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund. That's a terrific organization that does vital work for the UK's military veterans and their families.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
For example, last November in Tennessee, Interpol apprehended a high-ranking TDA member linked to human trafficking and terrorism. Additionally, the brother of the migrant who murdered Augusta University student Laken Riley last February was known to have ties to TDA. The group has also increasingly partnered with Mexican cartels who aid in the smuggling of weapons and drugs and people.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
TDA became a focal point of the immigration debate during the 2024 election cycle, with critics of the Biden administration arguing that their lax border policies allowed the group to establish a foothold in America. President Trump promised to crack down on the group as soon as he returned to office.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
In an update provided by the White House on Wednesday, officials said that between January 21st and February 3rd, ICE agents have apprehended nearly 200 members of TDA who've been living in the US illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said in a statement, quote, President Trump told the American people he'd arrest and deport members of the brutal TDA gang, and he's doing just that. Illegal immigrant criminal gangs like TDA will no longer be able to terrorize American communities under President Trump's leadership, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
The gang members are being deported straight back to Venezuela, whose leaders have already agreed to accept repatriation flights from the US. The TDA members are among the roughly 7,000 criminal migrants that US authorities have arrested since Trump's return to office. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Coming up after the break, the Middle Eastern powers reject Trump's Gaza proposal and the Pentagon is drafting plans to pull U.S. troops out of Syria in as little as 30 days. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
I had to tap out early with an injury, but these folks, this incredible team, has been grinding it out. So do me a favor. Visit their site at www.sfcbf.org. That's sfcbf.org. You'll find details of the trek, and you'll find a link to donate to the fund. Take two minutes and donate what you can. Collectively, it all makes a tremendous difference. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. The fallout over President Trump's comments on Gaza continues as major Middle Eastern powers push back against a surprise proposal for the U.S. to take control of the enclave, relocate its Palestinian population and rebuild the Gaza Strip into a sort of Mediterranean Riviera.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
It's shocking that Arab nations would find fault with that idea. And by that, I mean it's absolutely not shocking in any way. Saudi Arabia, a country that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
has courted for a normalization deal with Israel, swiftly condemned the plan on Wednesday, reaffirming its unwavering support for Palestinian statehood and warning that any attempt to displace Palestinians from the Strip is non-negotiable Riyadh made clear that normalization with Israel remains impossible without an independent Palestinian state
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Turkey, a frequent critic, of course, of Israel's action in Gaza, didn't mince words. The country's foreign minister condemned Trump's proposal, labeling it, quote, absurd, stressing that any effort to remove Palestinians from Gaza is unacceptable. Across the Arab world, opposition to the plan is near universal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Palestinian leaders have all rejected the idea, citing not only ethical concerns, but also the security risks and regional instability that it would unleash. Many of these nations, despite forging diplomatic ties with Israel in recent years, remain deeply tied to the Palestinian cause, which continues to be a galvanizing issue across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Now, while deeply tied to the Palestinian cause, at least as a public narrative, the Arab states have little to no interest in reality in taking in large numbers of Palestinian refugees. Trump's comments come at a delicate moment. Israel and Hamas are navigating a fragile six-week ceasefire as mediators push for a longer-term resolution. Meanwhile, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
and Israel are weighing military options to curb Iran's advancing nuclear program, while Trump has sought to pull Saudi Arabia into a regional alliance against the mullahs. Unveiling his proposal at a White House press conference late on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Trump declared that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
would, quote, "...own Gaza by leveling the war-torn strip to spearhead reconstruction and create economic opportunities that would take 10 to 15 years." However, the commander-in-chief left key questions unanswered. How the U.S. intends to convince Palestinians to surrender the territory, whether Israel would ultimately claim sovereignty, or what entity would govern Gaza post-redevelopment.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
While Trump ruled out Israeli settlements in Gaza, he remained vague on what political structure would follow. Israeli reactions have been mixed. Hardline leaders who have long advocated for what they call, quote, voluntary migration from Gaza, praised Trump's remarks and are now exploring ways to act on them. Opposition leader Benny Gantz welcomed Trump's words as a sign of continued U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
support for Israel, calling the proposal, quote, creative, original and interesting. But Gantz was careful to emphasize that Israel's immediate focus must remain on securing the release of hostages still held in Gaza and ensuring negotiations with Hamas are not disrupted. Even within Netanyahu's coalition, skepticism lingers over the feasibility of such a plan.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
The Iran-backed terror proxy, for its part, dismissed Trump's comments outright, stating that, quote, Gaza is not a common land for any party to decide to control. As regional leaders grapple with Trump's proposal, the prime minister of the U.S.-backed Palestinian Authority met with Egyptian officials in Cairo Wednesday to discuss Gaza's reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Additionally, the president of the Palestinian Authority held talks with Jordan's king, with both leaders reaffirming their rejection of forced displacement and their commitment to Palestinian statehood.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank and coordinates security with Israel, has positioned itself as a potential governing body for postwar Gaza, an idea previously endorsed by the Biden administration.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Trump, undeterred by the backlash, invited Jordan's king and Egypt's president to the White House for talks later this month, a move that could further shape the diplomatic response to his plan.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Whether Trump's proposal gains traction remains to be seen, but if nothing else, it has injected fresh uncertainty into an already volatile situation, forcing Arab governments to contemplate a post-war vision for Gaza, even as they struggle to agree on who should govern the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Okay, staying in the Middle East, the Defense Department is actively drafting contingency plans for a full withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria, an operation that could be executed in as little as 30 days if President Trump issues the order. According to an exclusive report from NBC News, the potential pullout follows recent deliberations between Trump and top officials.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
We'll start things off with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, or ICE, taking the fight to one of the world's most dangerous criminal gangs. ICE agents stormed a known trend to Aragua or TDA stronghold in Colorado, arresting suspects tied to violent crimes. We've got the details on the raid.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Two defense officials say the White House has tasked military planners with drafting timelines for withdrawal with proposals ranging from 30, 60 or 90 days. Trump's newly appointed national security adviser, Mike Waltz, traveled to Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida, on Friday for high level meetings on Middle East security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
However, a White House official insisted that Syria was not on Waltz's agenda. The official added that broader discussions on regional security are ongoing, particularly in light of Prime Minister Netanyahu's meeting at the White House on Tuesday and the upcoming visit from Jordan's king.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
When asked last Thursday about reports claiming that he'd informed Israel of an imminent US departure from Syria, Trump dismissed the notion outright. The commander in chief stated, quote, I don't know who said that, but we'll make a determination on that. Before adding, quote, we're not getting involved in Syria. Syria is its own mess, he said. They don't need us involved, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
Now, this isn't the first time that Trump has attempted to disengage from Syria. In late 2019, during his first administration, Trump ordered the then defense secretary, James Mattis, to orchestrate a full withdrawal. Mattis at the time strongly opposed the decision, ultimately resigning in protest. While Trump did reduce troop numbers at the time, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
military presence in Syria continued, with forces later redeployed to the region. As of December, the Pentagon reported that U.S. troop levels in Syria stood at roughly 2,000. That's more than double the publicly acknowledged figure of 900 in previous years.
The President's Daily Brief
February 6th, 2025: ICE Takes Down Violent Venezuelan Gang & Trump’s Gaza Proposal Sparks Pushback
A Pentagon spokesperson clarified that of those, 1,100 were classified as, quote, temporary rotational forces, typically deployed for 30 to 90 days, while 900 made up the core force with year-long assignments. The stated U.S. mission in Syria is twofold to counter the remnants of the Islamic State and to support local allies, chiefly the Kurdish led Syrian Democratic Forces known as SDF.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Then, we'll turn to Cuba, where the country's national power grid has once again collapsed after their largest power plant failed, leaving millions in the dark. It comes as the country faces fuel shortages and an ongoing economic crisis. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
We'll begin with an update on a major breach of US telecommunications companies by Chinese operatives that officials have described as one of their worst hacks in American history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
During a briefing with reporters on Tuesday, senior officials with the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency urged Americans to start using encrypted messaging apps for their private communications to stay hidden from the Chinese Communist Party's backed hackers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
They warned that the breach, which was first discovered in October of this year, has not been fully remediated and that they are unsure when America's telecommunications systems will be clear of the threat. And that's according to an exclusive report from NBC News. As a reminder, the warning is tied to the hacking group known as Salt Typhoon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
I don't know who comes up with these names, which launched a sophisticated campaign targeting U.S. telecom giants Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen earlier this year. Intelligence officials discovered that the hackers had created backdoors into the company's systems, exposing the data of millions to agents of the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
The hackers cast a sweeping net, collecting not only metadata related to call records, but also live phone calls related to specific targets, such as high-profile American political leaders. During Tuesday's briefing, one official said, "...what we have told folks internally is not new here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Encryption is your friend, whether it's on text messaging or if you have the capacity to use encrypted voice communication. Even if the adversary is able to intercept the data, if it's encrypted, well, it will make it impossible." They added that Salt Typhoon hackers are still active inside U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
telecommunications systems, and the compromise is so large in scale that it's, quote, impossible to predict a timeframe on when we'll have full eviction, end quote. The significance of the threat is, well, frankly hard to overstate. As you may recall, in October, the hackers are believed to have breached the personal cell phones of Donald Trump and J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Vance and successfully intercepted the audio of a conversation involving an unnamed advisor to Trump's campaign. While the infiltration was first disclosed in the run-up to the presidential election, officials said Tuesday they don't believe it was intended to sway the results.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Rather, they see it as part of a larger espionage operation by the Chinese regime to glean intelligence on American politics and senior government officials. Well, they wouldn't be wrong there. No surprises here, but Chinese officials have previously denied any involvement. We have no idea! They've previously denied any involvement in the campaign, calling it, oh, Western disinformation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Well, if anybody knows disinformation, I suppose it would be the Chinese regime. Officials from the U.S. intelligence community, alongside leaders at the Federal Communications Commission, the FCC, are holding a classified briefing for all senators on Wednesday regarding Salt Typhoon, and a U.S. Senate Commerce subcommittee is planning a hearing on the outgoing threat on December 11th.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Now, many lawmakers across both parties have demanded a proportionate response against the CCP and for measures to be taken to bolster telecommunications security and hold U.S. corporations accountable for these cyber intrusions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Brendan Carr, who's been tapped by Trump to lead the FCC come January, said Wednesday, quote, the salt typhoon intrusion is a serious and unacceptable risk to our national security. We will work with national security agencies through the transition and next year in an effort to root out the threat and secure our networks, end quote. Coming up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
We'll turn to Cuba, where the country's national power grid has once again collapsed as the country grapples with fuel shortages and an ongoing economic crisis. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak to the experts over at Patriot Gold today. Now, they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And if you weren't aware of that, well, now you know. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Wednesday, 4 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Shifting our focus to the Caribbean, where Cuba is facing yet another crippling blackout. A failure at the island's largest power plant caused the national electrical grid to collapse, leaving millions without power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Now, the early morning blackout is the latest chapter in an ongoing energy crisis gripping the communist island, which is already struggling with fuel shortages and deepening political instability, of course, just 90 miles off the US coast. The power plant, located in western Cuba, has become a stark symbol of the country's deteriorating infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
This is the same facility that failed back in October, as we reported previously on the PDB, when dwindling fuel supplies and Hurricane Oscar caused days-long outages. Just weeks later, another hurricane dealt similar damage, underscoring the fragile state of Cuba's energy grid. The latest outage left the capital city, Havana, cloaked in near-total blackout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
According to Reuters, a witness noted that before dawn, only a few large hotels and government buildings dotted the skyline with lights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Social media reports suggest that the blackout may have affected the entire island of some 10 million people, though Cuban officials have yet to confirm the full scale of the outage, which I guess isn't exactly surprising for a regime that isn't known for transparency.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
For context, Cuba's aging oil-fired plants have struggled for years to meet growing energy demands plagued by outdated infrastructure and frequent mechanical failures. Compounding the crisis, oil imports from key allies like Venezuela, Russia, and Mexico have sharply declined, leaving the island increasingly unable to fuel its power plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Now, much like all those classic cars cruising through Havana streets, these power plants are relics of a bygone era, only, I guess, with less charm and reliability. These repeated blackouts aren't the only issue that Cuba is facing right now. The communist-run government is also experiencing its worst economic downturn since the Soviet Union's collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Since 2020, 10% of Cuba's population has fled the island, 10% seeking refuge from economic and political despair. The Energy and Mines Ministry is scrambling to restore power, but these recurring failures highlight the deeper instability that's plaguing Cuba. With no quick fixes in sight, the communist regime faces growing turmoil and an increasingly disillusioned population.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin, or as we previously called it, the Early Evening Bulletin, for Wednesday, 4 December. If you have any questions, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you may have heard by now, to listen to the show ad-free, should you be hankering for an ad-free experience, well, it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 4th, 2024: China's Deep Cyber Infiltration Of US Networks & Cuba In Disarray
Welcome to the PDB late afternoon or early evening bulletin, whichever. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, US intelligence officials are urging Americans to protect their private communications behind encrypted apps as they continue to grapple with the fallout from an unprecedented cyber attack by Chinese operatives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
sowie umfassende reziprierte Tarife auf rund 60 Länder, die als die schlechtesten Handelsanwälte bezeichnet werden. Unvergesslich, sind Gegner wie China, welches auch die dritte größte Handelspartner der USA ist, hart geschlagen worden, aber nicht sogar nahe, wie Japan, Südkorea, Israel oder die Europäischen Union-Nationen verloren wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Israel hatte sogar versucht, sich vor der Situation vorzunehmen, am Dienstag beantragte, dass sie alle restlichen Tarife auf US-Importe aufbauen würden, aber sie wurden immer noch mit einer 17%-Betreuungstechnik getroffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Die Bewegung sendet Schockwege durch die Märkte und bedroht den globalen Handel, beeinflusst alles von freien Autos, Elektronik aus China und Taiwan, Kleidung aus Vietnam und europäischen Konsumentenstapeln wie irische Butter. Hm, die Irischen kennen ihre Butter, wissen sie nicht? Also, wie reagieren die Weltführer? Nun, ich bin froh, dass Sie sich fragen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Die Reaktionen sind etwas vermischt, mit den meisten, die den Wunsch und die Wunsch der ökonomischen Verletzung verurteilen, aber einige nehmen einen mehr vorsichtigen Ansatz, um die Hoffnung zu erzeugen, einen neuen Handelsvertrag auszuarbeiten, aber sie müssen schnell arbeiten, denn die neuen Rezipienten-Tarife werden am Mittwoch, am 9. April, aufgeführt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
China hat sofort gefeiert, Kontra-Mechanismen zu impfen, bemerkend, dass, Quote, es gibt keinen Gewinner in einer Handelskrieg und Protektionismus führt nirgendwo. Trump hat China mit einem 34% rezipitalen Tarif geschlagen, was zusätzlich zu den vorherigen Tätigkeiten, die dieses Jahr vorgelegt wurden, erhöht, die totale Baseline-Rate auf chinesische Importe zu einem whopping 54%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
And when was the last time you heard anybody say whopping? A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry urged Washington to reverse course and resolve existing trade differences through, quote, fair, respectful and reciprocal consultations. Officials at China's Ministry of Commerce left the door open for negotiations, saying that they're always willing to engage with the U.S. on issues of bilateral trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
In Europa hat EU-Kommission-Präsident Ursula von der Leyen Trumps Tarife als einen, Quote, großen Blut auf die Weltwirtschaft gezeichnet und bemerkt, dass die Auswirkungen für Millionen von Menschen auf der Welt schwer sein könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Sie sagte, dass die EU, die mit einem Tarif von 20 Prozent gefangen wurde, bereits neue Aufgaben auf etwa 28 Billionen Dollar an US-Gutträumen beendet und in der Prozesse ist, zusätzliche Voraussetzungen zu beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Some leaders within the 27-member block of the EU were sharper in their criticisms, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calling Trump's actions, quote, fundamentally wrong and a, quote, attack on a trade system that has created prosperity all around the world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Italiener Premierminister Giorgio Meloni, ein Partner von Trump, hat die Tarife auch falsch genannt, aber gefeiert hat, einen neuen Deal mit den USA zu schaffen, um eine Handelskriege zu vermeiden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Darüber hinaus hat UK-Premierminister Keir Starmer mehr Vertrauen gezeigt, er sagte, dass er einen ruhigen und pragmatischen Ansatz nehmen würde und dass er diese Zeit nicht aufhören würde, vertragliche Maßnahmen vorzunehmen. Er hat bereits einen neuen Handelskrieg mit den USA gefordert, bevor Trump's Announcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Meanwhile, Australia's Prime Minister, well, issued a fiery condemnation, saying the new tariffs are, quote, unwarranted, not the act of a friend, and have, quote, no basis in logic. Turning to the Far East, Japan's Prime Minister called the tariffs, quote, extremely regrettable and against our wishes, though it was not yet clear how they planned to respond.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
South Korea and Taiwan issued similar rebukes, with Taiwan's President calling the levies unreasonable, though he did not mention imposing retaliatory measures. Währenddessen nahmen sich die großen US-Stockindexe alle am Dienstagabend einen Nosedive, die hinter den asiatischen und europäischen Märkten folgten, die über Nacht auf der News kratzten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Das Industrie-Average von Dow Jones verringerte fast 1.500 Punkte, als der Markt geöffnet wurde, während das S&P 500 mehr als 4% zunahm, es für den schlimmsten Tag seit den Covid-fuehlenden Verlangen, den wir im September 2022 gesehen haben, auf den Weg gebracht haben. The tech-heavy Nasdaq saw the largest drop, fueled by declines in Nvidia, Apple and Amazon stocks, falling by more than 5%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Many economists are now predicting the tariffs, which impact trillions of dollars in goods, could drive many global economies into a recession. Alright, coming up next, Israel unleashes a new wave of airstrikes across Syria in their latest warning to the new Islamist rulers in Damascus. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, let's take a look around at the economy and see what we see.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Ah, well, tariff wars, we certainly have tariff wars, recession fears, and unfortunately some stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets like, well, like the one we have right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand pretending everything's okay. Take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Das ist der Grund, warum so viele Amerikaner heute die Birchgold-Gruppe wechseln. Sie haben Tausende von Tausenden in eine existierende IRA oder 401 in eine IRA in physischem Gold gewechselt. Also fragt euch selbst, ist es Zeit, gegen Inflation und ökonomische Unstabilität mit Gold zu hängen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Um zu lernen, wie man physische Gold in einem geschlossenen Konto besitzt, schreibt einfach PDB zu 989-898. Birchgold schickt dir ein gratis, ohne Obligationen-Informationen-Kitsch. Wiederum, es ist einfach. Schreibt einfach PDB zu 989-898. Mit einem A-plus-Rating, mit einem besseren Geschäftsbüro und vielen 5-Star-Reviews.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Es ist kein Wunder, dass so viele Amerikaner Birchgold vertrauen, um ihre Erhöhungen mit Gold zu schützen. Tut euch einen Dank und schaut es euch an. Textet einfach BDB zu 989-898 heute. Willkommen zurück im Nachhinein-Bulletin. Israel hat eine Barrage von Luftwaffen über Syrien am Montagabend gegründet, die militärische Infrastruktur, vor allem nahe dem Kapitol Damaskus, zu targetieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
It's Thursday, the 3rd of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, the world reacts to President Trump's massive Liberation Day tariff announcement as the stock market tumbles on fears of a looming recession.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Israels Offiziere beschreiben die Luftwaffen als einige der intensivsten Operationen, die in Syrien seit dem Überbruch des ehemaligen Präsidenten Assad durchgeführt wurden. In a post on the messaging app Telegram, the Israel Defense Forces said their warplanes hit a range of military targets, including the T4 air base in Homs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
The IDF has reportedly targeted the T4 base over the past week, part of what Jerusalem describes as a sustained effort to dismantle what remains of Syria's warfighting capabilities. A Syrian military official speaking to Reuters confirmed a dozen precision strikes flattened the airbase, reducing runways, hangars, arms depots and its control tower to rubble.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
The IDF added that the strikes wiped out high-value military installations around Damascus. Syria's state news agency Sanaa acknowledged the Israeli bombardment, reporting casualties among both military personnel and civilians, though exact figures remain unclear. Damascus denounced the attacks as an act of aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
In a statement from the foreign ministry, Syria called the strikes a, quote, unjustified escalation and accused Israel of deliberately attempting to destabilize what it described as a fragile post-conflict order. But for Jerusalem, well, the message was more about deterrence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Speaking Thursday, Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a direct warning to Syria's newly installed Islamist-led government, led by President Ahmad al-Sharah. In pointed language, Katz declared, "...if you allow forces hostile to Israel to enter Syria and endanger Israeli security interests, you will pay a very heavy price."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
As we've discussed here on the PDB, al-Sharah has made efforts to distance himself from his previous ties to ISIS and Al-Qaeda. He's positioned his administration as a clean break from Assad-era governance. Israeli officials, however, well, they remain unconvinced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Citing al-Sharah's former roles in jihadist networks, the Netanyahu government argues that Syria is once again on the verge of becoming a launchpad for attacks on the Jewish state. Seit dem Abfall von Assad im letzten Jahr, hat Israel seine Fußgründe in Syrien erweitert, die Kontrolle über eine 50-Mile-Bufferzone, die früher unter UN-Vorsorge lag.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Israels Offiziere sagen, dass die Besetzung dieses Korridors kritisch ist, um das Land von erneuerbaren Threaten auszulösen, die von gearmten islamistischen Faktionen nun frei in der Region funktionieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Und weiter komplizierende Dinge, weil natürlich, das ist es, was wir brauchten, mehr Komplikationen, ist die wachsende Influenz der Türkei in Nordsyrien, die eine wachsende Angelegenheit für israelische Sicherheitsbeamte geworden ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Sprechend von Paris am Donnerstag, hat israelischer Außenminister Gideon Saar Ankara verurteilt, eine Strategie zu bewegen, die Syrien in eine, Quote, türkische Verteidigung zu verändern, und sagte, die türkische Einwohnung in Syrien und Libanon sei, Quote, destabilisierend. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 3rd of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, as highlighted in many of the leading scientific journals, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, you can do that. Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
Later in the show, Israel unleashes a new wave of airstrikes across Syria in their latest warning to the new Islamist rulers in Damascus as tensions mount over Turkey's growing influence on the country. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 3rd, 2025: World Leaders React To Trump's Tariffs & Israel Unleashes Strikes Across Syria In Latest Warning To Islamist Rulers
We'll begin with a global fallout over President Trump's sweeping new tariff regime, a policy broadside that's severely rattled investors and left world leaders scrambling for a response. As we discussed on this morning's show, the President unveiled his long-anticipated tariff agenda on Wednesday, announcing plans to impose a 10% baseline tariff on all U.S. imports
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The ruling comes after the Department of Justice requested in February that the case be dropped, arguing the proceedings were interfering with the mayor's ability to govern, thereby impeding the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal immigration, according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The move by the DOJ was controversial, to say the least, and prompted eight federal prosecutors to resign over concerns that political considerations were taking precedent over prosecutorial decisions. U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho appeared to agree on Wednesday, saying he was extremely, quote, troubled by the DOJ's rationale.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Ho wrote, quote, everything here smacks of a bargain, dismissal of the indictment in exchange for immigration policy concessions. Still, Hose said his hands were essentially tied and that he had little choice but to dismiss the indictment, as US courts don't have the authority to compel federal prosecutors to pursue charges.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
And later in the show, the latest on the US campaign against the Houthis, with reports indicating that the sustained air assault has decimated the terror group's missile launching capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
It's worth noting, however, that the DOJ had requested that the judge dismiss the charges without prejudice, meaning they could have revived the indictment down the road.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Judge Ho rejected that portion of the request, arguing that it would, quote, create the unavoidable perception that the mayor's freedom depends on his ability to carry out the immigration enforcement priorities of the administration, end quote. But the politics of this case are not one-sided.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Adams and the Trump DOJ have both argued that the indictment brought under the Biden administration was political retribution for Adams' sharp criticism of former President Biden's lax immigration policies. For his part, Adams praised the judge's decision to drop the case – well, that makes sense – stating he had done nothing wrong and that the charges should never have been brought.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
As for allegations of political favoritism, Adams pushed back, saying, I have always been solely beholden to the people of this city. No special interests, no political opponents, just everyday New Yorkers. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 3rd of April.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Now, if you have any questions or comments or suggestions, don't forget, for Liberation Day traditions, just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget to listen to the show ad-free. Well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Plus, a growing scandal inside the Israeli government, as two aides to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu are accused of accepting money to push favorable narratives about Qatar as a key mediator in hostage negotiations with Hamas. Und in today's Back of the Brief. The saga of New York Mayor Eric Adams' corruption indictment has come to an end.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
A federal judge just tossed out the case and made sure that it can't come back. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Wir fangen heute mit der eskalierenden Weltkriegswahl an.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Präsident Trump hat seine lange erwarteten Liberation Day-Tarife während einer Rede am Montagabend, die Stockfuture nach vorne sendet, als Wirtschaftsleute beurteilen, dass die finanziellen Voraussetzungen dramatisch Preise für Konsumenten erhöhen könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Trump begann mit der Erkennung eines 25%-Tarifs auf alle ausländischen Automobilen, die am Mittwoch stattgefunden wurden, um zu beantworten, was er als die, Quote, horrenden Unabhängigkeiten genannt hat, die die Domestik-Vehicle-Manufacturer untergebracht haben.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
He followed that by announcing a baseline tariff of 10% on virtually all goods coming into the US, with the exception of products covered by the current North American Free Trade Treaty, that's known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The new baseline tariff, which represents an unprecedented shift in America's longstanding global trade practices, will be implemented at midnight on Saturday. Außerdem hat Trump gesagt, er würde einige 60 Länder schießen, die die Regierung als die schlechtesten Handelsverletzten bezeichnet, mit dem, was er beschrieben hat, als, Quote, verkaufte rezipikalische Tarife.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Auf einem Fall-zu-Fall-Basis werden Länder eine Tarif an der Hälfte der Rente, die sie den USA beurteilen. Diese Tarife werden am Mittwoch am 9. April aufwachen. The laundry list of impacted nations is frankly too long to rattle off, but includes a 34% tariff on China, a 20% tariff on the European Union, a 46% tariff on Vietnam and a 32% tariff on Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Es ist wert zu bemerken, dass bestimmte Geräte von den Rezipienten-Tarifen, zumindest bis jetzt, verabschiedet werden werden, z.B. Gold, Kupfer, Pharmazeutika, Semikondukte und Läden. Während der Pressekonferenz hat Präsident Trump es als einen der wichtigsten Tage in der amerikanischen Geschichte genannt und als eine Deklaration der ökonomischen Unabhängigkeit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The president vowed to use revenue generated from his new tariff regime to reduce taxes and pay down the national debt, while claiming the economic penalties on our trading partners will revive manufacturing in the US, creating jobs and lowering prices for consumers over the long term.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Trump stressed that he doesn't feel ill will towards the nations targeted by his tariffs, I'm sure that makes them feel better, saying he understood why foreign governments charge the U.S. such high rates. Instead, he placed the blame on past presidents and lawmakers for allowing the U.S. to be taken advantage of financially for decades.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Trump stated, quote, today we're standing up for the American worker and we're finally putting America first, end quote. Shortly after his speech, Trump declared a national economic emergency and signed an executive order granting himself broad powers to implement the tariffs. The new levies are expected to trigger widespread economic retaliatory measures from most of the impacted nations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The EU, for example, plans to announce duties later this month of up to 50%. auf etwa 28 Billionen Dollar von US-Gütern, including American Beef, Poultry, Bourbon, Motorcycles, Peanut Butter and Jeans. You know things are getting out of hand when you start putting tariffs on Bourbon.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Officials for the EU said Wednesday they plan to announce additional measures soon, including on the American automobile industry, though they have not yet detailed their strategy. China, Amerika's third largest trading partner, said earlier this week that they're working to coordinate their response with Japan and South Korea, though details of their plans are also not yet clear.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
But economists expect the Chinese response to be significant, as the new 34% reciprocal tariff adds to previous duties imposed earlier this year, raising the total baseline rate on Chinese imports to 54%. But Treasury Secretary Scott Besant cautioned foreign countries to take a beat before they respond, saying in an interview with CNN, quote, doing anything rash would be unwise.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
He added, quote, sit back, take a deep breath, don't immediately retaliate. Let's see where this goes, end quote. Suggesting, of course, that maybe there's room to renegotiate current trade deals. Trump hat sein neues Tarifregime als eine notwendige Änderung zu dem, was er beschreibt, als langfristigen Handelsunfall.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Das Ziel, sagt Trump, ist es, das Spielfeld zu leveln und Unternehmen zu ermöglichen, in den USA zu produzieren.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Aber Wirtschaftsleute beurteilen, dass so ein aggressiver und konfrontierter Ansatz auf den Außenhandel für die USA und US-Vereinigungen devastierende finanzielle Auswirkungen haben könnte und Risiken für eine Rezession senden würde, die die globale Wirtschaft in eine Rezession stürzen würde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
It's Thursday, the 3rd of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage and still on the road. Although I am giving you a clue as to where I might be today. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with the big news from Liberation Day.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Ever since Trump began his tariff campaign by hitting Canada, Mexico and China with limited trade taxes earlier this year, markets have been on edge. They were further rattled when President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum from all US trading partners back on March 12th.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
JP Morgan's chief economist recently revised their economic forecast, warning that there is now a 40% chance of a US recession occurring sometime this year. Alright, coming up next. New reports suggest US airstrikes have crippled the Houthis' missile arsenal. And fresh accusations hit Netanyahus inner circle in a growing scandal over pro-Qatari influence. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Well, take a look around. Let's take a peek at the economy, shall we? What do you see? Well, we see tariff wars, recession fears and unfortunately some stubborn inflation sticking around. It's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
And in volatile markets as well like the one we have right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand pretending everything's okay. Take control and safeguard your savings. Das ist der Grund, warum so viele Amerikaner heute an die Birchgold-Gruppe zurückkehren.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Sie haben Hunderten von Tausenden geholfen, eine existente IRA oder 401k in eine IRA in physischem Gold zu verwandeln. Also fragst du dich selbst, ob es Zeit ist, dich gegen Inflation und ökonomische Unstabilität mit Gold zu hegen. To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder so many Americans are turning to Birch Gold. Text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB. The White House says a March air strike in Yemen killed the Houthis top missile expert.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Yet nearly three weeks later, the Pentagon has still declined to confirm it. As we've discussed here on the PDB, the 15 March strikes were the largest American military operation in the Middle East since President Trump returned to office. It was billed as a response to a Houthi campaign of missile and drone attacks against commercial shipping in the Red Sea. Mehr als 100 Angriffe sind seit den 7.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Oktober 2023 Hamas-Angriffe gestartet. Und die Houthi-Führung sagt, ihre Aktionen sind in Solidarität mit Hamas. Während die Verteidigungsoffiziere ruhig über den Begriff waren, war die White House schnell, die Mitte des März-Missions ein Erfolg zu erklären.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz told CBS News just days after the strikes that American forces had taken out, quote, their head missileer. That sent journalists everywhere scrambling to their dictionaries to find out if missileer is actually a word. Just kidding. Nobody uses dictionaries anymore. Come on.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
As you may recall, in the exposed signal group chat by the Atlantic, remember that, which included Waltz, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Vice President J.D. Vance, among other administration officials, and of course the Atlantic's editor-in-chief, Waltz touted the killing in real time, claiming, quote, positive ID of the, quote, top missile guy, entering a building that was then destroyed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
But behind the scenes, doubts have set in. Defense officials speaking anonymously to Reuters say there's still no confirmation the intended target was killed. The Pentagon, which typically validates high-value kills within days, declined to comment. Inquiries are now being punted back and forth between the White House and the military, neither offering confirmation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
President Trump has announced sweeping tariffs on imports from multiple countries, aiming to bolster American manufacturing and address trade imbalances. We'll break down which goods are affected, the potential economic impact, and how international partners are responding. Hint, not well. Henceforth, of course, every 2nd of April shall be known as Liberation Day.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Independent Analysts are similarly unconvinced. Open source intelligence experts tracking Houthi communications report no mention of the death of the commander of the terror group's strategic missile forces. According to the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, the missile commander effectively serves or served, depending on his condition, as a Houthis' top missile architect.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Experts warn that the Houthis have a habit of delaying death acknowledgements, especially when senior commanders are involved. The Joint Staffs Operations Chief, Air Force Lieutenant General Alexis Krinkiewicz, offered a more generic assessment in the 15 March strikes, saying that they hit a drone facility and, quote, several key leaders. Still, the American strike campaign has taken its toll.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
On Monday, Trump declared the terror group had been, quote, decimated, posting on Truth Social that, quote, many of their leaders are no longer with us. Israeli military sources speaking to Channel 12 backed that claim, saying the Houthis now possess only a fraction of their ballistic missile launchers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Much of that reduction is thanks to recent joint Israeli-American strikes across northern Yemen. As for whether the Houthis' top missile expert is among the dead, well, that answer remains unknown. But U.S. officials say the terror group's production capacity has been throttled in the ongoing strikes. Okay, shifting to Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
A burgeoning foreign influence scandal is threatening to engulf Prime Minister Netanyahu's inner circle, as two of his senior aides stand accused of covertly pushing pro-Qatari narratives to journalists, according to newly unsealed court documents.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Der Fall, der Katar-Gate genannt wird, weil man die Gaten am Ende eines Skandals in diesen Tagen haben muss, betrifft Angelegenheiten, die der ehemalige Netanyahu-Vorsitzende Jonathan Urich und der ehemalige Sprecher Elie Feldstein in Bezug auf manipulierende israelische Medienkommunikation anzunehmen, um Katar, eine wichtige Intermediärin, mit Hamas in einen favorablen Licht zu vertreten, während Kairos Rolle untergebracht wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Die israelischen Polizisten haben eine steigende Reihe von Fällen aufgewertet. Verbrechen, Verbrechen, Geldverlust, Verbrechen von Vertrauen und unrechtlichem Kontakt mit einem fremden Agenten. Sprache, die die Gravität der Befragung und der potenziellen legalen Gefahr gegenüber beiden Individuen unterschätzt.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Sie bleiben in der Verwaltung durch, zumindest heute, mit einem Gerichtssatz, in dem es, Quote, eine vernünftige Verschwörung gibt. Sie engagierten sich in einer unbeauftragten öffentlichen Beziehungsaktivität auf der Seite eines fremden Governments.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
According to court filings, Feldstein was recruited by the Third Circle, that's a US-based lobbying group, operated by pro-Qatar operative Jay Footlick, to amplify narratives bolstering Qatar's diplomatic role.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Investigators believe Israeli businessman Gil Birger served as a conduit for these payments, funneling money from Footlick to Feldstein during the former spokesman's tenure inside the Prime Minister's office.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Public Broadcaster Khan aired audio last month of Birger acknowledging he had funneled the payments on Fotlicks behalf, with Feldstein allegedly instructed to present Doha's talking points as insights from senior Israeli defense officials, a move that, if substantiated, could suggest international efforts to launder foreign propaganda through the Israeli security establishment.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Jurek, für seinen Teil, ist verurteilt, die gesamte Verhandlung und die Messungen den Journalisten unter dem Hinblick auf interne Regierungssourcen zu präsentieren. Es ist eine besonders verdammte Verurteilung, given his long-standing proximity to Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
I'm not sure if it's going to be an official government holiday or not. At the least, hopefully, there'll be some cool Liberation Day traditions that we can start. Maybe picnicking, parades, keg stands. I tell you what, send me a note to pdb at thefirsttv.com with how you think the new holiday should be celebrated.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The scope of the probe widened earlier this week with the inclusion of Jerusalem Post Editor-in-Chief Zvika Klein, who traveled to Qatar in 2024 and published an infusive report detailing his interactions with senior Qatari officials. Klein, now suspected of unlawful contact with a foreign agent, maintains his visit was conducted at the official invitation of the Qatari government.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
However, internal police memos suggest Feldstein may have orchestrated the trip while still on the government payroll, a claim that Klein denies. While not a suspect himself, Netanyahu has been questioned by police amid allegations that Jurek may have leaked classified cabinet material.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
The Prime Minister responded with defiance, releasing a video accusing authorities of holding his aides, quote, hostage and branding the investigation a political hit job. Last month, Netanyahu's cabinet voted unanimously to dismiss Shin Bet-Chief Ronan Barr, a move that, according to several petitions now before the High Court, was aimed at crippling the Qatar-Gate probe.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
Netanyahu has denied the charge, but Barr, in a letter to ministers obtained by Israeli media, appeared to validate the concern. The court has since frozen his dismissal, pending review.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
At the investigation center lies a simple yet explosive premise, that Qatar, through covert payments and carefully orchestrated media campaigns, sought to shape Israeli public perception and influence wartime decision-making, reaching deep into the Prime Minister's office through a network of well-placed intermediaries. All right. Coming up next in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
A federal judge shuts down the corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Permanently. We'll have those details next. In today's back of the brief, it looks like New York City Mayor Eric Adams can breathe a sigh of relief regarding his federal indictment on allegations of foreign corruption.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
As a brief reminder, Adams was indicted last September, accused of accepting illegal gifts and contributions from Turkish nationals during his mayoral campaign. Allegations further claimed that once in office, Adams pressured city officials to grant favors to foreign interests in exchange for political support. Well, on Wednesday, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 3rd, 2025: Trump’s Tariff Blitz & Israel’s Qatar Scandal
District Judge for the Southern District of New York dismissed the corruption case against Adams with prejudice, which means that the charges can't be brought again at a future date.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Das ist natürlich ein historischer Touristenort, der weltweit als eines der größten Destinationen für Weihnachtsfeierpartys bekannt ist. Der Verbrecher steigte eine Polizei-Blockade um und spielte mit hoher Geschwindigkeit durch eine Gruppe, schlug in Dörfern von Menschen ein und verlegte einen Weg der Schmerzen in seinem Wachstum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Nach dem Anflug des Fahrzeuges hat der Anwalt das Fahrzeug ausgeschlossen und mit einem langen Pfeil auf die Polizei geöffnet und zwei Anwälte verletzt, bevor er getötet wurde. Das ist laut unserer Berichterstattung von der Associated Press. Der Anwalt, der sich als 42-jähriger Shamsud Din-Jabbar identifiziert hat, war ein US-Mitglied aus Texas, der früher in Afghanistan arbeitete.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
FBI-Investigte sagen, er habe vor kurzem, Quote, die Begegnung mit ISIS gefeiert und fünf Videos auf Social Media vor dem Angriff kurz vor dem Angriff, die Quote, die Begegnung mit ISIS gefeiert und vor kurzem, Quote, die Begegnung mit ISIS gefeiert und vor kurzem, Quote, die Begegnung mit ISIS gefeiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
but was concerned that media coverage would not focus on the, quote, war between the believers and the disbelievers. He also said he had officially joined the Islamic State sometime before last summer. At a press conference on Thursday, the FBI's deputy assistant director said, quote, this was an act of terrorism. It was premeditated and an evil act, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
And for that, the FBI is the winner of the PDB statement of the Obvious Award. In his rented truck, which he reportedly drove from Houston to New Orleans on the 31st of December, authorities found an Islamic State flag, weapons and a potential explosive device. Two other explosive devices were found in the French Quarter of New Orleans and rendered safe by police.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Now, surveillance footage since reviewed shows Jabbar placing those explosive devices on the streets of the French Quarter earlier in the day. The FBI had originally said Wednesday that they did not believe that he acted alone. Officials conducted a thorough search of the city and spent hours at the attacker's home in Houston.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
But as of Thursday morning, no additional arrests were known to have been made. And later on Thursday, FBI officials said that they now believe the attacker did act alone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Aber die Präsenz der ISIS-Flagge und mehrerer explodierender Geräte hat den Eindruck gebracht, dass die internationale ISIS-Terroristengruppe vielleicht eine Rolle in der Angriffspflicht gespielt hat, über und außer einfach radikalisierend oder inspirierend den Angriffspflichter.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Offizielle der FBI haben jemandem mit Informationen geäußert, dass sie voran kommen und gesagt haben, dass sie aggressiv arbeiten, um jede Führung herunterzuhalten. Einer der Verletzten war die Mutter eines vierjährigen, der sich gerade in ein neues Wohnzimmer eingestellt hatte, ein Finanzarbeiter aus New York und ein 18-jähriger aus Mississippi.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Die beiden Anwälte, die in der Feuerwehr verletzt wurden, sind in stabiler Stabilität und werden an einem lokalen Krankenhaus zurückgekehrt. The attack led city officials to postpone the Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff game, scheduled for Wednesday, until today. And that's being played less than a mile from the scene of the attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
The city reopened Bourbon Street on Thursday as the investigation continues, beefing up security ahead of the game. Die lokalen Offiziere sind jetzt unter Begründung, was die Sicherheitsmaßnahmen in der Stadt für die Weihnachtsfeier anbelangt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Ein Barriere-System, das im Sinne von Vehicle-Attacken verhindert wurde, war nicht in der Lage, denn es wurde beruflich in Vorbereitung für die Superbowl repariert, die im Februar dieses Jahres in New Orleans gegründet werden wird. Instead, patrol cars and barriers were used to block vehicular traffic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
The terrorist is said to have driven a rented pickup truck onto a sidewalk to get around the temporary barricades. So, not really barricades. New Orleans Police Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick said, quote, We did indeed have a plan, but the terrorist defeated it, end quote. She added, quote, This is not just an act of terrorism. This is evil, end quote. Now,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Not to play armchair quarterback on this one, but failing to have proper barricades set up and working around the French Quarter ahead of such a massive event as New Year's Eve and the planned next day college football game seems to indicate that the plan that the police chief is referring to was at best inadequate and not thought through. I'm being diplomatic there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Saying that your first-tier security barrier system was being repaired in preparation for the Super Bowl in February, when the authorities knew well in advance the size of crowds and the always present potential for a terrorist attack during a large-scale public event, is, well, it's nonsensical. Sorry to start out the year on a churlish note.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Coming up, we'll turn to another potential act of terror in Las Vegas, where a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel on New Year's Day, killing one, the driver, and injuring seven. I'll be right back. Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Es ist Freitag, 2. Januar 2025, falls Sie sich über das Jahr interessieren. Willkommen im PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Lassen Sie uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst werden wir über den Terrorattack in New Orleans im Frühjahrsende diskutieren. by a US Army veteran who had pledged allegiance to ISIS. The attack left 14 dead and 30 injured.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Wisst ihr, dass 60 % der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Jahr in einem Landfall hervorgehoben wird? Denkt daran, 60 %, in einem Jahr, Bob ist euer Onkel, Landfall. Kontrastiert das mit dem Vergangenheit. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, unsere Kleidung war etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Versorgung. Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Continuing our coverage of New Year's Day attacks in the United States, a Tesla Cybertruck explosion occurred outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday. The blast killed the driver and injured seven others and prompted an FBI investigation into whether it is an act of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
The explosion took place just before 9 am and forced the evacuation of the Trump International Hotel. Surveillance footage captured the dramatic moment when the explosion occurred, appearing to originate from the rear of the Cybertruck.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
First responders arrived within minutes to extinguish the blaze and discovered a charred truck bed filled with fuel canisters and more than a dozen firework mortars. Es ist wert zu bemerken, dass der Präsident-Elekt damals nicht auf dem Gebäude war. Die Behörden haben den Cybertruck-Fahrer als Matthew Liversberger, ein aktivistischer Armee-Green Beret, in Deutschland und in Colorado verabschiedet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Er hat die Fahrzeuge in Denver vor dem Fahren in den Las Vegas Hotel verkauft. Die Behörden untersuchen momentan, ob der Angriff in Las Vegas in irgendeinem Sinne mit dem Angriff in New Orleans verbunden ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Both incidents involved vehicles rented through the peer-to-peer, app-based car-sharing service Turo, prompting federal investigators to explore whether the events were part of a coordinated effort. In a statement, Turo assured full cooperation with law enforcement and emphasized that neither renter had a criminal background.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
However, the FBI was careful to note at a news conference today that as of now there is no definitive link between the two incidents. Die Explosion kommt, als Präsident Trump sich vorbereitet, natürlich in weniger als 20 Tagen an die White House zurückzukehren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Im November hat Trump Tesla-CEO Elon Musk mit einer Präsidenten-Advisory-Kommission zusammengeleitet, der Department of Government Deficiency. Der Sheriff der Las Vegas-Polizei hat in einer Pressekonferenz gesagt, dass es offensichtlich ein Cybertruck ist, das Trump Hotel. Es gibt viele Fragen, die wir beantworten müssen, endgültig. Schauen wir auf einen potenziellen Motiv für die Explosion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Then we'll turn to another potential act of terror in Las Vegas, where a Tesla Cybertruck loaded with fuel canisters and other explosives exploded outside the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, an New Year's Day, der Fahrer getötet und sie sieben verletzt. Aber zuerst unser Nachmittagspotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
While officials stress that there is no immediate danger to the Las Vegas community, the fact that there were two mass casualty events in the same day understandably has the nation on edge. It's a sad and worrisome start to 2025. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 2 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's very easy. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 2nd, 2025: ISIS Inspired Terror Attack Strikes New Orleans & Tesla Cybertruck Explodes Outside Trump Vegas Hotel
Wir beginnen mit dem tragischen Terrorattack an New Year's Day in New Orleans, wo ein US-Armee-Veteran, fliehend eine ISIS-Flagge aus einem Pickup-Truck, durch eine Gruppe von Revoltern fuhr, 14 zu töten, und 30 verletzte. Die horrifizierte Szene entstand während der Weihnachtsfeier um 3.15 Uhr am Montagabend auf der immer populären Bourbonstraße.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Israel's deep infiltration into Hezbollah's terror network over the past year reveals some intimate details regarding the group's former leaders, including a top commander's plans to marry his four mistresses. More on that when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact. Wisst ihr, dass 60 % der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Jahr in einem Landfall hervorgehoben wird? Denkt daran, 60 %, ein Jahr, Bob ist dein Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
And in today's back of the brief. Israeli spies, who infiltrated deep into Hezbollah's terror network over the past year, reveal some intimate details regarding the group's former leaders, including a top commander's plans to marry his four mistresses. Not one, not two, but four mistresses. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Ich meine, historisch gesagt, unsere Kleidung war etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Versorgung. Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
In today's Back of the Brief, Israel's meticulous infiltration of Hezbollah's top ranks has unveiled startling details about the personal activities of its commanders, including the deceased Fuad Shulker, who was under such intense surveillance, even his plan to marry his four mistresses was uncovered. That's some actionable intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
A New York Times investigation published this week detailed how deeply Israeli operatives penetrated into Hezbollah's inner sanctum, planting listening devices in bunkers and hideouts. This unprecedented access not only allowed Israel to track leadership movements with surgical precision,
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
aber auch eine Reihe von sterblichen, targetierten Angriffen ermöglichte, die Sophistikierung von Israels Intelligenz-Fähigkeiten zu demonstrieren. Shukr, der Senior Commander des iranischen Back-Terrorgruppes, wurde von Israel und den USA lange für seine Rolle in einem 1983-Marine-Barracks-Bombing gesucht, das 241 amerikanische Hilfsleute getötet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Er war einer der am stärksten monitorierten Hezbollah-Führer. In addition to his operational activities, Israeli agencies track nearly every aspect of his personal life, including his, well, his intimate relationships. At one point, he arranged for Hezbollah's top cleric to perform marriage ceremonies over the phone for his four mistresses. Well, isn't that romantic?
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Shulker apparently felt uneasy about his affairs and turned to the group's highest religious authority for help. As a reminder, Schukers involvement in a deadly rocket attack on the Golan Heights in July, which killed 12 civilians, including children, provoked a rare and high-profile strike by Israel on Beirut days later, which ultimately resulted in his death.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
But Schukers' demise was just one chapter in a broader campaign. As previously reported on the PDB, Mossad operatives managed to permeate every level of Hezbollah's terrorist organization, leveraging human sources and advanced surveillance to uncover hideouts and track leadership movements.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
These efforts culminated in September with the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah for three decades. Despite warnings from his commanders to relocate, Nasrallah underestimated Israelis' intelligence reach and chose to remain in his fortified Beirut-Lebanon bunker.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Israeli F-15-Fighter-Jets unleashed thousands of pounds of explosives on the bunker, eliminating Nasrallah and an Iranian general. The revelations about the extent of Israeli infiltration capturing both operational secrets and personal vulnerabilities paint a picture of a, well, frankly, relentless intelligence apparatus determined to preempt threats and maintain their regional stability.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
2025 ist ein pivotales Jahr für Wladimir Putin, aber nicht nur, weil es auf der Grundlage in der Ukraine passiert. Während viel der Fokus auf den Kriegsflüssen ist, ist Putin in einer gleich kritischen Kampf, und das würde seine Nationenökonomie aufwärmen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
All right. That, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday to January. If you have any questions for me that you'd like to address on the air, reach out to me, please, at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as you may already know by now, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is simple. Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
It really is that simple. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Nun, ich bin kein Ökonomist, Sie haben es vermutlich schon geglaubt, seitdem Sie das PDB gehört haben, aber ich hatte mein Team hier, im Präsidenten-Daily-Brief, ich habe mir ein paar Daten gesucht, und die Zahlen, naja, sie lügen nicht. Russlands Ökonomie zeigt einige ernsthafte Kräfte, und sie sind direkt mit dem folgenden Konflikt verbunden.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
If things spiral further, it won't just hurt Russia's finances. It could threaten Putin's hold on power itself. First, inflation in Russia is soaring. Prices for everyday essentials, things like eggs, fish, fruits and vegetables, are climbing fast. Inflation is running at 9.5% this year, which means that Russians are paying nearly 10% more for goods and services than they did a year ago.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
And to fight this, Russia's central bank has said its interest rate at a rather staggering 21%. Now, for context, that's the highest level in years. A high interest rate makes it more expensive, of course, to borrow money for things like homes or businesses, slowing down the economy even more. Now, Let's talk about manufacturing and services, the backbone really of any economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
These sectors are still growing, but just barely. We know this from something called the Purchasing Managers Index, or the PMI. Now, this is a survey that measures how businesses and industries like factories and retail are doing. A score above 50, well, that means growth, while below 50 signals contraction.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Russlands Produktions-PMI ist im letzten Monat auf 50,8 gestiegen, und das ist kaum über dem Wachstum. Und es ist ein Ausfall aus dem letzten Monat. In simpler terms, die Firmen produzieren weniger, weil die Kosten erhöht sind und die Anwendung wechselt. Es ist, als ob ich hier eine Wirtschaftsklasse lehre. Oh, ich glaube, das wäre eine Wirtschaftsklasse.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Ich lehre wahrscheinlich nicht eine englische Klasse. Und auch das anämische Wachstum ist fragil und stark verbunden mit der Kriegsverschwendung des Landes. Faktoren, die militärisches Equipment produzieren, Ammunition und andere defensiv-relevanten Geräte, funktionieren in voller Kapazität, führend den gesamten Produktionen-Output.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Aber wenn das für irgendeinen Grund schlägt, dann wird Russlands Wirtschaft in ernsthaften Schwierigkeiten. The services sector, which includes things like restaurants and tourism, is also struggling. Really? They're not getting as many tourists in Russia as they used to? Its PMI fell to 51.2, meaning growth is slowing down there as well.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Russians are tightening their belts and businesses are feeling the pinch. And then there's the labor market. Now, at first glance, it looks strong. Unemployment is a record low of 2.3%. But here's the problem. That low number isn't because the economy is thriving. It's because so many workers have been pulled into the defense industry or the military to support the war effort.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
It's Thursday, the second of January 2025, in case you were curious about the year. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Kicking off 2025.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
High-paying jobs in these sectors are making it hard for other industries to find and keep workers. Construction, agriculture and even tech companies are struggling to compete for employees. Labor shortages like this are a red flag. They mean businesses can't grow and it puts a drag on the entire economy. Und lasst uns nicht vergessen, dass die internationalen Sanktionen beeinträchtigt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Während diese die Wirtschaft Russlands nicht komplett zerstört haben, dank ihrer Freunde in China, Iran und Nordkorea, steigen sie die kritischen Bereiche wie der militär-industrielle Sektor und die Technologie. Sie haben noch nicht die russischen Leidenschaften zerstört, aber sie blockieren Innovationen und Prozesse, die auf der Straße schaden werden. So, hier ist, warum all das Träume für Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Es scheint, dass der Krieg, naja, ziemlich teuer ist. Im Jahr 2024 erreichte die Kremlin auf dem Krieg mit der Ukraine eine Rekorde von 16,3 Trillionen Rubeln, das sind ungefähr 148 Millionen US-Dollar, mehr als 8% des Landes-GDP und 41% seines gesamten Budgetes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Es verdrängt Russlands Ressourcen und fordert die Regierung in eine klassische Dilemma, oft bezeichnet als Waffen oder Butter, eine Wahl zwischen militärischem Spenden und Finanzierung für zivilisierende Bedürfnisse. In Putins Fall ist die Priorität klar. Verteidigungsspende nimmt Präzedenz, leaving, well, little room to address other critical areas of the economy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
A weak economy means lower public support for Putin's policies both at home and abroad. And combine that with sanctions and labor shortages and Putin's ability to sustain the Ukraine war, well, or any long-term conflict, becomes, quite frankly, a lot harder. In short, the cracks in Russia's economy are growing. And they're directly tied to its war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Well, let's say Putin's war in Ukraine. How long he can paper over these cracks, well, that remains an open question. All right. Coming up next, we'll have a breakdown of Chinese President Xi Jinping's annual New Year's address, which included a veiled threat regarding Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Plus the violent TDA gang is escalating attacks on US border crossings in Texas in an effort to embed more members in the US before President-elect Trump takes office in January. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right?
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutet 100% deines Vertrags durch sichere, encrypted Servern, sodass dein ISP deine Browsing-Historie nicht sehen kann.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Weil all dein Vertrag durch ihre Servern fließt, wissen Internet-Service-Betreiber jede einzelne Website, die du besuchst. Weißt du das? Und sie halten an dieser Information. Und weißt du, dass in den USA ISPs legal ermöglicht sind, diese Information an Advertisern zu verkaufen? Das ist wahr. ExpressVPN arbeitet auf all deinen Geräten und ist einfach zu nutzen. Und das ist wichtig.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Just fire up the app. Das ist ExpressVPN.com.baker. Das ist ExpressVPN.com.baker. Welcome back to the PDP. Turning to China. President Xi Jinping delivered his annual New Year's address on Tuesday, which he used to show up confidence around China's struggling economy. Look at this. It's all about the economy this morning, while warning that no one can stop China's reunification with Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Xi Jinping findet sich in einer furchtbaren Position, als 2025 beginnt, besonders mit der Rückkehr von Trump auf der globalen Ebene, der versprochen hat, China mit aggressiven Tarifen zu schießen, sobald sein zweiter Termin unterwegs ist. Der Vorschlag einer neuen Handelskriege bedroht China's langlebigen ökonomischen Wurzeln, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
eine Ballooning Debt, langsame Wachstumsgröße und hohe Jugendunabhängigkeit. Das ist laut unserem Bericht von den Financial Times. China's economy, which is the second largest in the world behind the US, also continues to face broad deflationary pressures, as well as generally low business confidence and sagging consumer demand.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
We'll have a preview of the domestic challenges that are facing Russian President Vladimir Putin, namely Russia's economy, which some would say is somewhat on the edge, on the brink, as the Kremlin continues to pour resources into its war on Ukraine. Later in the show, we'll unpack Chinese President Xi Jinping's annual New Year's address. Did you catch that one?
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
This economic storm has driven skepticism among international investors about whether leaders in Beijing can turn the situation around anytime soon. In his address, Xi claimed that the nation's economy is on, quote, an upward trajectory, oh, but also gave a rare acknowledgement of the strains it's placed on its citizens.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
With consumer confidence at a low, Xi vowed to make economic growth his, quote, top priority. China just missed their growth target of 5% over the past year, if you can believe their books, with GDP coming in at 4.8%. China has struggled to maintain healthy economic growth since lifting their zero-COVID policy back in 2023, which had driven their GDP down to just 3% in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Not to mention the Chinese regime's failure to provide any transparency around the origins of COVID. But that's another story. Still, Xi appealed to his citizens to stay optimistic, saying, "...we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times."
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Xi plans to pour even more resources into high-tech manufacturing to help drive growth, focusing state investments on electric vehicles, batteries, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence. Er sagte, dass China's extensive international ties, v.a. their economic partnership with Russia, will also help offset their domestic stagnation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
As our listeners are likely aware, back in February of 2022, just days before Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine, China and Russia agreed to a no-limits partnership. Well, how convenient was that? While that relationship has bolstered trade between the two eastern powers and frankly has kept Putin's war machine operating, it comes with its own set of drawbacks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
In response, the Biden administration, remember him? Well, they've sought to restrict China's access to computer chips, clamp down on Chinese investment into the US and target Chinese companies with economic sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Mit Präsident Trump für einen weiteren Krackdown auf chinesische ökonomische Interessen, werden die Tensoren zwischen den USA und der chinesischen Kommunistischen Partei, der CCP, wahrscheinlich nur erhöhen. Was uns zu der Frage von Taiwan führt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
China hat ihre Verbrechung der Inseldemokratie in den letzten Jahren deutlich erhöht, durch regelmäßige militärische Drillen in den Flächen des Südchinesischen Sees. China claims to democratically govern Taiwan as its own and has not ruled out using military force to retake the island if Taiwan's leadership, backed by the US, continues to resist what they call reunification.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
She used his New Year's address to issue a fresh warning to the CCP's global adversaries, saying, quote, the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. No one can sever our family bonds and no one can stop the historical trend of national reunification, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
While he did not expand on his plans, we can likely further expect military escalations in the region as 2025 gets underway. All right. Shifting to the U.S. The violent Trend Aragua gang are escalating efforts to breach the U.S. border in El Paso, Texas, issuing alarming new threats targeting security personnel as they attempt to expand their criminal campaign across the nation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Oh, the TDA is threatening U.S. law enforcement. That's interesting. According to a Texas law enforcement memo obtained by the New York Post, the gang members armed with knives, tire irons and broken bottles are vowing to attack Texas National Guard soldiers stationed at the border. Well, good luck with that, TDA gang members.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
In which he attempted to show up confidence regarding Beijing's struggling economy, while warning that no one can stop China's, quote, reunification with Taiwan. Plus, an update on the violent Trend Aragua gang, the TDA gang. As the group escalates attacks on US border crossings in Texas, In an effort to embed more members in the US before President-elect Trump takes office.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
It's reportedly part of a push to embed more members in the US before President-elect Trump takes office. The memo reveals that just last week, 20 gang members attempted to force their way through a border gate in El Paso and warns of plans for additional assaults.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
I'm not a member of the Texas National Guard, nor am I a border security expert, but I think there's an answer to this that might work. An anonymous informant reportedly tipped off Texas authorities, cautioning that these violent break-ins would continue every night.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
The informant further warned, quote, they intend to cause harm, noting the gang members are likely to exploit moments when border guards are left without federal agents to assist them. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has taken an aggressive stance against TDA, declaring it a foreign terrorist organization and imposing mandatory 10-year minimum sentences for smugglers associated with the gang.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
While not officially labeled as a terrorist organization, the Department of Homeland Security labeled the TDA a transnational criminal organization in July.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
A retired Homeland Security agent described the surge in violence as a reaction to the incoming administration, stating, quote, You're saying that violence at the border because they know that it's going to change, meaning the situation at the border. But the gang's operations extend far beyond the U.S. border.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Fox News reports that the TDA gang has now spread to at least 19 states, with recent arrests shedding light on the scope of its reach. In New York, police recently raided gang hideouts in Brooklyn and the Bronx, arresting nearly two dozen individuals.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Nun, wie wir hier auf der PDB diskutiert haben, hat die Gang die letzten Jahre in Aurora, Colorado, nationalen Heldungen gemacht, indem sie ein Wohnzimmer-Komplex überwältigt und Menschenverbrechen und Sexabstürze in Angriff genommen hat. Im Dezember haben die Behörden 14 Menschen getötet, die zu einer gewaltigen Einwanderung der Wohnzimmer in diesem Bereich getötet haben.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
Mittlerweile in Tennessee. Interpol verhaftete einen hochrangigen TDA-Mitglied, der im November zu Menschenverbrechen und Terrorismus verbunden war. Außerdem, der Bruder des Migranten, der Augusta-Universitätsstudenten Laken Riley im Februar verurteilt hat, war bekannt, dass er Türen mit dem TDA hat. As a retired Homeland Security agent puts it, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
They hate the United States just like terrorists do, end quote. Now, lawmakers such as Texas Representative Troy Nels attribute the surge in illegal crossings to the Biden administration's border policies. I didn't even know they had border policies, citing the rollback of numerous Trump-era restrictions. Representative Nels stated, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 2nd, 2025: Putin's Economic Crisis & Migrant Gangs Escalate Attacks Ahead Of Trump's Return
At the El Paso border crossing, the challenge for federal and state authorities is clear. Act swiftly and decisively to contain TDA's spread or risk further entrenchment of this transnational menace. All right, coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Am letzten Dienstag informierte die Trump-Administration der Kongress, dass sie die Verleihung von 50 Millionen Dollar oder mehr von gegenwärtigen Produkten nach der Ukraine zur Verfügung stellen will, durch direkte Verkaufsverleihung.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Die Begründung von Hilfe, die Trumps erste seit seiner Rückkehr zum Oberbürgermeister, signalisiert eine große Veränderung in der Präsidenten-Standhalle nach Kiew, bestätigend, dass er sich bereit ist, die militärische Druck auf den Putin-Regime zu erhöhen, sobald die Negotiierungen mit Russland und der Krieg noch nicht vollständig sind. Das sagt er, laut einem Bericht von der Kiew Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Der AID-Vertrag, der unter dem Arms Export Control Act verabschiedet ist, ermöglicht dem Präsidenten, den Export von US-gelegten Verteidigungsartikeln, technischen Daten und anderen Geräten in die Ukraine zu kontrollieren, obwohl die Offiziere noch nicht die Art von Waffen oder Verteidigungsgeräten spezifizieren, die dabei sein werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Anders als die Außen-Militären-Verträge, die publik und zwischen Regierungen gestaltet werden, The direct commercial sales approved by Trump on Wednesday allow U.S. defense contractors and foreign buyers to privately negotiate these weapons transactions. An analyst at the Tochny Research Group told the Kyiv Post, "...all direct commercial sales deals operate under the radar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
The news here is basically that U.S. arms sales to Ukraine continue, despite everyone predicting that Trump would cut Ukraine off completely." In Dezember, unter then President Joe Biden, Congress had approved over $1 billion worth of arms for Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
But earlier this year, Trump initiated a broad review of all Ukraine-related military assistance, as he launched his diplomatic push to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the war, according to our report from Newsweek. He's previously been highly critical of the roughly $120 billion in U.S. aid given to Ukraine since the war began.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
But Putin's stubborn behavior appears to have changed Trump's calculus. The move also comes just weeks after Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announced his intention to purchase 30 to 50 billion dollars worth of air defense systems and weapons from the US as a form of a security guarantee, though it's unclear if that proposed exchange will move forward.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
But the newly approved arms transfer suggests that the Trump administration is willing to continue the flow of weapons to Ukraine, albeit quietly, perhaps in a bid to pressure Putin to take negotiations more seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Now, we should underscore that the authorization allows the sale of 50 million dollars or more of defense products, meaning that effectively there's no real ceiling to how much aid the administration could ultimately approve. Defense Analysts said the shift from Trump will help the White House retain its strategic influence amid the administration's ongoing efforts to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
An analyst at RAND Corporation, of course a defense and security non-profit group, told the Kiew Post, "...if U.S. military aid for Ukraine continues, whether through an existing package or a new drawdown authority," It will strengthen US leverage. The Trump administration has repeatedly communicated its desire for a lasting ceasefire in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
To achieve its goal will require leverage with both Kyiv and Moscow." So, what else may be behind the major shift on military aid from the Trump administration, you ask? Well, the reported arms sale came the same day that Kiev and Washington finally inked a long-anticipated economic partnership agreement that will grant the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
It's Thursday, the 1st of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
access to Ukraine's extensive mineral resources in exchange for establishing an investment fund that could help rebuild the war-torn country. We'll have more on that minerals deal and what it means for the future of the war during tomorrow's PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Alright, coming up next, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who took heat from the now infamous Signal Chat Group kerfuffle, is being removed from his current position and reassigned to the UN. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. It's grilling season. Ah, you knew that, right? Temperatures rising, the covers off the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
And here I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on your grill. Of course, I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And I'm talking about, well, you know this, Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tritails isn't some corporate meat factory or a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman or no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. So whether it's a ribeye, a filet or New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. Das ist trybeef.com. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker hier. Well, you know all about the tariffs by now. You've heard all about the trade wars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
And you know that all of that has thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. Well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. Aber es gibt eine silberne Linie, die ich denke, viele Leute haben verpasst. Und es ist sowohl eine silberne als auch eine goldene Linie.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Was ich meine, ist, dass Präsident Trump spezifisch Gold und Silber-Bullion aus den steigenden Tarifen ausgewiesen hat. Also, während die neuen Policien einen wichtigen finanziellen Chaos auslösen, hat die Administration die Möglichkeit versichert, sich in teure Metalle zu diversifizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
First up, with Vladimir Putin continuing to stall efforts to end the war in Ukraine, President Trump is approving the sale of some 50 million dollars of weapons and other defense-related products to Ukraine, the first direct military aid granted by Trump to Kyiv since his return to the Oval Office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In the first major shake-up of top aides in President Trump's second term, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and his deputy Alex Wong are expected to depart the White House today, potentially, in part, as a result of fallout from the sensitive information leak in the Signal Group chat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Waltz, however, isn't being banished from the administration, far from it. er wird einen neuen Rollen als UN-Ambassadier wahrnehmen. Aber der Ausflug aus dem Nationalen Sicherheitsteam folgt Walzes Erkenntnis, dass er die Atlantik-Editorin und Chef Jeffrey Goldberg zu einer Signalgruppe von Regierungsbeamten verabschiedet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Dieser Chat, wie unsere regelmäßigen PDB-Zuhörer sich erinnern werden, enthält einige sensiblen Details über die 15. März-Strike auf Houthi-Targeten in Jemen, nach einem Aufstieg in den Angriffen auf kommerziellen Schiffen im Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Initially, Trump stood by Waltz, telling NBC News in March that the former Green Beret and Florida Congressman was, quote, a good man who had, quote, learned a lesson. Hmm, is that standing by him? I'm not really sure. But the support didn't last long. I mean, Washington is a famously fickle place.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Die Nachrichten sagen, Waltz hat sich niemals nach der Verkündung der Authentizität des Leaks hinter geschlossenen Türen ausgeschlossen. Und der Präsident hat die Frage damals nicht eingepresst, obwohl viele in der Regierung glaubten, dass sein Ausgang unnötig war. Laut zweijährigem Co-Founder Mark Halperin, der zuerst den vorliegenden Verschleiß berichtet hat,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
The tide inside the administration turned decisively in recent days, with senior aides losing confidence in Waltzes leadership and judgment, or possibly as senior aides searched for a scapegoat in the classic Washington game of cover your ass.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Shortly after news of the move, Trump announced that Waltz will take on a new role as the UN ambassador, while he said Secretary of State Marco Rubio will serve as the interim national security advisor. The shift was framed as part of a broader reorganization of the national security apparatus, minimizing the signal incident.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
The thinking, apparently, is to avoid handing a win to the media and the Democrats. So far, the administration is playing it close to the chest. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told Fox News, quote, the talent bench in this country and for this government is deep, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Waltz and Wong, which, well, frankly sounds like a comedy duo, have yet to issue any statement regarding their departure from the national security team. And there's no word yet on who will potentially replace them, though multiple sources say several former Trump officials and current national security staffers are already being vetted.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
As mentioned, Marco Rubio will temporarily step in and do double duty as both national security advisor and his regular job, his day job, as secretary of state. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, the 1st of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
And, as your mom always said, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. And remember, always listen to your mother. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Later in the show, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, a key member of what some refer to as Signalgate, Denn in Washington, D.C. muss jeder Event, den man als ein Skandal ausdrucken möchte, das Wort Gate nach dem Motto haben, als nationalen Sicherheitsanwalt, aber er ist in der UN, als neuer Ambassador für die Trump-Administration. Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittag-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 1st, 2025: Trump Greenlights Weapons For Ukraine In Major Policy Reversal & National Security Adviser Mike Waltz Ousted From White House
Wir beginnen heute mit einem großen Rückzug von Präsident Trump. Er bewegt sich, den Tapp auf Militärhilfe in die Ukraine zu öffnen, weil er mit Wladimir Putins Verletzung in den Kriegssprachen verletzt ist.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Neue Inhalte zeigen, wie viele nordkoreanische Truppen getötet oder verletzt wurden, um für Russland auf den Frontlinien in der Ukraine zu kämpfen. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, by now, I know you've heard about the trade wars, you've heard all about the tariffs, right? And you probably know that all of that has thrown the global economy into some chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Potential widespread inflation, tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on everybody. But... There is a silver lining. Actually, there's a silver and gold lining that I think a lot of people may have missed. What I mean is that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Now, while the new policies, yes, are triggering some significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, look, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first part is very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. It's very easy. Birchgold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birchgold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
With an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, that's text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessantes Faktum. Wisst ihr, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt wird?
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Denkt daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist euer Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir für eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln sozusagen leckere Sachen aus, die alle lecker fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ausgleichbar sind. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Veränderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. Wir sind Theresa und Nemo und deshalb sind wir zu Shopify gewechselt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
As Vladimir Putin continues to drag out his war against Ukraine, leaders in Kyiv continue to bring the fight against Moscow's top brass directly to Russian soil. Ukraine has now officially taken credit for the targeted killing of Russian Lieutenant General Yaroslav Moskalik in a bombing near Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
In today's Back of the Brief, just days after Moscow and Pyongyang officially confirmed what the world already knew, that North Korean troops are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, we're now getting a clearer picture of the cost. South Korea's spy agency, the National Intelligence Service, the NIS,
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
hat am Dienstag den Gesetzgebern gesagt, dass eine Bezahlung von 4.700 koreanischen Soldaten auf den Frontlinien getötet oder verletzt worden ist. Das betrifft rund 600 bestätigte Todesfälle. Die meisten von den verletzten, etwa 2.000 Soldaten, wurden zwischen Januar und März nach Nordkorea gepatriert, flogen oder von Flugzeugen zurückgeschickt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Was die Toten betrifft, wurden in Russland verurteilt, bevor ihre Erwachsenen nach Nordkorea zurückgekehrt wurden. Nun, das ist nicht das erste Mal, dass Südkorea den Alarm aufgelöst hat. Im Januar hat die NIS gesagt, dass ca. 300 nordkoreanische Soldaten gestorben sind und 2.700 verletzt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Das Niveau ist stetig gestiegen, mit der neuesten Update von Seoul, die den Total-Casualty-Zugang vor 4.000 gestiegen hat, im letzten Monat, und jetzt 4.700. So, what is Kim Jong-Un getting in return for sending his troops to die in a war that's not his? According to the IAS, well, he's getting quite a bit.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
The agency believes Russia has sent North Korea air defense systems, electronic warfare tools, drones and satellite launch technology. And that's not all. Seoul says about 15,000 North Korean laborers have also been deployed to Russia under so-called industrial cooperation programs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
On the weapons front, the NIS says North Korea has supplied Russia with missiles and artillery worth billions of dollars. But, interestingly, there's no evidence that Russia is paying for those arms with direct cash transfers. At least not yet.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
As we reported earlier this week, North Korea publicly declared it had sent troops to help, quote, annihilate what it called Ukrainian pro-Nazis and to liberate Russian territory. Oh. Putin responded by thanking Kim and promising that the sacrifices of North Korean soldiers would not be forgotten. Well, that's nice on Putin's part.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Both leaders point to their 2024 Mutual Defense Treaty as justification for the deployment. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Thursday, the 1st of May. I hope your April was lovely and I hope your May will be delightful. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
To listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that simply by becoming a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then... Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
This strike is just the latest demonstration of an increasingly potent weapon in Ukraine's arsenal, a lethal assassination program capable of reaching deep inside Russian territory, sending a message to the Kremlin, of course, that nobody is safe.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
The Ukrainian Intelligence Service, also known as the SBU, reportedly pulled off the assassination on the 25th of April using a remotely detonated explosive device placed inside a parked Volkswagen in the city of Belashika, situated less than 20 miles outside of the Russian capital. The blast was triggered just as Moskalik was passing by the vehicle, killing him instantly.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
That's according to a report from the Kyiv Post. The circumstances suggest that Moskalik's movements were being closely tracked by Ukraine, demonstrating a level of sophistication on the part of Kyiv's intelligence service that likely has left Russian officials very rattled. Ukrainian President Zelensky marked the General's death on Monday by saying, quote, justice inevitably comes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
While Ukrainian officials have not discussed the details of the operation that took out Moskalik, Russia's Federal Security Service, or FSB, arrested a suspect shortly after the explosion. He was identified as 42-year-old Nat Kazin, reportedly a national of Azerbaijan.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
If the FSB's account is to be believed, Kazin recently purchased the Volkswagen from a Russian citizen and worked with Ukrainian intelligence services to plant a homemade bomb inside it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Sie beurteilen weiter, dass er die Explosivkomponenten aus einem Kaffee erhielt, das in der Moskau-Region von der ukrainischen Intelligenz vorbereitet wurde, demonstrieren natürlich die Abhängigkeit der SBU, Assets zu leverieren, die innerhalb des Herzens Russlands funktionieren.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Der Verlust von Moskalik, der die höchsten Niveaus des russischen Militärs für etwa 40 Jahre arbeitete, ist ein großer Schlag für den Kremlin. Als er tot war, arbeitete er als Verteidigungschef des russischen Generalstabes Hauptsitzungsgeräts, der mit der Planung und Koordinierung von militärischen Operationen gearbeitet hat, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
die Auswahl von zivilisierenden Tätigkeiten in der Ukraine für Angriff. As we've been tracking closely here on the PDB, the Russian military has been targeting Ukrainian civilians for some time, most recently killing a dozen in a strike on an apartment block in Kiev.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Roman Kostenko, der ukrainische Staatssekretär der Nationalen Sicherheitskommission, hat die Tötung in einer vergangenen Interview bestätigt, dass sie spezifisch alle Individuen gegen die Ukraine betroffen sind, die in Kriegen gegen die Ukraine betroffen sind, insbesondere alle Offiziere, die an Zivilisten gefeuert haben, Missilien geöffnet haben oder Tätigkeiten analysiert haben, zusammen mit denen, die die Befehle gegeben haben.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
It's Thursday, the first of May. Wow, look at that. It's a brand new month. We survived April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. Wir fangen an in Kiew an, wo Offizielle nun beurteilen, dass die Ukraine hinter der Bombe war, die einen Top-Russischen General in Moskau getötet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
He said, quote, This will become the primary mission of our intelligence services and the SBU to ensure these people are punished no matter where they are. They should be afraid even to leave their homes, let alone leave the territory of the Russian Federation. End quote. We should note that Kostankos words are far from an empty threat due to Russia's tactics against Ukrainian civilians.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Kyiv has increasingly prioritized the targeted assassination of Russian military leaders. Moskaliks Tod folgte dem von Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov im Dezember. Kirillov, der als Chef der russischen nuklearen, biologischen und chemischen Schutzwaffen arbeitete, wurde getötet, als eine Bombe, versteckt in einem Scooter, außerhalb seines Moskau-Apartment-Bildes detonierte.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Er hatte sich auf seine Rolle im Überleben von etwa 4.800 Fällen konzentriert, die die Nutzung von chemischen Waffen gegen ukrainische Truppen betrug. According to the BBC, the killing shocked Russia's military and political establishment, leaving Kremlin leadership feeling vulnerable in their own capital for the first time since the war began.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
That assassination came just five days after a leading Russian missile scientist was shot dead in a forest outside Moscow in an attack linked to Ukraine's military intelligence service. Diese Tötungen folgten der Tötung eines jungen russischen Luftwaffe-Kommandanten, der in zivilisierten Angriffen involviert war, in einer Kar-Bombe-Explosion im November.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Andere bemerkenswerte verschlossene Tötungen betreffen die Tötung von Ilya Kiva, einem pro-russischen, ehemaligen ukrainischen Mitglied, der im Dezember 2023 in einem Dorf außerhalb Moskaus getötet wurde. Earlier that year, Russian Propagandist Vladlan Tatarski, a vocal advocate for attacks on civilian infrastructure, was killed at a café in St.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Petersburg when a bomb placed inside a sculpture detonated. All right, before we go to break, a quick reminder to check out and hopefully subscribe to our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Now we're rapidly approaching 100,000 subscribers, at which point the PDB team will hop into a fancy RV and drive to every subscriber's home to deliver homemade cookies, take selfies and say thank you. Okay, fair enough. That probably will not happen. But we will celebrate with a live stream and other swell stuff.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Alright, coming up next, Pakistan warns of an imminent Indian military strike and the UK joins US airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, the temperatures are climbing. I'm sure by now you've realized spring is well here and it's grilling season. Uh-huh.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Take that cover off the grill, because I'm about to tell you where to get the best beef to throw on your grill. Of course, I'm talking about a great American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. Of course, you know, I'm talking about Tritale's Beef. Now, Tritails isn't some corporate meat factory. They're not some faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no mystery or middlemen. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true. Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy. These PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, Pakistan's defense minister has warned of an imminent Indian military incursion. Now Islamabad claims it possesses intelligence that says India plans to launch a military strike within the next 36 hours.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
In a rare middle of the night post on X, the Pakistani information minister declared on Wednesday, quote, Pakistan has credible intelligence that India intends to carry out military action against Pakistan in the next 36 hours, end quote. He did not provide supporting evidence and Indian officials, at least for now, remain silent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
The warning follows a dramatic escalation of tensions a week after 26 tourists were massacred in Indian-administered Kashmir. That grisly attack has put enormous political pressure on Indian Prime Minister Modi to respond forcefully. New Delhi war schnell, den Finger an Islamabad zu stecken, beantragte Pakistan, die Anwesenden, die mit der Resistenzfront verbunden sind, zu unterstützen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Es ist nur der neuste Angriff in Ukraines Todesverletzungsprogramm. Und heute schauen wir uns das hinter Kiews immer aggressiveres Spielbuch an. Later in the show, the growing tensions between India and Pakistan, with the Pakistani government claiming it has intelligence that says India will launch military strikes within the next 36 hours.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Die islamistische Terrorgruppe beantragte zuerst Verantwortung auf Social Media, dann brachte sie es abrupt zurück, Tage später, beantragte, dass ihre Kanäle von der indianischen Intelligenz gehackt wurden. Indien hat den Überfluss als eine zynische Pläne verabschiedet. Pakistan hat mittlerweile die Einwohnung verurteilt und für eine neutralen Befragung gerufen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Aber mit Vertrauen zwischen den beiden nukleargearmten Nachbarn, die historische Löhne erreichen, glauben wenige, dass ein diplomatischer Ausbruch irgendwo auf dem Horizont ist. Seit dem Angriff hat das Cross-Border Feuer nachts über die so genannte Kontrolle gerufen, die den disputierten, stark militärisierten Grenzwert in Kashmir zerstört hat. Es ist ein seltsamer Faktor.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Indien und Pakistan haben seit 1947 drei Kriege gespielt. Zwei von ihnen in dieser gleichen Region. Ihr letzter großer militärischer Aufstieg kam im Jahr 2019, als Indien Luftwaffen innerhalb von Pakistan ausgestattet hat. Nach einem Suizidbombing haben sie 40 indische paramilitärische Offiziere getötet.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
With public anger mounting and Modi vowing to pursue the attackers to the ends of the earth, fears are growing that New Delhi could order a similar operation. The Pakistani information minister warned that any Indian military action would be met assuredly and decisively, signaling that Islamabad is prepared to retaliate. The rhetoric isn't just noise, it is being backed up.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Pakistani security sources told CNN that their forces shot down an Indian surveillance drone on Tuesday, allegedly flying over disputed airspace. New Delhi has yet to confirm or deny that claim. Meanwhile, India's Navy announced successful long-range missile tests earlier this week, saying the launches were meant to quote, revalidate and demonstrate readiness for offensive strike operations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged restraint and said he plans to speak with both Indian and Pakistani counterparts as soon as possible. And State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters on Tuesday, quote, we are reaching out to both parties and telling them not to escalate the situation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
China weigte sich auch mit ihrem Außenminister, die Warnung, dass jeder Konflikt, Quote, nicht den grundlegenden Interessen jeder Seite dienen würde, und die Stabilisierung in Südasien weiter riskierte. Das ist laut China's State Broadcaster.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Sobald beide Seiten weiterhin Angelegenheiten und Warnungen verweigern, ist die Linie der Kontrolle wieder auf dem Weg zur Möglichkeit eines offenen Konflikts. All right, shifting to Yemen. The British military joined the U.S. in a fresh wave of airstrikes on Houthi targets Lake Tuesday, marking a significant expansion of Washington's campaign to cripple the Iran-backed terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
This latest strike, under what's known as American Operation Roughrider, targeted what officials described as a drone manufacturing hub near the Yemeni capital Sana'a. The strikes were an effort to degrade the Houthis' capacity to both threaten international shipping lanes and to continue launching drone and missile attacks on Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
The British Ministry of Defense further elaborated, stating that Royal Air Force Typhoons, that's a multi-rolled fighter jet, struck, quote, a cluster of buildings about 15 miles south of Sana'a, allegedly used to assemble drones of the same type responsible for ongoing attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
RAF Crews deployed precision-guided bombs, each packing a 500-pound punch, during the nighttime operation, which officials insisted was scheduled to minimize civilian casualties. Casualty and damage estimates remain under wraps. The joint operation came just days after an alleged American airstrike on Monday slammed into a detention center, killing at least 68 people and wounding dozens more.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Plus, the United Kingdom has joined the US offensive against the Houthis in Yemen, launching airstrikes for the first time in the campaign against the terrorist group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
The Pentagon says it's investigating the claim. Meanwhile, an 18th of April US bombing of the Rosisa fuel port killed 74 and wounded over 170 in the deadliest strike of the campaign to date. While the UK had previously taken part in strikes under the Biden administration, this marks Britain's first military action under President Trump's administration.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Notably, there was not much elaboration from Washington regarding the joint airstrikes. U.S. Central Command made no mention of Britain's involvement, sticking to its continued practice of limited disclosures, even as it racks up more than 1,000 airstrikes since 15th of March. That's according to the Pentagon.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
UK Defense Secretary John Healy defended the strike, calling it a necessary response to what he described as a, quote, persistent threat from the Houthis to freedom of navigation. He pointed to a 55% drop in Red Sea shipping, warning that it's already cost billions and is, quote, fueling regional instability and risking economic security for families in the UK, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Zusätzliche Anstrengungen wurden auch an Saada, dem Norden der Houthis, berichtet. Wie wir vorhin an der PDB berichtet haben, haben die Flugzeugfahrzeuge Truman und Vinson die Hauptanlageplattformen für die Sustain American Air Campaign, die im Red Sea und Arabian Sea zusammenarbeiten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Die aufwändigen Angriffe sind Teil eines breiteren amerikanischen Einsatzes, um die militärischen Fähigkeiten des Houthis zu zerstören und einen der weltweit wichtigsten Maritim-Trade-Korridoren zu sichern, nach Monaten von Houthi-Attacken auf kommerzielle und navalen Flüchtlinge. Okay, nächstes Mal im Hintergrund des Briefes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 1st, 2025: Inside Ukraine’s Deadly Assassination Program & U.K. Joins Houthi Fight
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, just days after Moscow finally admitted that North Korean troops are fighting alongside Russian forces, that was not a well-kept secret, new intelligence reveals the staggering number of casualties that they've suffered on the front lines in Ukraine. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Think of it like the difference between Methodists and Anglicans in Christianity. Both are Protestant, but they've got their own histories and practices and flavors of belief. The original founder, Hussein, was killed by Yemeni forces in 2004, and his brother, Abdulmalik al-Khouti, now leads the group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Welcome to a special edition of the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. In this special edition of the PDB, I want to focus on a group that's been making headlines and drawing US military action. And that, of course, would be the Houthis of Yemen. You ask yourself, who are they, where'd they come from, and why is the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Their roots go back to Yemen's northern highlands, where Zaydi Imams once ruled for centuries until a Republican government took over in the 20th century. By the 1990s, the Houthis were organizing to revive Zaydi influence and resist a central government that they viewed as corrupt and beholden to outside powers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Their stated goals include controlling Yemen, defending their community, and opposing the United States, Israel, and their regional allies. Now, that opposition isn't just talk. It's literally written on their flag. It's on their flag. Their official slogan, called the Sarka, reads, God is the greatest, death to America, death to Israel, curse be upon the Jews, victory to Islam, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
That's quite the slogan. It's not particularly inclusive. It's a clear declaration, frankly, of their stance and who their enemies are. Now, let's talk about how they went from upstart rebel group to basically running the show in Yemen. The Houthis rose to prominence during the Yemen Civil War, which began back in 2014.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Yemen's political situation had been unstable since the Arab Spring in 2011, when longtime President Ali Abdullah Saleh was forced out. His successor, Mansour Hadi, struggled to hold the country together. and in 2014, the Houthis allied with Saleh, despite their past conflicts, and seized the capital Sana'a, driving Hadi's government south to Aden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Hadi fled to Saudi Arabia in 2015, and a Saudi-led coalition stepped in to restore him, launching airstrikes and a blockade against the Houthis. Iran backed the Houthis in this fight, so you can see where this is going, turning it into a proxy war between Saudi Arabia's Sunni coalition and Iran's Shia-aligned interests.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
The conflict has reportedly killed hundreds of thousands, it's displaced millions, and left Yemen in a humanitarian crisis marked by famine and disease. The Houthis have held Sana'a in much of western Yemen since 2014, even after a fragile ceasefire with Saudi Arabia in 2022. Hadi's government, recognized internationally, remains in Aden but really has very, very little control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
The Houthis are effectively the governing power in the northwest, with a military capable of challenging bigger players. Iran's support is a key factor in the Houthis' strength. They're part of Iran's so-called axis of resistance. That's the network of anti-Western, anti-Israel groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and, of course, Hamas in Gaza, with the oft-stated goal of destroying Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Since the Yemen war started, Iran has provided the Houthis with weapons, drones, ballistic missiles, anti-ship missiles, along with training and financial aid. Now, this violates a UN arms embargo, though Iran denies direct involvement, claiming it's only political support. Evidence suggests otherwise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
The sophistication of Houthi attacks points to Iranian technology and expertise, with Iranian proxy Hezbollah also offering tactical assistance. Now, while they do depend on the Iranian regime for financial and logistical and weaponry support, the Houthis aren't fully under Iran's thumb. Their fight is rooted in Yemen's local dynamics and Zaidi identity, not just Tehran's regional strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Iran amplifies their capabilities, of course, but Abdulmalik al-Houthi, well, he sets the agenda. The Axis label reflects shared goals, opposing the U.S., Israel, and Western influence more than a unified command structure. That Iranian backing, however, has turned the Houthis into a threat beyond Yemen's borders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Coming up after the break, we'll take a look at how the Houthis turned from a local threat to a regional menace. I'll be right back. Welcome back to this special edition of the President's Daily Brief. Now, let's zoom in on why the Houthis are in America's crosshairs. And that answer, of course, would be, well, the Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
currently engaged in military operations against them? Those are all very good questions. Hopefully, we'll be able to provide you with some answers. Now, if you're a regular listener to the PDB, you should know that this isn't a news story, but it's escalated in ways that affect global trade, U.S. security, and U.S. naval operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Since late 2023, the Houthis have been wreaking havoc on shipping in that strategic waterway, claiming that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza after Hamas's October 7 attacks on Israel. It started in November of 2023 with the seizure of the MV Galaxy Leader, that was a Bahamas registered car carrier, when Houthi forces captured the ship and its multinational crew.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
From there, they ramped up attacks, deploying anti-ship missiles, drones, and other weapons against commercial vessels. As of March 2025, they've struck 145 ships, disrupting, of course, a critical trade route. Now, before these attacks, 25,000 merchant ships passed through the Red Sea annually. It's a key link between Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal. That number has now dropped to 10,000.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
About 75% of US and UK-affiliated vessels and 60% of EU-linked ships are rerouting now around Africa, and that adds about 10 days and a million dollars in fuel costs per trip. A 2024 Defense Intelligence Agency report notes that this has cut Red Sea container shipping sharply, driving up global shipping rates and adding anywhere from 0.6% to 0.7% to consumer goods inflation in 2024. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
imports like cars and exports like agriculture have been hit as have European trade flows. 95% of Europe-Asia shipping normally uses the Red Sea. The Houthis don't stop at attacking commercial ships, of course. They've attacked U.S. warships 174 times since 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
As recently as December of 2024, the USS Stockdale and USS O'Kane fended off drones and missiles while escorting merchant ships in the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis say they're targeting Israel-linked ships, but many of the vessels that they've hit have no such connection. So, why is America hitting the Houthis now?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
It's been over a year since a U.S.-flagged commercial ship has been allowed to safely sail the Red Sea, the Suez Canal, or Gulf of Aden without risk, and the White House says that this threatens U.S. economic and national security. Houthi attacks since 2023 have disrupted global trade, damaged US interests, and directly challenged the US military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
On March 15th of this year, President Trump ordered a major operation to degrade Houthi capabilities, targeting their missile sites, drone facilities, and command centers. The reasoning is, well, straightforward. Economically, the Red Sea's a lifeline. These shipping disruptions hit American consumers and exporters hard. Nationally, 174 attacks on U.S. warships can't go unanswered.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
They've targeted destroyers like the USS Kearney, the USS Gravely, and USS Spruance with missiles and drones, often intercepted, but still, they're at risk. The U.S. has been responding since 2023. Operation Poseidon Archer with the U.K. began airstrikes in January of 2024, but earlier efforts haven't stopped the Houthis. They've kept attacking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
So, let's break it down step by step, starting with who these guys are, their role in Yemen, their ties to Iran, and why they've created such waves in the Red Sea. Oh, see what I did there? Pun intended. The group we all know as the Houthis are officially called Ansar Allah, or Supporters of God. They're a movement that emerged in Yemen in the 1990s.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Trump's latest move aims to restore freedom of navigation. That's a core U.S. principle. No terrorist group, the White House says, will dictate who sails these waters. The strikes also signal to Iran, the Houthis' backer, that there's a cost to this proxy game. Protecting allies, of course, matters too.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Five of the top 10 Red Sea importers are EU nations, and they're hurting from these disruptions. So, to sum it up, The Houthis started as a Zaydi Shia movement in Yemen, grew into a power during the Civil War, and with Iran's help, became a regional player. Their attacks on the Red Sea have hit global trade and U.S. forces, prompting America to act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
Their goal remains consistent, control in Yemen and defiance of the West, but their methods are now affecting the world. The U.S. response is about security, keeping trade flowing and U.S. and allied ships safe. Whether these latest U.S. operations will deter the Houthis long-term, well, that remains unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
And that, my friends, is all the time we have for this special edition of the President's Daily Brief. As always, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back soon with your next episode of the President's Daily Brief. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin | The Houthis: Iran’s Deadly Proxy in the Red Sea | PDB Special Report
They're named after Hussein al-Khouti, that's a Zaydi Shia cleric, who founded the group to push back against Yemen's government and what he saw as foreign interference, particularly from the United States and Saudi Arabia. Now, the Zaydis are a Shia Muslim sect unique to Yemen, distinct from the larger Shia branch that's tied to Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
That's the goal, that's the work of the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. So, it had to be something notable, something epic, historic even. And thus, the Ride to Aqaba was born. It's an expedition in honor of Sharif Nasir, Naseeb al-Bakri, Aouda al-Butai, T.E.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
Hey, Mike Baker here with a special President's Daily Brief update. I want to let you know that for the next handful of weeks, until 8 February, I'll be out in the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan on an epic trek designed to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, and the 41 brave souls who, in 1917, rode almost 700 miles across the uncrossable deserts from Al-Waj in Saudi Arabia to Aqaba in Jordan. It was a stunning accomplishment and hasn't been recreated. until now.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
Starting on 14 January, five of us from the UK's Special Forces Club will recreate the epic route of Nasir, Bekri, Abu Tayy and Lawrence, retracing their steps and riding camels the entire way. And yes, I did just say riding camels the entire way. The mission is clear, raise awareness and funds through donations to the Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
We expect the ride will take approximately four weeks. 5 riders, 10 camels, almost 700 miles, and an amazing support team. I'll be providing updates along the way whenever we have solid comms. And if you'd like to learn more, well, please check out the fund's website at www.sfcbf.org. That stands for Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund. Again, www.sfcbf.org.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
Also, you can get updates and news on the Trek and our progress by following the Trek's Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube sites. You can just search SFCBF Trek and it couldn't be easier. Well, that's it for now. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
Now, all of us here at the BDB will, of course, continue working every day to identify and deliver to you, the BDB community, the top stories, crises, events, and developments taking place around the world that we believe need to be on your radar. But, over the next four weeks, there will be numerous times when I'll be off comms.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
The deserts out there are vast, and communications can sometimes be sketchy or non-existent. So, while I'm away, I'm very pleased to announce that the esteemed Mike Slater has graciously agreed to fill in for me. Now, I suspect you already know Mike from his podcasts and radio show and his work on The First TV. He'll make sure that you stay informed until I get back.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
He knows a lot of big words, doesn't have any gray hair, and he's a spiffy dresser. But despite those things, I know that you'll be in very good hands. Now, if I could, let me tell you just a bit about why I'm disappearing into the desert. The idea for the trek was hatched, as many great ideas are, over several pints by colleagues of mine from the UK's Special Forces Club.
The President's Daily Brief
A PDB Special Announcement: Mike Baker’s Big Adventure
The thought was, how can we raise awareness for the UK's Special Forces Benevolent Fund and, hopefully, raise funds for the veterans in need, for their families, and for families of deceased veterans? Think of the Wounded Warriors Project in the US or any number of other advocacy and charity groups that work to assist the veteran communities when they're in need.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
The great Mike Baker, host of the President's Daily Brief. Mike, great to talk to you, brother. My first question is- Hey, thank you, man.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Before we get started, thank you for stepping in. uh when i was overseas for the president's daily brief it really appreciate that and got nothing but great feedback and everybody loved you almost loved you too much so
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
No, I didn't want to put my best foot forward, Mike. You know what I mean?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
I will say the only problem is you left the studio kind of cluttered with empty beer cans and empty bourbon bottles. But other than that, it was great experience.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Listen, that's a small tax that you have to pay. No big deal, right? I got to leave some mark behind, right? Thank you, brother. Thanks for letting me do it. How important is our foreign aid to other countries? And I guess the point of that question is how much leverage do we really have over other countries?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yeah, you know what? It's really horses for courses, right? By that, I mean, it depends on the country. It depends on the nature of the aid. It depends on the moment, right? Is it wartime aid? Is it humanitarian aid in a crisis? Or is it just something that's always been there and the establishment, you know, once something's in place, never changes it, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Look, the establishment, whether we're talking about the U.S. or whether we're talking globally, you know, their heads are exploding right now, right? Because they love nothing more than status quo, right? Being comfortable and being in a position that they can understand and they can predict, and they know that they'll always be in that position.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
So freezing foreign aid to the degree that President Trump has done now in this short period of time that they've been in office, with the eye towards reviewing the dollars that are going overseas, people should actually be happy. US taxpayers should be happy
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
that that's happening, knowing that some of that aid is wasted, some of it is critical and will be reinstated, and some other needs will probably be identified and will be funded at that point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yeah, that has to be just terrifying for these people who are only used to the status quo. They're finally being questioned. They finally, like in that scene in office space, have to go in front of the two guys and answer the question, what is this that you do here exactly? And is this a good use of taxpayer money? So what fear do other countries have in this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Like I can understand the American NGO person, right? But what can we do with other countries? What's the effect of that, these freezes of spending?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yeah, look, I think what it does is a couple of things. It forces some level of transparency, both on the recipient and also the U.S. government, to explain the purpose of the aid, drill down and talk about it in more detail than they tend to. It will...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
We also got into Trump's America First trade policy, how it shapes competition with China and Russia, and what it means for the U.S. on the world stage. I wanted to share that discussion with you here. To check out the full special, well, head over to Mike Slater's Politics by Faith podcast feed and listen to the global trade war. Now, here's our discussion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Probably, I'm just going out on a limb here and saying in some circumstances, it will help to mitigate corruption that exists in the world of foreign aid, whether it's an NGO, whether it's government to government, whatever it may be, because that definitely exists. There's a lot of money over the years. that has gone missing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
And whether we're talking about money going to the Taliban, for instance, or going to Gaza, supposedly to help the civilians, and it ends up lining the pockets of the billionaire leadership of Hamas. Whether we're talking about, you know, aid to Africa, where In some of these countries, you think, how have they not improved their conditions?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Well, it's because a lot of times the despotic leaders are pocketing that money. So I think it will help to mitigate that corruption. But look, some foreign aid, there's no doubt about it. Some of it is is crucial, is critical. Right. We don't live in a bubble. So nobody should imagine that freezing foreign aid means suddenly we're drawing the curtains around the U.S. and saying that's it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
You know, everybody else, you're on your own. That's not that's not how this is going to work. And it can't work that way because, you know, the world is too interconnected and there are still elements out there that are hostile to our interests and there'll be vacuums. If we pull back aid in certain areas to certain countries, you know, the Chinese regime will sweep in there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
And they've been making that effort for a couple of decades now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yes. Great point. Obviously, China. But let me start with this. We kicked off the show talking about the little mini trade war with Colombia that lasted like an hour that Trump just swatted him around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Are there other countries out there, though, that can match Trump and can match the American economy and the American military might in a way that Trump can't just slap him around on a golf course for an hour? Colombia is obviously not one of those. China would be. Are there any other countries out there that we would need to be on the lookout for?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Not really. I suppose in a sense, you could argue that we have to be careful.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
with the members of the nuclear club, right? There's always that concern. So we have to be somewhat mindful of the nature of the country we're talking about. How hostile are they to US interests? But there's really nobody else other than the Chinese regime that's got that sort of leverage and they've still working on it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
They've been building or attempting to build significant leverage in Latin America, in Africa, parts of the Middle East. Over the past 20 years in particular, while we've been focused in the U.S. on the global war on terror, we tend to be sort of with blinders on. It sometimes seems that a U.S. administration, regardless of which administration, has a hard time multitasking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
So all our focus is on the Middle East or counterterrorism. And we take our eye off the ball in Latin America. And then after a few years, we wonder, well, how come we have so many nations down there with governments that are hostile to our interests? Well, it's because we're not paying attention. We're not in there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
We're not making an effort, not just dollars, but resources, personnel, strategic thinking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Let's let's we got about two minutes. Let's do that. I was going to ask you about Saudi Arabia, but in that vein here, locking down our hemisphere. I know we've talked before about the Panama Canal. We understand that. And we see the Belt and Road Initiative with China all through Panama and all over up in Mexico. There's like Canadian ports in Mexico. It's crazy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
How would you like to see this president and secretary of state lock down our hemisphere tighter?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
America is back and open for business. One thing we're going to be demanding is we're going to be demanding respect from other nations. We just want to be treated fairly with other nations because there's hardly a nation in the world, and I blame this on us, and I blame it on politicians that...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yeah, well, look, we've got several issues here, whether we're talking individual countries like Venezuela, Panama, Honduras. You know, the Honduran president, she just spent some time lambasting, you know, President Trump and Honduran presidential family. has had association and allegations of narco-trafficking rumors for years now. So we shouldn't be paying attention to that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
But what we have to always do, and I think they're doing it now, and I think President Trump's been clear about this, Marco Rubio's been clear about this, is we evaluate our relationship with each country based on what is in our best interest, because that's what the other countries are doing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
We just tend to apologize for it or back away from it, somehow, over the years, thinking it's a community of nations, right? And if we're just open and generous and, you know, nonjudgmental, and we don't worry about our own interests, then the rest of the world will follow. Well, that's a bunch of crap, because that's not how it works.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Every nation works in its own best interest, so we need to start from that premise I think that's what they're doing. And with Latin America, look, it's an incredibly important part of the world, our trade, our strategic thinking and intelligence, our security. We have to focus on it more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
That means we have to devote more serious minded individuals, more time, more resources, again, not just foreign aid. to develop closer relationships and to ensure that we don't wake up and, oh, look, we've lost another country in Latin America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
And now they're aligned with China or they're aligned with, you know, sort of the BRICS nations who are kind of working to establish their own global order.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Yes, yes. I'm so excited, if done well, to have control over our own hemisphere once again. Mike Baker, the great Mike Baker, host of the President's Daily Brief Podcast, one of the most popular podcasts in the entire country. Mike, great to talk to you, brother. Appreciate you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Thank you, Matt. Take care.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Next time you're riding camels in the desert, I'll be there for you once again.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
That was my discussion with the most excellent Mike Slater. Again, if you want to check out the full special, head on over to his Politics by Faith podcast feed and listen to The Global Trade War. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow with another edition of the President's Daily Brief. Until then, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
For some reason, probably mostly it's stupidity, but you could also say other reasons, but mostly stupidity. They've allowed other nations to take advantage of the U.S., and we can't allow that to happen anymore.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
I was to the World Economic Forum. Not enough has been said about the background that Trump uses there. Remember Biden had this background. He made like a made-up set. It was like a set of like a low, like a Bush League Oval Office or something. It was like a pathetic. That's an awesome background for Trump to be speaking the truth to the world. And Mike Baker's here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Special Bulletin: Mike Baker Speaks with Mike Slater About Trump's 'America First' Economics
Hey, Mike Baker here. Recently, I sat down with the esteemed Mike Slater for a special program called the Global Trade War, part of his Politics by Faith podcast. We discussed the Trump administration's decision to freeze foreign aid and what that move means for America's global influence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
So, look at the documents. They read the documents. Well, I mean, if you don't have a sense of right or wrong, you can pass a polygraph. Isn't that interesting?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
You know, the moles, for instance, right? Our counterintelligence cases, you know, whether it's Hansen or Ed Lee Howard or Aldrich Ames or any of them, you know, you can argue that a psychopath who doesn't really care about right and wrong, you know, that's what you're playing off of, right? The polygraph is definitely, it's not a complete science.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Yeah. That's the problem and that's why counterintelligence is so difficult, not to disappear down that rabbit hole in this conversation, but that's why it's so difficult, right? It's a human endeavor and you're always going to have the potential for a breach in that regard and that's a human breach as opposed to what we've been talking about, which is the potential to compromise
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
The incident, as you might imagine, has sparked concerns about operational security, what we would call OPSEC, and discipline at the highest levels. Joining us now is retired Army Colonel John Mills, former director of cybersecurity policy at the Department of Defense. perfect guy to talk to about Signalgate. Now, you can check him out on Substack at Colonel Rhett John.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
uh technical solutions whether it's signal or anything else well but john let me ask you this i know i know what you know what you've said about this and i don't disagree in terms of look obviously you know there are apps that are available clearly this wasn't the first time this this group or individuals in this group have used signal to communicate with each other um i think it would be completely odd if this was the very first time they've ever done it um
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
what would be your advice if you were you know in there and and yeah would you go and say okay let's let's wrap this up you know here's here's a different app you can use or or are you not concerned with a continuing use of of an app like signal and again i know i take your point i know what you're saying that some of these are approved i think the defense department had issued some concern about signal in the past but i don't know where that ended up
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get ourselves briefed. We're starting today's show with the latest on Signalgate. You knew it had to have a catchy name. That's the stunning blunder that exposed sensitive national security chatter during the early strikes against the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
I mean, you hear that on a somewhat regular basis, how that happens. So, from your perspective, Is it more of a concern of speed of communication? Is it ease of communication? Because I've read a number of things now. There's a lot of people out there that are trying to make their way through what happened.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And I think there's a number of folks that are saying, well, yes, it's understandable because the sort of the high side, the secure comms for those most secure conversations. are cumbersome or, you know, it's not easy, right? And so, the tendency is let's go with something easy. And we see that, again, when you're talking about security protocols at large corporations, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
If you layer on too much security, people are going to eventually bypass it because they need to get their work done.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
You can also grab his excellent book, and that's called War Against the Deep State. If you don't already have it on your shelf, go out and get it, all right? If there's a bookstore near you. I don't know if we still have bookstores. John, welcome to the show, man. Hey, Mike. Always an honor to be on this show with you. Thank you so much. That's very kind of you to say.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Then the other side is one, again, because, right, you're looking for people who are breaching established security protocols if you're a hostile element, you know, whether it's state or non-state actors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
John, I would love to continue this conversation because you're always fascinating and you've lived in this world for so long that it's refreshing because it's important for people to, again, to step back and actually hear what I would have referred to as sort of the operational aspects of this rather than the political side of it. Because again, we're so used to Washington, D.C.,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Regardless of who's in charge, regardless of which administration it is, you're always going to get this, right? And I've listened to Schiff and I've listened to Chuck Schumer and the others rushing to the cameras and saying, you know, everybody's got to go. This is horrible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And then, you know, on the other side, again, there's some downplaying, but I'm really appreciative of you coming on here and kind of walking us through this. the operational aspects of this so people can get, you know, what I think is more of a nonpartisan view on this to make their own determination as to where this all, you know, goes. But thank you again, John.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And I hope you'll come back next time we call you on the phone. Coming up next, as U.S. strikes against the Houthis intensify, is Iran really calling the shots? It's an important question, and we've got a great person here to talk about it. That would be Ali Reza Jafrizadeh. He says yes, and he's got the evidence to prove it. He'll join us when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
I would like you, if you wouldn't mind, to write that down and send it as a note to my producers. Tell me what you think about Signalgate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Welcome back to the BDB Situation Report. The U.S. military campaign against the Houthis is entering its second week with strikes continuing to target missile launch sites, radar systems, and the group's leadership across Yemen. Now, the Trump administration says the goal is to degrade the Houthis' ability to threaten international shipping in the Red Sea. But there's a bigger question at play.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
How much of this Houthi aggression is actually being directed by the Iranian regime? Is Tehran using the Houthis as a proxy to escalate tensions without getting its hands dirty? Joining us now is Ali Reza Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of the Washington Office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran. Ali Reza, thank you very much for coming on with the Situation Report. I really appreciate you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Thank you so much. Always a pleasure, Mike. Let's start from sort of the top line. Talk to me about what you perceive here. To what degree does the Iranian regime drive the actions, the strategic thinking, planning, and activities of the Houthis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
You mentioned something interesting in 2004, you said that the group shifted from sort of a benign or semi-benign political entity or taking part in elections, et cetera, to the group that we now know. What was the motivation? What was happening in 2004 that caused that shift?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Okay. So you... you're not buying, because in recent weeks, as an example, there's been some attempts by the Iranian regime to say, hey, we don't tell them what to do. We don't have any say over their actions, in part responding to what they're seeing from the White House, which is President Trump saying that he's going to hold the Iranian regime accountable if
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
the Houthis continue with their current course of action. But you're not buying that from the Iranian regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
To what degree do you think the Iranian regime, the current regime, has been damaged or weakened, lost influence as a result of the efforts against Hezbollah and Hamas? And to what degree do you think there can be success against the Houthis along those same lines?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Okay, well, on that note, we're going to pick it up right there after our break. But Ali Reza, if you could stay right there, we are going to take a quick break, and then we'll be back with more of the Situation Report. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining me once again is Ali Reza Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of the Washington Office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Ali Reza, when we wrapped up the first segment, you mentioned that nothing really will change until somehow the mullahs are moved out. There's a regime change, essentially, is what we're talking about. So, So how does that happen? What do you think that looks like? And is there a realistic timeline?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Because people have been anticipating or thinking that that could happen or hoping that that could happen for a fairly long time now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
with the nuclear program, what's your perception? Where are they right now with their nuclear weapons development? And How do you view the current US administration's perspective on this? They've said they will not get a nuclear weapon, but what does that mean in your mind? I mean, you can talk about this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
In real terms, what does that recognition look like? Are you talking about material support to those organizations or just moral support?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And I think there are regional actors, right, who would not be sad to see the current Iranian regime go away, right? And so, let me ask you this, and maybe you don't want to answer, but to what degree are some of those actors, some of those states out there that are, you know, not inclined to support the mullahs, Do they have a relationship in any way with the resistance within Iran?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
I mean, is there any moral support or any effort from the regional players who could benefit from a more peaceful, stable Iran?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
But do you have optimism that that is going to happen? And then there's two parts to this question. I got to be mindful of our time. But first part would be, you talk about that and sort of the support from the international community. Do you think that things have changed sufficiently in terms of the weakening of the Iranian regime that that could happen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
How close is the regime to announcing to the world that they're suddenly a member of the nuclear club?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Ali Reza, I've got a dozen or more additional questions I could throw your way right now, but we're going to have to save that for the next time. And I hope you do come back the next time because the conversation is fascinating. Ali Reza Jafarzadeh. See, look at that. I almost had it, Ali Reza. I almost had it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of the Washington Office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran. Thank you for joining us today on The Situation Report. Well, that is all the time that we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. A lot of information there to digest. If you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes, please reach out to me at PDB at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
You've heard me say this before, but I mean it. The highlight of every week here at the PDB Secret Compound – well, I'm not there right now. I'm on the road. But at our secret compound, which is located somewhere under a dormant volcano –
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
is when Carl the Mailman somehow finds us and drops off another sack filled to the brim with your postcards, your emails, your faxes, your telegrams, your edible fruit baskets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And every month, our amazing team, including the above average interns, well, they all select a bunch of your questions and we produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes, which is in the pipeline right now to be released very shortly. Listen, finally, to hear the podcast of the show ad-free, just become a premium member.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Yeah. Now, that's a good point, right? Let's break that down just for a second. Explain to our folks here at the Situation Report, who does have the ability to determine classification? It can't just be the president. So, who else has that responsibility or that authority to determine what is and isn't classified?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
of the President's Daily Brief, it's very simple, by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Retired Army Colonel John Mills, former director of cybersecurity policy at the Pentagon, will join us to break that all down. Later in the show, U.S. strikes on the Houthis are ramping up. But how much of this fight is actually being run out of Tehran?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Now, when you say after the fact, I mean, I think... We learned it after the fact, but to what degree, from your perspective, and you've been dealing with this sort of thing for a long time, could it have been an issue? Look, the Chinese in particular, they are extremely well-resourced, extremely capable, and extremely motivated to understand what the White House is doing at any given moment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
what would be the potential for them to target or other state actors or semi-state actors to target Signal or other similar commercial apps?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Now, Ali Reza Jafrizadeh, Deputy Director of the Washington Office for the National Council of Resistance of Iran, can't put that on a bumper sticker. Well, he says Iran's regime is pulling the strings. He joins us with the evidence. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. The Trump administration is facing serious questions after a major communications blunder now known as Signalgate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Oh, how coy are you? Okay, but I guess this is where I'm going with this. Look, What we're seeing right now is, as you've pointed out, is typical Washington gamesmanship, right? So the Democrats see this. They haven't had any oxygen since November, nothing to cheer about. So they get a hold of this. And of course, that's what they're going to do. They're going to rush to the cameras.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
They're going to say this is the biggest security breach they've ever seen. That's what Chuck Schumer said. And by the way, don't get between a camera and Chuck Schumer. It's a very dangerous place to be. And they'll talk about how, you know, this is the sky's falling.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
And on the other side, this is, you know, again, what happens in Washington, the other side being the Republicans in this instance, you know, are downplaying it. Nothing to see here. Wasn't classified. Now, you know that it's all all right, folks. Taking all that and pushing it to the side, meaning the partisan politics, from an operational perspective, do you think it's a problem?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
On the spectrum of, and again, from what I've seen, but I guess what I'm asking is, is it a problem in terms of the highest level officials working in highly classified positions, dealing on a regular basis with highly classified material,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
apparently okay with the idea of using the commercial available app rather than their NSA approved and provided devices or other more secure methods to communicate with each other.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
But you have to admit, John, I'm just playing devil's advocate here, right? And all the time, I'm not talking about, I don't give a crap about the politics of it from one side or the other. I'm simply saying,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
There are standard, more secure ways to communicate when you're in those positions and the potential is there for hostile actors whom we know are regularly targeting or attempting to target key personnel and trying to capture conversation and understand plans and intentions. You know, from that perspective, I mean, what's your impression? Again, push aside the politics of it all.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Is this something you would have done? Yeah, absolutely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
But let me give you the vignette of the high-value targeting process with General Stan McChrystal because- Before you do that, hold on to that thought because I want to kick off our second segment with what you're about to do. But before you do that, I need you to stay put. You know what? Let me be more polite about that. Don't go anywhere. Stay put.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
During the early stages of U.S. strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, senior national security officials, and there were a lot of them, including the vice president and secretary of defense, were coordinating in a private Signal group chat. Now, if you don't know what Signal is, it's a commercial app. It's considered to be somewhat secure and discreet, certainly more so than an open line.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
It's like I'm talking to Hendrix, my golden retriever. If you stay right where you are, we're going to take a quick break and then we're going to be back with more of the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is the excellent friend of the show, retired Army Colonel John Mills. John, thanks for sticking around. And you were about, in our previous segment, you were about to go into a vignette. Please carry on.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Unless, of course, the system is compromised, for the long term, right? I mean, there is the potential for systems like a signal now to be compromised for the long term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 29th, 2025: Signal Gate Fallout & Iran’s Hidden Hand in Yemen
Unfortunately, during the course of this chat, someone mistakenly added the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg. Okay, enter a journalist. Sensitive details about the strikes, including targets and timing, were shared before the mistake was caught.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
But how far can this renewed support go in shaping the conflict and what might change under new American leadership? Well, to break it all down, we're joined now by retired U.S. Army General Ben Hodges. He's the former commanding general of the United States Army in Europe. General, thanks very much for joining us again here on the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the BDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is retired U.S. Army General Ben Hodges. General, thanks again for all your time. It's very much appreciated, especially during this holiday season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
You mentioned in our earlier conversation, you referred to the North Korean troops, the fact that Kim Jong-un has been sending troops to aid the Putin regime. Is it from your perspective Is that sort of a gimmick, more of a cash and weapons technology transfer grab by Kim Jong-un, or is it having a significant impact for Vladimir Putin?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off in Washington, where the Biden administration, remember Joe Biden? Well, the Biden administration is reaffirming its commitment to Ukraine, promising a surge of weapons, even as a new administration. prepares to take over.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
We very much appreciate it during the holiday season. Well, thank you for the privilege. I suppose a lot of people are probably wondering this question. We've got a matter of, well, really days, a handful of weeks, until the new administration takes over in the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Yeah, I mean, there's interesting, there's a number of different estimates, as you point out, in terms of how many troops have actually been sent from North Korea to aid Putin. And there are also likewise different estimates about how many North Korean troops have been killed or injured in action. The South Korean intelligence services estimated it's around 1,100, 1,200. I think the Ukrainian
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
military is estimating somewhere in that same zone. You have to imagine that Kim Jong-un really doesn't care about the lives of his soldiers. He's essentially bartering lives of his own soldiers, of his own military in exchange for technology transfer for weapons, money, and it's just one of those shocking developments of 2024, I think, that really very few people, if any, saw coming.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Wait a minute. Are you saying, General, that they're not doing this pro bono? That this is not a charity case from Kim Jong-un's perspective? Yeah, it is shocking, though, when you see it. It's just interesting. I've been trying to... assess as to just how significant the impact of those North Korean troops are from Putin's perspective.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
And I take your point, it does perhaps postpone that day when he may need to do another large-scale conscription, if he ever decides to do that, because I think you're right, that's the one thing that he desperately wants to avoid. If we could, General, I wanted to touch on a couple of other topics. the Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft that went down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
So is there any way to quantify from let's say election day in November of this year until now, how much has been allocated or authorized by the outgoing Biden administration for Ukraine?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Have you heard anything further about the cause of that crash?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Yeah. Well, thank you for that. I know the investigation is ongoing. It's tough. And the last thing we want to do is speculate. But I appreciate your insight and your update there. The other thing I wanted to touch on, and this is sort of outside the focus of our conversation, as you mentioned, you're based in Frankfurt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
What's your perspective on this latest Christmas market attack that took place well outside of Berlin?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
It's a really key point that is so important. It's difficult for people to do, but anytime you have something like this, the tendency is to jump to a conclusion. nobody really has the patience or wants to have the patience to wait for an investigation to play out, to determine motivation, determine plans and intentions of whomever the perpetrator is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
And so, it's difficult to do, but anytime there's an incident like this, typically my phone blows up and I get calls from outlets saying, would you do you want to come on and talk about this latest incident? And usually my reaction is not really because the investigation is ongoing and all we'd be doing is speculating about motivations of the perpetrators.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
So, yeah, this one was extremely complex, incredibly sad as they always are, but very complex.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Sir, kind of to wrap up the conversation, to be mindful of your time, as we make our way to the very end of this year, which seems to have blown by, looking forward with the Ukraine conflict after all this time, and I don't want to put you in a tough position to say, okay, this is what the incoming administration in the U.S. is going to do, but What's your gut feeling?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
What's your perspective on this? Where do you think this is going? And I'm not going to hold you to it, although I hope you'll come back on in a month or two and we can talk about it more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Yeah, that's a terrific point to raise. They have obviously been watching the U.S. and our allies' response to the Ukraine conflict, being mindful of their interests in Taiwan. So, I think you're absolutely right. Everything's connected, right? The world is shrinking still. and nothing happens in a bubble. So I appreciate that point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
General Hodges, listen, as always, thank you very much for your time. I hope you've had a tremendous holiday season so far. I hope you managed to find some time to rest and relax for the rest of the year. And I hope that the next time we call, you'll pick the phone up again and agree to come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Now, that's actually a really interesting point and a very important point, I think, is that is that we hear a lot about this. And the numbers do seem to vary depending on who you're talking to and how they're quantifying the aid that's been provided to Kyiv since February of 2022. Some people approximate around $60-plus billion or so.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Excellent. General Hodges, thank you so much for your time. Thank you. Coming up after the break, we'll explore how fentanyl became the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45. It's really a sad and tragic story.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Dr. Robert Morbitt, producer of Fentanyl, Death Incorporated, a very, very worthwhile documentary, joins us to explain just how this crisis is flooding across our borders and why it's not just an issue of public health, but also of national security. We'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, it happened. America just pretty much got done with a historical election.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Perhaps you heard something about it. Now, sure, there's going to be some changes in the White House, and that always happens when there's a change in the administrations. But the fundamentals haven't changed. And the problem is that the dollar, well, it's in decline. With the U.S. adding $100,000 in debt every second, think about that. $100,000 in new debt every second.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Meanwhile, BRICS nations have introduced what they call the UNIT. It's a new global currency, pegged 40% to gold and 60% to BRICS currencies, which could mark the beginning of a global monetary reset. So you ask yourself,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
what can i do about it well my suggestion would be that you call the proud americans of the patriot gold group today before it's too late mention pdb and you'll always get best in class service from patriots protecting patriots patriot gold group has the no fee for life ira well your ira or 401k can be in physical gold and silver and you may be eligible for the no fee for life ira unqualifying rollovers
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Call 1-888-870-5457 for a free investor guide. And here's another important point. Patriot Gold Group is Consumer Affairs' top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And that, frankly, is a lot of years in a row. Call 1-888-870-5457. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
The fentanyl epidemic has become the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45, claiming thousands of lives every year. Now, this synthetic opioid, 50 times stronger than heroin, is flooding the US with devastating consequences. But how is it getting here? Well, the journey begins with precursor chemicals from China sent to Mexico, where cartels use them to manufacture the deadly drug.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
From there, fentanyl is smuggled across the southern border, often hidden in shipments or mixed with other substances, making it nearly impossible to detect. It's cheap, it's potent, and it's deadly. To understand the full scope of this crisis, we're joined by Dr. Robert Marbet, producer of the eye-opening documentary, Fentanyl Death Incorporated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
The film dives deep into the origins, trafficking, and human cost of this epidemic. It's available now on Salem Now, offering a close look at one of the greatest threats facing America today. Doctor, thank you very much for taking the time and joining us here on the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
What led you to producing this documentary? Talk to me about that journey from the point where you said something has to be done. Let's try to get this out there to the public. Talk to me what that whole trek was like.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
But it's not as if everything lands in Kyiv upon authorization. It takes time. I think you raised an important point as to what has actually made its way over in real assets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Good God. Was there any sense of that from, I don't know, the authorities, the government? Was there any awareness of the scope of this problem at the outset of your journey to produce this documentary?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Now, there's obviously a lot of complexity here. Let's try to take it and break it down into its various components. If we look at outside players, let's set aside the issue of demand. You always hear that sometimes when you're talking to other countries about the narco-trafficking issues. They always say, well, look, you've got to solve your own problems. But let's talk about the outside actors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Can you start with China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
When we talk about the coordination between China and the cartels, to what degree, in your assessment, is the Chinese regime culpable? Or are we talking about criminal elements within China coordinating with the cartels?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Yeah. And I take your point. The cartels kind of moving over to Mexico. The cartels, they identify revenue streams extremely well, right? I mean, they and they fill those gaps wherever there's an opportunity. And I don't think people understand just how entrepreneurial the cartels can be, but they've they've proven it now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
I suppose there's a lot to unpack here, Doctor, but when we talk about this coordination between the Chinese government or criminal elements and Mexican cartels, Have you seen, even in the short term, let's say the past two years, have you seen any improvement in US policy in terms of trying to mitigate this crisis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
There's a hint of optimism there, but there's also that's a really sad statement. to have to make. Talk to me about the top line numbers. If we look at this crisis, both from the health perspective and from national security, but talk to me about the top line numbers. How many fatalities are we talking about? What's the impact on our society in the U.S. ?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Dr. Marbury, if you stay right there, we've been fortunate. We've got some terrific sponsors here on the PDB Situation Report. We're going to hear from a couple of them right now. But if you'll stay right where you are, we'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Dr. Robert Marbitt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
He's the producer of a very, very worthwhile documentary that you need to check out. It's called Fentanyl Death Incorporated, and you can find that on salemnow.com. Doctor, we were just talking about the human toll, the magnitude of the fentanyl crisis. Why, I guess, the top line question here is,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
With it being so bad, when we're talking about the human toll being so bad, why the inaction, from your perspective, from the US government?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
From your perspective or what you've seen in your experience, has there been any efforts government to government, let's just take Xi Jinping's regime in China, to address the problems, to get them to seriously deal with it, whether it's through sanctions or other negotiations?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Yeah, it's a terrific point. Look, we address this situation, the border situation, national security on the PDB on a regular basis. And our point tends to always be the same, which is you can't have national security. You can't do your primary function as a government, which is to protect your citizens and protect national security interests, if you don't know who's coming across the border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
I agree with you 100%. It's as simple as that. If you don't have a secure border, then you're failing in your primary objective as a government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Part of the problem also, I think, as you pointed out, is, look, the primary outside players, the Mexican cartels, the Chinese regime in some fashion, whether it's the criminal elements or whether the Chinese regime is complicit in some fashion to some degree, The problem with the Chinese regime is, of course, they only act when it's in their best interests.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
You could argue that a lot of countries do the same thing, but they tend to be the primary proponent of that concept. If they don't see this as being an issue for them or in their best interests, then we're going to be hard pressed without taking serious action, whether it's tariffs, whether it's actual serious sanctions to get the Chinese regime to change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
I remember during the Obama administration, they had that famous, you know, state meeting where President Obama and Xi Jinping stood side by side. And President Obama talked about how Xi Jinping had promised to stop engaging in cyber shenanigans. And they just doubled down on it. Right. So because, again, it wasn't in their best interest. So I guess
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
What I'm getting to in a rambling way, Doctor, is from your perspective, how would you deal with this? How would you work, if you were in charge, if you were the fentanyl czar, on day one, what would you start doing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Doctor, we got a lot more to talk about when it comes to this subject. And unfortunately, we have no more time. I do hope you'll come back. uh on the show again so we can we can pick up this conversation and i also encourage uh all our uh viewers to uh check out the documentary it's called fentanyl death incorporated you can get it on salemnow.com Take the time. It's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
It's a tragic, sad story. And I applaud your efforts, Doctor, for trying to shine a light on this. And listen, thank you again for joining us. And I hope that you find time to enjoy the holiday season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Absolutely. Dr. Robert Marbut, thank you very much again for your insight. I look forward to having you back on and I appreciate your time. All right. Well, that is all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report. And by the way, I do hope that you're having a terrific holiday season as well. Seems like it just flown by.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
If you have any questions or comments or if you have humorous anecdotes or maybe you've got a limerick or two, I don't know, people still do limericks. reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Of course, every month we take the comments and your questions and we smash them all together into an episode that we call Ask Me Anything. We've got another one in the hopper about ready to launch.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
So keep the cards and letters coming. Also, as you may have heard, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, well, it is simple. You become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com. And please don't forget, check out our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
And until next time, and from some other part of the world, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Retired US Army General Ben Hodges joins us to discuss what this means for Ukraine's fight and America's role in the conflict. Later in the show, we'll trace the deadly pipeline of fentanyl from China to Mexico to U.S. streets and why it's now America's top killer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
If we could, General, if we could step back and kind of look at this now as sort of a year-end wrap-up, right? We're almost at the end of 2024. Again, we're a handful of weeks away from the Trump administration stepping in. What's your assessment of the current state of the conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Then we'll talk with Dr. Robert Marbitt, producer of the documentary Fentanyl, Death Incorporated, about how this crisis became a national security threat. But first, our BDB situation report spotlight. It was a deadly Christmas in Ukraine as Russian missiles targeted cities across the country, leaving, frankly, devastation and heartbreak in their wake.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Do you think, is that where we're headed? Are we headed to negotiations or are we headed to another year of this grinding World War I style warfare?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
If you're talking about going to the negotiating table, and I think you're 100% right, you're on target with terms of Putin and his reliability, but if we are talking about sitting down at the negotiating table, that is what the incoming president, President Trump, has talked about, Do you assess that Ukraine is in a stronger position now to do that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Or were they in a stronger position a year ago? I mean, I guess what I'm asking is, are we asking them or will we be pushing them perhaps after January 20th to sit down at the negotiating table when they're actually in a weaker position than they have been?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
In light of this holiday carnage, the Biden administration is reaffirming its commitment to Ukraine, pledging a surge of weapons and ammunition. Officials say the aid is essential to help Ukraine withstand escalating Russian attacks, even as the U.S. prepares for a new administration to take office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
And there are a lot of them living in Russian-occupied territory right now. I mean, basic estimates say that Putin holds approximately 20% of Ukraine at this stage of the game. General Hodges, if you could just stay right where you are, which actually is in Germany. I'll stay where I am, which right now is in Tokyo. Look at that. The PDB Situation Report is a global effort.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
But if you'll stay right there, General, we will be right back with the situation report. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, if you're tired of the same old coffee from those mega corporations, and you know the ones I'm talking about, pushing their woke agendas, which they do, well, listen up. It's time to take a stand and support a brand that truly embodies American values.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
And of course, here, I'm talking about Blackout Coffee. It's a terrific company. They stand with hardworking Americans, and they believe in the very basics, family, faith, and freedom. They roast some of the most incredible coffee that you'll ever taste. That's the truth. Using only premium grade beans, roasted and shipped out to you within 48 hours. Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
The beans are sitting in the roaster, and then all of a sudden, well, they're in your mug. Bob's your uncle. For the cold brew fans, Blackout Coffee is now also excited to announce the launch of their two new ready-to-drink cold brew coffee latte options. Look, don't settle for less. Make the switch to Blackout Coffee. Head over to blackoutcoffee.com slash PDB and use the code.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Are you ready for the code? Here it is, PDB, for 20% off your first order. That's blackoutcoffee.com slash PDB. And again, the code is PDB. Join the movement and taste the difference. Remember, with every sip, you're supporting a brand that stands for America. And as we say around these parts, be awake, not woke. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 28th, 2024: Ukraine's Weapons Surge & America's Fentanyl Crisis
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Now, Finnish officials stressed that the country's energy and telecommunication services remained stable despite the damage as they were able to fall back on reserve cables to avoid data and power disruptions. Still, they warned that the damage could take months to repair and worsening weather conditions could potentially prolong their work and put the country's power supply in jeopardy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
It's Friday, 27 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. All right, to be fair, it is the late afternoon, almost bordering on the early evening bulletin. I'm still on the road and still somewhere out in East Asia. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Authorities said the Russian vessel slowed down as it passed over the cables on Wednesday with its anchor dragging on the seabed, roughly around the same time that the cables ceased functioning. Now, that could be what some would refer to as a clue. They added that the tanker briefly lingered over the site before continuing on its journey. Possibly another clue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Shortly after midnight on Thursday, Finnish special forces raided the vessel and have since been interrogating its crew on suspicion of, quote, aggravated criminal mischief. Is that what we call severing important undersea cables? Mischief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Finland's prime minister said it was too early to say whether the Russian government played a role in the incident, but Finland's NATO allies aren't taking any chances By Friday, NATO leadership announced the alliance would boost its military presence in the Baltic Sea, while Estonia launched their own naval operation to guard nearby electricity cables
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Estonia's foreign minister warned, "...if there is a threat to the critical undersea infrastructure in our region, there will also be a response." He added that the alliance must do more to crack down on Russia's shadow fleet, saying, "...in addition to circumventing sanctions, the shadow fleet is a security threat in the Baltic Sea, and we cannot just sit and watch."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Sweden and Lithuania also reacted swiftly, deploying aircraft and vessels from their respective navies to monitor ship traffic in the region. It's just the latest anchor-dragging incident involving damage to critical underwater communications infrastructure in the Baltic, which many in the alliance suspect is part of the Kremlin's hybrid war against NATO and the EU.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Officials with the Finnish Navy speculated that their adversaries are testing whether cheap civilian ships can be employed to successfully disrupt communication lines within the NATO alliance, and it would certainly appear that their testing is proving that it can.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
As a reminder, these marine fiber optic cables are a critical piece of global communications infrastructure that provide vital internet and telecoms connectivity. One of the cables damaged on Wednesday had just been repaired after being cut in an incident involving a Chinese cargo ship, everybody's getting involved in the action, last month that sailed from a Russian port.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
That incident saw two critical internet cables in the Baltic Sea damaged in quick succession. And while an investigation by Swedish authorities is ongoing, direct evidence pinning the activity on Russia has proved elusive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
But Estonia's foreign minister noted Thursday that damage to undersea infrastructure has become so frequent that it's difficult to believe that it's all just one big coincidence. While the incidents to date have been small in scale, the potential risks of such sabotage, well, can't be overstated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
A larger attack could have a devastating global impact, disrupting everything from financial and energy markets to the basic operations of governments and their militaries. The incidents come after U.S. officials warned in September that Russia was assembling a, quote, sabotage unit to target underwater Internet cables under the direct orders of the Russian Defense Ministry. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
We'll begin today with a potential act of sabotage by Moscow as Finland seizes a Russian oil tanker suspected of severing undersea power and data cables on Christmas Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Could it be the Russians? We don't know. At the time, U.S. officials said that due to the protracted war Russia is facing in Ukraine, well, the Kremlin's willingness to engage in ever more extreme acts of belligerence has significantly increased. The Kremlin, however, and this will surprise you, has downplayed the incidents and dismissed allegations of sabotage as, can you guess what they said?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
If you said Western propaganda, you'd be right. Coming up, we'll discuss the latest political upheaval in South Korea as their parliament impeaches the second head of state this month, all in one month, plunging the country further into political chaos. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Then South Korea's government descends further into chaos as their parliament impeaches the current acting president just two weeks after suspending President Yun Suk-yeol's powers over his controversial and bizarre martial law declaration. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the afternoon bulletin. OK, the late afternoon. OK, the early evening bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
South Korea's leadership crisis is deepening, raising concerns from allies in the United States about their ability to counter mounting regional aggression from China, Russia and North Korea. Lawmakers in South Korea voted Friday to impeach Prime Minister and acting President Han Deok-soo, that's the second ousting of a head of state in the country this month.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
The move followed the impeachment of President Yun Suk-yeol on December 14th over his highly controversial declaration of martial law at the start of December. Friday's vote plunged the country further into political chaos, driving their currency down and fueling fears about the long-term security implications for the once stable democracy. That's according to a report from NBC News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
South Korea's internal disarray was on full display Friday as a wild scene unfolded in parliament during the vote. Members of the ruling People Power Party, the PPP, condemned the opposition Democratic Party for declaring that only a simple majority would be needed to approve the impeachment motion, chanting, quote, abuse of power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Typically, a two-thirds majority is needed to impeach a president, but impeaching a prime minister only requires a simple majority. Despite his role as acting president, Opposition members who hold a majority in South Korea's National Assembly determined that due to Han's dual role as prime minister, the two-thirds requirement could be waived.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Han, who said he'll respect the outcome of the vote, will be stripped of the powers and duties of the president pending a ruling from the Constitutional Court on whether he can be reinstated. The court has their work cut out for them as they're already set to review whether to uphold Yoon's December 14th impeachment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
We'll begin in the Baltic Sea, where it appears that the Kremlin may be intensifying their shadow war against Kyiv's NATO allies. Finland seized a tanker carrying Russian oil in the Baltic Sea on Thursday on suspicion that it had severed an undersea power cable and several internet cable lines on Christmas Day. Finnish authorities said the vessel may be part of Russia's infamous shadow fleet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
The nine-member court has six months to make a ruling on the impeachments, but matters have been complicated by three vacancies left by recently retired justices. In fact, these vacancies are at the heart of the latest impeachment vote. The opposition targeted Hahn due to his reluctance to immediately appoint three justices to the court.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
It's an action Han said was outside his mandate as acting president. But the opposition, well, they said this was a stalling tactic meant to protect his predecessor, as it's not clear if the court can make a ruling on Yoon's impeachment without a full bench. It's hard to figure out which impeachment they're talking about.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
As the country sinks further into turmoil, the presidency will pass to the country's finance minister. That fellow's name is Choi Sang-mok. Now, Choi attempted to strike a conciliatory tone on Friday, pledging, quote, an all-out effort to overcome the crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
He also said that he'd already instructed the military to boost its readiness to deter North Korea from trying to take advantage of the current political chaos. But South Korea's allies are growing increasingly concerned. An unnamed U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
official told Reuters on Friday that the White House was closely monitoring the situation while that's good, while keeping an eye on the activities of North Korea and China. Look at them, they're multitasking. The U.S. already had to postpone a planned tabletop exercise with the South Korean military after impeached President Yun's surprise martial law declaration back on the 3rd of December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
That said, the US source told Reuters that so far, the political upheaval has not impacted the military readiness of the roughly 28,500 US troops stationed in the country. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 27 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
And remember to check out our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. That launches this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV and, of course, can also be found on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and all wherever you get your podcast stuff. This week's most excellent guests include retired General Ben Hodges, former commanding officer of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
Army Europe, as well as the producer of an important and revealing documentary on the U.S. fentanyl crisis. That's called Fentanyl, Death Incorporated, and that documentary was produced by our guest, Dr. Robert Marbitt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
We cover a lot of ground in this weekend's episode of the Situation Report, from the Biden administration's push to get more weapons to Ukraine ahead of Trump's return to office, to the downing of the Azerbaijan commercial aircraft by Russian air defense systems, to the fentanyl crisis, including China's involvement in fueling the tragedy and the role of the Mexican cartels. Tune in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 27th, 2024: Undersea Cable Sabotage & South Korea's Leadership Crisis Deepens
That's what they're calling it, the shadow fleet of aging tankers used to skirt Western sanctions on the sale of Russian oil. That's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Three of the cables in question connected Finland and Estonia, while another connected Finland with Germany.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And importantly, ExpressVPN works on all devices, phones, laptops, tablets, and more, so you can stay private on the go. They're rated number one by top tech reviewers like CNET and The Verge. So protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. And you can get an extra four months free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining me once again, as we talk about China, the trade wars and all things tariffs, is Christopher Balding. He's a senior fellow at the Henry Jackson Society and an expert on the Chinese economy. Christopher, thanks for sticking around, by the way. I appreciate that very much. Let me ask you this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
When it comes to economic reporting out of China, from your perspective and your experience, how much of it is accurate? How much of it is creative accounting? And how much is just outright fabrication?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports that the White House is reportedly contemplating significant tariff reductions on Chinese imports, potentially slashing rates from 145% to between 50% and 65% in an effort to de-escalate tensions. President Trump has indicated a willingness to negotiate but insists that any tariff cuts would depend on reciprocal actions from Beijing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Yeah, no, I take your point. It's not intentional on the part of the people covering it. The report is covering it from outside. It's certainly intentional on the part of the CCP. And that's a real combination, right? If what you're saying is, look, the data isn't trustworthy and there's no transparency from the outside,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
then that begs the question for Western companies looking to do business in China, because I think the Chinese market, grabbing the Chinese market has always been sort of the holy grail for a lot of multinationals. But if you can't do any proper due diligence, what are you building your business on?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Now, looking at the current conflict, right, the trade war that's going on and the tariff back and forth and retaliatory measures taken by the Chinese government, look, you've said before, I think paraphrasing, that China is heading for serious trouble. What does that look like? I mean, where do you think they're heading?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I had very interesting conversations just recently with some folks, very smart individuals who were like, look, China is on the rise. And their point was, we believe that the US is on the decline. So, at some point, those two countries collide. But is that your perception or are we getting it wrong when we think somehow that China is ascending?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
But that's not what it means in Chinese. You know what you do get, Christopher? You get both armrests, right? That's just airplane etiquette. I'm just telling our people again, all our viewers, you got to remember that if you're in the middle seat, you got to claim both those armrests because that's your right. That's your God-given right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I digress.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
However, and there's always a however, China has denied that any negotiations are currently underway and is demanding the removal of all U.S. tariffs as a precondition for talks. As both sides dig in, markets remain jittery, as you might imagine, swaying on speculation rather than substance. My next guest has a very interesting history with the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
but i think you see all of these issues kind of coming together i i take your point i think you know once you get beyond okay it's not strong then in part due to the lack of transparency a lot of it becomes speculation and then you're also talking sort of the the soft science of okay well how will they react into you know that situation and of course the focus has always well recently been on you know what's their timeline and and what will the scenario look like
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
for Taiwan. Let's talk about the tariffs if we could, just briefly the time that we've got. There's been some reporting just over the past 24 hours or so from the FT and a handful of others that there may be movement from the Chinese side to reduce tariffs on US goods.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
He was a professor at Peking University's HSBC School of Business until 2018. That year, he was fired for criticizing the government's censorship. Christopher Balding is currently a senior fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, and he joins us now. Christopher, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Thanks for having me, guys. Well, let's start with the situation back in 2018.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And that comes in the wake of the White House, President Trump indicating that he could be considering slashing the existing tariffs of whatever, 145% for the most part in half or more. Have you heard anything about that? Have you heard anything about a potential move? Because that could signal, okay, let's dial all this back. Let's try to find some reasonable ground here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Have you heard anything about that? Or do you see any other indications that the Chinese regime may be looking to dial this down a little bit?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Yeah, and your point is absolutely correct. I've got years of experience with this particular point, and that is that you were talking about due diligence and how difficult it is in China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Doing a normal business intelligence review of a company, an entity, principles, that sort of thing, anywhere in the world is basically out of the question in China because they do consider it to be classified information. So that then opens up a world of hurt. Again, without that transparency, without the clarity of their economic situation, yeah, I think your point is correct.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I guess the problem is that it speaks to the strategic thinking of the White House because unless they've got some crystal ball, unless they've got some in, some much more accurate intelligence on the economic condition of the Chinese society, I don't know if we're
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
If we're approaching this with the information that we need to be thinking through it in the long term or whether we're just throwing things at the wall and seeing how the Chinese government reacts. I don't know if that makes any sense. That was not particularly eloquent. But then again, Christopher, I'm not known as being particularly eloquent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Talk to us a little bit about your experience there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
No, I think you're right. It's a really interesting point that you're raising. And, you know, you look at the styles, the mindset, sort of the traditions. You look at President Trump in the White House, he seems, you know, he's very transactional, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I mean, a lot of what he talks about is leader to leader, as opposed to this phased approach that I think can be frustrating perhaps for him at times. In the time that we've got left, and it's not much, I apologize for keeping you as long as we have, but if you had to say in 60 seconds or less, the weakest link, the weakest part of the Chinese economy, what would it be?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Because the tariffs basically shut down factories and shut down the ports, ships aren't moving, containers are stacking up?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
The potential for social unrest. Absolutely. Interesting. Well, I've got a lot more questions for you, Christopher, but we've run out of time, unfortunately. And I do hope you'll come back when we give you a shout, because what I'd love to do is, as this trade war with China shakes out, have you back on so we can discuss either the aftermath or the ongoing problems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Christopher Balding of the Henry Jackson Society, listen, thank you again for joining us and for all your insight. Very much appreciate it. All right, coming up after the break. A deadly terror attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir leaves 26 dead. And now India and Pakistan are exchanging threats. Oh, good. That's what the world needed. More tension and more conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And they're edging toward a dangerous, potentially, showdown. Intelligence analyst Sadan Kishore joins us next to give us his insight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Welcome back to the Situation Report. Troops from Pakistan and India exchanged fire on Thursday night across the Line of Control in disputed Kashmir. It's the latest escalation between the two nations since a brutal terror attack in the Indian-controlled part of the region left 26 people dead earlier in the week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Now, while Pakistan has denied any role in the attack, India is responding aggressively, closing its main border crossing, expelling Pakistani military diplomats and suspending, and this is important, a key water sharing treaty between the two countries. According to Indian intelligence sources cited in local media, the attack may have been carried out by the Resistance Front.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
It's a shadowy group tied to the Pakistan-based terror organization Lashkar-e-Taiba. Joining us now to break it all down is Middle East security researcher Sidhan Kishore from the Institute for the Study of War. Sid, thanks very much for joining us here on the Situation Report. It's really appreciated. Thank you, Mike. Glad to be here today. Excellent. Listen, let's start from the top.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
How close are we to seeing a conflict between India and Pakistan? I mean, obviously, two nuclear-armed nations, they've been to war before. How worried should we be over this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I want to take a step back and look at this particular incident. In the immediate aftermath of this attack, the Indian government was obviously very quick to accuse Pakistan. Have you seen specific evidence presented by the Indian government, the authorities, to back that up?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Was it left at that? Was there any other pressure or concerns that you had? Or was it simply, look, here's your walking papers? I guess I'm surprised in a way that they didn't show you the door immediately and say, it's time for you to go.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Talk to me, Sid, if you could, about, let's give an overview for our viewers of the two key groups here that have surfaced. And I think, you know, a review or a summary of who they are, the ties to Pakistan that India alleges. I mean, all of this would be important to understand. But Lashkar-e-Taiba and the Resistance Front, if you could give us an overview of these organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
The group that's claimed responsibility for this attack that resulted in 26 deaths, the resistance of RAND, They've claimed that their motive essentially was that the Indian government is trying to change the demographic. Exactly. By moving in. Okay. So, include that if you could in your overall view. Sure. Absolutely. That would be helpful. So, that was the basic- Motivation was. 100%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
That's very interesting. I don't think that has surfaced in other media reports. It's made it sound as if it was just, you know, they walked out into a meadow. I believe the reporting was seven gunmen and just opened fire in sort of a random fashion. But you're saying that they were actually checking identification cards and shooting those that they identified.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Sid, if you'll stay with us, I've got a long list of questions for you, but we need to take a quick break. So, if you'll stay right where you are, and then we'll be back with more of the Situation Report and Sadan Kishore shortly. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining me once again is intelligence analyst Sid Kishore. Sid, thanks for sticking around. Very much appreciated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Let's look at the aftermath of the attack and the moves taken by the Indian government and then retaliatory moves by the Pakistan government. Of all those actions so far, what do you consider to be the most serious, the most concerning?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Are you surprised, Sid, about the water treaty? I mean, my understanding, correct me if I'm wrong, please, but my understanding is that they've made their way through past conflicts without taking that step.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
So, I mean, I'm going back to a comment that you made earlier in our conversation, which I think is really important, talking about the train hijacking. It was just in passing that you said it really didn't attract any media attention in the West. And I think that's correct, right? The only discussions I had in the aftermath of that train hijacking were with Indian media.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And I don't recall actually any major U.S. news outlets talking about it in any significant manner. You've got a long history, obviously, of conflict and tension between these two countries. I go back to an earlier comment. Both are members of the nuclear club. That's important. It's not the only issue here, but it's an important one that kind of sits in the corner of the room.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Where does this go? Do you think both governments are disciplined enough to walk this back in short order, or does this escalate? From your perspective, do you think this goes into a full-blown conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
What do you mean by you could see China changing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Let's go back to something else that we discussed earlier was the links between Pakistan and this attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And I take your point, but over just looking at the involvement of LAT, the resistance front in this and the claims of the Indian government, but in your mind, is it important at this stage for the Indian authorities to actually present something more specific in terms of evidence for this link? And my perception is that would be beneficial in terms of stating their case.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Otherwise, you're looking at, well, there's allegations and of course, they're always going to turn around and claim that it's the Pakistani government that's behind this. So, do you think it's important for them to do that? And do you think they will? I think it's a part of the process.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Yeah, I think that's correct. I see what you're saying and I don't disagree. I think going back to what we talked about in terms of the failure of perhaps the Western media to cover something like this or to understand, I think there is a general perception perhaps in the West that you have something like this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
And of course, one side, when I'm talking about the Indian-Pakistan relationship, one side is going to accuse the other, the other is going to say we have nothing to do with it. So, I suppose if I was advising the Indian authorities, I would say, look, package up specific presentation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
If you've got comms that directly link Pakistani individuals and authorities or others to this, then package that up, present a body of evidence. Because I think that is nothing but beneficial in terms of driving home the point. Otherwise, you will have this perception that, okay, of course, they're going to accuse the Pakistanis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Of course, the Pakistanis are going to say they have nothing to do with it. And then they move on. I think it's too important to... to leave it at that, for what that's worth. I'm sure the Indian authorities are saying, I wonder what Mike would advise us to do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Well, Sid, I think you've hit on something that actually, I think is actually absolutely correct. I suspect already the liaison relationship, misinformation is being discussed. The collection of evidence is being shared, I would assume, between intel services. So, You're absolutely right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
There is always a back channel, regardless of what we see in the press, government to government that's out there in the open. There tends to be a solid working relationship underneath that that exists oftentimes between the intelligence services. So I suspect that sharing of information and understanding is already going on. Sid Kishore, listen, thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
This has been very, very helpful, very informative, and we very much appreciate you joining us and sharing your expertise. And I hope that the next time we call you, you'll come back. Well, that's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Now, if you have any questions or comments...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
you know, maybe you've got a joke or a humorous anecdote, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. We've got another of our Ask Me Anything episodes. Those are a compilation of some of your best questions and comments. And we've got another one ready to launch here shortly. So keep your postcards and letters coming. That's what I'm saying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, well, that is certainly doable. All you have to do is become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. And that's simple. Just visit pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. And don't forget, if you get a chance, go to our juggernaut of a YouTube channel. You know, as always, you're watching it right now, probably.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
That's at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Okay, that's really fascinating. Let's shift gears a little bit. Obviously, the tariffs, the trade war with China has been front and center in the headlines. And I think Typically, what's been happening is because of the way that news stories tend to be structured, right? Here's three minutes. We're going to tell you everything you need to know, right? It's a little bit difficult.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
But typically, you hear often, well, China won't be able to withstand this because they're export dependent and their economy won't be able to withstand a sustained trade war. Then it stops, right? Because typically news stories don't have time to get into details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
But what I'd like to do right now is have your perspective on China's economy and their ability to actually sustain a trade war with the US. Can they, can't they? And from your perspective, if we look at the Chinese economy, maybe focus on what do you think are the biggest weaknesses? Where are the points of leverage from a US perspective?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
welcome to the pdb situation report i'm mike baker your eyes and ears on the world stage all right let's get ourselves briefed we'll start things off with a look at the still simmering it's simmering u.s china tariff war you've heard about that haven't you new threats talk of tariff cuts and a whole lot of posturing some might call it voguing but not much progress
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
We'll speak to a leading expert on the Chinese economy and financial markets, Christopher Balding, about the latest. Later in the show, a deadly terror attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir leaves 26 dead, and now India and Pakistan are trading threats, and that's not a good thing. Two nuclear-armed nations now on a collision course. Intelligence analyst Siddhant Kishore joins us for more on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
It's interesting because you're getting this response from China, which I think, I don't know whether it caught the White House off guard or not, I suspect not. But now you've got the Chinese reaching out to other nations saying, hey, think twice before you cut a deal with the U.S., So they're saying, think about whether you want to be part of the China bloc.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
I mean, it's a fascinating moment in our relationship. And I've got, let's see, oh, several pages of questions left for you, Christopher, but we have to take a quick break. So if you'd stay right where you are, then we'll be right back with more of Christopher Balding and the Situation Report. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that, 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me ask you a question. How did you choose which internet service provider to use? Well, the sad thing is most of us have, well, very little choice because ISPs operate like monopolies in the regions they serve.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
They then can use this monopoly power to take advantage of customers. data caps and bandwidth throttling. Look, nobody needs bandwidth throttling. The list goes on. But worst of all, ISPs have the ability to keep a log of every website you visit. And so can other third parties, unless you use ExpressVPN.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. The US-China tariff war remains at an impasse despite both sides expressing openness to dialogue. This week, China issued a stern warning, get this, to countries considering trade agreements with the US that might undermine Chinese interests. threatening reciprocal countermeasures. That's rather bullying of them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 26th, 2025: Inside China’s Struggling Economy & Kashmir Attack Sparks Crisis Between Nuclear Rivals
Without ExpressVPN, your internet and network providers can still see every website you visit, even in what's called incognito or private mode. ExpressVPN, they reroute 100% of your traffic through secure, encrypted servers, so third parties can't see your browsing history. ExpressVPN hides your IP address, making it extremely difficult for third parties to track your online activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Mark Krikorian. He's the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies. Mark, thanks very much for sticking around. Very much appreciated. We covered some ground there. There's a lot to go through. Let me ask you this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Could the administration, I guess what I'm concerned about with the incoming, or with now the Trump administration, is that they've got a lot of plans, obviously, and they want to get moving very quickly. The first term, I would argue, the Trump administration had some messaging issues. They had some communication problems that created more trouble for them than they needed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And when we're talking about the immigration policy, this idea that they're going to move, I'm fascinated by this idea that they're going to move from, at some point, going after the immigrants with criminal convictions or that have been adjudicated for deportation already, and that would be about 2.1 million if you look at some of the statistics, it varies a little bit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies, Mark Krikorian, well, he'll join us to break it all down. And then later in the show, we're turning to the National Security Front. From the purge of General Mark Milley as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the revocation of security clearances for 51 intelligence officials,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
But then moving on to the six or seven million possibly other illegal immigrants in the country, I guess what I'm imagining is the inability to get that done because of how Washington works. And I guess what I'm, I keep kind of coming back to the same question, looking for you to help me out with this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Are they setting themselves up for a problem by sort of ramping up their base, getting their base to imagine that this is going to happen when in reality, the dysfunction of Washington, D.C. and the way that politics works there means that it may all just get stalled?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Now, you may have noticed I'm back from the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan sooner than anticipated. The epic trek from northwest Saudi to Aqaba in Jordan, it continues on behalf of the UK Special Forces Club Benevolent Fund. But I was pulled due to injury. I'm on the injury list now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, I think that's very logical. You've raised a really important point that somehow gets overlooked, right? Which is the idea of, I don't know what you would call it, diminishing returns or whatever. But if you do successfully create and maintain border security, then you have limited and dropped that number. That number now starts decreasing about who's coming across the border illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Well, President Trump is shaking up Washington's defense and intelligence establishment. Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation and good friend of the show, Steve Yates, he'll join us to unpack what it all means. But first, our Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And that seems to get lost in the wash sometimes because people just imagine, well, okay, it's all about just kicking everybody out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Let's switch just slightly, still staying on immigration policies. Birthright citizenship.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah. No, I think that's right. Well, the State Department, the consular FAMs or the regulations, I think do have policies in place talking about how long someone needs to be living in the US in order to pass along citizenship. I'm foggy over, I used to know some of those details fairly well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Well, in his first days back in office, President Trump has, as they say, hit the ground running, focusing on one of his hallmark priorities, border security. He's already signed several executive orders to bolster enforcement, including resuming construction of the border wall, expanding support for Customs and Border Protection, and reinstating the Remain in Mexico policy for asylum seekers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
No, that makes sense. Now, I think it will face, as will probably a number of these executive orders, will face a variety of legal disputes. So, I agree with you. I don't think the federal judge who said that the birthright citizenship executive order was unconstitutional, that was probably expected all the way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Okay. I think he commented that he thought it was unconstitutional, but I think it was, but that was outside of his legal move on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
It's the Supreme Court's decision. Right. Exactly. If... All things being equal, if you look at the executive orders done so far and realizing that inauguration day was Monday, when it comes to immigration policies, which one do you consider to be the most important so far that's been put in place?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And to your point, that's one of those actions that can actually stop the flow of incoming illegal crossers or immigrants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
The CBP One app, what is your best number for how many individuals came into the country under that app?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Wait a minute. Is that accurate? Is that what they said was why CBP1 was important?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And it's not just policy on paper. Look, immigration enforcement has already kicked into high gear. Reports are emerging of coordinated ICE raids in cities across the country, targeting illegal immigrants with criminal records. I'm not quite sure who could argue against that concept. Joining us to break it all down is Mark Krikorian, Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And then the policy that was in place for Haiti and Venezuela, Cuba... Yeah, that's one of them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Whatever happened to that concept that when you were seeking asylum, asylum was the first safe haven that you landed in or you arrived in?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
I understand that it appears as if, anyway, that In essentially calling for a state of emergency down the southern border, that brings into play Defense Department resources, the U.S. military, in terms of the ease of which you can access those resources. Talk to me about that. Have you heard anything about the deployment of U.S. military forces to perhaps bolster what the CBP is doing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Well, Mark, being mindful of your time, and I'm going to have to wrap this up, but what I'd love to do is get you back here with us on the situation report in a couple of months' time. Let the first 60, 90 days shake out, and then see where we are and do an assessment from your perspective as to how things are moving along. Yeah, love to. That would be excellent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Listen, Mark Krikorian from the Center for Immigration Studies, always, always appreciate you giving us your time. Thank you very, very much. Coming up, we turn our focus to the national security front.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
President Trump has already made a number of moves, perhaps you've heard of some of them, from ousting General Mark Milley as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to revoking security clearances for dozens of former intelligence officials. Steve Yates, a man about town and also with the Heritage Foundation. He'll join us to break it all down. Stay with us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. President Trump's first days back in office haven't just been busy. Well, they've been transformative, especially on the national security front. One of his first major actions was removing General Mark Milley as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, signaling a shift in the leadership of America's military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Mark, thanks very much for being with us here today on The Situation Report. Glad to be here. Thanks for having me. Let's start from the top. Inauguration Day was Monday. So when it comes to U.S. immigration policy, what's changed? What do you expect to change? And what do you think might stay the same?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
He also reportedly had Mark Milley's portrait taken down off the wall at the Pentagon. In addition, the president has revoked security clearances for dozens of former intelligence officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Among them are those who signed a letter, you remember that letter, during the 2020 election, claiming that Hunter Biden's laptop could be or was Russian disinformation, a claim that obviously has since been debunked. So what do these actions signal about Trump's priorities for America's defense strategy?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Joining us to discuss is Steve Yates, Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation, good friend of the show and general man about town. Steve, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Thank you, Mike. It's great to be with you again. Excellent. Well, you'll think differently after we talk for a little bit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
So we've got, what do we have? Oh, the inauguration took place on Monday. And we've had about 17 or 18,000 executive orders signed. But let's, we have so much to discuss here, Steve. Let's start with one of the more interesting stories. According to reports,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
The portrait of General Mark Milley, former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, has been pulled off the wall in the corridor where they have all the other portraits of the former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman. An important policy decision or being petulant? You tell me.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, we can talk about that here shortly, but I'm glad you raised that point. Look, and I talk about his portrait sort of tongue-in-cheek because this is the sort of thing that happens every time an administration changes, right? And so...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
There's been some coverage of the removal of the portrait that I thought was interesting because they acted like this the first time anybody's studying petulant, as opposed to perhaps removing keys from computer keyboards. That happened in my office in 2001.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Exactly. Yes. So it goes on. Look, it's almost like a game that gets played in Washington, D.C. Okay. So let's, I guess, start with foreign policy. Where do you fall down with Senator Rubio, well, former Senator Rubio, now as Secretary of State? How do you feel about that appointment?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, no, I agree. I like Rubio's experience. I think he's well-suited for that position. I think he brings some really interesting background to it. So, yeah, I'd give that high marks as well. Got a good confirmation. Any indication. Good start. Yeah. That's a good start. Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Any insight into, and I realize that we're days into the Trump administration, but any insight into possible shifts in policy or will it be much the same related to Ukraine and the Russia conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, I like Keith Kellogg being where he is right now. I think he's a stable force. What do you make of President Trump's comments over the past 24 hours related to Putin? It seems like there's a change in tone or a change in tact towards Putin, talking about how Putin is failing the Russian people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
the damage to the economy, it strikes me as harsher than folks would have imagined language he would use related to Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, it doesn't look like, at least the terms that Moscow has suggested to date, basically equate to a surrender on the part of Ukraine. Everything from reducing their military to a fifth of its current size, to not joining NATO, to ceding all that territory that the Russians currently hold, et cetera, et cetera. It's unacceptable terms, but it does seem as if there's noise. Yeah, exactly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Asking for everything, which is kind of what you would expect from someone like Putin. But it does seem as if we're hearing sounds from both sides, Zelensky and Putin, that yes, they're aware the reality is that they need to bring this to a close. And I think Trump's move is...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Him talking about the damage that Putin's doing to the Russian economy, I think is very smart because I think that is a severe weak link for Putin. And he can't continue spending. He can't afford this adventurism going forward. So I think there's some real logic in Trump pointing that out. I'm going to be jumping around here, Steve. So you're going to have to excuse me. You got to.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Because there's lots of different topics. Let's talk about... Not necessarily foreign policy, but it touches on it. The Trump administration has now pulled the security details for Pompeo, Mike Pompeo, for John Bolton, for Brian Hook.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Is there any indication that they had intelligence that indicates those threats have gone from the Iranian regime, that there's no longer a threat from the Iranian regime, or... How do you interpret this move by the Trump administration?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah. No, I think there are two separate issues here. I'll set aside the security clearances issue for a second. But from my perspective, you know, the operational aspects are what's important. So, you know, I would look at it from if I were the Trump administration, I would look at it from, look, do we have any credible, relevant, corroborated intelligence right now?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
that indicates that the threat has been reduced and has been mitigated in some fashion from the Iranian regime. Because as you pointed out, it's not idle talk. And so I'm interested in this because if they don't have actionable intelligence that says that threat has been reduced,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
then they're, in a sense, and this is going to sound odd, but in a sense, they're taking a real chance here because those details that are in place, and if something does happen, it's going to overshadow anything else you're attempting to do for the foreseeable future. So I'm concerned in that regard. But again, maybe they've got actionable intelligence that says that the threat has been reduced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And if that's the case, then fine. Don't go anywhere. Just stay right where you are. We have to take a quick break and then we'll be right back with Steve Yates. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me again is Steve Yates. Steve, thanks for sticking around. Let me switch gears just a little bit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
President Trump has signed, what, a couple hundred thousand executive orders in the first couple of days. From your perspective, national security, foreign policy, whatever it may be, which do you consider to be the most impactful executive order that he's signed so far?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Well, I mean, I think it's, correct me if I'm wrong, but it's not really just Venezuela. It's Haiti. It's Cuba. We've got other places where it's going to be impossible. China, to return some of these individuals back to their own countries is going to be, as you pointed out, almost impossible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
I got to tell you, not to interrupt you, Steve, but I don't think it's a small thing at all. I'm actually really glad you brought that one up because look, as a business owner myself, I've had the same experience that a lot of entrepreneurs and business owners have with staff, and I've got a wonderful staff. I've got great people working with me.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
But over the past handful of years, it's been tough to implement any sort of, even a three-day, two-on or two-off policy, right? So getting people back in the office, if you're a federal employee, I think is a really smart move. Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Okay. I just made a note, Chinese regime to behave more responsibly. Yeah. We can hold our breath for that day. We'll revisit that issue at some other point. How does the Chinese regime view this announcement of the Stargate project? That's what we're talking about here. It's codenamed the Stargate project, the half trillion dollar investment in AI.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
How do you think the Chinese regime views that announcement? Well, it's like a lot of things.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Here's a question out of the blue. Our old friend, Gordon Chang, has talked to me about how, in his view, China is on a war footing with us in the US, and the US just doesn't realize it or chooses not to pay attention or whatever. How do you feel about that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
How would you describe the Trump administration's stance or view perspective on Taiwan?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Right. And I'm glad you mentioned shipbuilding. We are being outpaced significantly, massively, bigly, if I could use that word, by the Chinese regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Interesting. I'm gonna shift gears yet again, Steve. I'm gonna move jurisdictions. The southern border with Mexico and specifically the labeling of cartels in Mexico as terrorist organizations. How do you see that playing out? What could be the practical results of something like that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, I agree with you 100% on that. It's long overdue from my perspective as well. And it will be interesting to see because obviously this doesn't happen in a bubble, right? This requires involvement from the Mexican government, the new president of Mexico. And I suspect... that they will be on board with it. I mean, it's going to take a certain shape.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
I don't think they're going to be publicly necessarily supportive of the move, but I think ultimately they'll play ball because they will also see it perhaps in their own best interest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Right, right. But I think it's a solid step in the right direction in terms of addressing the problem. Steve, listen, we've got a lot more to cover. I've got pages, pages of things to ask you questions about. It just means you've got to come back, man.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Listen, Steve Yates, Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation, and a sharp dresser, too, might I add. I've got a game here. Listen, thank you very much, Steve, for joining us. I look forward to seeing you again here soon. Always a pleasure. Thank you, Mike. All right, well, that is all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report for this weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Listen, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. You know what we do with your questions and comments, of course. You know, what happens is that the mailman drops off the mailbags, and then our team goes through all your questions and comments, and we smush them all together into monthly Ask Me Anything episodes. So please send in your notes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
It seems like, and maybe you've got more detail on this, I've seen some initial reporting that indicates that the Mexican government is, you know, they may say one thing, but they're basically operationally, they're on board because it looks like they're building some holding facilities, some deportation centers on their side of the border in some of the border cities in anticipation of
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And if you haven't already, please, there's still time. Send me your New Year's resolutions. I'd love to compile a special episode of Ask Me Anything based around all your various New Year's resolutions. To listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting bdbpremium.com. I told you that it was simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
It's very simple. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Torn ab muscles, abdominal muscles. Honestly, I had no idea I still had abdominal muscles. But the rest of the team, and it's an amazing team, continues on this terrific effort to raise awareness and funds for the UK's military veterans and their families. Look, if you have a moment, and I hope you do, please visit www.sfcbf.org. Let me repeat that, www.sfcbf.org.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
of essentially a number of deportees or a flood, however you want to refer to it, a wave of deportees coming back across into Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
When you mentioned just a moment ago, you mentioned the possibility of unwinding some of Biden's actions. If we just go to the top line there and say that one of the Biden actions was to have a policy that essentially allowed in millions and millions of illegal immigrants, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Has anyone settled on an actual number for the course of the Biden administration, how many came across the southern border?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
So what about, I heard something interesting earlier today from a Democrat strategist. And it is interesting to watch them kind of spin all of this now in the wake of the election. And finally, for some of them anyway, as realization that a lot of America actually supports the concept of deporting, especially deporting illegal immigrants with criminal convictions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Again, I don't know who opposes that. But They essentially were trying to argue that, look, okay, fine, it's the first few days of the Trump administration, the much vaunted deportation of the sweeps through the urban centers to pick up some of these folks. But their argument was, nothing's really changed. The numbers are still the same in terms of deportations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
The Biden administration was on board with this and they were working hard to deport people. Do we know how many individuals were actually deported during the course of the Biden administration?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Now, let me ask you about that, because, look, I live out west in an agricultural state, and the reality is, Two things can be true at one time. You can argue that we need to deal with this problem, meaning that something has to be done. Deportation has to take place, as it has with previous administrations. I think I read that during Obama's administration, 3 million deportations took place.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
So this is not something new. But the other side of that coin is, It will be very disruptive to a number of sectors in the US, including the agricultural sector. So, where do we go with that? How do you envision this taking place? It's one thing to say you're going to remove the 700,000 or so illegal immigrants with criminal convictions. Again, everybody should be able to get on board with that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
You can learn more about the track, and if able, and I hope you're able, maybe donate something to the fund. They do vital work and they really need your support. And I know everybody asks for things these days and I feel bad doing it, but look, it is an important, important charity fund. And so if you have a chance, maybe just donate the price of a cup of coffee, one cup of coffee, what's that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And as with the 1.4 million or so illegal immigrants who have already been adjudicated for deportation, when you start going after the others, I guess that's what I'm trying to drill down here and I'm not doing it very eloquently, but Mark, can you talk to me about that process? How you envision that happening? What sort of pushback are we going to get? What's the reality of it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
There's one thing to say we're going to do it, but what do you imagine will actually be the reality?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Yeah, I mean, it also, it permeates the dairy industry, it permeates the meat processing, poultry operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Mark, if you'll stay right there, we've got to take a quick break, but then we'll be right back with Mark Precorian, Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Five bucks. Maybe if you buy really fancy coffee, it's 10 bucks. But anyway, you get my point. Collectively, we can make a real difference. Let's get ourselves briefed. What do you say? Today, we're taking a look at Donald Trump's first days back in office. Now, he wasted no time getting to work, starting with sweeping actions on the southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 25th, 2025: The Border Crackdown Has Already Begun & Trump Cleans House in DC
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Benham Ben Taliblu.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
He's a senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, a very good friend of the show, and quite frankly, a snappy dresser. Benham, we were talking about the comments, the optimism, the positivity coming out of the White House from President Trump related to the ongoing discussions with the Iranian regime, the nuclear talks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
At the same time, you could argue, look, there have been a lot of contradictory statements. So President Trump will come out with something positive. And then you'll hear back from the Iranian regime saying, no, no, we're not ever going to give up uranium enrichment. No, you know, we're not. Because they're obviously playing the same game over on their side of the table with their population.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
They probably do not want to be seen as caving in to the U.S. by any means. But in reality, you could argue we're seeing the same thing with the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Oftentimes we're getting, yes, the phone call was very positive. We're going to have discussions. They're going to move for a ceasefire. And then you get Putin saying, well, no, we're not.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Then we're not having any discussions and we're not meeting wherever. So talk to me about that. Is that just in the nature of President Trump? Is that just the way that he operates? Or again, I keep kind of pulling at the same thread, is there a strategy here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
CNN reports that Israel has moved munitions into position and wrapped up large-scale air exercises, both potential indicators of a preemptive strike. The news has raised concerns in Washington, of course, that such an operation could ignite a wider regional conflict. Joining us to discuss what this intelligence might signal is Benham Ben-Taliblu.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Let's talk about, you mentioned it earlier in our conversation, the fifth round of talks that are going on between the Trump administration and the Iranian regime. Any insight into how those talks are going?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
He's a senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. And for inside baseball purposes, The Situation Report is a year old. In fact, it was a year old as of about a week ago. And Benham was one of our very first guests. So, we're very delighted to have him back on the Situation Report. Benham, thanks very much, man. It's an honor to be back with you. Thanks so much.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Monitoring and verification. You just mentioned that. Look, if there's an agreement, say that somehow the Iranian regime says, all right, fine, no enrichment, and we reach an agreement, that would imply that the only way we can enforce that is by full transparency, right? The ability to inspect all the sites that the West...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
puts on the table and says, no, they don't let the Iranian regime say, these are off the table, these you can inspect. What's the likelihood that that would happen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
How did this intelligence get out there, right? I mean, so obviously somebody saw that within the White House, within the national security offices, we had intelligence saying that there's concern that the Israelis may be preparing to strike. Any insight into how that information got out?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, look, when he was Secretary of State, John Kerry used to bang on about, well, you know, the nuclear agreement, it's, you know, we're trusting but verifying. No, you're not. Because to your point, I feel very strong about this. If you don't have 100%, you know, access, if you don't have full transparency, you do not know. And getting intelligence on the Iranian programs,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
has always been a very heavy lift. And the US has always had to rely very heavily on our liaison partners in the intelligence communities to get a... Well, it's not even a full picture, but to get the fullest picture possible. So, I'm concerned that... You know, the Iranians will continue to play the same game that they've been playing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
They'll agree, and then they just won't stick to the agreements. So, I'm not sure why we would imagine that that dog is going to change its behavior. Benham, last question, being mindful of time, and I know this would require a lot of speculation, but if you're a betting man, let's look at... six months down the road. Are we still in these negotiations with the Iranian regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Are they still at the table, but kind of dragging it along? Or have we moved on to a military option?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
You should have been a diplomat, Venom. That was a very good answer. All right. Not a good gambler. I'm not sure where to put my money on that particular question, but I do think- Keep your money. Keep your money. Yeah, yeah. You know what I'm going to do? I'm going to bet that you're going to be back on the Situation Report here in the not-too-distant future. That's what I'm going to bet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
I'll take that, man. Ben and Ben Taliblu, excellent, of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Listen, thank you, man, for joining us as always. Well, President Trump revealing the details of his multi-billion dollar Golden Dome. It's a missile defense system. Have you heard about this? It's a little bit like Dr. Evil's Alan Parsons project. Anyway, it's to shield the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
from future attacks. I just love the name, Golden Dome. Brandon Weicker, you know him. He joins us to break down what it is and whether it can actually work. And that's an important question, isn't it? Stay with us. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
This week, President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unveiled new details of their ambitious $175 billion missile defense plan known as the Golden Dome. The system would combine ground and space-based capabilities to intercept missiles at every stage of flight, including before launch. According to sources, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
could deploy over 1,000 satellites for global tracking with 200 armed satellites ready to shoot down incoming threats using missiles or lasers. The plan has already drawn international criticism. China, as you might not be surprised to learn, slammed the announcement, accusing Washington of turning space into a war zone. Now, here's a pro tip. China turned space into a war zone some time ago.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Supporters say the Golden Dome could revolutionize missile defense if, here's the if, it can be built. Joining me now to break it all down is Brandon Weikert. He's a senior national editor at the National Interest and author of Winning Space. Now, that's a great book. Its full title is Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower. And if you don't have a copy, go out and get one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Friend of the show, Brandon Weikert, thank you very much for being back on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
So, Golden Dome. The Golden Dome. First of all, do you have any idea how they came up with that name?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
It's the golden era. And now we've got the dome. Look, obviously, it's a bit of a riff on Israel's iron dome. Ours is going to be shinier. But is it... And bigger. Let's start at that. Yeah, and bigger. Of course it is. But at the 30,000-foot level, right? I mean, actually, we're going to be above 30,000 foot with this thing. But is it even feasible...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah. Well, okay. First of all, Brandon, I'm going to correct you. Back in the early 60s when Kennedy was announcing the moonshot, nobody said WTF. Nobody said WTF back then. Yes. You know. I mean, somebody might have said, LOL. And that's it. That's the sum total of my knowledge of those little phrases. Anyway, but you mentioned something very interesting, which let's pick up on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
You said that now we have a president who's got the willingness, right, to push for this because prior to that, there wasn't a political will. Well, if you step back and you say... Okay, what's the concept? The concept is creating a shield that defends the homeland from missile attack. Why was this a problem for previous politicians? What was the problem regarding political will?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Okay. Before I go to the next question, you mentioned directed energy. Can you, just for the benefit of our viewers, can you explain that without using lots of big words?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
I'm shocked that you would even imply that defense contractors might take a little something off the top.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
No, no. I think, you know, look, I've said this before. I think throwing out $175 billion as an estimate, I think is a very conservative number.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Now, okay, talk to me about this. There's a lot here, right? But if you can. Up to this point, talk to me about the defense system that we've had, right? The missile defense system that we've had, why it is, if it is, why it's inadequate today and what the Golden Dome would primarily be focused on in terms of defense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Okay. And the nature of the targets have changed. Correct me if I'm wrong, and also elaborate on this, because I'm sure I'm going to oversimplify, but past defense targets, systems basically were working on ballistic missiles, which have a predictable trajectory, right? They go up, they come down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
The Golden Dome now will be focused on, and you mentioned them, hypersonic weapons, as well as sort of the old traditional attacks. So talk to me a little bit about, actually, you know what, before we do that, Let's take a quick break because there's a lot here to discuss when we start talking about hypersonic weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
So if you could stay with us, Brandon, we'll be right back after a quick break with more of the Situation Report. So please stay right where you are. Don't go anywhere. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Brandon Weikert. He's the author of Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower. Pick that book up and read it because it's very good reading.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
And it's also important given what we're talking about right now and what the U.S. is intending to do, which is the Golden Dome. So bringing it back around to the Golden Dome, Brandon. Yeah, we left off in the last conversation talking with the notion that our missile defense systems were focused on ballistic missiles, predictable trajectory. Yes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Now the Golden Dome is focused on new technology, right? New capabilities that our adversaries have, including hypersonic weapons. Talk to me about that. Is this the case where using space-based sensors and interceptors, is that the primary focus of that element of the Golden Dome?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Okay. That's very interesting. Look, when this was announced, when they came out and said, we're going to build the Golden Dome, China was probably the first to react. And they reacted in a fairly aggressive and indignant manner. And basically what the Chinese regime said was, how dare you? How dare the US weaponize space? What would you say to that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, they're doing what they tend to always do, which is say, oh my God, we're only interested in global peace. How dare you do this when, yeah, you're right. I couldn't agree with you more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, look, now we're starting to disappear down that rabbit hole about how absurd the world is. One of my favorite examples of that is that both Ukraine and Russia buy key drone components from China. China is selling both sides of that equation. And to your point, at the same time, saying, oh, my God, we need, you know, we're just interested in brokering peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, well, there's an interesting concept. I haven't heard that one before, and certainly the U.S. has never done that. They've learned from the best, right? That's exactly right. Hey, so with this, look, the Golden Dome, I think I'm going to impress you with my mathematical capabilities here, but the Iron Dome in Israel, Israel roughly the size of New Jersey,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
We're talking about just with the U.S., you know, 450 times that landmass perhaps. Canada has now expressed interest in being a part potentially of the Golden Dome. And so now we're talking about, you know, North America. Yeah. I'm kind of going back to that same question before, and I know this is a tough one, and I take your first response, but you throw Canada into the mix. Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
And honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if our other really key trading partner in Mexico says, hey, how about us? Which kind of would make sense. Now you're tying key trade partners into something that's very important. Again, I go back to that same simplistic question I have. Talk to me about the feasibility of this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
And also talk about the timeline, because President Trump has mentioned, we're going to get this done before the end of my term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
With the time that we've got left, Brandon, I want to go to circle back to China's reaction to this because, again, I think this is really interesting. They were indignant. They said, how dare you essentially weaponize space? Has space already been weaponized and to what degree and for how long?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Well, look, you mentioned your book. I'm going to, one more time, encourage everyone to pick up a copy of that. It's called Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower. Brendan, it's always excellent having you on the show. We appreciate the fact that- When I learn something new every time I'm here. Look at this. See, it's not just entertainment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
We consider ourselves to be an information show. Listen, Brandon Weigert, Senior National Security Editor at the National Interest. Very much appreciate your time, man. I look forward to the next one. And that's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Now, look, if you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes or limericks, if people still do limericks, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Every month, well, you know what happens. Our incredible team selects a bunch of your questions, and they produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, you can do that, you know. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time. stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, it is interesting. Look, from my perspective, I mean, given my background, I'm always fascinated by the concept of intelligence, intelligence leaks, issues within maintaining classification and discretion. And it does seem in Washington, D.C., I think you're right. Look, there's not that many scenarios here, not that many options.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
So either someone saw this, and it's a very small circle still to this day, right? I mean, we tend to over disseminate, I think, in Washington, D.C., but it's still a relatively small group of individuals who would have access to specific intelligence, specific intelligence reporting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
And so you could argue, okay, it was somebody or individuals who disagreed with the direction that the intelligence indicates the Israelis may be going. Sometimes in Washington, you get people leaking information because it benefits the administration, right? Because they want to get it out there. It's sort of a soft landing, trying to set the table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Sometimes you get people who just, you know, get off on talking to journalists, even though it's anonymous, right? So, you know, there's not that many scenarios. But stepping away from that issue, Are you concerned from your perspective about the concept of the Israelis trying to do this on their own?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
I mean, do they have, I know obviously they've got a very advanced air force, but do they have, as an example, the munitions needed, which are not, shall we say, out in the open?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start today's show by taking a look at some intelligence recently obtained by the U.S. that suggests Israel is preparing to strike Iran's nuclear facilities, prompting, of course, urgent concern in Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Yeah, absolutely. And let's pick up on that. What do you believe is the likelihood that the Trump administration would get on board? I suppose it would in part depend on the credibility of the intelligence that the Israelis present. Where do you think that stands?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
What do you think is the likelihood or the possibility that the Trump administration is maybe playing chess here? And what I mean by that is that they don't really believe that the Iranian regime is going to make a good faith effort in these talks, that they wouldn't follow through and actually stick to any agreements, but that they're having these conversations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Benham Ben-Taliblu from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies joins us to break it down. Later in the show, President Trump has unveiled new details of his ambitious Golden Dome missile defense plan, have you heard about this, to shield the U.S. from foreign attacks. Brandon Weikert, author of Winning Space, joins us to walk through the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
I mean, the Trump administration having these conversations basically to show, as you mentioned, the American public that they've made all good faith effort to go the diplomatic route.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. New intelligence suggests Israel may be preparing to strike Iran's nuclear facilities, despite ongoing US efforts to negotiate a new deal with the Iranian regime. Now, according to American officials, intercepted communications between Israeli leaders and recent military activity all point to a possible near-term attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Well, I think you do get... Oh, I... He just finished up with a very eloquent final sentence, Mary, the two shall meet. Come on, don't start making this a highbrow show. That's not why people tune in. No Shakespeare on this show. I want to come back around to talk about what you said, the positive statements, the optimistic statements, because there have been contradictory statements, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
There have been things back and forth, and I want to touch on that. But first, as you know, we're going to need to take a break. So, Benham, if you could stay with us, we'll be right back with more of the Situation Report after this quick break. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 24th, 2025: U.S. Intel: Israeli Strike Incoming & Trump Reveals The Golden Dome
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
If my kids are listening and they typically do, I'm just joking. And so is Art. Okay, let's switch. We're talking about, you just mentioned the rights of individuals who are in the states under various classifications, whether they're citizens, green card holders, permanent residents, whatever it may be, that takes us to the saga of one Mr. Khalil.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Talk to me, if you could, Art, kind of set the stage for what happened with this individual who suddenly found himself in the news as a result of leading pro-Palestinian or pro-Hamas or anti-Israel, however you want to refer to them, protests on college campuses here in the U.S. ?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Joining me now is the resident fellow in law and policy at the Center for Immigration Studies, Art Arthur. Thanks very much for joining us here on the PDB Situation Report. Thanks so much for having me, Mike. Absolutely. Well, I guess let's start at 30,000 feet. Talk to me about the recent deportation, the Venezuelans, the TDA gang members. Give us sort of an overview of...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start off today with the controversy behind the administration's deportation of hundreds of alleged gang members to El Salvador using a law that dates back all the way to 1798. Art Arthur of the Center for Immigration Studies will join us to provide insight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
I think that the issue from the left, right, is I mean, there's a number of issues there but I'm always fascinated to see how they frame their narrative, right, from the outset and obviously, the first thing they said was you know, freedom of speech. Look, Khalil's here, he's got a green card.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Interestingly, it seemed as if when they first went to pick him up, they were under the impression he was just here on a student visa. Have you seen anything related to that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Do you know when that is coming out? I mean, is there a timeframe for that or is there a requirement to issue that letter within a certain period of time?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
how that took place and then we can kind of dive into the degree to which those sort of actions are going to be stopped by the judges.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Much like the TDA issue and the Alien Enemies Act and deportation now to El Salvador, do you imagine that this Khalil issue is heading to the Supreme Court?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Very interesting. And when, a final question, when is the hearing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Well, and that was not actually my last question. My last question is when we find out when the hearing is, we get those, you know, it starts to develop where we get the results. I hope you'll come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Yeah, I think objectivity and maybe civil discourse, those two things seem to have been lost over a number of years. Art, listen, thank you very much for joining us, Art Arthur, here on the PDB Situation Report. Look forward to the next time we get a chance to talk. Coming up next, the U.S. continues its campaign against the Houthis in Yemen. Remember them?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Bill Roggio of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Well, he joins us for more on that. Stay with us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Welcome back to the Situation Report. The U.S. campaign against Houthi rebels continued this week with President Trump vowing that American military strikes would, quote, completely annihilate the Iran-backed militants. Now, here's a spoiler alert and a little bit of a pro tip. When it comes to terrorist organizations, it's extremely hard to completely annihilate any of them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
In a social media post on Wednesday, Trump warned Tehran to cut off military aid, quote, immediately and leave the Houthis to, quote, face the fight alone. His comments came as U.S. forces carried out fresh strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen, part of what officials describe as a sustained effort to stop the group's attacks on Red Sea shipping. Joining me now is Bill Roggio.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
He is the editor of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's Long War Journal. Bill, welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Thanks very much for joining us again. Always a pleasure. Thanks for having me. Absolutely, man. Listen, we got a lot to talk about, but let's start with the Houthis, right? What's up with the Houthis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And you don't hear that sort of insightful question all the time, but let's start from sort of the top level in case people aren't familiar with this group. Let's talk about them a little bit if you could, and then let's dig down into why they've become such a focus and a target of the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Bill, if I can interrupt you, why was that? Was there some significant change in the Houthis' objectives or focus that caused the Biden administration to drop them as a foreign terrorist organization?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Now, the Houthis do not control all of Yemen. They've been in a civil war, right, with the established government, even though that established government, for the most part, controls very little of the country. But when we talk about the Houthis and their capabilities, are they more like an established military at this point? Do we have a headcount for how many fighters they have?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
To what degree are they an actual national military as opposed to a paramilitary group or what we would consistently think of as a terrorist organization?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And it's a terrorist state sponsored, as you pointed out, and funded, trained, resourced by the Iranian regime, while, correct me if I'm wrong, the Saudis, primarily the Saudis, have been on the other side of that equation, supporting what still is or was the established or recognized government of Yemen in this proxy war between the two.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Yeah, it's sort of that... Hope and change concept, right? You actually have to deal with the people that, you know, live in the world that you have rather than the world that you'd love to have. And I think sometimes, you know, moving from one administration to another, you know, you can see the differences, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
You have to be a little bit more pragmatic about the way that the world operates, I think. And sometimes your allies or your friends may not, you know, have all your best interests at heart. But you got to deal with, you know, the real world as it exists rather than you'd love for it to exist. You know, hey, Bill, I'm climbing down off my soapbox now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Talk to me about what the US government is doing, what the military is doing at this stage to try to get this under control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Yeah. And it does seem as if we're operating, at least currently, the Trump administration is kind of doing a two-track effort here. As you pointed out, the military strikes on the Houthi sites to degrade their abilities, but also at the same time, putting this pressure on the Iranian regime. saying, look, you have to stop your support otherwise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Now, we can talk about where that may go, to what degree can we be successful, can the US be successful in influencing Iran to step away from one of their, what have been one of their key proxies. But before we do that, Bill, we have to take a quick break. If you could stay with us, we will be right back with more Bill Roggio and the Situation Report. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Joining me again is Bill Roggio. He's the editor of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's Long War Journal. Bill, thanks very much for sticking around. We've been talking Houthis, all things Houthis. When we look at the actions of that group,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
I mean, we've been dealing with this with Hezbollah, with Hamas, trying to impact their actions, their objectives while all the time kind of sitting above them as the puppet master of the Iranian regime. Are we dealing with the same? Is it the same as Hamas and Hezbollah with the Houthis or do the Houthis have more autonomy in the way that they conduct themselves?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Do you believe they're doing that? Or is that just window dressing for plausible deniability?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Okay. But they, I mean, it's written on their flag, right? I mean, their objective is aligned with the Iranian regime's objective, which is essentially the destruction of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Okay. So where does this, I know this is a tough question to answer, but top line, where do you think this goes with this current conflict related to the Houthis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Okay. So, and really, the alternative government or however we want to refer to it is really based down south in the country, right? The Houthis control the northern portion for the most part and Sana'a, that area, and then the alternative or what had been the established government under Saleh, that's down south in Aden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
But it sounds as if what we're really looking to do is just simply degrade the Houthis sufficiently to stop the threats to the U.S. and international shipping in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Suez Canal area, rather than push for some sort of regime change, because that sounds like a complete hornet's nest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
I mean, you're almost talking about a Libya type situation where it's just, you know, there's nothing to fill in the void.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And that's a whole conversation for another day, Bill, in terms of, you know, do we ever get to mid or long term stability and peace in the region as long as the Iranian regime and the IRGC are in place? But I want to shift gears. We'll talk about that some other time. Then people all get all squirmy and angst ridden because I think they're talking about regime change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
But let's talk about Gaza, if we could, in the time that we have left. Give us an update. Where are we with the Israel Hamas situation?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Makes a question though, Bill, how realistic is it to even talk about the complete defeat of Hamas? I mean, what does that look like?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And also to deal with the international community. I suspect, I mean, it seems like over the... Yes. Certainly since October of 2023, it seems like the Israelis have basically said, look, we know we've lost, you know, goodwill from the international community. We've lost that narrative every time we go into Gaza to try to deal with Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
But it looks like they've kind of got to that point where they don't care about that aspect of it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Well, I think, Billy, what you've done is you've outlined the topic for our next conversation. And hopefully that will be soon, because I know we'll be picking up the phone and calling you and asking you to come back. But we are at this stage out of time. Bill Roggio, Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Listen, it's always a pleasure. It's always fascinating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And I look forward to the next conversation, man. Thank you, sir. Always appreciate the intelligent conversation. That's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Look, if you have any questions or comments, or even a humorous anecdote or a limerick, I don't know if people still do limericks, please reach out to me at PDB at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
I've talked about this before, and I mean it, every week. The mailman drops off another bag full of your comments and your questions, and then we sift through them, we compile them. We've got another episode of Ask Me Anything coming up soon, but it's a delightful time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Even the interns get involved in selecting those questions, and we'll put them into another Ask Me Anything episode, which, as I mentioned, is coming up very soon. So finally, to listen to the podcast of this show ad free. Well, that is simple, too. You just become a premium member of the president's daily brief by visiting PDB premium dot com. I told you it was simple. Listen, always.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Thank you for tuning in. Very much appreciated. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And that then leads to all sorts of questions. Like in the aftermath of this, even while the planes were reportedly still in the air, there was obviously a ruling from, I believe, a trial judge who said, nope, can't do it. Turn those flights around, bring them back to the States. Now,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Does that, I mean, I guess we're dipping into all sorts of legal issues here, but the White House, it was interesting, they came back and said, well, you know, I'm sorry, but a trial judge doesn't have authority over foreign policy decisions, which is how they couched this when they started seeing the legal pushback. To what degree do you think it's appropriate for the justice system to step in?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
I mean, we are talking about something that hasn't been invoked for what you pointed out, 80 years or so.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Later in the show, the U.S. continues to pound the Iran-backed Houthi rebels as President Trump vows that the Yemen-based group will be annihilated for attacking U.S. ships. Editor of the Foundation for a Defense of Democracy's Long War journal, Bill Roggio, will help us sort out what's happening there, and there's a lot to unpack. But first, our Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Okay. Yeah, that seems where it's headed. Okay, if you could, I suppose, argue, now I'm not an attorney, but I have watched a lot of attorney shows on TV. And you could argue, I suppose, that once those deportees, say you've got two plane loads of TDA gang members, Once they leave U.S. airspace, they're not U.S. citizens by any stretch of the imagination. So, they're out of jurisdiction of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
courts. And so, therefore, once they're sitting in a prison in El Salvador, the U.S. justice system, you could argue, doesn't have any sway over what happens to them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Yeah, yeah. Well, you know what? You've won our statement of the obvious award that no decision is going to make everybody happy. And you're absolutely correct. Look, is it interesting to you that this maneuver using the 1798 Act and sending off these TDA gang members, I believe there were also a little over a dozen MS-13 members,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
It puts the Democrats in a position of having to try to fight for their rights in a way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
The Trump administration has deported over 200 alleged Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador, citing national security concerns and invoking the rarely used Alien Enemies Act of 1798. I believe the last time it was used was some 80 years ago during World War II.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Yeah. All right. If you could stay with us, just don't go anywhere. We've got to take a quick break right now. But we'll be back with Art Arthur. We're going to dive into this topic. There's a lot to uncover here. And we'll be right back with the Situation Report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Joining me once again is Resident Fellow in Law and Policy at the Center for Immigration Studies, Art Arthur. Art, thanks very much for sticking around. I've got a couple more questions about this TDA, Venezuelan, El Salvador deportation issue, because I do find, and I think a lot of people find it fascinating, and then I want to kind of veer off towards the Middle East, but...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
With this, is this incident where we had a couple of plane loads reportedly of TDA gang members, some MS-13 members sent off to El Salvador where Bukele, the president, then put them into a high security prison, is that the first and only incident so far where the White House has used the Alien Enemies Act?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Officials say these individuals are linked to the Trendaragua gang, a TDA gang, and have been sent to El Salvador's notorious CICOT facility. That's the high security mega prison known for housing violent gang members. A federal judge attempted to halt the move while the planes were reportedly still in the air heading to El Salvador.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Is that an important link? I mean, so you, in a sense, one has to follow or one follows the other so you can designate as a foreign terrorist organization and then you can use that as your foundation for justifying the deportation under the Alien Enemies Act?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
Okay. Well, now you've got me and a number of PDB listeners making notes to look up the meaning of the word fallacious at some point. So, thank you very much for that. Now, is the problem, again, and this will be the last question then, and like I said, we've got a very interesting other topic here to pursue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
But is the primary concern or are they forming as their primary concern from the Democrat side? Again, not to turn this into a political conversation, but I am fascinated by the pushback. The optic is unusual, right? The Trump administration has kind of now set up a situation where the Democrats are apparently or it appears at first glance fighting for the rights of TDA or MS-13 gang members.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
And is it that what they're saying is, look, there's – very serious potential for overreach if you start using this Alien Enemies Act or if you start, you know, pursuing groups that it's not just this group, suddenly you can go out and deport toddlers or puppies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
But the administration pushed forward, sparking outrage from advocates who argue many of the deportees have no criminal ties. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called it a, quote, kidnapping. Well, he's certainly on moral high ground to judge anyone, while the White House insists it's a tough but necessary measure to ensure national security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 22nd, 2025: Trump’s Venezuelan Gang Deportations & U.S. Hits Back At Houthis
You worked for six different presidents? I think so. I'd have to get off the wall. That's remarkable, Art. That's right. Okay, now let's, it's just between you and me, but who was your favorite? They were all great, tough to choose. Just like my children. Oh, come on. Everybody knows, we all have a favorite child. Come on. But no, actually we don't. I'm kidding.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Talk to me about the logistics. When we talk about naming a cartel as a foreign terrorist organization, what does that allow for the U.S. government to do?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
There's so much to talk about here, both from the Mexican perspective and from the U.S. perspective, in terms of taking on the cartels and what that could mean. But you've written recently some very interesting articles. And you touched on something that I think is very emotive. I suspect a lot of people are landing on the fainting couch over this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Okay. So it really expands the playing field in terms of what resources they can bring against the cartels at any given time. I think it's fascinating because I think when people hear that, oh, it's a foreign terrorist organization designation, right? And there's always that comparison. Well, it could be like ISIS or Al Qaeda doing battle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
The problem is we're talking about significantly different beasts in a way from an operational perspective. So, the cartels already have significant resources and personnel on the ground inside the US as a result of years and years of developing their businesses or criminal organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And on the Mexican side, they operate much like a paramilitary operation as opposed to a criminal organization. I mean, they're extremely well resourced and staffed. So I think it's interesting because I'm hearing out there, I'm hearing a lot of people, not a lot, but I'm hearing people talking about how, yes, we should just take out the guards. I don't think it's as easy as people are imagining.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with the latest in the fight against Mexico's drug cartels. Now, as Mexico's government sends thousands of troops into cartel territory, Could it be on the brink of an all-out shooting war with these powerful criminal organizations?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Yeah. No, I was down there for part of that in and out during those years of his administration. And it was horrific. The violence was on a completely another level. And eventually the public just said that we've had enough, right? I think, you know, part of the change in approach to the cartel is going back to managing, which most administrations in Mexico over the years have done.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
They just, well, we'll just manage the problem, right? Try to... get the violence down to almost an acceptable level and just allow them to do their business because they knew taking them on head on, well, you know, you got what you got during the Calderon administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
If you could get Scheinbaum's cooperation, I would argue the most effective way to go about this is in a liaison relationship, right? Is to use the Mexican Marines, which are probably the most trusted institution in Mexico at this stage of the game, given how endemic some of the corruption is. But...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But you've written a recent piece talking about the way in which currently we're dealing with deportees. Talk to me about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I worry that it's more of a show, as we talked about earlier, on the part of the Mexican government to basically to try to keep Trump from pushing the tariffs. And so I agree with you. They'll have to get a couple of scalps here to show that we're making some progress. But I think your phrasing is absolutely right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Their heart's not in it because they grew up and watched what happened during the Calderon administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Yeah, that's a, right there is a striking, a striking image. But again, it's, You raise a really good point. I hadn't thought about that. But from a business perspective, you're right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
If you're a cartel and your revenue stream is being threatened, then you adapt and you say, fine, we'll just, you know what, frankly, stop the fentanyl because they're going to come up with another new synthetic drug. They always do. To your point, they adapt very quickly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
How do you, from your perspective, take on the cartels in a meaningful way to try to accomplish the objectives of the Trump administration?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I take your point. And I agree with you in terms of being pessimistic. you know, the problem if they go that route, again, it's all about money making and so they will move into a different synthetic drug, they will find a new bit of gear that they can move across the border. But I agree with your sort of that pessimistic stance and in part because
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
You know, look, we're both old enough to have watched whatever you want to call it, the war on drugs and how, unfortunately, how ineffective it's been through a number of administrations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Well, Todd, I'd love to have you back on. We've got a lot more we could look at and talk about. And I'd love to kind of dig into more issues related to immigration policies as well. So I hope next time we give you a call, you'll pick up the phone and you'll join us again on the Situation Report. But Todd Benzman of the Center for Immigration Studies, listen, thanks very much, man, for joining us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Coming up, delegations from the U.S. and Russia. We're in Saudi Arabia this week. Perhaps you read about it. Pushing for an end to the war in Ukraine. What's at stake in these high-stakes negotiations? Well, a lot. And we'll be joined by Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation. He'll help us break it all down. Stay with us. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
and Russian delegations were in Saudi Arabia this week, perhaps you read about it, for talks aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. Now, the discussions come as both sides push for a resolution to the conflict. But the process, well, has raised eyebrows. particularly with the Ukrainians being excluded from the talks. Well, they did not get an invite.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Meanwhile, President Trump had some sharp words for the Ukrainian leader, labeling Zelensky as a, quote, dictator without elections, end quote, and placing much of the blame for the war squarely on Zelensky's shoulders. Now, is this a sign of shifting U.S. priorities in the conflict? Or is it just the latest salvo in political rhetoric? Well, let's answer that question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation is joining us now to provide insights. Steve, thank you very much for coming back on the Situation Report. You're a real trooper, I'd say. Well, I'm happy to be back. We'll see whether I can help. Well, if you can't, then we're going to have a very, very, very short interview here. All right. Let's see.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Let's start with I'm fascinated by this situation, right? I have never and I don't know that anybody else has ever seen such important, significant negotiations kick off in this manner. But talk to me about the discussions in Riyadh that just took place between the U.S. and Russia. From your perspective, you know, obviously Ukraine was missing. Obviously, NATO allies were missing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But, you know, give me your view from the 30,000 foot level.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Well, you know, look, I would argue I'm going to take a sort of a, you know, devil's advocate position here. We can get a peace deal any day of the week as long as we're OK with giving Russia what they want. And that seems to be, at least for now, Putin, I mean, through his mouthpiece, Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister who was present in Riyadh,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
seems to be their position is that they they're talking as if they believe that they have completely all the cards in the deck. So they're saying, look, first of all, you know, having any discussion about Ukraine being in NATO is off the table. Second, you have to renounce the 2008 NATO summit agreement or promise that Ukraine and Georgia could eventually be in NATO.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And you can't have peacekeeping troops from other nations in Ukraine at the end of any peace deal. They just keep layering on their demands as if That's the starting point. And so I'm a little concerned. I think a lot of people are concerned that we may be so keen, so eager to get a peace deal that we're willing to go along with this. And I'm not sure that that's really a good idea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I also don't know. And I know that I take your point. Rubio has said that, well, of course, Ukraine will be part of the discussions down the road. Right. As will our NATO allies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But typically, if you've got an invaded country and you're going to sit down at the negotiating table to talk about the future of that invaded country, you might have somebody from the invaded country involved from the outset. And again, I'm sure there's some discussion going on in the background. It doesn't seem that way after the past day or so of back and forth between Trump and Zelenskyy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I'm not putting as much of a sugarcoating on this as I think we got from, certainly from Witkoff and Mike Waltz who were there in Riyadh.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I don't think there was any thought that this was anything other than, you know, okay, let's at least open the door and let's start having these conversations. I agree with that 100%, right? And I also agree that, look, I mean, I... I appreciate the speed with which they start the process because I think it creates, you know, potential for movement in a variety of areas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I think it created opportunities for ideas that otherwise wouldn't have happened. Look, in a previous administration, under the Biden administration, A, there was no variety of conversation, right? It was just all, it was sort of that unrealistic world that said, you know, well, you know, Ukraine has to get all their territory back, including all the way back to 2014, right? Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Nobody cared a crap back in that day that Russia took Crimea, right? You didn't see a bunch of people walking around the streets of America, you know, waving Ukrainian flags and saying they stood with Ukraine. And you do have to have these conversations. But I guess my point being is...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And I think, again, that speed with which you do this, typically in government, it would have taken a year just for them to sort out who was going to sit at the table and in what seat and where the conference room would be located. So that's all good. there has to be the recognition, perhaps, that there is compromise on both sides, right? I've said this for several years now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I see no scenario where we get a deal that includes Crimea going back to Ukraine. It does strike me as if Putin is at that negotiating table right now thinking, I got what I want. Plus now I got an open feud between Zelensky and Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I agree with that. And I also think that, you know, maybe Putin is drawing some lines there and he probably thinks, look, I can get that concession that they won't be part of NATO, and I'll give up the demand that they're be no peacekeeping troops in Ukraine because I don't see how we get forward without that, at least being an aspect of a peace deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
If you'll stay with us, Steve, I apologize for having to take a quick break, but stick around and we'll be right back with more of Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me again is Steve Yates, Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Steve, thanks again for sticking around and for being here on the Situation Report. Let's shift our focus slightly. We've been talking about Ukraine and Russia and the dialogue that just took place in Riyadh. And I think your points are spot on, right? This is an opening salvo. People are testing the waters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I think, you know, Rubio has talked now about let's get our diplomatic situation back to normal and staff the embassies in Moscow and Washington and go from there. Let's try to move this thing forward. But let's shift from that part of the world because it's interesting. I think sometimes it almost appears like we can't multitask, right? And so we always have to focus on one thing. Meanwhile,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And China, Xi Jinping, the Communist Party of China are sitting over there probably immensely enjoying all the chaos that's going on around the world in a sense, while they continue to march forward in what they view as their eventual arrival at the top of the food chain. So, give me a quick rundown if you could. What's the latest from the region?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
From your perspective, what's the weakest aspect of the Chinese regime at the current time?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
That'd be a strange calculus if he says, okay, I'm opting for stability, but not growth. Talk to me about the U.S. efforts to bring back manufacturing or other supply chain concerns, logistics, at least find options instead of being so reliant on China. And in part, I'm asking that question because I had a very interesting conversation not too long ago about the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
dependency on China and India for key pharmaceuticals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
The way that Washington works, as you know, is that we don't have years, right? We have, I mean, there's two years till the midterm elections. And if history tells us anything, it's likely that we could lose, see the Republicans lose the House, which could change the dynamic in terms of what can be accomplished. You mentioned the aircraft carrier turning slowly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
The Pentagon, which you also mentioned in terms of realigning defense spending. There's a big push right now by Doge and others to shift the focus so that we are spending more on hypersonics and cyber capabilities and also shipbuilding. Yes. Are we... I mean, how... How much are we behind the curve when it comes to sort of our naval capabilities as it compares to China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Okay. And then, of course, and I'm being mindful of time, but I'd like to shift for our last conversation because we haven't even touched on Taiwan, which is interesting because it wasn't that long ago when Taiwan was prominently in the headlines, right? You couldn't swing a dead cat without hitting another article or headline about Taiwan and the threat from China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But again, we're all raccoons chasing the next shiny tinfoil ball, so we can't focus on more than one thing. Thank you. Where are we with Taiwan?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Besides the tariffs and trade, do you see any significant changes between the Biden administration and the Trump administration as far as the US policies towards Taiwan?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Okay. Well, Steve, listen, we're out of time, but I want to thank you very much for your insight. Look, I look forward to the next time we have a chance to chat. Steve Yates, Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation. Thanks again, Matt, for joining us here on The Situation Report. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Well, that is, as I mentioned, all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Look, if you have any questions or comments or you have humorous anecdotes, even a limerick or two, do people still do limericks? I don't think so. Please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Look, the highlight of every week at PDB headquarters, Secret Compound, which is, of course, located under a dormant volcano, is when Carl the Mailman drops by with another sack. filled with your postcards and your emails and your faxes and your telegrams.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And every month, our incredible team, including our interns, they all gather together and they select a bunch of your questions and produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes. Finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, which you could do, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I told you it was simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, stay informed. Stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Were the deportees after those incidents during the Biden administration, I mean, did the Biden administration restrain using cuffs or shackles, as you're calling them, for subsequent flights? Of course. They smartened up. That's what you do. And was there any coverage from the media at the time? Was there any outrage expressed when the Biden administration started doing that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Senior National Security Fellow for the Center for Immigration Studies, Todd Benzman, well, he helps us answer that question. Later in the show, delegations from the U.S. and Russia were in Saudi Arabia this week, working toward ending the war in Ukraine. We'll be joined by Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation, who will give us his insights on the negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
You know, if a Democrat administration did it, now a Republican administration did it, but now there's outrage. Well, Todd, it almost sounds like you're saying there's a double standard here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Yeah. Well, let's move from that. I wanted to touch on that because it is fascinating. I think it's, again, not that we need more examples of how coverage occurs between different administrations. And certainly when we're talking about Trump, we kind of know what's coming down the pike in terms of media coverage and sort of the sense of outrage that you may get from the progressive side.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But let's look at the battle against cartel. I mean, let's start with on the Mexican side of the border. Now, President Scheinbaum, Claudia Scheinbaum, in reaction to, in part, in reaction to pressure from the Trump administration over tariffs, agreed to send some 10,000 troops or deploy 10,000 troops, in addition to those that are already there, to the border on the Mexican side.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But from your perspective, is the Mexican government serious about this, or is that just a bit of theater to try to appease the Trump administration?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. Mexico's decades-old hugs-not-bullets policy toward drug cartels is rapidly being challenged as President Claudio Steinbeck faces pressure from President Trump to take more aggressive action.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Todd, it sounds like what you're saying is they'll take some steps, but really the only reason they're doing it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Yeah, no, you're raising a really important point, which is that, look, it's all about the money, right? And they have various revenue streams. And now one of their key revenue streams, certainly over the past handful of years, as you noted, is going away, right? With the crackdown on migrants moving across the border, which was a big part of the cartel's business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
So, yeah, I believe you're absolutely right. They're going to do whatever it takes to prevent losing another revenue stream, and that would be the narcotics trafficking. Todd, I'd love to pick up on this when we come back. And what we have to do now is we have a short break, so I'll ask you not to go anywhere, and then we'll be right back with the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
In a dramatic shift, Scheinbaum has been forced to deploy 10,000 troops to cartel territory along Mexico's northern border, with a focus, at least ostensibly, on taking on transnational criminal organizations and halting fentanyl production. Now, this marks a significant departure from previous efforts that focused primarily on stemming illegal immigration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
We've all been there, right? Tossing, turning, struggling to get quality sleep. I get it. When you don't sleep well, it's not just about feeling tired the next day. It makes you foggy at work, short-tempered with people you actually like, and it kills your energy. I've been there, and I needed something that actually worked. That's where Beam's Dream Powder comes in. Now, this isn't some gimmick.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
This is a science-backed healthy cocoa that actually helps you sleep better. I've tried it and it made the real difference. It comes in great flavors like sea salt, caramel, brownie batter, vanilla chai, and my personal favorite, which would be cinnamon cocoa. It's only 15 calories per serving and zero sugar, which is important so you get better sleep and without the guilt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Dream Powder is packed with natural ingredients, reishi, magnesium, melatonin, all designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer without waking up groggy. We know what that feels like and you don't want it. Just mix it with hot water or milk before going to bed. and you're good to go. Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Look, if you want to try Beam's best-selling dream pouch, get up to 40% off for a limited time when you go to shopbeam.com slash Mike, that's M-I-K-E, just like you might imagine, and use code Mike at checkout. That's shopbeam, B-E-A-M.com, and use code Mike for up to 40% off. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
Joining me again is Todd Benzman, Senior National Security Fellow for the Center for Immigration Studies. Todd, very much thank you for sticking around. Let's move our perspective now to the U.S. side of the border. With the designation of our analysis of foreign terrorist organization, I think we're already seeing increased involvement from the U.S. military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
And we recently on the PDB talked about involvement from the CIA, use of MK9 Reaper drones for surveillance. What, from your perspective, is the likelihood that the U.S., I'm not talking about a liaison relationship with Mexico, I'm talking about unilateral action Based on your experience, the U.S., under the Trump administration, could start taking unilateral action against the cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 22, 2025: Is A Shooting War Coming In Mexico? & Peace Talks Over Ukraine Begin
But with cartels already ramping up violent responses, could Mexico be on the verge of a full-blown war? Todd Benzman, Senior National Security Fellow for the Center for Immigration Studies, joins us to break down the implications of this escalating situation. Todd, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Great to be here. Thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Of course, Hamas took women and young children hostage during their 7 October attacks, so the cruelty aspect of this deception should surprise a total of zero people. The idea, said the remains, appeared to be that of an unknown Palestinian woman that Hamas tried to pass off as Shiri Bebas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
It's Friday, 21 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get ourselves briefed. First, Israel is reeling after it was revealed that the terror group Hamas failed to turn over the body of a mother taken captive on 7 October, instead replacing her remains with those of an unknown Palestinian woman.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
The discovery provoked grief and outrage among Israelis, who had already been left disturbed by Hamas's barbaric actions during the transfer of the remains on Thursday, which was turned into a ghoulish, sick public spectacle. On Friday, Netanyahu vowed to ensure that Hamas paid the, quote, full price for this cruel and evil violation of the ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Netanyahu said, "...the cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds. In an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri to her little children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in a coffin." The Prime Minister added, "...we will work with determination to bring Shiri home together with all our hostages, both living and dead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
May God avenge their blood, he said, and so we will avenge." Adding insult to the situation, Hamas blamed Israel for what they claimed was a, quote, mix-up, saying the so-called, quote, mistake likely occurred due to Israeli bombings of the area where the hostages were once held. The group had claimed the four hostages were killed in Israeli airstrikes, but, well, that also proved to be false.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Forensic analysis of the remains determined that Lifshitz and the Bibas children were savagely executed by their captors sometime in November of 2023, that's just one month after they were taken during the 7 October attacks. Hamas then had the gall to demand that mediators ensure the continued implementation of the ceasefire agreement and that Israel return the unidentified remains back to Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
The group then accused Netanyahu of making, quote, "...threats which serve only to manipulate Israeli public opinion," end quote. Well, international condemnation was swift, with U.S. envoy for hostages Adam Boehler calling Hamas's deception a horrific and clear violation of the current ceasefire agreement, which began on January 9th. He said, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
For now, it's unclear how the shocking incident might impact the next swap of hostages for prisoners on Saturday, but Hamas's military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, said Friday that they planned to proceed with the release of another six Israeli hostages over the weekend and would return the remains of four more hostages next week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, negotiations were set to begin soon to advance the second phase of a broader ceasefire agreement, as the first phase is set to end on 1 March. But Hamas's violation has cast significant doubt on whether the truce can last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
In a statement that reflected much of the public sentiment in Israel on Friday, the country's finance minister said, quote, Hamas's serious violation and ongoing abuse cannot be passed over in silence. The only solution is the destruction of Hamas, and this must not be postponed, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
All right, up next, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposes sending a European-led military force of 30,000 troops to Ukraine to enforce any potential peace deal between Moscow and Kiev. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to propose a European-led military force of 30,000 to oversee a potential Ukraine-Russia ceasefire when he meets with President Trump in Washington next week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Now, the so-called, quote, reassurance force, spearheaded by the UK and France, was first presented to European leaders at an emergency summit in Paris earlier this week. According to the Telegraph, the proposed force is not meant to resemble a conventional military occupation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Later in the show, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will reportedly propose sending a European-led military force of some 30,000 troops to Ukraine to enforce any potential peace deal between Moscow and Kyiv, and he'll propose that when he meets with President Trump in Washington, D.C. next week. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Instead, it would focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, aiming to provide real-time situational awareness far from the front lines rather than engaging in full-scale ground combat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
From what we know, the mission's stated objectives are ambitious, such as reopening Ukraine's airspace for commercial flights, securing Black Sea trade routes, and protecting critical infrastructure such as nuclear power plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
A Western official speaking to The Telegraph also described the force as capable of monitoring and shooting down aerial threats, but under stricter engagement rules than a conventional no-fly zone. Notably, instead of pre-authorized rules of engagement, the European forces would be required to positively identify all aircraft before taking action.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Naval patrols in the Black Sea would further bolster the mission, acting as a deterrent against Russian interference in Ukraine's commercial shipping, particularly with grain exports. But Starmer's plan falls well short of the 200,000-strong peacekeeping force that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has suggested as the potential price for agreeing to a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
And there's a larger geopolitical undercurrent at play here. The British Prime Minister's proposal comes amid growing concerns that Trump may disengage from supporting Ukraine altogether, following the potential ceasefire negotiations with Russian President Putin on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
As we covered yesterday on the PDB, Trump unleashed a social media tirade, a verbal barrage against Zelensky, calling him a, quote, dictator and warning that he is prolonging the war, fueling speculation that Kiev could be sidelined in future negotiations. While Washington has ruled out sending its own troops, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
has also made it clear that it expects European allies to take the lead in securing Ukraine's post-war stability. Now, not everyone in Europe is on board with that concept. Germany, Spain, and Italy have voiced their opposition to deploying troops in Ukraine, exposing fault lines and Europe's security posture. Starmer has stressed the need for a, quote, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
backstop to deter further Russian aggression, with Western officials suggesting that that could come in the form of American fighter jets stationed in Romania and Poland, alongside a reinforced NATO ground presence in Eastern Europe. The proposal is carefully calibrated to avoid a direct NATO-Russia conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
However, questions remain over whether NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause would apply if Russia were to retaliate against European forces participating in the peacekeeping mission. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin, well, Early Evening Bulletin, for Friday, 21 February. If you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
Now, if one glances at one's calendar, one would see that it's currently Friday. Thus, one would know that our latest episode of the acclaimed PDB Situation Report, that's our extended weekend show, hits the airwaves this evening as it does on every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on the First TV. Now, we've got excellent guests this weekend. Well, to be fair, we've got excellent guests every weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
And this weekend, we're talking U.S. military efforts against the Mexican cartels, the possibility of a ceasefire or peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, and all things China. You can also, of course, catch the Situation Report on our YouTube channel. Check that one out. It's at President's Daily Brief. And of course, podcast platforms everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
We'll begin in Israel, where Prime Minister Netanyahu is vowing revenge against Hamas after discovering that the terrorist group failed to turn over the remains of an Israeli hostage as promised, throwing the fragile ceasefire into question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, Hamas claimed to have returned the bodies of four hostages on Thursday, including the remains of Shiri Bibas, a 33-year-old mother taken on 7 October, her two sons, Ariel and Kafir, who were aged four years old and nine months old when they were kidnapped by Hamas, and 84-year-old Adel Lifshitz.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 21st, 2025: Netanyahu Vows Revenge After Hamas Lies About Returned Remains & Starmer Proposes 30,000 Strong 'Reassurance Force' For Ukraine
A subsequent forensic analysis performed in Tel Aviv positively identified three of the returned bodies as the Bibas children and Lifshitz, but the Israeli military said Friday the fourth body was not that of Shiri Bibas or any other known hostage, revealing a cruel deception by Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining us again is Jonathan Schanzer. He's the executive director for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. And we are knee-deep in the ceasefire negotiations issue with Israel and Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Jonathan, before the break, you were talking about the political leadership and what that could look like down the road. And I didn't want to interrupt you, but as you were talking about what is going to be required for a longer-term solution, I did want to jump in and say, well, okay, all of that being said, how optimistic are you that something like that is actually possible?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
This possible agreement may mark a turning point in a conflict that has destabilized the region and been devastating for the Palestinians and Israeli people alike. For more on this, let me bring in Jonathan Schanzer. He's the executive director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Jonathan, thanks very much for taking the time to join us here on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, but looming all over that is the Iranian regime. And it appears as if they still, even though they're weakened, there's no doubt about that, They don't seem to be shifting off their position that Israel shouldn't exist. So, there can be discussions around what could happen in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
But I guess my question for you now is, does anything change as long as the current Iranian regime and the IRGC are in place?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we begin in Israel, where a breakthrough might just be on the horizon, a hostage and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. We'll get the latest from Jonathan Schanzer. He's the executive director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Hey, it's my pleasure. Let's start with a very big question. It's sort of at the 30,000-foot level, and then we can drill down from there. But what... do you think accounts for the apparent progress with the ceasefire negotiations right now?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
When you say regime change, and I agree, I've been around a long time, seen my share of those activities. What does that look like if it's not a kinetic war? In specifics, what would you do? How would you recommend if you were sitting down in the Oval Office saying, look, here's the key elements of what we're talking about here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
You mentioned Iraq, Jonathan. How significant is Iran's or the Iranian regime's influence in Iraq? And is there a potential that given their loss of Syria, in a sense, that their focus shifts to developing further influence within Iraq, within the militias, and also within the Iraqi government?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Look, I mean, I think if you can get the population to take it upon themselves to affect regime change, to drive the mullahs and the IRGC out, although the IRGC is just fully embedded in every aspect of the Iranian government and economy at this point. But again, here comes my cynical nature. I mean, we've been hoping for that for decades, right? We've been thinking that it would happen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
We've been very poor at supporting it when there are glimmers of significant protest. But I take your point. That would be the ideal situation. I'm glad you raised the issue of Captagon. Estimates maybe a $10 billion trade, $2.5 billion going into Assad and his family's pockets as a result of the narco-trafficking in Captagon. That's not going to go away.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I think you raised a very important point. It's not as if there goes Assad. Oh, so we've solved the problem. Someone wants that revenue stream. And I would argue they've already infiltrated the past networks that were set up by Assad and they're taking it over at this point. And my guess would be the Iranians aren't going to let that go anytime soon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, it reminds me very much of the early days in Iraq. There was this euphoria with the fall of Saddam Hussein, and it didn't take very long. It was a blink of an eye, and we all stood around and watched it just descend into chaos and sectarian violence. So, I think you're right. We need it. we need to dampen down while still being proactive and optimistic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And I think you do an amazing job of that. I don't know that I've talked to anybody recently, Jonathan, that walks that line better between cynicism and optimism. And so I give you a lot of credit. But Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. This has been delightful.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I don't use the word delightful very often, but I do hope you'll come back because we've got a lot of ground left to cover. It'd be my pleasure. Anytime. All right. Coming up next, the war in Ukraine, believe it or not, is about to enter its third year, with North Korean troops now taking casualties on Russian soil.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Open source intelligence analyst Ryan McBeth will join us to break down the biggest developments of 2024 and what we might expect in 2025. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, if you're tired of the same old coffee from those mega corporations, and I think you know the ones I'm talking about, pushing their woke agendas, which they do, well, listen up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
It's time to take a stand and support a brand that truly embodies American values. And of course, I'm talking about Blackout Coffee. Look, they stand with hardworking Americans who believe in family, in faith, and in freedom. They roast some of the most incredible coffee you'll ever taste. That is the truth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Using only premium grade beans, roasted, and shipped to you, get this, within 48 hours, right? The beans are sitting in the roaster, and before you know it, there they are in your For the cold brew fans, Blackout Coffee is now also excited to announce the launch of their two new ready-to-drink cold brew coffee latte options. Don't settle for less. Make the switch to Blackout Coffee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Head over to blackoutcoffee.com slash pdb and use the code, here comes the code, pdb for 20% off your first order. That's blackoutcoffee.com slash pdb and the code, of course, is pdb. Join the movement and taste the difference. Remember, with every sip, you're supporting a brand that stands for America. And as we say around these parts, be awake, not woke. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that, 60%, one year. Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
As 2025 approaches, you may have heard that it's right around the corner, the war in Ukraine is set to enter its third year. Now, the past 12 months have seen little dramatic movement along the front lines. Back and forth, it's like a World War I episode. But Russia continues its slow and grinding offensive, inching forward in some key areas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
One of the most significant developments of 2024 has been the arrival, bizarrely, of North Korean ground troops fighting alongside Russian forces. In recent days, reports indicate that these troops have begun to take casualties during clashes with Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk province.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Today, we're going to take a look back at this year's key developments and what they mean for the conflict moving forward. Joining me for this discussion is open source intelligence analyst and very good friend of the show, Ryan McBeth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
You can find more of Ryan's insights at ryanmcbeth.substack.com or on his most excellent YouTube channel, and you should be watching that, at Ryan McBeth Programming. Ryan, thanks again for being willing to make a return appearance yet again on the Situation Report. Let's do a year in review for Ukraine and Russia for 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
All of that, I think that's encapsulating a lot of stuff, right? And then stuff is a technical term here. What would you say is the most significant development of 2024 when it comes to this conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
What do you hear about the integration, the success of that, of the North Korean troops into Russian military operations?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, well, not only did they not know that drones existed, they probably didn't know that porn on the internet existed. Yeah, it's a grand awakening for the entire North Korean contingent that's been shipped out there to the meat grinder. You mentioned the problem that Putin's got with his own personnel, with mobilizing again, with a big conscription.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
At a certain point, right, you can't, I mean, the concept is, okay, I can fill some gaps with this supply of North Korean troops. but he can't build an effective military, right, when there is this massive cultural and language and experience gap. So, at some point, do you think he's got a legitimate manpower problem? He absolutely does.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah. To what degree can you talk about the importance of outside economic support? I mean, there's two parts to this. Obviously, there's the economic support, there's the actual provision of munitions and goods that they've been getting from North Korea or Iran. But how important has that been?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Whether it's China, whether it's North Korea, whether it's Iran, how important is that outside help been to Putin and his economy in keeping this war effort going?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Have you heard anything about joint manufacturing capability? There'd been some reporting about a drone manufacturing facility in China that was established, maybe retooled, to support Russia's war effort.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Ladies and gentlemen, that's some breaking news. By 2027, Right now, people, you know what people are doing right now? People are just, they're just ducking under their school desks right now. We've taken everybody back to the Cold War. Ryan, listen, you know, we've got terrific sponsors. We're going to hear from a few of them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And when we come back with Ryan McBath, we're going to see if he can fit one more challenge coin back there on the shelf in his office. We have to take a quick break and we'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. We're joined again by Ryan McBeth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Well, that is a good thing. But to what degree does a ceasefire, regardless of whether it's temporary or, I hate to use the word permanent when we're talking about anything related to the Middle East, but to what degree does that give Hamas and Iran the opportunity to rebuild?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
You can check him out at ryanmcbeth.substack.com or, and this is what you should be doing, going to his YouTube channel at Ryan McBeth Programming. Ryan, let's talk about Syria. Something happened out there, but let's talk about it in context of Russia. How significant is the fall of Assad's regime in Syria on Russia?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, it's a really interesting point because, I mean, you go back to 2015, 2016, Russia provided significant, critical military support to Assad at that point in time to beat back the rebels and the protests that they were experiencing. And it looks like this time around, Putin almost just threw his hands up and said, sorry, but we can't help you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, and a decent portion of that military was basically used to support the narco-trafficking by the Assad regime that was taking place. That's correct. And unfortunately, now it's going to be picked up by someone else. Now, my intel sources tell me that you've got a theory related to the fall of Syria. What is that? I do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Let's repeat that. So the entire New York Times staff, according to your research, they have only eight individuals who had any military experience.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah. No, I think that's a good point. I was just out in the Middle East for the past couple of weeks, and oddly enough, leading up to and then during the overthrow of the Assad regime, and...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
watching some of the war correspondents or the journalists from a variety of networks trying to cover this thing kind of shifted anywhere between pathetic and laughable in terms of their understanding of what was going on. But they all knew that they, you know, this was a moment, it was basically, you know, look at me, I'm a war correspondent. But the level of information was fairly sad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And I think it's in part because of that. Just because you happen to be in a location, you've got a microphone, it doesn't mean that you understand what the hell is happening around you. If we could, I'm going to shift gears, Ryan. Sure. I can't think of a better person to ask this question. The drones over the east coast of the United States, are they hobbyists? Are they Chinese regime drones?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Do they belong to aliens? What's the actual answer here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Now, but what about the... Look, I agree with you. I think a number of these sightings related to... whatever the reason was, red teaming or just U.S. government or military testing new technologies or capabilities. But what about the drone incursions over a variety of U.S. classified sites, military facilities in particular?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I think one thing that is disturbing to the general public is that there's not protocol in place for the military or for the government to deal with incursions over sensitive airspace. You're right. And so the public's just watching this and going, well, how do you possibly let these things just fly around over our facilities?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And you don't know, or you're at least saying that you don't know who they belong to.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Well, but okay, I guess, you know, to play devil's advocate, I get that when you're talking about just drones flying over, you know, any old spot. But when you're talking about, like, over this past weekend, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio had to shut down its airspace temporarily because of drone incursions, right? It's an air base.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
It houses some, you know, fairly significant military elements. You would think, or you would like to think, that the U.S. government and military are switched on enough, and drones didn't just show up yesterday, right? So drone technology has been around for some time. But you would think that when you're talking about an incursion over a classified or secure or sensitive site,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
that the game changes and you just remove the threat and then deal with it later on. And perhaps if it's a hobbyist, you know, then, okay, maybe that hobbyist learns not to do that crap later on. Am I missing something?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
No, I get it. I get, you know, you don't want to, you know, launch a rocket into Mabel's living room while she's watching Wheel of Fortune. But not to pick on people named Mabel. I don't know where the hell I came up with Mabel. No, it is a complex issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
But I think my point is, I suppose, that I'm just expressing the frustration I hear from a lot of people who ask me the question of, well, how can the government not have a protocol in place already, technology in place already for their most sensitive sites? Because this has been going on for some time. Ryan, that is a conversation we're going to have to pick up the next time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And later in the program, we'll review how the war in Ukraine has progressed throughout its third year. That's right, a third year. Examining the major events of 2024 and what 2025 just might hold. Open source intelligence analyst and friend of the show, Ryan McBath, will join us to break it down. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And I hope there is a next time. But listen, as always, Matt, I really, really appreciate your insight, your information, and the background there in your office. Ryan McBeth, thank you. And as always, I hope when we call, Ryan picks up the phone again. Listen, that's all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report. I know, don't look so sad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
If you have any questions or comments or even humorous anecdotes, please, or even limericks, I don't know if people do limericks anymore, reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com because you know what we do. We take some of those questions and some of those comments every month.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And we smash them together into what we call the Ask Me Anything episodes, where we highlight some of your questions and your comments. So keep those cards and letters coming, please. And to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, yeah, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And until next time, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I mean, you mentioned the Netzerim Corridor and... Also, the Philadelphia corridor. So, a big sticking point, an issue, apparently anyway, with previous ceasefire negotiations was the demand from Hamas that any part of the negotiations require that Israel withdraw entirely from Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And Israel said themselves over a number of different occasions that they have no interest in a permanent presence. So, what does that look like? Because you have to imagine that having gone through this exercise and all this difficulty, the idea of packing up and leaving is not attractive, but the idea of a permanent occupation
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
both from, I think, the Israeli perspective, but also international narrative. I don't think that's tenable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Look, you're not going to hear anybody cheering about it, but I think it's going to be the opposite, right? You're going to hear a very proactive, aggressive response to anything that appears to be a mid to long-term occupation. And in reality, I mean, look, from an operational perspective, I think you've laid out, you know, the reasons for maintaining a presence in the short term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I think it's absolutely operationally sound. But anything beyond that, You know, we're just doing what we've always done in the Middle East. We're just kicking the can down the road saying, all right, well, you know, we've got a temporary piece, you know, good for us. Let somebody else deal with it in the long term. So let's go back to that issue of political leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Now, after months of stalemates, after back and forths and failed efforts, Israel and Hamas might finally be nearing a ceasefire to end the ongoing 14-month war. Officials are urging caution, as they should, as critical details still need to be hammered out. However, there is a renewed sense of optimism, which, frankly, has been absent for quite some time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
I mean, from your perspective, what is a longer-term solution? What is that leadership in Gaza going to look like? Yeah, I mean, look, I think a couple of points.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Yeah, I don't know that anybody's going to approach anything resembling Giddy at this point. And I want to pick up on this after the break because I'm a cynical person when it comes to developing any sort of long-term solutions out in the Middle East. Anybody who's been watching that area for decades. Decades, I think, might feel the same way. But I want to circle back to this after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Jonathan, if you'll stick around, we've got a quick break, and then we'll be back with Jonathan Schanzer. He's the executive director for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, America, of course, just got done with a historical election. You may have heard something about that. Now, sure, there's going to be some change in the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
There always is when you change administrations. But the fundamentals of the economy haven't changed. And here's the problem. The dollar is in decline, with the U.S. adding, get this, $100,000 in debt
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Reports from Egyptian and Hamas sources indicate the potential deal would roll out in phases. It includes a cessation of hostilities, the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. Now, Israel estimates that Hamas is holding some 100 hostages, though tragically, over one-third of them are believed to have been killed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
every second i mean look at your watch oh there goes another hundred thousand oh and another and see it just keeps ticking away meanwhile brics nations have introduced the unit that's what they're calling a new global currency pegged 40 to gold and 60 to bricks currencies which could mark the beginning of a global monetary reset so you ask yourself okay well what do i do about all of this well one suggestion is you should call the proud americans of the patriot gold group today before it's too late
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Mention PDB and you will always get best-in-class service from Patriots protecting Patriots. Patriot Gold Group has the No Fee for Life IRA, where your IRA or 401k can be in physical gold and silver, and you may be eligible for the No Fee for Life IRA on qualifying rollovers. Call 1-888-870-5457 for a free investor guide. And here's an important point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Patriot Gold Group is Consumer Affairs' top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. That's a lot of years in a row. Call 1-888-870-5457. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 21st, 2024: Ceasefire Looms in Israel & Ukraine’s Key Moments in 2024
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Does it surprise you in terms of the response with the tariffs, the trade wars? And I don't mean just with the US and China, but in general terms, just the focus on tariffs, the uncertainty, if you want to call it that, that it's created in international markets and with allies. Are you surprised at... You know, the response so far, is it what you would have expected?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Is it less than you would have expected? You know, give me a perspective on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah. And obviously, with the exception of China, in terms of the White House's moves on the pause, as an economist, is there a way that you can look at the current situation with China, the levels of tariffs? And I realize part of this falls in the realm of foreign policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
geopolitics, but from an economic perspective, can you look at the current state of play and say, all right, there is an anticipated timeline for when the US consumer is going to start feeling the pain of this battle between the US and China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Meanwhile, ports are jammed and uncertainty is seeping into every corner of China's manufacturing base. This all sounds very dire, doesn't it? The question now, how long can China absorb this slowdown? And how much longer can Washington keep turning up the pressure without feeling a major impact here in the U.S. ? Joining us now to break it all down is Preston Brashers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
I realize I'm asking you a lot of questions that it's a soft science at best, but the idea of onshoring a lot of the manufacturing that's moved offshore from the US, In today's world, if you look at all the various things, the labor market in the US, the cost of sales in the US and manufacturing, do you think that process of onshoring is a realistic expectation?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
He's a research fellow at the Heritage Foundation. Preston, thanks very much for joining us here on the Situation Report. Yeah, thanks a lot for having me, Mike. What we're hoping to do is to approach the talk about the trade war with China from an economics perspective.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah, it's a fascinating subject. I'd love to have you back on for another conversation about this because there's so much here. I take your point. It's a very complex issue that it doesn't lend itself to a short beginning and middle of the end type of news story by any means. And you look at
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
You look at the US currently and you think, okay, all the companies that right now are facing these issues that have committed themselves over years to China as part of their manufacturing distribution delivery process, the entire logistical chain. And right now, I mean, it's very difficult for them to forward plan, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And you're not doing a just-in-time situation where you're booking and making deals on a weekly basis. You've got to plan out, right? And so, I think there's a pain here that's impacting. I'm not going to bore you with all the details, but maybe I'm about to. We took our youngest boy, Muggsy, out to buy a new motocross bike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And it was interesting because one of the models that he was interested in, the dealer literally said, look, we're sold out and we can't get an answer from our supplier in China as to when we might get more stock. We just don't know. And they're telling us they don't know. So, I know that's a little thing, but it's interesting already how it's impacting businesses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Preston, again, I hope when we call you, you'll pick up the phone and you'll agree to come back on the situation report. But thank you very much for joining us today. Yeah. Thanks so much, Mike. This has been a great conversation. Appreciate it. Excellent. Thank you, man. Take care. And that's my story about Mugsy and the motocross bike. You're welcome. All right. When we come back, as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
pounds Houthi targets from the air, forces loyal to Yemen's internationally recognized government appear to be gearing up for a ground offensive to reclaim territory lost during the nation's decade-long civil war. And it was a brutal civil war. Bill Roggio from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, you know him, he's a friend of the show. He joins us next with what to expect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And let's look at it from that direction, as opposed to what I think a lot of the conversation has been, which is, okay, how is this impacting China on the home front? Let's start with sort of a layman's explanation for tariffs in general, and then we can start drilling down towards a specific battle between the US and China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Welcome back to the Situation Report. Yemen's long-simmering civil war may be about to boil over again. Oh, wordplay. Forces loyal to the country's internationally recognized government are reportedly preparing a ground offensive against the Houthis, hoping to take advantage of the group's weakened state after weeks of U.S. airstrikes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
According to Yemeni officials, the plan centers on recapturing the strategic Red Sea port of Hodeidah. The goal is to push the Houthis out of key coastal areas they've used to launch drone and missile attacks on international shipping. And they may not be acting alone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Saudi Arabia has reportedly launched new missile and artillery strikes along Yemen's northern border, possibly setting the stage for the offensive by softening up Houthi positions in advance. Joining us now to break it all down is Bill Roggio, senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and editor of FDD's Long War Journal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Bill, thank you very much for coming back on The Situation Report. It's always a pleasure. Thanks for having me. Look, there's a lot going on, but let's start with what is happening in Yemen. Give us that top line summary of what's happening now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
I suppose, what is the downside here or potential downside scenario for weakening the Houthis to the degree where, I don't know how you want to refer to them, the established Yemeni government or certainly the government that's been supported by the Saudis and others. What is the downside scenario here if that government is able to, in a direct offensive, take back territory?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah, I think it's an excellent point that, you know, I know we've got plenty of case studies, recent case studies, in how the U.S. tends to do what you're describing, looking for that partner, right? That, okay, and in part it's because, you know, the Americans...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
no matter what the administration is, I agree with this, this is an operational issue, this is not a partisan issue, but we tend to, as Americans, mirror our values on others, right? And so, then we imagine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
So, with Afghanistan, somehow, yes, the Soviets had to turn tail and run out of Afghanistan, but because we're bringing democracy, they're going to love us and it's all going to work out well, right? Well, that's not the case because most often these countries don't know what it is that we're trying to sell, and they don't understand it and much less want it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
So, I take your point and that's kind of a concern here. Look, I'm not saying that we shouldn't be degrading the Houthis, right? They're in part funded, trained, supported, resourced by the Iranian regime. And they've also obviously been playing havoc on international shipping. But I think you have to be pragmatic and say, well, what comes in behind it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah. Nobody wants to talk about Libya. Nobody likes talking about Libya because it's such a hot mess, right? There you've got what? You've got over 130 tribal elements there. And, you know, I'm trying to somehow imagine you were going to create a unified federal state and And it's a disaster at this stage of the game. I love your reference to Shara in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And I loved the fact that as he and the rebels rode into town and Assad was getting on the bus to go to Moscow. By the way, nobody ever talks about the fact that Assad's... What is he doing in Moscow? Is he working as a barista? What is... So...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Anyway, point being is the next day basically, almost the next day, Sherrod dumped his camos and he put on a suit and an expensive watch because he understands how to play the West mindset. To some degree, if I look like what they want me to look like, they're going to layer on their expectations and their hopes onto this image.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And I think he's not doing a bad job of playing the West right now to some degree. Look, it's interesting because when you talk about what happened in Libya, you talk about what happened in Afghanistan, you talk about what could happen in Yemen. Libertarians would argue, well, why the hell are we even there? What is the point? Why doesn't America just stay out of it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
We should be focused on our own people. We have no role to play overseas. We should not be engaged in these activities. I always, you know, I guess my question is, how would you answer that? It's a great question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah. Nobody's living in the center, right? You got trenches and then you got nothing in the middle except people lobbing hand grenades. You don't want to be in that. Look, Bill, if you could stay right where you are, I want to swing the conversation a little bit over towards Iran. But first, we have to take a quick break and we'll be right back with more of the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining us once again is Bill Roggio, senior fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, and of course, as you know, editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Bill, thanks very much for sticking around. We started by talking to some degree about the Houthis. I want to pivot just slightly to talk about their patron, the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
What do you make of the reports that have just come out talking about the fact that the White House apparently convinced the Israelis to put the brakes on a pending attack against the Iranian nuclear infrastructure?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah, it's interesting because the reporting that's coming out indicates that the Israelis initially were looking at a combination of airstrikes and ground operations involving some of their special forces elements and then decided to pivot and say, okay, this is going to be primarily an air-based attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
which then kind of calls on more resources from the US, requires more effort from the US, more input. And so, I think that at that point kind of shifted the conversation inside the White House and they said, well, no, let's take a different tack, put that on hold, at least for now. But let me ask you this, trying to tie the two things together, the Iranian regime and the Houthis,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
From your perspective, how much control, how much say do the mullahs have over what the Houthis are doing? Is it, look, we'll tell you what your strategy is going to be and you're going to follow it or is it much looser than that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
What do you make of the initial round of discussions that took place? At one point, there was reportedly like a 45-minute discussion between Witkoff and Basaragti, the foreign minister for Iran, several days back. And now they're scheduled to have a second follow-up round of discussions on Saturday, I believe, in Rome.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And I mean, it's interesting what you said at the outset, which is the tariffs used to be a much more important part of U.S. government revenues. It seems like, I mean, if you read a lot of the press out there, it sounds as if, oh, this is some new invention on the part of the Trump administration to utilize tariffs. If you could talk to me about that, when did that change? When did we move?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Well, I don't disagree with you. I do worry that, you know, we're basically looking at, yet again, just kind of kicking the can down the road, right? For the sake of saying that we got a deal. You know, we're basically just putting lipstick on a pig. But, you know, that's just me being cynical.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
You and I should, we should do the live version of those two old guys that sit up in the balcony on The Muppet Show. The Muppets. Yeah, I love them. Sit and fidget about things.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Yeah, no, you know what? And I suspect there are voices in there saying that and advising that. And I agree with you. You've got to have a channel of communication. That's very important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Whether we're talking about the Iranians or the Russians, the Chinese, you've got to have that ability, but you've also got to be able to dual track and you have to be pragmatic about where that might get you, right? So, I mean, it is... Look, we're in a fascinating time here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
I think the IAEA, the Atomic Energy Agency, has just put out a statement saying that Iran, the regime, is dangerously close to a breakout on their nuclear weapons capabilities. So yeah, the stakes are extremely high. Do you anticipate Let me ask you this. Take out your crystal ball and tell me what you think is going to happen or what will have happened in the next six months with Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
No, you know what? I tell you what. You think about it, and then we'll have you back on the show, and hopefully you bring a better answer, because that one was awful, Bill. I realize when I ask some of these questions sometimes, there's no good answer, right? It's just a matter of, okay, what do you anticipate? Were you speculating?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
All that, but honestly, God, look, we're in a situation right now where the White House is in critical discussions or at a critical stage with Iran, They're in critical discussions with Russia, with Putin, right, who also likewise seems to just be happy to string this out. We're in a critical situation with China. You know, it's a definition of multitasking here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
I suppose, based on what you said, it might have been around the time that we implemented the income tax.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
No, I agree. I think that unpredictability, you got to keep your, I don't want to say enemies necessarily. We want to maybe phrase them all differently in the countries that are not aligned with our interests and don't have our interests at heart. You have to keep them on the back foot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And you also have to make them believe that you're capable of choosing any decision point on that spectrum, right? So, I think it is. It's a positive. If you've got a consistently readable leader in the White House, that's a problem because it's a very aggressive world out there and they'll play you for all it's worth. But look, Bill, this has been, as always, fascinating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
And I hope that we'll get a chance to talk to you again here very soon. And I hope at that point in time, you'll You know, you'll get back to wearing a suit and tie. I don't know why you thought this situation was poor. It was a casual environment, but maybe we should go that way. I tell you what, next time I try to wear cardigans, I'm working hard to bring the cardigans back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
So let's focus on that. We'll coordinate before our next appearance. Bill Rocio of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Listen, thank you so much, man, for joining us as always. Thank you. Always a pleasure, my friend. Hope to talk to you soon. Well, that is all the time. There is so much going on in the world today. I hope today's episode helped to bring it into focus.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Maybe not completely, maybe it's still a little blurry, but there is a lot happening in the world. And our job is to try to point out what's happening and let you think about it the way you will. That's all the time we have for this week's Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
If you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes or you want to pass along a joke or a limerick, just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Every month, our amazing team select a bunch of your questions and we produce one of our critically acclaimed, and I suppose at some point it's going to be award-winning, Ask Me Anything episodes. Finally, listen to the podcast of the show.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
If you want to add free, yep, you can do that. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
What's your perspective on the use of tariffs at this point, as is being done by the Trump administration?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with new fallout in the U.S.-China tariff war. Perhaps you've heard about this. Factories are idling, orders are vanishing, and the pressure is mounting on both sides. Now, how much longer, you ask, can both sides endure the pain?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Okay. I'm sure to you it was going to sound like a simplistic question, but those are my favorite kind. Is this about... leveling out the differences between the U.S. 's tariff amount, the trade percentage that I'm talking about for the tariffs, and respect of other countries? Or is it about the trade imbalance between the U.S. and a relevant country?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Because there's been this talk that the White House, they're fuming about the trade imbalance with a variety of countries, obviously, including China. But then the counter to that seems to be, well, we are the largest consumer out there, so there's going to be imbalance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Heritage Foundation's Preston Brashers joins us to break it down. Later in the show, we'll turn to the Middle East, where the ongoing strikes against the Houthi rebels appear to be reigniting Yemen's decade-long civil war, with government forces reportedly planning a ground offensive against the wounded terror group. Bill Roggio of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies gives his insight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Okay. Very interesting. I want to dive into a little bit more of a focus on China, but first, Preston, if you could stay right there. We've got to take a quick break, and then we'll be right back with more of the Situation Report and Preston Brashers. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, I'm a big believer in self-reliance, right? Taking charge of your family, your health, your future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
But when your sleep is off, well, you know this, everything slips. You toss, you turn, you're waking up drained and can fall behind where it matters most. That's why I'm so excited to share something that makes a real difference. Beam's Dream Powder.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Beam, it's spelled B-E-A-M, just like you'd imagine, is proudly founded in America and run by people who share our values, hard work, integrity, and delivering results. Look, it's a science-backed healthy nighttime blend, packed with ingredients shown to improve sleep, so you can wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day. Dream is made with a powerful blend of all-natural ingredients.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
You got reishi, magnesium, L-theanine, apigenin, and melatonin. Look at that. I sound like a scientist. I've used it, and it gave a huge boost to my focus and energy. And I'm not the only one. Beam has already improved over 17.5 million nights of sleep. Think about that. Helping people across the country wake up and feel their best. Even better? Well, Beam is an American company.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Build here, run here. Here's the deal. Beam is giving my listeners the ultimate Patriot discount of 40% off. That's right, you heard me correctly. That's 4-0, 40% off. Try their best-selling Dream Powder and get up to 40% off for a limited time. Go to shopbeam.com slash Mike, that's M-I-K-E, and use code Mike at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
That's shopbeam, B-E-A-M, dot com slash Mike, and use code Mike for up to 40% off. Support an American company, invest in yourself, and start getting your best sleep tonight. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. And this spring, they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is the Heritage Foundation's Preston Brashers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
He's an economist and an extremely smart person, as you probably realized from our first segment. Now, Preston, I've heard from the White House, okay, not directly, they didn't call me and say this, but I've read that according to President Trump, the US government is currently raking in something along the lines of $3 billion a day from the tariffs as they currently stand.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
Does that sound about right from what you've seen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 19th, 2025: How Long Can The Tariff War Last & A Ground Campaign Coming In Yemen?
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. The pressure from President Trump's sweeping tariffs is starting to hit home in China. At export hubs like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, factories are going quiet. Orders from U.S. buyers are being canceled, inventory is piling up, and workers are bracing for layoffs. One export manager told local media he's never seen this kind of slowdown in 20 years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Hi, Mike Baker here. I'm still out in the desert. It's an amazing trek into great cause, raising awareness for the UK's Special Forces Benevolent Fund. While I'm gone, Mike Slater is stepping in to deliver the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
2023.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
So I want to emphasize that. In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. If implemented, the agreement would provide the first meaningful pause in violence for Gaza's war-weary population over a year. It could also pave the way for Palestinian civilians to return to northern Gaza and significantly boost humanitarian aid into the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
It's not just over as soon as they come back to the right side of the border. We've got about two minutes. What are the security controls that Israel will remain and have in Gaza even as this deal is going on or beyond?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Yeah, so just to be clear, about a minute left, you don't think this is the end of the war? There's more to come from Israel's side?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
While the deal offers a moment of hope, its success depends on the cooperation of both sides in this fragile moment of diplomacy. For the people of Gaza and Israel, it could mark a turning point. Maybe just another fleeting pause in a long conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
And maybe there will still be hell to pay, as Trump said. Jonathan Shanzer, what is your organization? How can people help them and follow you?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Jonathan, thank you for being here. Thank you for taking time in the midst of all this in Israel. Super grateful for your insight. Thank you very much. Coming up next, Brandon Weikert will talk about how we absolutely need Greenland. That's next, right here on the President's Daily Brief Situation Report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
I want to turn our attention to the Arctic, a region that's becoming a key battleground for global influence. While President Trump's comments about buying Greenland grabbed headlines, they also highlight a pressing issue. It's America's diminishing presence in the Arctic. Rivals like Russia and China are expanding their reach, capitalizing on Washington years of neglect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
It's a crucial area, rich in resources, strategic value. But is it too late for the U.S. to turn things around? Joining us to break this down is our friend Brandon Weikert, author and national security analyst at The National Interest. Brandon, how are you doing, brother? I'm very good. Thanks for having me back. Great to talk to you. I love this story of Greenland and the Panama Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Because when it first came out, everyone laughed, thought ridiculous it was. And the more you learn about it, the more you're like, well, obviously, how is that already done? We need to do this. So let's focus on Greenland here. Why is it important that we control Greenland?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
For more on this, let me bring in Jonathan Shanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, who is currently in Israel as we speak. Jonathan, thank you for being here. My pleasure. Where is your head at on this Hamas deal? What do you think?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Craig, if I'm wrong, please, probably am. 18 military bases in northern Russia, in the Arctic region. Why do they have that there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Whoa, okay. All right, before we get to China, I got some questions. So, they, so I'm, we put the flag on the moon. They put their flag underneath the North Pole via submarine?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
The icebreakers you mentioned, what are those? And the shipping lanes that could continue to be opened or widened, Do you know what the benefit of those is? Because I know we've talked a lot about the Panama Canal recently and how that saved 22 days of going along the southern tip of South Africa, South America. So we're getting some like, I can like visualize like, okay, we're saving 22 days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Got it. What are we saving or whoever controls those, what would they be saving with?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Wow, that's amazing. Okay. I don't know if we're on, but we have a space base in Greenland.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Last question on this, we'll take a break and we'll pivot to China. What is holding up the possibility of this happening? I'm thinking back to 2015 when Trump said he's going to run for president, everyone laughed and they laughed and laughed until he won the presidency and now he's back again. People are laughing right now, but what's holding this up actually of us taking over Greenland?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Greenland can either continue hanging out with a middling European country with a GDP the size of Colorado or become a part of our- And it would be a massive state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Okay, has to happen. Brandon Weikert, he's an author and national security analyst at the National Interest. Stick with me for a break, and we'll talk about China. I didn't even think Russia was the biggest problem here, but leave it to Brandon to know the truth here. But we'll talk about Russia, or excuse me, China, and their role in the Arctic as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
I'm Mike Slater, filling in for Mike Baker on the President's Daily Brief. Welcome back to the President's Daily Brief Situation Report. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. We're talking to our friend Brandon Weikert, author, national security analyst at the National Interest. We're talking about Greenland, how this has to happen. This is like the ultimate no-brainer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Real quick, Brandon, before we get to China and our contesting against them, what do you make of... We're told that it's like immoral. Like the maps after World War II cannot change. You cannot move at all. These are the countries and these are the maps. And any type of expansion is imperialistic or empire building and immoral and wrong. What do you make of that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
So, there are five countries that claim control over the Arctic Ocean. We got Russia, America via Alaska, Canada, Denmark via Greenland, and then Norway. Are those the five? Yep. Where's China? They're not anywhere near this. What's their role here? Of course.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
What is in the interest of Russia for bringing China alongside them?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Okay. What is the threat that China brings to us if they were to have greater control over that Arctic region?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
So we have a silly media. I think that's pretty excellent. They laugh at this idea. Are serious people on board with what we're talking about right here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Yeah. A little fun little trivia point, too, that I learned the other day, that we bought the Virgin Islands from Denmark. So, we have business history going back with Denmark as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
And my understanding, correct me if I'm wrong, and we'll chat another day about the Panama Canal in greater detail, but the reason why Wilson wanted to get the US Virgin Islands, which was the Danish West Indies at the time, 1917, was because of its strategic location next to the Panama Canal. So this Western Hemisphere lockdown is very important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
But we don't think this way, but we need to start thinking this way again, right? What is the Western Hemisphere?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
You mentioned Antarctica on the bottom, right? What's going on there? What's the benefit of that one?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Welcome to the PTV Situation Report. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker, who's currently making his way through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan on Camelback. Because why not, right? We've all done that before. It's Baker's turn. In the meantime, let's get briefed. Kick it off today's show. We got a major development from the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Wow, Antarctica. That's crazy. You never think about that, obviously. Okay, give me one more country. I heard this line the other day. Let me know if you think this is right, or help me workshop this. It's something like, healthy countries expand or think about expanding or something. So help me workshop that. And if that's true or something like that is true, what's next?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Where else should we be looking at, Wyker?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Brandon Weicker. What's the name of the book upcoming? The newest book.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Beautiful. Brandon, great to talk to you, man. We'll do it again soon. Nice to see you. Good stuff there. Good stuff. Get fired up. Fire up where you go. On my radio show today, we played, in light of the Pete Hegseth confirmation hearing, we played a lot of the Top Gun anthem. I'm just going to be fired up talking to Brandon. I'm going to be fired up as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
That's all we have for the PDB Situation Report. As always, you can email me and the PDB team and Baker, of course, although he probably doesn't have a great cell reception on top of the camel. in the Middle East, you can still email us at pdbatthefirsttv.com. The podcast of this show, ad-free if you'd like it. You can be a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Until next time, stay safe. Spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
We cannot skip past that third variable that you talked about. In our intro here, I talked about October 7th, 2023. 2023 this happened. And it cannot be a coincidence that it is four days and ultimately say one day before the inauguration. That cannot be random. That has to be a major factor, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Wow. That's all the case study you would ever need. It is what's happening right now in real time. Okay. So I, at first glance, I don't love the deal, right? Like if you just look at it, you don't really know the players involved or whatever, right? You're like 33 to what? How many Palestinian fighters? Like, what are we supposed to learn from that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Israel and Hamas have struck a deal to stop the fighting in Gaza and release some hostages. Part of the agreement, Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners could be released as early as this Sunday. We'll be joined by Jonathan Shanzer from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy's for all the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Okay, let's talk. We're going to take a quick break. If you don't mind, Jonathan, you can stick around. I want to talk more about that, what you just said. I want to talk about this corridor. There's two in particular, if I understand right. One was right along the border with Gaza and Egypt. I want to talk about that. And then this phase two that you're speaking of as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Then later in the show, President Trump's recent remarks about Greenland, drawing some questions about America's role in the Arctic, where rivals have been steadily expanding their footprint in the region, raising questions about our priorities and our influence, and China's influence as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
So we can chat more about that with Jonathan Chanza right here on the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Welcome back to the President's Daily Brief Situation Report. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. We're talking about the Hamas peace deal with Jonathan Shanzer, who's in Israel right now. Jonathan, what's the right word for it? Is Hamas peace deal? That's not the right word. What are they calling it in Israel?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
Author and national security analyst at The National Interest, Brandon Weikert, joins us for more on that coming up in just a few minutes. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. At long last, it seems Israel Hamas I've reached an agreement to halt the fighting in Gaza, bringing the promise of a long-awaited ceasefire. It's a few days before President Trump takes office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 18th, 2025: Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached & Why Greenland Matters
So 33 is the number. Now you mentioned women, children, elderly, sick. How many hostages are there total and what are we hearing about phase two? The numbers are as follows.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
According to sources inside Iran, the facility's real purpose is the extraction of tritium, that's a radioactive material used to enhance nuclear weapons with no real legitimate civilian use. Now, the timing of this report is significant as it comes as the Trump administration engages in sensitive nuclear negotiations with Tehran. Joining us now is Ali Reza Jafrizadeh.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Given their past behavior, meaning the Iranian regime, and their tendency to not adhere to supposed agreements, why would anyone think that we come up with an agreement that says you're not going to enrich uranium, you're only going to pursue peace? Why would anybody think that any of that would be different now?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a troubling new report out of Iran, a previously undisclosed nuclear weapons development site, who would have thought, and a covert missile production program hidden behind the facade of oil and petrochemical infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
If that's the case, if you approach it from a very cynical perspective, based on, you know, history, based on evidence of their behavior in the past, then, you know, without that, what's the alternative? You know, so, I mean, we can be pursuing these discussions. Dialogue's always good. We should be, you know, we keep those communications channels open for sure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
But if you're a pragmatic individual, you should possibly look at this and go, I can't adhere to any agreement, so why am I pursuing some sort of negotiation to say that they're going to? And if you're not going to do that, then what's the alternative?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
He's the deputy director of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, the NCRI. His organization helped to expose this facility. Ali Reza, thank you very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Thank you so much, Mike. Always a pleasure to be on your Situation Report. I appreciate you saying that. Well, let's get stuck into it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Yeah, no, I think your point is sound. If I'm playing devil's advocate here, I would push back on the idea that there would be a popular uprising only because I think that a lot of the international community has been hoping for internal change for quite some time. And I think you're right. Again, I take your point that when there have been protests, when there has been unrest internally,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
then I think the international community has done a terrible job of getting behind it, of supporting it, right? Not militarily, but being forceful in their other ways of supporting that unrest that takes place. So, what's your perception, or I guess, what's your opinion of the Trump administration's current actions in terms of their discussions, their rounds of talks with the Iranian regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Let's talk first of all about this newly identified facility inside Iran. How did your organization spot this? How did this come about?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, and we're running out of time here, but I guess in short order, the fact that their economy is reportedly a mess as a result of sanctions and also as a result of them diverting a good deal of their available money to their weapons programs. That would seem to be an impetus for the regime to sit down and figure out some way to get sanctions relief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Do you see this resulting in, I guess what I'm looking for is your perspective on, do you think that we're actually heading towards an agreement, some type of deal?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Ali Reza, as always, it's fascinating to get your insight and have a chance to walk through these topics with you. Ali Reza Jafrizadeh of the National Council of the Resistance of Iran. I hope next time when you pick up the phone and give you a call, you'll show back up on the Situation Report because I think it's always beneficial to get your insight. Thank you again very much for your time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Coming up next, Russia's military may be taking a beating in Ukraine, but despite heavy losses, new analysis suggests that Moscow is successfully replenishing its forces. That's amazing. And possibly expanding them. George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War joins us to break all that down. Stay with us. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, despite sustaining heavy casualties, Russia appears to be replacing its battlefield losses and even growing its force presence in Ukraine. A new assessment from the Institute for the Study of War finds that Russian forces are absorbing significant losses in exchange for limited gains, but still managing to maintain momentum through steady recruitment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
President Putin claims that up to 60,000 volunteers are joining the military each month, though that figure is likely inflated. What do you mean the Russian military might not be telling the truth? Even so, Ukrainian intelligence confirms that Russia is adding 8,000 to 9,000 new troops per month, enough to offset losses and expand troop numbers on the front.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, much of that growth comes from rapidly deployed, minimally trained recruits used in high-casualty assaults to grind forward and pressure Ukraine during potential negotiations, otherwise known as cannon fodder. Joining us now for more on this is George Boros. He's the Russia team leader at the Institute for the Study of War. George, it's very good to see you again. Hey, Mike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Thanks for having me. Of course, man. Of course. Well, let's kick it off by talking about this issue related to personnel, troop levels. What's your understanding of where the Russian military is currently in terms of replenishing the numbers that they're losing on the field?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, first of all, well done you for using the phrase concrete integer. That's the very first time that's been uttered on the Situation Report. And while you were talking, I was busy looking up what it meant. And I realized you were just referencing a number. So, yeah. Kudos to you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
But then I want to talk about the, in relation to the numbers that we're talking about in terms of replenishing those troops, 60,000 or so, any sense of whether we're talking about recruits or are there also conscripts? I mean, how many of these folks are volunteering and how many are being encouraged to volunteer?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
What's your understanding of the level of training? I mean, if we're talking, again, if we take that number as a baseline at this stage anyway, 60,000 or so a month, what type of training are these new recruits receiving before they're kicked out the door and out to Ukraine?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
What do you, at this stage of the game, because the numbers have always been difficult to pull out and have any confidence in them in terms of fatalities, casualties on both sides. But have you heard a number at this stage that you feel is somewhat credible when we're talking about casualties on the Russian side? Again, let's look at the whole war in total.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
And then if you've heard any numbers that make sense in terms of monthly losses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Okay, so in your estimation, then the sources that are providing information on this newly discovered facility, those sources are credible?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Yeah. And from the U.S. side and from the British military, when they come out with their statistics, can you talk just top line, how are they pulling those numbers out? I assume it's a combination of open source, of liaison with Ukrainian elements and just gathering whatever intel they can.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Okay, so it's really an all-source effort, but still, as you pointed out, those numbers on both sides, Ukrainian and Russian casualties, losses in the course of this three-year effort, you have to take it with a grain of salt. Listen, George, I want to talk to you about your recent trip. You've just returned from Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
I'd like to get your impressions from that trip and also would like to talk to you about the negotiations, if you can even call them that, that were theoretically going to take place in Turkey. And at one point, there was some thought that it would be direct talks between Putin and Zelensky. But first, we have to take a quick break. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
So, if you wouldn't mind, George, if you'd stay right where you are, we'll be right back with George Boros and the Situation Report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is the Russia team leader at the Institute for the Study of War, George Boros. George, thank you for sticking around. Now, you just got back from Ukraine. Talk to me about that trip.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Talk to me about what those innovations look like.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Let me step in if I could. I'm sorry for interrupting. I'm really curious about this. So, are we taking the human out of the go-no-go equation on targeting?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
There's some questions there that I think we could spend some time talking about in terms of it being able to discern in that environment between civilian and military. Again, yes, if you're the front lines, theoretically, you're statistically likely to be hitting military targets, but not with 100% surety.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
That is really fascinating. Now, as far as manufacturing, right? I mean, is this a homegrown industry? Let's look at Ukraine first. Are they designing and manufacturing for the most part internally there in Ukraine or are they relying on outside providers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
You know, life sometimes just turns around and presents you with a reality, which is, correct me if I'm wrong, the Russian military, their war machine couldn't have gotten this far down the road, three years of conflict in their invasion of Ukraine, without support from the Chinese, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
I mean, I don't know what your opinion is on that, and we should talk about it, but at the same time, Ukrainians, depending on... the Chinese for key components for their rows, you look at that and you think that that is a pure example of how the Chinese regime, you know, plays both sides of the equation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
And yeah. Is it fair to say that the three years of conflict between Russia and Ukraine for Putin's war, that the drones have changed concepts of battle and battle space as a result of what they've been doing with drones and learning and studying and understanding how the drone can change that space?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Yeah. And you know what? And it's been for some time, right? I mean, I don't want to make it sound as if suddenly drones came on the scene as a result of what's happening in Ukraine. Obviously, during the global war on terror, drones played a very important role. But I think it's certainly been accelerated And there have been a lot of people watching, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
I mean, I think North Koreans have been studying the use of drones, certainly the Iranians, and really everyone, Israelis, the Chinese regime, of course, all fascinated with what this means for a future conflict. George, there's so much more we can talk about. We haven't even touched upon sort of the non-negotiations that, you know, theoretically were going to take place in Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
That's not happening. That direct contest or meeting between Putin and Zelensky, that's not going to happen. It's going to be some low-level discussions. But I wanted to talk to you about that. It's just that we are out of time. And all that means is that you've got to come back when we call you the next time. Thank you very much.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
And again, that's George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War. As always, we very much appreciate his insight, his experience. He just came back from Ukraine with some really interesting observations. Now, that's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. If you have any questions or comments...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
If you want to send those our way, all you got to do is reach out to us at pdbatthefirsttv.com. It's really very simple. And what we do is we select all the best, right? The entire PDB team meets usually once every two weeks. We call that biweekly. We take the best questions and comments. We mush them all together into an episode that we call Ask Me Anything.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
So we're in the process of developing one of those again. But go ahead and send your comments and your questions into pdbatthefirsttv.com. And other than that, well, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, which you can, of course, do, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdppremium.com. I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
And until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, Alireza Jafrazadeh from the National Council of Resistance of Iran, the organization that helped expose this site, will join us to break it down. Later in the show, news from the battlefield in Ukraine. A new assessment suggests that Russian forces, though battered, are still managing to replace their losses and may even be growing in strength.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Yeah. I think that's a really interesting point that you raised. Look, if the operation started and the construction took whatever, four years or so, and it's been operating, it's been functioning since 2013, Let's talk about that a little bit. How were they able to do this and keep it off of the radar?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Because, of course, theoretically, the 2015 nuclear agreement, part of that, pushing that across the table was, I remember Secretary Kerry and others talking about how, well, the good thing about this is we have verification, right? And we have the inspection process. So, talk to me about how were they able to keep this facility off the radar screen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
George Boros, friend of the show, and he's from the Institute for the Study of War, he'll join us with the latest. And George, by the way, just got back from Ukraine, so he'll have some interesting observations. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. A new report is raising alarms about Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
For any of our viewers who are out there considering setting up front companies, you probably ought to be a little smarter than that. If you set up a front company and the people running that front company are IRGC officers known for their involvement in proliferation, eh, you could probably argue that's not the best backstop cover there. What was the primary function?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
of this facility, which, again, according to reports that we've seen, had the odd name of the Rainbow Site. But what was the primary function?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
I take your point. I just don't think that in the real world that's going to happen. I don't think we're going to get to that point. But you're absolutely right. Look, if what you're saying is we're making a deal based on trust but verify, and yet there's no transparency in the inspection process, then you can't verify, then you don't have an agreement that means anything.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Ali Reza, there are a lot more questions here on my list of questions for Ali Reza. But if you could stay right where we are, right where you are, we have a break that we have to go to, and then we'll be right back with a situation report. Thanks very much for sticking around. Struggling with sleepless nights and exhausting days? Well, I hope not because that'd be miserable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
An Iranian opposition group says it has uncovered a previously unknown nuclear weapons facility deep in Semnan province. That's far from the regime's established nuclear sites. Known internally as the Rainbow Site, well, doesn't that sound cheery? The compound spans nearly 2,500 acres and has operated for over a decade under the cover of a chemical company called Diba Energy Seba.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
But Beam, in case you are, Beam was founded in America and run by people who value hard work, integrity, and delivering results. Beam's Dream Powder is a healthy nighttime blend packed with science-packed ingredients shown to improve sleep so you can wake up ready to take on the day. Look, I use Beam. It's not only delicious, but it actually works really well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Dream is made with a powerful blend of all natural ingredients, reishi, magnesium, L-theanine, apigenin, and melatonin. And I believe I pronounced all of those big words correctly. It's designed to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling amazing. And unlike other sleep aids, Well, there's no next day grogginess and who needs next day grogginess?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Beam is giving my listeners the ultimate Patriot discount of up to 40% off. That's 40, 40% off. Try their dream powder and get up to 40% off for a limited time. Go to shopbeam.com slash Mike. That's M-I-K-E. That's shopbeam.com slash Mike and use code Mike for up to 40% off. Sleep better, wake up stronger, and show up ready for your family, your work, and your country. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
Joining me once again is Alireza Jafrizadeh, the Deputy Director of the National Council of Resistance of Iran. Alireza, thanks very much for sticking around. We were talking about this newly exposed site, the Rainbow site in Iran that your organization helped to expose.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 17th, 2025: Iran’s Secret Weapons Lab Revealed & Russia’s Battlefield Recovery
I want to shift a little bit now and get your perspective on the status of the negotiations, of the discussions that are taking place between the Trump administration and the Iranian regime. What do you make of it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
But I think we've all become accustomed to an administration being unable to keep a secret. So I thought it was pretty impressive that they were able to have these discussions. outside of the camera's eye. I was surprised Hamas would meet with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah, I think as long as we're doing it for operationally sound purposes, and look, I take your point, but I would suspect we already know where these individuals live, and we've got target packages drawn up should things head south. But it is an interesting development. I think it surprised an awful lot of people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Let's look sort of at the 30,000 foot level at Gaza in terms of where this could go. And I know that's a lot of speculation and a bit of a fool's game given the history there. But talk to me about potential future governance of the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
The Kremlin, however, is treading carefully, saying it won't rush to a decision. You have to ask yourself, why would they? They appear to have the upper hand on the battlefield currently. Russian officials are waiting to hear directly from Washington about a possible call between Presidents Trump and Putin later this week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
When he came out with this plan, we're just going to move out 2.3 million or so Palestinians out of Gaza and build the Riviera. Well, yeah. I mean, it wasn't just the Arab states. A lot of people around the world were like, what is he talking about now? But... The key point is exactly what you said, which it forced action. It created a bit of chaos, a bit of uncertainty.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. Oh, is it that time of the week again? I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a major development in the war in Ukraine. After high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, Kyiv has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. But you ask yourself, isn't there another player in this? And there is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And for the first time in quite some time, the Arab states had to actually, as you say, confront reality or had to have a conversation and say, we've got to have an alternative. And our past alternatives have been unworkable. So, the fact that it generated that movement, I think, was the point behind it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I don't know about you, but I think there's no chance in our lifetime that Egypt and Jordan accept 2.3 million Palestinians on their turf. But I am impressed with how it generated that follow-on conversation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah, that's a good point you raise. I think on the governance issue, I believe the Arab plan, the Egyptian plan includes an interim technocrat board that would manage things until apparently they retrain the Palestinian authority to come in and take over the governance. That's fraught with problems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
So, I think parts of their plan seem to some degree logical, possibly workable, but that issue I think is going to be where this all just starts to fall apart is the idea of, well, but who's in charge later?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Okay, joining me now to break it all down is Fred Fleitz, former National Security Council Chief of Staff and Vice Chair of the America First Policy Institute Center for American Security. Fred, thank you very much for taking the time to join us here on the Situation Report. Good to be here. But most important, like you, I'm a former CIA officer. That is very, very true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Fred, can there ever be mid to long-term peace and stability in that part of the world as long as the current Iranian regime and the IRGC are in control?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah. I'm glad you mentioned China because talking to people sometimes, I worry that people don't understand how interconnected things are and how nothing happens in a bubble. And so, in our first segment, Fred, we were able to talk about Ukraine and Russia, the sanctions against Russia. In large part, they've been able to get past some of those sanctions with the help of China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
the Iranians to the same degree have relied on China in a way to maintain some semblance of economic stability. There's a lot more here we could discuss, but I want to be mindful of your time. And I really appreciate you joining us here today. Fred Fleitz, thank you again.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
America First Policy Institute Center for American Security and former CIA senior official, thanks so much for joining us today. All right, when we come back, escalating violence and reports of massacres are testing the Syrian government's fragile grip on power, and it is fragile right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
David Dowd, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, joins us to break down the situation. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Syria experienced its worst violence since the fall of Assad this week with reports of massacres targeting the Alawite minority.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
According to reports, entire families, including women and children, were killed during operations carried out by government security forces. The UN has documented at least 111 civilian deaths, though the actual toll is expected to be higher. Survivors describe summary executions carried out on a sectarian basis, leading to a mass exodus of Alawite civilians seeking refuge in neighboring Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Syria's interim government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharra, has vowed to investigate these atrocities, stating that no one is above the law. All right. Joining me now to provide further insight is David Dowd. He's a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. David, thanks very much for joining us here on the Situation Report. Pleasure is all mine. Thank you for having me on.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And I do believe our paths crossed a handful of times, at least in the hallways. I never had the good fortune. I don't even know if you'd call it that. Maybe the bad fortune of doing a headquarters tour. during my time. But yeah, I know how you felt about your time in. I loved it. I had a wonderful career with the organization. I really enjoyed it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Well, you'll think differently after we start our conversation. You'll say, my God, what an idea this is. But let's start at the top level with Syria. Give me your insight into where they are currently, just how stable, unstable, chaotic, What's your assessment?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
With the Alawite situation, how... Well, let's start with the violence. Look, every side in this conflict has the incentive to lie, to exaggerate its opponent's crimes and to
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I don't know whether they would say the same thing about me with them, but I certainly had a good time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
How credible do you think are the reports of Iranian support for the Assad loyalists?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Well, if I'm not mistaken, this would be the first time that the Iranian regime and the IRGC would be accused of meddling. I, for one, am shocked. So, let's look at the reports of violence. Because look, even if it's on the low end, as you said, 1,000, and frankly, estimates of 1,000 to 7,000 just shows you how shaky the intel is and the credibility of reporting coming out of the area.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
But who would be primarily responsible for committing those killings, those actions against the Assad supporters?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah, you know what? That would actually be a great thing to talk about. And yeah, I just saw yesterday, not to get off track, I think we are getting off track, but not to get off track, but I just saw that the Trump administration revoked access for President Biden to the PDB. So... I'm not even sure if President Biden knew he was getting the PDB at this point, but there you go.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Right. Now, leading up to the fall and the ouster of Assad, it wasn't just this, as you pointed out, it wasn't just this one rebel faction led by Shara. It was a band of militias, a band of groups with different agendas, different objectives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
To what degree, I know you've already said that his rule, the interim president is fragile, but to what degree does he have any sort of control over these various factions, these various groups, including the jihadists that are out there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And how important is this agreement that really has just materialized with the SDF in Northeastern Syria to come into the sort of the early stages of the government in Damascus?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Anyway, sorry about that. You know what? That was a low blow, and I apologize. All right, let's go straight into the main topic of the day, and that would be the Ukraine-Russia conflict. I'm going to let you run with this. It's a wide open playing field. Talk to me about where we are currently with this conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And I think you've raised a very important point, which is the influence of outside actors, including the Iranian regime. And I suspect when it comes to some of the other jihadist groups that are there, they've also got outside influence and support. Because again, look, it's only natural. Everybody's acting in their own best interests here. We've got a lot more ground to cover.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
You mentioned Lebanon. I want to kind of shift our focus over to Lebanon and Israel. But David, we've got to take a quick break. If you'll stay right there, we will be right back with more of the Situation Report. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining me once again is senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, David Dowd. David, thanks for sticking around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I appreciate that very much. Of course, we locked you in. We weren't going to let you out until the end of the interview. We talked briefly or you mentioned very briefly as we were discussing Syria. You mentioned Lebanon. And I'd like to kind of shift our focus at this point because there have been some recent developments between Lebanon and Israel. And if you could talk to us about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Looking at this, why would these discussions be any different than past discussions? I mean, what has significantly changed that would give anybody, if they have optimism, optimism that this could result in something other than what we've seen over the past decades?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Now, I'm sorry to interrupt, David, but I always wonder about these surveys and these polls that come out of the region. I mean, and we had a number of them coming out of Gaza, right? Where they said, do you support Hamas? And I'm thinking, okay, well, why put any faith in anything coming out of there? Because if someone knocks on your door or they call you and say, do you support Hamas?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
You're probably going to say, yeah, it's probably, you know, there's no upside here if I say, no, I don't support Hamas. And you can argue the same with Hezbollah if they're doing a survey of Shiite.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
So, in your opinion, in your perspective, from all the work you do studying the area, to what degree does the Iranian regime have control over Hezbollah? To what degree do they have input in their planning, their strategic thinking?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Right. Well, there's the leverage from the ideological link. There's also obviously the leverage, as you pointed out, from the resourcing, from the money, from the munitions, the hardware, the weaponry. It does beg the question, and this will basically be the last, I guess, question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I want to be mindful of your time, and we're almost out of it, is that any longer-term agreement between Lebanon and Israel, by definition, leaves Hezbollah in place to grow. And you have to assume that Israel understands that Hezbollah's objective, which is Iran's objective, won't change over time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And so, you would argue that any agreement is just kicking the can down the road to another conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I would argue, David, that it's not just the will. I mean, does the Lebanese government have the ability to deal with Hezbollah? And I've had the chance to observe and be out there and understand to some degree that I'm not an expert. You have to know your limitations. But I would argue it's a problem of both the will and their ability. Look, this has been fascinating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And I got a whole list of additional questions, which we're out of time right now. But what that means is you have to come back. David Dowd, the Foundation for Defensive Democracy, thank you so much for joining us here on the Situation Report. And that is all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Look, if you have any questions or comments or you got a limerick or a humorous anecdote, maybe a dad joke that you want to throw our way, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. I've told you this before, but I mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
The highlight of every week at the PDB headquarters, which of course is located under an inactive volcano out somewhere in a secret compound, is when Carl the mailman, who somehow keeps finding us, drops off another sack filled to the brim with your postcards and your emails and your telegrams and your candygrams.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And every month, our amazing team selects a bunch of your questions and produces one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes. So keep those cards and letters and faxes coming. Finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, you can do that. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And until next time, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
A ceasefire only works if both sides stop shooting. And so from your perspective, what is Putin's motivation, given that he's got the upper hand, given that, I mean, Trump has advised that Kiev has no cards, what's Putin's motivation for stopping what appears to be forward progress on the battlefield and sitting down at the negotiating table?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
What will Russia do? And will they agree at all to the terms of a 30-day ceasefire? We'll break it all down with Fred Fleitz. He's a former National Security Council chief of staff and the vice chair of the America First Policy Institute's Center for American Security. That's hard to fit on one business card.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I guess I'm playing devil's advocate here in terms of the... And to be fair to the White House and the State Department, they've said it's cautious optimism that anything can happen in a positive direction, but Putin's been pretty clear about his hardline demands. And there's no indication that he's inclined to back off of those.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And certainly not, again, when... I'm just trying to put myself in his position and say, okay, why? Why would I stop at this point? Is it because my economy is heading south and I can't continue to afford this? But...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
I guess where I'm going with this is, again, looking for leverage points that the White House may have to try to get some sort of deal that isn't essentially just giving it all away to Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Later in the show, we turn to Syria, where a major outbreak of violence is threatening to push the country deeper into chaos. Reports of massacres are emerging as the fragile government struggles to maintain control. We'll get analysis from David Dowd, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah. No, I don't disagree with you there at all. What... What's your perspective on the effectiveness of the sanctions to date?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah, I guess that was one of my next questions, which is to what degree do you think any agreement now is really just kicking the can down the road? It gives Putin a chance to, in the short term, rebuild his economy, rearm, get stockpiles back up. So are you concerned that any deal that's done now is temporary in a sense?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah. And he's already said, I mean, Putin's already said repeatedly that he will not agree to any international force, any EU peacekeeping deployment. So he's been pretty clear about what he won't accept. And so that's why I think most of the world is somewhat fascinated by the idea of, okay, what will this thing look like if it's not just acquiescing to his current hardline demands?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia following high-level negotiations in Saudi Arabia. Now, the announcement came after hours of discussions in Jeddah on Tuesday, where the US also confirmed it would immediately lift its paws on intelligence sharing with Kyiv and resume military aid.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
And what do you make of the much talked about and now apparently agreed upon minerals deal?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
You want this, here it is. And correct me if I'm wrong, but if you just look at that as an economic deal, I think it's very interesting. And again, setting aside this idea that it serves as a deterrent in some fashion. But just looking at the economics of it and the resources that were part of this deal,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Am I wrong in saying that a significant amount of those resources, the minerals, the oil, gas, natural resources are currently sitting in the 20% of territory held by the Russians?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Okay. All right. That's excellent. Fred, if you could sit right there, don't go anywhere because we've got to take a quick break here from our sponsors. And you know what? Then we'll be right back with more of Fred Flights here on The Situation Report. Thanks very much. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Joining me once again is Fred Fleitz, former National Security Council Chief of Staff and Vice Chair of the America First Policy Institute's Center for American Security. Fred, thanks very much for sticking around here on the Situation Report. We've been talking about Russia and Ukraine, of course, but let's switch gears a little bit. And let's talk about what's happening in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Give me your assessment of the current state of play in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Now, the talks mark a significant shift in ceasefire negotiations, which had stalled, of course, after a tense exchange, I think we all saw that, between the Ukrainian and U.S. presidents at the White House. Now, attention turns to Moscow, with American and Ukrainian officials making it clear that the next move is up to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 15th, 2025: Trump Calls Putin’s Bluff & Syria Erupts in Violence
Yeah, I was very impressed, actually, with the communications discipline, with their ability to hold those talks between, I think it was Adam Bowler, the hostage affairs envoy for the Trump administration, and Hamas. I mean, you can argue back and forth over, should we be negotiating, should we be talking directly with a terrorist organization?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And speaking of vetting, from your perspective, what needs to be done to improve that process, right? Because it's not like we shut the border and nobody comes across. That's important. You still have to have an immigration policy that allows people to come through in a defined and legal manner. But again, from your point of view, what do you think needs to be done to improve the vetting process?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
No, I mean, there's just no, there's no either liaison with their home country. We don't have a relationship with them. They don't have, you know, an infrastructure or databases within that of the country. And so, and it was always, to me, it was frustrating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Former DHS senior advisor Chuck Marino and author of Terrorists on the Border and in Our Country joins us now to discuss. Chuck, thanks very much for taking the time and spending a little bit of your day with the Situation Report. Absolutely, Mike. Good to be with you. Thank you, Matt. You may think differently after a little while. But let's talk in general terms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
It was, I suppose, kind of oddly amusing in a way sometimes to listen to, you know, Mayorkas and others talk about how these millions of individuals are all being vetted.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
before being released into the country and knowing from CBP and others when they would talk about, you know, off the record, how poor the vetting ability was, not because they didn't want to do it, not because the officers didn't want to do it, they just don't have the ability, the resources, the information infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll begin today's show with a disturbing new threat at the border. Mexican drug cartels are reportedly planning to target U.S. law enforcement as the Trump administration ramps up its crackdown. I don't think that's going to go well for them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah. And I don't think that despite the election, despite the Trump administration coming in, I don't think...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Democrats necessarily across the board have learned the lesson because it looks like state leaders, Governor Kathy Hochul in New York, leaders in Illinois, they all seem to be under the impression that individual states can determine immigration policies rather than it being a federal policy. mandate and it's the job of the federal government to decide what the immigration policies will be.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
It seems like we're still going to get and the Trump administration will get pushback from a number of states who decide, no, we're a sanctuary state. You can't take that away from us regardless of what the federal policies may be. Anyway, that's okay. You know what? Right now, Chuck, I'm going to get off my soapbox because I want to talk to you about spy planes. You're right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
What do you make of the recent activity along and near the Mexican border in terms of U.S. surveillance, aerial surveillance?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Give me your assessment, if you could, of the current situation down on the southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
would look and go, okay, if we did have a robust liaison relationship with the US against the cartels on the issue of narcotics trafficking and people smuggling, et cetera, That everybody wins, but history tells us that typically what Mexican administrations tend to do is manage the problem, right? They're managing the cartels to a reasonable level.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
I think we saw with the Vicente Fox administration that they actually tried a fairly robust effort to take on the cartels. That led to a massive increase in violence in Mexico. And I think the population eventually got fed up and said enough.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So I don't know that we're going to see anything different, but you have to make the effort because as you pointed out, look, I mean, the number of fentanyl deaths in the US as a result of cartel operations, setting aside Chinese regime, the Communist Party's involvement in fentanyl trafficking. Right. is astounding. And so we have to do something. So I'm fully on board with you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
I agree with you. This couldn't have happened soon enough. I like the foreign terrorist designation, the aggressive action, the inclusion of the US military. It's about time that we have an aggressive approach towards the cartels that have done so much damage in this country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah, you know, it's going to be a lot easier to secure that northern border as soon as Canada's the 51st state. So, yeah, you know, I still don't know that the Canadians are fully on board with that concept yet. So we'll have to wait and see. I don't know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Chuck, if you'll come back, Chuck, in the future, I would actually like to shift our focus north, talk about that as well as some other issues. Yeah. Listen, Chuck Marino, former DHS senior advisor, you can pick up his book, Terrorists on the Border and in Our Country. It's on Amazon. Whatever you're doing right now, stop. Go get the book.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Chuck, thank you very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Thank you, Mike. Thank you. Pleasure. Next up, the Trump administration. Well, it's hitting back on trade, unveiling reciprocal tariffs on global partners. Yes. I'll say that once more. Unveiling reciprocal tariffs on global partners. That just... Makes me feel smart saying it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
What's the end game and how could it reshape the economy? Well, I'm glad you asked. Kenneth Raposa joins us next to break it down. Stay tuned. Welcome back to the Situation Report. On Thursday, President Trump announced the rollout of reciprocal tariffs, trade policy designed to impose equal duties on foreign nations that tax American goods at higher rates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
In simple terms, well, if a country charges steep tariffs on U.S. products, the U.S. will now do the same in return. The move is aimed at leveling the playing field for American businesses and pressuring trading partners to negotiate fairer terms. However, these tariffs apparently won't go into effect immediately.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
The new tariffs come on top of duties that Trump has already imposed on China, Canada, Mexico and other nations, particularly in the steel and aluminum industries. Notably, Trump's tariffs on Canada and Mexico are currently on pause after both countries agreed to step up efforts to curb illegal border crossings and drug trafficking into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So what's the broader strategy behind these tariffs and how will they impact global trade and the U.S. economy? Here to give us some insight is Kenneth Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America. Again, thanks very much for taking time here and joining us on the Situation Report. Hey, thanks for having me on. Appreciate it. Let's talk tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And let's pretend I'm not a rocket scientist and that somehow I don't understand all about tariffs, which of course I don't. But talk to me about the impact of the tariffs. And start from wherever you'd like. What we dealt with early on with Mexico, Canada, China, or about this latest announcement of tariffs relating to our current trading partners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Now, for a frame of reference, you've dealt with this issue for quite some time. From your perspective, good, bad? I mean, where do you fall down on the whole issue of tariffs?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Okay. Now, on the other side, those against tariffs, from their perspective or from that perspective, what's the number one, let's say, the top downside to tariffs?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah, it is interesting, your initial comment about the numbers, how many people came across. I think that's confused a lot of people over the past handful of years, because it really is. It depends on what article or what statistics you're reading. It's obviously in the millions, but that number seems to bounce around depending on who you're talking to.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And what about the consumer? The tariffs in general? I know I'm simplifying all of this. I know there's a lot more complexity to it than I'm giving it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
But I think, you know, in general, if you talk to the average person on the street, if you accost somebody, I'm not suggesting you accost anybody, but if you stop somebody on the street and you talk to them about tariffs, I think they're probably, you know, in my camp, which is, all right, I don't really know that I understand the concepts very well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So, you know, I have heard people talking about the downside being consumers end up paying the price.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
2.8%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And I think it's been confusing for the general public in terms of getting a handle on it. With the foreign terrorist designation, what do you think? Why did it take so long to come up with that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Okay. Now, very, very interesting. Look, we've got a number of other things to touch on. But first, Kenneth, if you don't mind, we've got to take a quick break, and then we'll be right back with more of Kenneth Raposo on the Situation Report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Kenneth Reboza of the Coalition for a Prosperous America. We've been talking tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Now, I want to do a little bit of a shift here on focus because I read an article of yours and hopefully people know you from the Wall Street Journal and from Forbes. You've done some great journalistic work in the past. You wrote a recent article that I found really fascinating. And
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
It talks about and speaks to the dependency of the United States on China and India when it comes to pharmaceuticals. And we all remember, because it wasn't very long ago during the pandemic, this did become an issue. People, I think, started to realize, wait a minute, you mean we don't produce medicines here in the US? And we had short supplies of a variety of medicines.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And look, that's not the last pandemic we're going to see. I hate to sound cynical, but I'm sure there's going to be another pandemic. And when that happens, you'd like to think that we would have learned a lesson. But talk to me about this. Tell me a little bit more about this from your perspective.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
what percentage of pharmaceuticals does the U.S. produce on its own? And then what percentage total is it dependent on other nations, especially as you pointed out, India and China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
We're number one. Hey, we're number one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Look at that. No, no. But, I mean, okay. I know this is going to sound like an odd statement, but it seems like a national security issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Well, and look at the issue of ADHD now with kids, right? And the requirement for drugs like Adderall or its equivalent, that was one that I remember story after story coming out of the pandemic when parents were panicking because Adderall or its generic equivalent or whatever was in short supply. Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Now, China and India, as you pointed out, it seems like they have a headlock on organic materials, active pharmaceutical ingredients. But to what degree are they moving into the space of innovating research and development, creation of new high-priced drugs? Is that still the domain of the US and maybe European partners?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
With this increased focus on the problem down at the border with the Trump administration, The cartels making these threats, right, saying they're targeting law enforcement and the US military. What do you make of that? How serious do you take this as a potential threat?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Well, you know what? I mean, if Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party want something, that tends to be the nature of their organization. They'll get it done. They don't have to sit and bicker on Capitol Hill. It's a terrible system. I wouldn't wish it on anybody, but it gives them a certain advantage in terms of speed of movement. So is it getting...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
I hate to ask this question because I'm afraid I might know the answer. After the pandemic in particular, when we learned this lesson or when much of America started to understand the US dependency on others for pharmaceuticals,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah, it's important what you just said about, look, at least people are talking about it. I mean, that tends to be the first step. If you can shine a light on it, if you can get the folks on Capitol Hill to understand that it's important and that the American public will be expecting some sort of action. There's no telling how long that may take, but at least there's a conversation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So I take your point. Listen, you've written some very interesting pieces related to China. I'd love to have you back to talk more about those. I'd encourage people to go out and search for your articles. Very interesting stuff. Kenneth Raposa of the Coalition for a Prosperous America. Listen, thank you very much.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
I hope the next time we call you, you'll pick up the phone and you'll agree to come on back to the Situation Report. Well, that's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Now, listen, if you have any questions or comments, maybe you've got a humorous anecdote, maybe you've got a suggestion, you know, a polite one, well, then please reach out to me at PDB at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Look, the highlight of every week, frankly, at the PDB headquarters secret compound is is when Carl the Mailman drops off another sack filled to the brim with your postcards, your emails, your faxes, your telegrams. You're still sending telegrams.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And every month, our amazing team, and that includes our, you know, somewhat above average interns, they'd select a bunch of your questions and they produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes. And finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, well, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting bdbpremium.com. It is very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Former DHS senior advisor Chuck Marino joins us to break down the threat posed by the cartels. Later in the show, the White House is rolling out reciprocal tariffs against global trading partners, signaling a major shift in U.S. trade policy. So, what's President Trump's strategy and, well, importantly, how will it impact the economy?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah, it would seem like a serious lapse in judgment for the cartels, which as you pointed out, all they're focused on, it's like any group like that. It's the revenue streams, right? They just want to keep the jack moving. So you would think it'd be a serious lapse in judgment for them to decide to target US law enforcement or the US military in any serious manner.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
But you mentioned unilateral action, and I wanted to touch on that. What do you think are the chances? You designate the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. That does, as you've said, that gives you a very wide playing field here. What are the chances, in your opinion, that the US could take unilateral action if they don't have the necessary liaison support from the Mexican government?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Yeah, I think it's still unclear. I mean, again, I take your point. They have stepped things up in the face of the potential tariffs that they were staring at. And so they have sent reportedly thousands of additional troops to the border on the Mexico side. It is interesting. I mean, you point out the corruption, the corruption, obviously, in Mexico with the law enforcement, it's been endemic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
There's very little trust between the Mexican population and law enforcement. The Marines, on the other hand, the Mexican Marines and the military, it tended to be, if there is a trusted institution, they're it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So, I'm just wondering, I guess, are you optimistic that we could see sort of long-term cooperation in a serious manner on the trafficking front, on the issue of smuggling people, weapons, drugs across the border? Or do you think this is just sort of a temporary show by Scheinbaum, by the Mexican president?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Kenneth Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America joins us to break it down. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Border agents are on high alert after a new memo from the Rio Grande Valley Sector Operations Center warned of potential cartel attacks on U.S. law enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
This is going to be maybe a strange question, and I don't want to get overly political, but There's a lot of people that wonder what was the reasoning behind the previous administration, the Biden administration's policies with the southern border, with the borders in general, in terms of almost what you could call an open door policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Any insight from your perspective as to why they went that route?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
That's okay. Yeah. I want to pick up on that. If you wouldn't mind, we're going to take just a very quick break. We'll be right back. Chuck Moreno, former senior DHS advisor, author of a terrific book. If you haven't read it, if you haven't picked it up, I don't know what you're doing with your time. Go out and get it. It's called Terrorists on the Border and In Our Country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
We'll be right back with more of the Situation Report. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me talk to you about something important, and that would be sleep. Look, we've all been there, right? Tossing, turning, struggling to get quality sleep. I get it. When you don't sleep well, well, frankly, it's not just about feeling tired the next day. It makes you foggy at work.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
You're short-tempered with people that you actually like, and it kills your energy. I've been there, and I needed something that actually worked. That's where Beam's Dream Powder comes in. Look, this isn't some gimmick. This is a science-backed, healthy hot cocoa that actually helps you sleep better. I've tried it, I use it, and it's made a real difference.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
And it comes in great flavors like sea salt caramel, brownie batter, vanilla chai. How often do you say vanilla chai? And my personal favorite, cinnamon cocoa. It's only 15 calories per serving. There's zero sugar, which is important, so you can get better sleep without the guilt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
The Texas officials have been warning that cartel violence could escalate in response to the Trump administration's border crackdown. Just two weeks ago, cartel members opened fire on Border Patrol agents in Fronton, Texas, where they were attempting to smuggle a group across the river. Now, reports indicate that cartels have authorized the use of weaponized drones, I kid you not, to attack U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Dream Powder is packed with natural ingredients, reishi, magnesium, melatonin, all designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer without waking up groggy. You just mix it with hot water or milk before bed and you're good to go. Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
If you want to try Beam's best-selling Dream Powder, get up to 40% off for a limited time when you go to shopbeam.com slash Mike, that's M-I-K-E, and you use the code Mike at checkout. That's shopbeam.com slash Mike and use the code Mike for up to 40% off. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining us once again is former DHS Senior Advisor Chuck Marino.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Chuck, you talked in the last segment about the potential, not saying it's going to happen, but the potential for unilateral action by the U.S. military against the cartels. What do you think that could look like?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Maybe identifying high-value targets, you know, taking out maybe leadership. I mean, the problem there, I think we've seen, and I spent a fair amount of time during the drug force and counter-narcotics operations, it's a little bit like counterterrorism. Occasionally, it can get very frustrating. It seems like they've got a bottomless well of new recruits.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
So you take out someone at the top of a cartel, they've got any number of lieutenants that are just dying to take that top spot. So it could be a fairly lengthy target list. But, you know, I'm not saying it's not worth trying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
Well, I don't want to sound like a cynic, but I don't think they were all innocent individuals looking for a better life. A lot of them were, no doubt about it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
But you'd have to be pretty naive to imagine that whether it's the Chinese regime, the Communist Party in terms of an intelligence concern or other organizations, you'd have to be naive to think that during the last four years when we had essentially an open border policy and there was just chaos down there, that groups wouldn't look to take advantage of that. Right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
law enforcement with threats against ICE agents circulating online. The Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi has unveiled a sweeping directive aimed at dismantling cartel operations. But how serious is this new threat and what can be done to counter it? Well, I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 15th, 2025: Trump's Crackdown Triggers Cartel Retaliation & Global Tariff Fight
If I was running an Intel service and I saw how porous that border was and I wanted to put some assets in the country, just, you know, just maybe just sleeper agents or individuals to do some recces on high value targets. Absolutely. Absolutely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 14th, 2024: Inside The Collapse of Assad & China’s Massive Military Drills
ServiceNow supports your business transformation with the AI platform. Everyone talks about AI, but AI is only as powerful as the platform on which it is built. Let AI work for everyone. Eliminate the friction and frustration of your employees and use the full potential of your developers. With intelligent tools for your service to excite customers. All this on a single platform.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 14th, 2024: Inside The Collapse of Assad & China’s Massive Military Drills
That's why the world works with ServiceNow. More at servicenow.de slash AI for people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
And that, of course, would be good friend of the show, Gordon Chang. He's the author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America. And you can check him out on apps at Gordon G. Chang. Gordon, thanks very much again for joining us here on The Situation Report. Always excellent to talk to you. We've been on a roller coaster ride here when it comes to tariffs, particularly with China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
What's the primary point of dissatisfaction from the military's perspective with Xi?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Is there a clear or obvious candidate, whether within the military or within the party, that stands to gain from Xi Jinping being pushed aside?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Maybe I'm asking the question that really doesn't have an answer, but how does that work then? I mean, if they're waiting for Xi to fall, I mean, how does that, it's palace intrigue, right? But I mean, how does that happen? Is the only entity capable of taking them out the military or can the party act and are they, you know, from your perspective, are they able or willing to?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. It's been a crazy week, if you haven't noticed. I suspect you've noticed. We'll kick things off with President Trump doing a U-turn on global tariffs, but not when it comes to China. In fact, he's ramping things up, slapping a 104% tariff on Chinese goods.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Give me your sort of your 30,000 foot view on what's been taking place over the past week or so and where you think it might be going.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Well, okay. We've got a lot left to unpack, but I want to be mindful of the time. So all I can do is ask if you'd be willing to come back and pick this conversation up again. We'll see at that point whether there's been any movement related to the tariffs and trade negotiations. But Gordon, as always, it's excellent to speak with you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
And I really appreciate you taking the time with the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Excellent. Excellent. Well, we will be pestering you to come back on. You can count on that. Gordon Chang, as always, excellent. Thank you so much, man. All right. That's a lot to digest right there. All right. Coming up next, both Russia and Ukraine are on the move, each launching new offensives across the front lines. So you have to ask yourself, what's behind the sudden shift in momentum?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
It seemed like just yesterday we were talking about, oh, they're going to sit down at the negotiating table. Well, George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War, he'll join us next with the latest. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Ukrainian officials say Russia's spring offensive is officially underway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Moscow has launched a fresh push in the northeast, with Ukraine's top military commander reporting a sharp uptick in fighting, nearly doubling across all major parts of the front line in just the past week. At the same time, Ukrainian forces are taking the fight across the border. Kyiv confirmed an incursion into Russia's Belgorod region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
President Zelensky said the move is meant to ease pressure on other parts of the front, especially around the embattled Donetsk region, and to protect key northern areas like Sumy and Kharkiv. Do you remember when it just seemed like yesterday we were supposedly going to be talking about peace settlements? So what does all this mean for the trajectory of the war?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
And who has the upper hand right now? Well, joining us to break that down is George Barros. He leads the Russia team at the Institute for the Study of War and tracks these movements daily. George, thank you again for coming back on to the Situation Report. Great to see you. Hey, Mike. Good to see you once again. Thanks for having me. Absolutely, man. Listen, let's... Where do we start?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
It seems like, you know, it seems like yesterday when, you know, we were talking about, oh, they're going to sit down at the negotiating table, peace is going to be breaking out. And now we're talking about a spring offensive. What's going on?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Yeah, there was a comment made by, I think it was a foreign ministry spokesperson from Russia the other day. And I'm just paraphrasing, but essentially it seemed like an incredibly revealing or insightful look at the Russian mindset right now, or at least Putin and his military's mindset. And that was he basically was saying, well, look, you know, why why would we stop now? Right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
You know, the U.S. is backing away from Ukraine and we're making progress on the ground. So why stop? And that to me seemed like about the best assessment of Putin's mindset that I've seen to date.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
There's a lot of pundits out there, right? A lot of experts who have been talking about, well, the Russian economy can't sustain this and they're on the ropes and Putin has a lot of reasons why he needs to sit down and get this sorted out because he just can't sustain the fight. Where do you stand on that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Putting it into context, when you talk about a 40,000 US dollar signing bonus, What is the average salary? Do you know for a Russian worker?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
No wonder they can find people to sign up if they're offering $40,000 a pop. And remind me, if you could, the manpower advantage, population-wise, I mean, the manpower advantage that Russia has over Ukraine? Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
It can't be that. That's not the end game. From your perspective, what is Putin's mindset? What does winning look like at the end of the day?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
What do you think they make or how do they interpret the pause? The 90 day pause has just been put into place. Do they look at that as a sign of weakness on the White House's part or are they interpreting it in some other fashion, do you think?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
But George, I do want to go back and talk about this issue of EU and US support for Ukraine going forward. But first, we need to take a quick break. So if you'll stay right where you are, we'll be right back with George Barros and the situation report. Stick with us. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Joining us once again is George Boros, the Russian team leader at the Institute for the Study of War. George, thanks for sticking around. We finished up the last segment just briefly touching on the issue of potential support for Ukraine continuing from whether the EU or the US. Where does all of that stand? Let's start with the US. What do you perceive the White House is going to do?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Is it just going to stop support? Is it going to be minimal support? Where are we going?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Yeah, I mean, I agree with this. It's almost impossible to predict where the White House is going to go, not just on this issue, but on a lot of issues. I do find it hard to imagine the scenario where President Trump says, okay, I'm going to up-gun the Ukrainians, keep them in the fight after all this talk and emphasis on getting to a peace settlement. So I find that difficult.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I take your point about the difficulty of further economic leverage. There is a ridiculously low level of trade at this point. So the tariffs, that's why they're off the list anyway. They weren't even included on the list of tariffs. But if you could dry up the oil revenues, Then you're talking a good game.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
But that then implies that you can somehow figure out how to get China to act and to not be as supportive as they have been of Russia. Do you see that as a possibility?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
That mineral steel is an interesting one because I've read an awful lot of material that talks about where the relevant, where the critical resources are located. And a lot of them are sitting in territory, the 20% or so of territory held by the Russians at this point. Right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I think that's a very optimistic scenario. I'm not saying it couldn't happen. Now, what about the EU? We haven't touched on them yet, but as an example, here's a scenario. The White House is reluctant to militarily keep Ukraine in the fight, but they are willing to do whatever is possible in terms of the economic leverage. And maybe you turn to China and say, look, let's sit down at the table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I'll bet we could come up with a fair trade deal that would also include you not supporting the Russian oil industry. Maybe you tie those two things together. But can the EU actually pick up the slack? Would the EU be in a position, in other words, to keep them in the fight?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
So we've got, again, being mindful of your time, we've got the spring offensive as it's being referred to underway by the Russian military. Have you heard anything just in the past handful of days about what they're up to, how they're doing? Are they making progress? Where does that stand?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
George, last question. There have been reports over the past 48 hours or so that the Ukrainian military captured a couple of Chinese nationals. Have you heard anything about that and what do you make of it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I've heard some people talk about the fact that China's fundamental structure will probably prevent them, in terms of the Chinese Communist Party I'm talking about, will probably prevent the CCP from proposing or agreeing to any deal that the Trump White House might deem acceptable. What do you make of that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Okay. So, you're not making much of what President Zelensky said. His initial comments were, well, these are probably just a couple, but there's many more. You don't necessarily buy that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Okay. Now, point taken. Well, I tell you, a lot more to discuss here, George, but we are out of time, so I can only hope that we give you a call. You'll come right on back. It's been a few months. Obviously, a lot's happened. Let's get back together on the show sooner than later. And I guess I'll finish this up with a question for a prediction. I know people love making predictions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Will there be any serious negotiations for peace going on in the next month or two? I highly doubt it. I would be astonished. So quick answer, I don't think so, but we'll see. Okay. All right. Excellent. George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War. Listen, thank you for joining us here on The Situation Report. Really appreciate it, man.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Well, that is all the time that we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Look, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com because you know what we do. We collect the best ones, and lots of them are good. We take them, and we pile them into one big episode that we call Ask Me Anything. We've got another one in the works.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
We'll get that out to you here very shortly. Finally, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, well, you know, you can do that. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It could not be any easier. I'm Mike Baker. And until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I mean, how much room does the CCP have here to actually negotiate a deal that the White House might look at and say, yeah, we can accept that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
And Beijing, well, they're already retaliating. Gordon Chang joins us to talk about what this economic showdown means for China and for us. Later in the show, we'll bring you the latest from the battlefield. Both Russia and Ukraine have reportedly launched new offensives, raising the stakes on multiple fronts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
What do you mean by, I mean, if you could clarify that a little bit, when you say that only the most hostile responses are acceptable, can you elaborate on that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Really? Okay. There's a sound bite that I think might get clipped out. Talk to me about that. I mean, from a timeline, I know this is a tough thing because there's so many elements here to take into account, but From a timing perspective, at the current rate, at the tariff rate that has been set now for China, I mean, what are we talking about?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
If you're thinking about a breaking point, how long can they sustain that sort of back and forth in a trade war?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
George Boros from the Institute for the Study of War, he joins us with the latest on where things stand and where they could be headed. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. The past week has been a wild ride. That's putting it mildly. Markets bounced around as President Trump hit pause on his global tariff push, except when it comes to China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Okay. Well, that implies that they may do something drastic or he may do something drastic, right? I mean, give me the sort of the, from your perspective, the realistic scenarios. I mean, obviously we've got one, which is, okay, they sit down at the table and then negotiate and this thing blows over, but it doesn't sound like you believe that that's got really any running room.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
So, how do you anticipate this thing solving itself?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Well, Gordon, on that cheery note, if you'd stay right there, we've got to take a quick break, and then we'll be back with Gordon Chang here on The Situation Report. Stay with us. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining us once again is Gordon Chang. He's the author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America. And of course, you can find him on X at Gordon G. Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Gordon, I'd like to pick back up where we were during the last segment and the notion that perhaps where this is heading is a conflict of some sort, perhaps what we've been waiting for related to Taiwan. Do you see that as more of... Xi Jinping thinking, okay, I need a distraction.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
I mean, this is not a perfect analogy, but when you look at Putin over the years, oftentimes what Putin's done when he feels either threatened or perhaps looking to shore up support at home, he finds a bogeyman out there, right? And obviously the latest attempt is Ukraine. But do you see any similarity there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
After Beijing fired back with 84% tariffs on U.S. goods, Trump responded with a brutal 104% tariff on Chinese imports. That one's still in place. Now, this could spell serious trouble for China. Their economy depends heavily on exports, and if those slow down, well, the pain could run deep. But just how much damage are we talking? Joining us now is someone who's been warning about this for years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Are you saying that Xi Jinping may look and go, okay, what I need is a distraction, so let's have a conflict?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
Okay. Yeah. You mentioned Mao. Have you seen the, it was basically a blurb that the foreign ministry just put out that featured Chairman Mao talking about how the Chinese essentially will fight to the end and China will not back down. Have you seen that and what do you make of it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 12th, 2025: Can China Survive A Tariff War? & Russia Launches Spring Offensive
And what... How would you describe Xi's, you talked about this to some degree already, but how would you describe Xi's hold on power? How tight is that grip?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Well, this is an absolute lie, what's being told on legacy media. So he's part of the People's Power Party, People Power Party. They have 100 of the 300 seats in the National Assembly. Now he declared, Yoon declared martial law. Everybody goes, the classic lie here is, oh, martial law, he was bad. And martial law has a bad history in Korea or Taiwan. But this is not that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Und das ist, wo die meisten Leute, es ist eine totale Lüge, sie bekommen es falsch. Und er ist tatsächlich, er ist, die Verteidigung der PPP ist tatsächlich hochgegangen und ist hochgegangen. Es ist um die Demokratische Partei zu überwinden, die die Opposition ist. Klingt familiar?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Now, he declared martial law, which is actually, it's in the Constitution, he can do that, so that he could raid the National Election Commission, which makes fault, the National Election Commission in Korea makes Fulton County, Georgia Election Board look fair and clean. So, this is a total lie.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
The whole reason the Democrat Party has 200 of the 300 seats in the Assembly is because they stole them. Und so hat er Martial-Law erklärt, wie er es in der Verfassung hat. Nun wurde er ausgewählt und er wurde ausgewählt, aber er hatte bereits genug Beweise von der Nationalen Wahlkommission. Es ist also eine totale Lüge. Das ist ein kommunistisch inspirierter Kuss.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Nun, Lee, der Leiter des demokratischen Partei, sie sagen ihm nicht die Wahrheit. Er wurde nur im November für Wahlverletzungen verurteilt. Und es gibt zwei andere Angelegenheiten. which means he potentially can't run in 2027. He's trying to conduct a coup so that he can become the president now. And the Democrat Party, again, sound familiar, because they're charging Youn with...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Was ist das Wort? Insurrection. Woher haben sie das Wort bekommen? Interessant. Also es ist ein Lied. Die meisten Legacy Medien, es ist ein totaler Lied. Sie haben keine Ahnung, was da los ist. Brunson, der General Brunson, der die US-Force Korea beherrscht, Ambassador Goldberg, sie wurden ausgeschlossen, weil sie keinen anderen CIA-Kuss wie wir auf Bolsonaro in Brasilien wollten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Denn sie wissen, dass sie nicht auf das Biden-Team vertrauen können. Das ist ein totaler Lüge. Also, Sie beten, das ist ein Proxy-Konflikt. Und Lee von den Demokraten, er ist ein Kommunist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
It doesn't fit the narrative. I mean, they're grossly ignorant. Everybody goes, oh yeah, martial law, yeah, Korea, oh yeah, like what happened in 1983. This is not that, okay? Total lie. And what shows you is, even though we have 28,000 military there, Goldberg, the ambassador, and Brunson, the army four-star, are totally cut out of the loop.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Just because we have a large military presence doesn't mean we really know what's going on there. Why? Because they don't trust the Biden team. They don't trust the Biden team. I don't blame them. After what happened to Bolsonaro in Brazil. So this is a total lie. He's got to wait. I mean, we got to show support. I was on the war room.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
We made the front page news, Steve Banner and I, reporting on what's really happening. And it really has emboldened the PPP. They showed up in mass to block the arrest. They're calling it an insurrection. This is not an insurrection. And they're using the corrupt, the corrupt, corruption police to make an arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
The corruption police have no authority over something called, if you want to call it an insurrection, they don't have any authority over that. Okay, they're the, they're the corruption police.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Oh, well, we wait till January 20th and we actually have a functioning president in office. And that's what you is doing. I mean, that's the PPP and their polling numbers are going up and the Democrat Party in the Democrat Party are going down in Korea. It's a lie what is being told and fed to people. Lee nennt die USA eine Verwaltungsstufe. Das sind Kampfwörter in Südkorea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Sie benutzen diese Ausprägung nicht in Südkorea. Sie haben großen Respekt vor den Amerikanern, die gestorben sind, und den Südkoreanern, die gestorben sind, um das Land von den Kommunisten frei zu halten. Lee hat aktiv, und sie fliegen in China, die Berichte von chinesischen Nationen, die involviert sind in der Pro-Impeachment, pro impeachment rallies, they're off the chart.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
So this is a total lie what's going on.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
There's several newspapers and I could get you the list of them that are covering this appropriately. There's a real problem, you know, just like we have a legacy media that has dominated the narrative for years, same over there. Und die Demokraten da drüben, sie werden wiederum die Demokratische Partei genannt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Und wenn man sich die Geschichte der Demokraten anschaut, dann hört es sich fast an wie Hillary Clinton oder Bill Clinton oder Obama, die mit ihrem wirklichen Marxistischen Training und Inklusion und Hintergrund aufgewachsen sind. Das ist ein Proxy-Konflikt. China versucht, aus unserer Sicht, Südkorea ist die richtige Flanke. Okay, das ist die richtige Flanke.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Sie sind auch extrem, ich weiß von der 2. Weltkrieg, es gibt viele schwierige Gefühle gegen die Japaner, aber was Yoon versucht hat zu tun, weil er die größte Bedrohung als Kommunist und die Kommunistische Insurgenz als Nordkorea, aber China sieht, He's been developing close. I know for years that I was involved in a lot of these.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
It was really hard to have the Japanese and the South Koreans in the same room. A lot of hard feelings from World War II. I get it. I understand it. But Yuen has really tried to really build a solid alliance with the Japanese and the Americans at the same time. And that's why the Chinese are making their move.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
And that's why they... Because the number one thing that Li of the Democrats want is he wants the American THAAD missiles out. Why? Because that's the number one thing the Chinese want. They want the THAAD missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Absolutely. That's what you were seeing. So many American and South Korean flags over there. That's why you're seeing the red mega hat. This is a proxy conflict in so many ways. And they're charging them with, again, with what? Same thing. They said they were charging the J6ers with insurrection, which they actually didn't charge them with, but they kept on using the word insurrection.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
So this is a proxy, this mirrors what we're going through and have gone through until we were able to beat down the globalists inside of America. So this is exactly what's going on. So as soon as Trump comes on board, he can Trudeau, Lee and all the communists over there. So that's exactly what's going to happen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Well, let's get things first straight. Raúl Molino, the new president who was sworn in on July 1st in Panama. Let's get things straight here. The guy is actually a populist. And the guy is actually kind of pro-US. He's just having to deal with an absolute horrendous US State Department that has ignored Panama for 25 years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Do you know how many times, and you know what Panama's number one needs are? Es gibt Brücken, es gibt Straßen und es gibt Straßen. Und weißt du, wie viele Male eine US-Kommunikationsfirma, seit der Handlung im Jahr 2001, eine Anmerkung für eine Vorschläge von Panama geantwortet hat, die sie seit dem Jahr 2001 viele Male ausgeschlossen hat?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Weißt du, wie viele Male eine US-Kommunikationsfirma zu einer Anmerkung geantwortet hat? Null. Ich gehe mit null.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Jetzt, Panama war auf der, eine der großen Bedeutungen für einen US-Kommunikationsfirma, um sogar zu reagieren, war, dass Panama für so viele Jahre als korrupt aufgelistet wurde. Sie sind auf dieser Liste, sie kamen auf dieser Liste, aber das ist ein zweigängiges Schwert. Okay, sie sind korrupt, und deshalb werden wir keine Amerikaner da runterlassen. Na, was passiert dann?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Und dann Aponte, der US-Ambassadier, was ist ihre Nummer eins Priorität? Transgenderismus. Also gehen wir zu all diesen verdammten Konferenzen, wir lektieren sie über Transgenderismus und die Chinesen kommen rein und bauen jetzt, sie haben gerade krasse Straßen und Brücken gebaut und sie haben nicht alles geliefert, aber sie brauchen Brücken. They need infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
And we've been a ghost in Panama since the handover. And the enduring treaty that took effect after the handover, three elements, three elements where the United States was supposed to be involved and essentially ceded, surrendered and walked away. One is the operation, the proper operations of the canal. Okay? The security of the canal and the neutrality of the canal. And again, We walked away.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
We walked away. So we got to get this straight here. What happened? We're digging out of a 25 year hole of nothingness. We did nothing. Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Yeah, we gotta participate. This is ridiculous. If I had $10 for every time a State Department employee, when I was in a bilateral or a multilateral with Central or South America, the number of times of, well, you know, they don't like us. They have all these bad memories of death squads. And we're just going to kind of sit here and listen to them. We're not actually going to...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
You know, I literally, the number of times that happened in different things, and I just about wanted to choke out some of these State Department dweebs who would say stupid things like that. I mean, it was like... That wouldn't go over well in the meeting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Yeah, inflationary. Yeah, yeah. So we'd have enough for a good meal together, Mike. I mean, it's ridiculous. They have this bizarre world view that why even have a State Department? Why even have a State Department? If they're going to... Als ich nach Panama ging, war ich mit Anne van der Steele und Michael Jahn da. Jemand aus der Embassy kam raus, weil sie mit uns sprechen wollten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Ich sagte, okay, hier ist die Sache. Wir sind froh darüber zu sprechen, aber es wird alles auf dem Rekord sein. Okay, we're going to be on the record and we're going to be able to talk about it. And the guy goes, well, I got to get approval on that. And he once goes back, he goes, oh, no, no, no, that's okay. Okay, loser, loser.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Yeah, that's going to take 12 layers of bureaucracy, Colonel, to get that approval. I mean, if we look at what...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Mike, I don't know about you. I took negotiation classes, both as a special operations officer, as a US government civilian. I took a number of professional negotiation classes. A good friend of mine, who was a career foreign service officer, we were talking about this. I said, well, how many times did you take a negotiation class? Because you were responsible for all this complex negotiation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
You know what his answer was? I'm going to go with zero. Zero. See, we're on the same track. This is the typical Harvard Belfer Center imperious attitude. What do I need? I need a professional class of negotiation. I bought a car. I bought a house. I know how to negotiate. No, that's a loser. No, this is... How can we put...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
People in charge of complex negotiations that have never actually been trained on negotiations. I mean, this is ridiculous.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Nun, der Shun Sing 39, das ist tatsächlich der Name eines Schiffs, es ist etwa ein 5.000 Tonnen schmutziger kleiner östlicher Schiff, der aus Keylong Harbor, weißt du, das sind nur etwa 300 Schienen Wasser, They've had plenty of experience in the Baltic, busting up the Chinese ships like the New New Polar Bear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
I mean, who in the bloody world is in charge of ship naming in the Chinese Communist Party? New New Polar Bear sounds like a Seinfeld episode. Hey, come on out. Who doesn't love a polar bear? Come on. Everybody loves polar bears. Especially like Lee Woo Polar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
When I was in Taiwan in September and I met with several of the professors at the, kind of their version of MITRE, I mean, you know, kind of their version of MITRE or RAND or the Aerospace Corporation, I met with their think tank and they said, John, we're going to get quarantined within six months and their first move is going to be, they're going to cut the undersea cables.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Sure enough, what did they do? It was the PT, the Pacific... Telegraph Express, not Telegraph, it's the PTE Cable, which is a multi, most undersea cables, it's a consortium that own them, it's not one company, but it went north and they drug that and they snapped the cable. Und der Telekom-Provider wusste sofort, dass etwas los war. Und es hat sofort gesagt, was?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Das ist, was sie in der Baltik gelernt haben. Das ist, was sie in der Baltik gelernt haben. Es ist sofort AIS-silent gegangen, sodass man es nicht tracken konnte. Das letzte bekannte Signal war am Freitagmorgen. Ich habe es gecheckt. Und es ging dunkel. Und dann, wo ging es? Es ging nach Busan, Südkorea. Hm, ist das nicht interessant? Also, das ist ein schlechtes Schiff. Und das war intentionell.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Und das war der erste Schritt Richtung echten Quarantäne. Und sie wissen den legalen Unterschied zwischen Quarantäne und Blockade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Ja, das ist, ähm, es ist alles von oben. Und du weißt, dass der Klassiker, und ich kann mich nicht erinnern, ob es die Sowjeten waren, oder ob es Mao oder Trotsky war, der sagte, du weißt, du nimmst dein Bayonett und du drückst. Und wenn du Schwierigkeit fühlst, dann drückst du weiter. Wenn du hart fühlst, dann stoppst du.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Und, ähm, das gleiche, was sie tun, aber das war, äh, sie haben die Baltische Erfahrung genommen. Sie haben seit Dezember 23 in der Baltik gegründet. Und hey, es funktioniert. Es ist nur ungefähr 300 Meter Wasser. Das ist nicht viel. Und es ist nicht tiefes Wasser. Und du wirst ein Kabel fangen. Es ist eine Art Luddite-Approach, aber es funktioniert. Und du drückst dein Kabel, du schnappst es.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
It's the first major, because there was a smaller cable trunk line that went to one of the, you had Kinman and then Mat-Su up north. It was up to Mat-Su, one of the coastal islands of China. Einer der östlichen Inseln. Es ist in der Mörder-Range des Mainlands. Sie haben das Kabel geschnitten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 11th, 2025: Ukrainian Counter-Offensive & South Korea's Political Crisis
Ich bin mir nicht sicher, ob das ein total intentionierter Kabel war oder nur ein paar Pudong-Fischereien, die nur rummeln. Aber das war definitiv intentionierter. Und es ging AIS-silent und dann verschwand nach Südkorea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
It would be, to use your word, inconceivable to imagine that the Russian military is out there recruiting Chinese citizens to come fight in the war as mercenaries without having had any dialogue with the Chinese government to discuss this, given that Putin is kind of the lesser character in that relationship. But
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Ich glaube, wenn man sich die Aufmerksamkeit betrachtet, Xi Jinping in Moskau zu sein und am anderen Tag darüber gesprochen hat, über ihre Freundschaft mit Steele und ihre vorherige No-Limits-Partnerschaft, How can you actually describe that relationship? My impression has always been China, the regime is always going to do whatever is in its best interest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
While both sides have made quiet concessions in recent weeks, including China easing some retaliatory tariffs, well, there's still deep mistrust on both ends. So, should we expect progress or just political theater? I'm going to vote for political theater. Heute mit mir ist Gordon Chang, Autor von Plan Red, Chinas Projekt, um Amerika zu zerstören. Du kannst ihn auf X folgen, Gordon G. Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
And it's very good at sort of strategic in the moment relationships and friendships. But they kick them to the curb, you know, once they view it as not in their best interest. Is this a best friends forever scenario? Or, you know, is China just doing what they've done in the past in terms of Russia?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
This is a very simplistic question. To what end? I mean, from the Chinese regime's perspective.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Yeah, I mean, I think going back to your point about the PLA, the Liberation Army's personnel being in Russia, being in Ukraine during the course of this conflict, I mean, you can't underestimate the value of that intelligence that they're gathering, right, in terms of understanding the battlefield space and also just in general terms, the establishment of drone warfare and its importance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Und ich suggeriere, dass du das tust. Ich suggeriere nicht nur, ich versuche tatsächlich, dass du das tust. Gordon, danke sehr, dass du zurückgekommen bist auf den Situation Report. Danke, Mike. Also, wir haben dieses Meeting in Schweizerland. If you could talk a little bit about who will be involved and, and I know this is speculation, but what you anticipate to come out of this weekend meetings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
die Reaktion der Westen in einem Konflikt wie diesem, in Bezug darauf, wie es relevant für die zukünftige Aktivität in Richtung Taiwan sein könnte. Gibt es da einen Sinn für die Größe? Ich meine, wie viele? Hast du etwas gehört, das kritisierbar ist, um zu sagen, sieh mal, die PLA hat die folgenden, du weißt, Personal mit dem russischen Militär?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Well, yeah, I mean, if they're also providing dual-use components, if they're providing munitions, hardware, other things, there could be a support role being played. I mean, Gordon, I think when you talk about was ihr Endgame ist und es ist, die Welt zu regieren. Du hast recht. Ich denke, die Leute würden das hören und manche würden ihre Augen schütteln und sagen, oh, das ist Historien.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Wenn es um, lasst uns es in Bezug auf Konfliktzonen ausbrechen, wenn es um Indien und Pakistan geht, wie würdest du China's Leverage oder Wachstum über das pakistanische Regierung in diesem Zeitpunkt beschreiben?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Just being mindful of time, the discussion is about to take place in Switzerland, taking place possibly even as we speak. Do you expect anything to come out of those meetings other than we've agreed to continue talking?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
But if they don't, if there's not some agreement to lower tariffs, right? Because I suspect if... If, say, the Trump administration says, we're holding the line, we're not dropping tariffs here, I mean, there's going to have to be some tit for tat, because it wouldn't seem likely in the face of that that the Chinese would make any sort of concessions, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
So then we're at a stalemate, and then you're looking at the potential damage Nicht nur für die chinesische Wirtschaft, die das Schaden viel schneller als hier in den USA ausdrücken scheint, aber es wird mit dem amerikanischen Publikum zu einem gewissen Zeitpunkt Schmerzen verursachen, oder?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Yeah, what I worry about, Gordon, and then we'll wrap it up, is I worry about sort of the short-term Die Natur amerikanischer Politik und die ADHD-generelle Attitüde der amerikanischen Bevölkerung zu einem gewissen Grad. Und du kombinierst das oder vergleichst das mit Chinas langen Vision und ihrer Fähigkeit, viel weiter auf der Straße zu schauen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Also bin ich nicht sicher, dass das amerikanische Publikum eine Botschaft trägt, We're going to have to have some short-term pain. And I certainly don't think we have a lot of brave politicians who would be willing to put their careers on the line to do the right thing. Gordon, listen, thank you very much for your time. As always, your insight, your experience, really appreciate it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
I'm sure we'll be calling you, pestering you again here in the very near future. Alright, well, coming up next, India and Pakistan are trading fire. Oh, we're just full of cheery news, aren't we? Two weeks after a deadly terror attack in Kashmir. So, the question is, and I'm glad you asked, are we on the brink of something bigger? We'll be right back with more on that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Willkommen zurück bei der Situation Report. Nun, es war eine dramatische und tödliche Woche auf der Indien-Pakistan-Border. Denn das ist es, was der Welt benötigte, mehr Tensur und Konflikt. Die letzte Runde der Gewalt begann am Dienstag, als Indien Missile auf neun Sites innerhalb Pakistans eröffnete. Die Flüchtlinge für einen Terrorismusattack waren zwei Wochen früher.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Sie töteten 26 Menschen, die meisten Touristen in indienisch kontrolliertem Kaschmir. Pakistan sagt, dass diese Schüsse 31 Menschen getötet haben und 57 mehr verletzt haben. Und, naja, sie haben sich zurückgeführt. Letztendlich. Pakistani-fliegende, chinesische-gestellte Kriegsfahrzeuge haben beruflich mindestens zwei indische militärische Flugzeuge gedreht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Das ist laut US-Affizienten, die mit Reuters gesprochen haben. Nun, das ist die stärkste Eskalation zwischen diesen nuklear-gearmten Rivalen in Jahren. Und die große Frage jetzt ist, haben wir das Schlimmste gesehen? Or is this just getting started? Joining us now is Jeff Smith. He's the director of the Asian Studies Center at the Heritage Foundation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Jeff, thanks very much for joining us here on the Situation Report. Great to be here. Thanks for having me. Of course. Listen, okay, let's start at the 30,000-foot level. At what point in time should we all be diving under our school desks as the nuclear weapons start flying?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Ich denke, das ist ein rechtes Statement. Ich denke, das ist ein nonpartisanes Thema. Ich denke, jeder würde mit Ihnen auf das stimmen. Wenn Sie uns ein bisschen darüber sprechen könnten, weil natürlich ist das nicht die erste Zeit, Sie haben das erwähnt, aber das ist nicht die erste Zeit, dass wir diesen Art von Konflikt gesehen haben, besonders in Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Aber wenn Sie uns ein bisschen Zeit nehmen könnten und uns eine Summary, eine Topline-Vielfalt der Geschichte dieses Konflikts geben könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Okay, ja, ist das, und das kann eine sehr simplistische Frage sein, aber ist das ein muslimischer Hindu-Issue? Ist das einfach ein territoriales Issue? Ich vermute, es ist eine Kombination von einer Vielfalt von Dingen, aber was ist hier der principale Führer?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Okay, du hast da etwas Interessantes gesagt. Du hast gesagt, dass die muslimischen Nationen, zumindest zu spät, nicht besonders unterstützbar für Pakistan waren. Kannst du darüber nachdenken?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Well, they gotta carry all that water for North Korea. So, I mean, you only have so much water. Yeah, with friends like these. But that's interesting, you know. Yeah, exactly, exactly. Das ist sehr interessant, dass es so ein Cold War Framework der Indien-Pakistan ist, weil es eine lange Geschichte darüber gibt, wie diese beiden Nationen in einem Cold War-Kontext getroffen wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Also ist das, und noch einmal, das ist eine simplistische Frage, aber ist das in einem Sinne US-Indien, China and slash or Russia, Pakistan. Is that kind of how this is broken out over the recent past?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Okay, that's really interesting. Yeah, it is a very complicated story during the global war on terror in terms of the US relations with Pakistan, with their intel service, with their military. That's a whole other day for us to get together and talk about, because... There are a lot of problems in that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
You said something I think that's very interesting, that I think would surprise a lot of people, that India not only is the third largest economy at this point, but it's the third largest defense spender. I think that's a fascinating point that I think, again, a lot of people may have missed at this stage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Look, we've got a lot more to cover here, but if you could stay right there, Jeff, we have to take a quick break. Und dann kommen wir wieder mit mehr vom PDB Situation Report mit Jeff Smith von der Heritage Foundation. Willkommen zurück bei der Situation Report. Ich bin wieder mit Jeff Smith. Er ist der Direktor des Asian Studies Center an der Heritage Foundation. Jeff, danke, dass du da bist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
When you say they're making hardline or one of the leadership that's currently in Moscow was making hardline statements, can you elaborate on that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Wir haben noch viel Platz übrig. Let's look at the recent event that kind of triggered this latest conflict between India and Pakistan. That April terrorist attack in Kashmir that resulted in 26 Indian tourists being killed and a variety of others wounded. It was maybe five or six seconds after that event that the Indian government blamed the terror attack on Islamabad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Haben sie, von dem, was Sie gesehen haben, haben sie Beweise dargestellt, um zu zeigen, dass das der Fall war? Ich meine, wiederum, es ist eine Sache, zu sagen, dass, Sie wissen, dass dies Militär ist, sie haben diesen Angriff durchgeführt, aber linken Sie es zu dem pakistanischen Regierung.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Jeff, ich bin kein Poirot, aber das ist das, was wir eine Begründung nennen würden, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Das ist eine sehr breite Frage und fühlt euch frei, über das Spielfeld zu laufen. Aber wo denkt ihr, dass das geht?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Glauben Sie, dass das Teil der Probleme hier ist, das ist Spekulation, aber given the political and economic instability in Pakistan right now, is that playing into this in the sense that perhaps Pakistani leadership is saying, well, maybe this is kind of what we need right now, you know, rally the nation?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
That's always good. When you sit down a stockpile of nuclear weapons and you start talking in messianic terms, I may have smothered the pronunciation of that. Yeah, that's not a good thing. Let me ask you this, speaking of nukes, comparing between India and Pakistan, who's got the bigger saber here to rattle?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We're kicking things off with this weekend's high-stakes showdown. The US and China are headed to the negotiating table on Saturday. Well, don't expect smiles and handshakes, although that would be nice. Arthur Gordon Chang joins us to break it down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
exerts the most influence over Pakistan. Unless we want to let them sort it out themselves, which I don't think is typically a good idea, it sounds as if the US administration may not have much leverage in trying to mediate this situation. Is it China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Und deshalb denke ich, dass wir die Chinesen helfen können, in dieser Situation. Sorry for interrupting, I just say it. Nowadays, if I don't blurt out a thought that pops in my head, I'm likely to forget it in the next 10 seconds. But that is not atypical for the Chinese leadership under Xi Jinping and previous leaders. leaders to view something like that in their own particular interest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
I mean, it's much like they view US involvement in the Ukraine conflict, right? I mean, that's keeping us busy, that's using our resources. One last question, Jeff. I know this is a little bit off the topic in a sense, but right after the event, right after the terror attack in Kashmir that kicked this latest conflict off, The Indian government did something very interesting, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
They put an abeyance, they froze the Indus-Water Treaty. Have they done that before in previous conflicts?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Yeah, I think they've approved, they've just approved building one, which maybe like from a strategic perspective might be part of what they're thinking. But it was interesting because the Pakistani reaction was very immediate and aggressive to that, you know, referring to it as economic warfare. And I think that was...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
It appeared as if, even though it wasn't just shutting off the water, right, as you pointed out, and I think that's great clarification, but it appeared as if it hit the Pakistani government fairly hard. They weren't expecting it. Jeff, we've got a lot more that we could cover here, and I hope that you'll agree to come back when we call you again, when we pester you again.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Listen, man, thank you so much for joining us today. Well, that's all the time we have for this week's Vielen Dank. I'm Mike Baker and until next time, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Die Gespräche, die in Geneva stattfinden werden, was machst du mit der chinesischen Delegation? Ich meine, ich denke, mein Verständnis ist, dass es oft so ist, dass man lesen kann, was sie denken, von wem sie senden. Also, was ist mit dem Team, das der chinesische Regime sendet?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Die weiße Liste, die Sie bezeichnet haben, ist das, und das kann eine sehr simplistische Art und Weise sein, aber ist das ein Versuch der chinesischen Regierung, die Arbeiter zu plakieren, ihre Bevölkerung zu plakieren und Fabriken offen zu halten?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
What about the protests themselves, though? I mean, it seems... Es klingt wie ein ziemlich schwerer Lauf, richtig, um genaue Intelligenz zu bekommen, auf welchen Niveau diese Proteste einen Einfluss haben, weißt du, was für eine Scope und eine Größe wir schauen. Hast du etwas darüber gehört, was zu diesem Thema angeht? Sehen sie sich wach zu werden?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Und wenn ja, bist du überrascht über einen ziemlich seriösen, aggressiven Krackdown?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Okay. Ja, es ist interessant, dass Sie sagen, dass einige von diesen, die Pay-Issue und die Proteste dort, und sort of predate this tariff trade war situation, but then it's obviously certainly adding to it. I've seen some analysis that talks about some 16 million jobs potentially at risk in China. Do you think that's anywhere near accurate?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Later in the show, India and Pakistan trade blows, just weeks after the Kashmir terror attack. Is this tit for tat just the beginning? Well, Jeff Smith, Director of the Asian Studies Center at the Heritage Foundation, he'll stop by for more on that. But first, the Situation Report Spotlight. Treasury Secretary Scott Besson heads to Switzerland this weekend. Oh, that sounds posh. Leading a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Ja, ich denke, das ist ein wirklich guter Punkt, aber ich nehme deinen früheren Punkt über die Geschichte dieser Negoziationen und wie wir normalerweise mit dem kurzen Ende des Sticks enden. Gordon, wenn du mit uns bleiben kannst, wir müssen einen kurzen Break machen, aber dann sind wir wieder mit mehr vom Situation Report mit Gordon Chang. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich teure Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ausgestattet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird. Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Joining me once again is Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America. You can follow him on X at Gordon G. Chang. Gordon, thanks very much for sticking around. We've been talking tariffs, trade wars, the upcoming negotiations that are set to kick off in Geneva, Switzerland over the weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
Let's switch over for a second and move ourselves over to Moscow, where there's big doings, right? The Victory Day celebration. Talk to me about China's participation in that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
delegation for high-stakes trade talks with China. It's the first serious attempt to diffuse the economic standoff sparked by President Trump's tariff blitz. The White House says tariffs could come down if talks go well. But, as you could imagine, that's a big if.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 10th, 2025: Xi’s Weak Hand: U.S.-China Showdown & India And Pakistan On The Brink
But it did. No, absolutely. And it caught a lot of people by surprise, despite the support that North Korea had been providing to Putin up to that stage, obviously with hardware, munitions and other assistance. But Yeah, I think you're absolutely right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Now, the Arab states, right off the bat, said, not going to happen. And then they met, had a summit, proposed a plan, and President Trump turned around and said, that plan, meaning from the Arab states, not going to happen. So where do we stand with this? How do you interpret what the Arab states came up with as their proposal? And where do you think this is going?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I'm sorry for interrupting. Did you say Gaza-Lago? That's what I said. You should patent that. If that's yours...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
The ultimatum came just hours after it was revealed that his administration has been talking directly with Hamas. That's an unprecedented move. And reports say Israel wasn't even looped in on those talks. So where does this all go from here? Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies is here with us now to break it all down. Jonathan, thank you very much for joining us today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But why is that? Why are none of the Arab nations willing to come out and say that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Welcome to the PDP Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off with President Trump laying down the gauntlet. I mean, not literally, that would be kind of odd, but demanding that Hamas release all remaining hostages or face the full force of Israeli military power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah, I think you raised a really interesting point, which I think sometimes people overlook, right? Because there's so much going on around Trump and around the Trump White House. And every day, it's a new movie, right? And something's being thrown out there. And I think when he came out with, I'm going to use your phrase, Gazalago, it just rolls off the tongue, doesn't it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Then I think people said, what is he talking about? This is crazy. But... To your point, it generates conversation, it generates movement, right? Action. And so you're absolutely right. Almost immediately after that, we had the Saudis and others calling for a summit to get the Arab states together to say, now what? Look at this. We can't let this stay on the table. So how do we respond?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
And that can create dialogue that we haven't seen in decades, right? Around this problem of Gaza. So I think you've raised a very important point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Hey, my pleasure. There's a lot to talk about here. Let's start with what appears to be an ultimatum from President Trump to Hamas. What do you make of that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah, well, it's causing a lot of heads to explode in Washington, D.C. There's no doubt about that, right? Because there's a fair element that would just like to keep things sort of in this status quo, you know, the way that Washington moves, sort of that inertia. And certainly from a geopolitical perspective, right, you know, there's just this reluctance for change.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
So when it's happening at this current speed, I think it creates a lot of angst, but there's unexpected, sometimes beneficial consequences. And you're right, sometimes it may head south, but you don't know. And so I think there's a lot of folks out there that actually, while they may be somewhat confused over strategy at times, they can appreciate
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
whatever you want to call it, sort of the disruptive nature of it that could generate something different and better. And certainly with Gaza, look, we've been kicking this can down the road for generations. Now, talk to me about this idea. I know that it's just an idea that was thrown at the wall, but the idea of relocating
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
2.3 million Palestinians, it does raise an interesting question, which is the reluctance of, let's say, Egypt to take in refugees. I mean, talk to me about that relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But from a practical standpoint, do you see that happening or do you see a plan developing more along the lines of what the Arab nations are talking about, which is keep the Palestinians in place? Obviously, they're still focused on this two-state solution. Do you think that's where this is headed?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah. And then, but I mean, obviously that raises then the big question, which is kind of looming over all of this is, what do we do as far as governance of the area afterwards? But let me wrap up with this. This is going to be an impossible question to answer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
So anyway, that's why I'm asking you, during the course of this month, yes or no, Israel gives up on the peace process and goes back on a war footing with Hamas?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
All right. Well, listen, I did take another hour or two talking with you about this problem, but we are out of time. Jonathan Chancellor, great conversation, despite my involvement. Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, I want to tell you, thank you very much for joining us. And I look forward to the next conversation, man.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Are you kidding me? Bear Cousins, hats. You know, we got some swag coming your way. All right, man. Talk soon. Take care. All right, coming up next, Beijing isn't backing down. Well, I guess that's not a surprise. After President Trump slapped new tariffs on Chinese goods, the Chinese government fired back, saying it's ready for, quote, any type of war with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Gordon Chang, good friend of the show, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, a terrific book, you should have it on your bookshelf, joins us to break it all down. Stay right there. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. President Trump is cranking up the pressure on China, or he's ratcheting it up. He's increasing. Let's go with all those.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Hitting Beijing with another round of tariffs. As of Tuesday, an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports took effect, bringing the total tariffs imposed in just a month to 20%. And now, well, China's firing back. In a post on X, the Chinese embassy in the U.S. made it clear that they're not backing down, saying, "...if war is what the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we're ready to fight till the end." That's what we could call ominous. China also dismissed the White House's claim that these tariffs are tied to fentanyl production, calling it a flimsy excuse. So, is this just tough talk, or are we on the verge of a real economic battle, or something else?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Well, Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, and that's a book you should have on your bookshelf, joins us now to help explain. Gordon, thanks very much for joining us again on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I've got to go to the top line here has got to be, not to be sensational about it, but the quote from the Chinese embassy that if the US wants war, be it a tariff or a trade war or any type of war, then they're down for the fight. What do you make of that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
If they're so reliant on exports, Do you think that's an indication that they're just going to eat the costs? I mean, because there's obviously this talk about, well, what are these tariffs going to mean for the pocketbooks of Americans if people still carry pocketbooks? Let's go with wallets. I don't know, what am I, in the 1920s?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But do you think that if that's the case, that they're going to do everything possible to try to prevent a letdown in exports?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
It's got moved from, because the tariffs, I think it's an interesting topic, but I think it confuses a lot of people. I mean, they've just now said, we're going to delay the tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Have you heard anything about that possibly being a case for China as well in terms of maybe backing off this, what now is essentially 20% tariffs?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Have you seen any indications? Because I mean, again, we mentioned it at the top of this, but that the tariffs for China anyway, there's a direct link to their failure to act on the fentanyl crisis. Let's even go with since the election, that they've changed policy or that there's been any improvement in their efforts against the fentanyl crisis?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I don't know how you would even describe it. Do you anticipate a long-term trade war with China? If both sides are retreating to their corners and looking as if they're not going to back down, where do you think this is heading?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Well, if that's the case, then... From Xi Jinping's perspective, right? Well, let me ask you this question. I want to focus on the Chinese economy, but let's go with this first. What do you consider to be the weakest link in the Chinese economy?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
All right. Well, I guess we don't need to list them all, but I guess what I'm looking for is... You pointed out that Mexico and Canada are completely different cases. We're talking about as far as the tariffs go. And I would also argue that their responses, their strategic thinking is going to be entirely different.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
So I'm trying to get a sense from you as to how Xi Jinping responds to all of this, right? Is there any... chance that he'll say, well, okay, Trump's not putting up with this anymore, so I'm going to have to change my direction. I'm going to have to change my strategic thinking. Is that a possibility? I mean, does he have the ability to change, I guess is what I'm asking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Okay. Interesting. Gordon, I'll show you the list of questions that I've got, but it's lengthy. But we've got to take a quick break, and then we'll be right back with Gordon Chang here on The Situation Report. Stick around. Welcome back to The Situation Report. Joining me once again is Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah. Well, you would imagine that Qatar would be a logical destination for any of the remaining key leaders of Hamas to end up residing there. But you mentioned the direct negotiations between the US, I believe, with the hostage envoy, Adam Buller, for the US side. supposedly has been talking to Hamas directly about the US hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
If you don't have that one on your bookshelf, then go out to your bookstore, if there's still a bookstore near you, and pick it up. Gordon, thanks very much for sticking around. I want to change gears a little bit here. We're still talking about China, but we had some news develop over this past week about the Panama Canal. Talk to me about the developments there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah, it's interesting. I think, correct me if I'm wrong, I think this is the first country, at least in Latin America, to put the brakes on that Belt and Road Initiative and even voice the idea perhaps that they're just going to renege and back out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah, I think it's fascinating because President Trump obviously made headlines by talking about the Panama Canal, right? And talking about how it's important to national security, how that we gave it to Panama, we didn't give it to China, and that he was taking it back. And that, of course, created a buzz and a lot of people reacted sort of the way they always do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
They're just saying, oh, he's crazy. What is he talking about? That's ridiculous. And then, right, it's like he throws something at the wall and the next thing you know, it generates movement over here that people weren't expecting. And like you said, we've got this consortium led by BlackRock to buy this back. CK Hutchinson is a very interesting company.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
And you made a brief comment about it, based out of Hong Kong, but subject to the CCP's control. To what degree? I mean, talk to me about that, if you could.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But it sounds as if, at least what's coming out of the White House, sounds as if they've broadened that discussion, a direct conversation with Hamas to include perhaps the other hostages, as well as perhaps a peace settlement of some sort. What do you make of that? Because the US policy has always been not to negotiate with terrorist organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
And also just in terms of their surveillance capabilities, right? I mean, it's very good intel to understand ship movements. It's very good intel to understand cargo allocations and movements. So, yeah, I'm 100% on board with you. I think it's a brilliant move. And again, it's one of those fascinating moments where
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Certainly, the political opposition, the Democrats in the U.S., looked at that and thought, that's insane. Why would he say we're taking it back? And then you have this move. And it just seems to happen on a somewhat regular basis now. And so maybe at some point people will understand that President Trump does have sort of a method to what they perceive as madness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Now, we were talking about ships. Let's talk about shipbuilding. because there's also been some news about that. I understand that the US is going to make shipbuilding great again.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah. China, again, correct me if I'm wrong, and you always do, because, you know, okay, maybe I'm wrong on occasion. But China is the leader globally in shipbuilding. Is that correct? Yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Look at us just correcting each other like this. It's just a back and forth. You're right. South Korea is in number two position. I read that the US is down that list. I think it's in 15th place in terms of shipbuilding.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
What's the potential for that? I know this is a bit of a detour for us in terms of our topics, but what's the potential for that sort of political sea change in South Korea?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I tell you what, that opens up the next question, which is I hope you'll come back in the course of the between now, obviously, and three months from now, sooner rather than later, so we can talk about this because that would be a seismic change in the region and certainly in a geopolitical standpoint. So, Gordon, as always, listen, thank you very much for taking the time to sit down with us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Gordon Chang, author, incredibly smart guy, man about town. Hopefully we'll see you back here very soon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I would not. You know what? I would keep that off your resume. I don't think you want to put that anywhere on that CV. All right. Thanks so much, Gordon. I'll see you soon. All right. Well, that is all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Now, if you have any questions or comments, polite suggestions maybe, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Look, the highlight of every week, I've told you about this before, but the highlight for us at the PDB headquarters, which is located in a secret compound underneath a volcano, is when the mailman who somehow finds us drops off another sack of mail and postcards and faxes and telegrams.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
And every month, our amazing team gathers up the best of those questions and comments, and we mush them into what we call an episode of Ask Me Anything. All right? So what I mean by all of that is keep your cards and letters coming. Finally, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, which you can do, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdppremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
This ultimatum comes as ceasefire talks remain stalled. So what happens next? Jonathan Chancer from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies joins us with his insight. Plus, Beijing is hitting back, warning that it's ready for, quote, any type of war with the U.S. after President Trump reinstated tariffs on Chinese goods. How serious is the threat? Well, that's a good question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But is there a danger that, I mean, you pointed out this was not the first ultimatum from the White House. Is there a danger that it's just perceived as hollow by Hamas and certainly by the Iranian regime that backs them?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Well, also, perhaps they imagine that, look, I mean, you say the fighters are going to take a shellacking. Obviously, the civilian population there in Gaza is also in the firing line, given how Hamas is embedded amongst them. But perhaps they look at it and go, okay, I don't think Israel can withstand the pressure from the international community if they take this even further than has been taken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Look, 90% of the Palestinian population, what's that? Total of 2.3 million or so individuals, 90% have been displaced reportedly. So, perhaps Hamas is looking at this and thinking, we have the international community on our side, right? So, maybe they feel as if that's their leverage. I don't know. I'm throwing that in a strange form of a question to you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
And we've got Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, here with us on the Situation Report to break it all down. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President Trump isn't messing around. There's no surprise there. He's telling Hamas that they have two choices. Release all the remaining hostages now or get ready for Israel to bring the hammer down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
From your perspective, to what degree is Hamas acting with autonomy, right? And to what degree do you think that they're taking their direction, strategic planning from the Iranian regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
This comes as negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire have hit a wall with, frankly, no deal in sight. Trump made his stance clear, posting to Truth Social, quote, Release all the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all the dead bodies or it is over for you." He also blasted Hamas for keeping the remains of those they've killed, calling it sick and twisted.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Yeah, I take your point. And it's a fascinating direction that we could go. I would also perhaps counter that with, we deal with a number of countries that play both sides of the equation. And that's just, unfortunately, the way the world works, I guess. But I take your point. I don't know that we'd ever get to the point of moving that that military facility out of Qatar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But it's a fascinating thought that you bring up. Listen, there's a lot more here to cover, but you may know that we have some terrific sponsors. We're going to take a break right now. Jonathan, to hear from them, don't go anywhere. We'll have more with Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies coming up on the Situation Report. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Let me talk to you a little bit about something that's very important, and that would be sleep. Look, I spent night after night in the past, tossing and turning, worried about work, waking up exhausted, and feeling like I was falling behind on everything that mattered, right? You've probably been there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Well, that's why I'm so excited to share something that really has made a difference in my life. And that's Beam's Dream Powder. Now, Beam, that's spelled B-E-A-M, is proudly founded in America. And it's run by people who share our values, hard work, integrity, and delivering results. Look, it's science-backed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
It's healthy nighttime blend, packed with ingredients, shown to improve sleep, so you can wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day. Dream is made with a powerful blend of all-natural ingredients, and those include reishi, magnesium, l-theanine, apigenin, and melatonin. Look at me with all my knowledge of scientific things.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
My focus and energy came back, though, and I finally felt like I could tackle life head-on instead of just trying to get through it. You know what it's like when you wake up, you haven't slept well, you're all foggy? Well, anyway, I'm not the only one. Beam has already improved over 17.5 million nights of sleep, helping people across the country wake up and feel their best. And here's the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Beam is giving my listeners the ultimate Patriot discount of 40% off. I said 40%. Try their best-selling Dream Powder and get up to 40% off for a limited time. Go to shopbeam.com slash Mike, that's M-I-K-E, just like you would guess, and use code Mike at checkout. That's shopbeam.com slash Mike and use the code Mike for up to 40% off.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
Support an American company, invest in yourself, and start getting your best sleep tonight. Joining me once again is the Executive Director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, Jonathan Schanzer. Jonathan, you raised a really interesting question about the future of U.S. relations with Qatar after perhaps there's a settlement related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 8th, 2025: Trump’s Ultimatum to Hamas & China’s War Warning
But I want to switch gears right now. And even though Qatar is actually still involved in this next question, Obviously, President Trump had proposed a plan, a reconstruction plan for Gaza. And a key component of that was relocate the population of Gaza and then spend 10 to 15 years or so rebuilding the enclave into essentially a Middle East Riviera.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to The Situation Report. Joining me once again is former Congressman from the state of Ohio, the great state of Ohio, and of course, that would be the home of the Ohio State, Congressman Jim Renacci. Congressman, thanks again for sticking around. Very much appreciated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Or is it bureaucratic waste? Or is it something in between? Well, joining me now to break it down is former Ohio Congressman Jim Branesi. Congressman, thank you very much for taking the time to join us here on the Situation Report. Well, let's start out with how would I refer to this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
If you wouldn't mind, could you talk a bit about the current effort by the Trump administration to generate, what would we call them, buyouts, I guess, from the federal workforce?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah, I know it's not apples to apples, but it strikes me a little bit as if, I mean, it's a pushback as well. You don't have the authority to spend that money. You could say under President Biden, I know it's not apples to apples, but... President Biden was forgiving student loans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I take your point. I think you're absolutely spot on in terms of the mindset in the White House. It's a very good point. I think they're just saying, look, we're going to do these. We may get pushback on some of them and they already have on some of these executive orders. But I think they're just saying, we're just going to keep putting them on the table and signing them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And if you want to push back, fine. But we've got an agenda and we're going to pursue it. If you were in charge of Doge, the government efficiency department, If you were in charge of that, what would you go after to have the most impact on the government waste?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, and your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll begin today's show with the Trump administration's efforts to reform the federal government. Well, good luck with that. And specifically, its targeting of USAID. That's the agency ostensibly responsible for administrating civilian foreign aid.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
It could be a salacious question, but if you wouldn't mind, you've spent a lot of time looking at the issue of government spending of USAID and waste and fraud and government. What are the most egregious cases of wasteful spending that you've seen in your experience with USAID?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
We are on the exact same sheet of music. I've been banging about term limits for I don't know how long. I don't believe that it's going to happen. I think there's too much self-interest in Washington, D.C., but I think you're spot on. Until you get those term limits in place... whatever they may be. Extend the term for a congressman to four years, right? Nobody's rushing to get out of D.C.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
to go back to their farm, right? So times have changed. So, you know, maybe you get two four-year terms as a congressman, maybe you get two six-year terms as a senator. But then you leave. You take that self-interest out of there. And I think it has an amazing impact on people's ability to make bigger, bolder, braver decisions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They're not wrapped up in their own self-interest of getting reelected on a constant basis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
What about the eligibility age for social security? I know I'm about to hit that third rail, but is that ever likely to happen? Because again, we want a benefits package that's gonna stick around, right? That's gonna be feasible and solvent going forward. So do you think that's something that Washington could ever approach?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Because again, under your theory of like what was good in 61 when USAID was started may not be relevant today. Life expectancy and the time that people work and continue to work, that's changed. But do you think realistically that that's something that could be taken care of by Washington?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah. I remember that moment in time when President Bush, his administration, pushed the idea of investing in the stock market. And the pushback was fairly remarkable, particularly obviously from the Democrats arguing that, oh my God, the White House wants to gamble with your savings. So- Yeah, I think a lot of people have the same feeling.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And again, that speaks to in part why President Trump is now president. The frustration over inaction, the frustration over wasteful spending, lack of oversight, all of these things.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah. Well, no, if anybody up on Washington on Capitol Hill goes after that, then they know that they're going to lose the next election. So that brings us back around the circle of life, brings us back around to term limits. Congressman Jim Renacci, look, this has been fascinating and I very much appreciate your time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
We've got a lot of other things we could talk about and I would love for you to come back and have another conversation with us on the Situation Report. All right. Coming up... President Trump, maybe you've heard about this, he's ordered the release of the remaining files on the JFK, the RFK, and MLK assassinations. What's in them? Well, that's a good question that you should ask.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And what might we finally learn? Is there a smoking gun in there, or is it just going to be an unsatisfying release? Gerald Posner, he spent a lot of time looking at these assassinations. He's the author of Case Closed, Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK. He stops by to share his insight on those. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Within days of taking office, President Trump signed an executive order. Well, he signed a bunch of them, but he signed an executive order declassifying all remaining federal records related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Now, the order directs intelligence agencies and the Justice Department to release these files in full, citing the public's right to transparency. For decades, Records on these cases have been withheld or heavily redacted with previous administrations, including the first term for President Trump, delaying full disclosure. Supporters say this move could finally put conspiracy theories to rest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Or could it? Revealing the full scope of government investigations, skeptics argue that it might raise more questions than answers. And you can count me as one of the skeptics. So what should we expect from these long secret files? And will they change our understanding of these assassinations. Joining me now is Gerald Posner.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He's a great author, and he's an investigative journalist, and he's written two great books, Case Closed, Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK, and also Killing the Dream, James Earl Ray and the Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Gerald, thanks very much for joining us today. Honestly, we could spend a handful of hours talking about this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I got a long list of questions, but I'm going to be mindful of time. I just want to get one thing out of the way. Correct me if I'm wrong. You started... I don't want to say conspiracy theorists because that I think sometimes makes light of people who have alternative views. But you started your belief system with JFK thinking that there was more to it than Lee Harvey Oswald. And that has evolved.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Talk to me about that process. You're right, Mike. Look, nobody approaches a controversial historical subject without some prejudgment. Then you have to find out if you're right or not. So when I started looking into the Kennedy assassination in the early 90s, after the Oliver Stone film, my inkling...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
was that maybe the mob had some role in a conspiracy because of Jack Rubies, the nightclub owner from Dallas, who murdered Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin, 48 hours later in police custody. So you can't look at that and not immediately think maybe there's something to that. Are they doing a silencing of the accused assassin?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So I went in suspicious, but then you end up following the evidence. And what I returned to my publisher, Random House at the time with was whatever conspiracies might have been brewing against Jack Kennedy, there were people who wanted him dead. Lee Oswald wasn't part of any plot. He got up in that window in the place that he worked in Dallas in 1963 for his own work motivations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
My publisher was pretty... They downcast at first, you know, they let me off for a year, year and a half to look into the case. And I came back and said, you know, the Warren Commission got a lot of things wrong. Ballistics can be updated. There's new evidence. But they got the basic conclusion right that it was Oswald alone. They said, really? And that's sort of where the evidence takes you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah, I can imagine what that meeting was like when you put that on their desk. Because again, it's a theory, it's a conspiracy because it's got legs, right? People want to believe that there was something more than just one individual who created such a world-shaking event. In looking at this upcoming release, hopefully it's a release, a full release of the JFK files,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
What do you expect to see out of this? What I'm interested in is, I don't think there will be a smoking gun there. By the way, all of these files have been seen before by a government organization in the late 90s, the Assassination Review Board. They then passed 35,000 over the National Archives with some type of redaction, some of them withheld in full. Now we're down to about 3,000 to 3,500.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
There's not a precise count. That's what everyone wants to see. About 500 of those are fully redacted. No one's seen a page of them. But guess what? 499 are tax files, tax files of Lee Harvey Oswald, Jack Ruby, the companies that Oswald had worked for. So let's get the tax files out there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Then the rest of the documents, there are about 400 that have just a social security number redacted of somebody who worked for the church committee in the 70s or somebody who worked for the assassination review board for the Congress in the late 70s. If you have a social security number and somebody's alive, you can keep it redacted, keep it away from the identity thieves.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
But for the most part, these files can be released in full. And where I think they might show is that your former employer, the CIA, knew a little bit more about Oswald's unhinged behavior six weeks before the assassination when he visited the Soviet and Cuban missions in Mexico City. And then the question is, Did they do anything with it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And we know the answer to that is not do anything means pass it over to the FBI when he came back into the United States, but it's not how they do things.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Well, yeah, at that point in time, you know, kind of looking at the atmospherics of it all and the interplay between the CIA and FBI, they didn't play well together, you know, back in the 60s, 70s, you could argue in the 80s, to some degree in the 90s. So I think you're spot on, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And I've talked about this before that because there would seem to be, and I take your point about a social security number, yes, that always gets redacted, you know, fine. But it would seem to me that what we're going to see is going to be very unsatisfying for people, but it's going to speak to this idea that
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Oswald was on the radar from a counterintelligence perspective of the agency, of the CIA, and perhaps to some degree they had conversation with the FBI. But I think there's an element of embarrassment here that shows that they weren't proactive enough to prevent this tragedy from happening. I think you're absolutely right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
As a matter of fact, it's very interesting because the FBI had an open investigation on Oswald. The CIA had him on the radar because he defected to the Soviet Union in 1959. It was in the press. He comes back to the United States with a young Russian bride.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He's handing out leaflets on the streets of New Orleans just months before he goes to Mexico City, trying to get people to join his new Castro organization. And what's interesting is, I think we have to remember, this is the heart of the Cold War. Just a year earlier, we had the Cuban missile crisis in which the two superpowers came to a standoff that led us to the edge of World War III.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
There are no Cuban diplomatic missions or embassies in the United States. We kicked them all out. The closest one to us proximity-wise was in Mexico City. So the CIA definitely had eyes on both the Cuban mission and on the Soviets. Now, not many Americans walked into those two missions and asked for a visa to go and join Castro's revolution down in Havana.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And now you get a guy who does it who had been a defector to the Soviet Union. And at one point, we know from the KGB agents who saw Oswald at the Soviet mission, who years later told their story, Oswald took out his .38 caliber revolver, slammed it on the desk at one point. One of the KGB agents grabs it, empties it of its bullets,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah. I think just for the benefit of our situation report viewers, the reference to condoms is, we talked about this on the PDB. We highlighted it as a story, believe it or not. I think it was actually the first condom story we've done on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They have a meeting afterwards in which they view him as sort of, you know, unstable to say the least. The question is, what did the CIA have in terms of ears and eyes on those two embassies? Did we have a human asset inside one or more of them that we had turned? Did we have video surveillance? Did we have audio?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Because afterwards, Wynne Scott, who was the chief for Mexico City for the CIA, said, oh, Well, we did catch somebody on video, but it turns out not to be Oswald, and the cameras weren't working all the time. And then when it came to sound recordings, there was a sound recording played for a Warren Commission Council, and then later, there were none that were ever found.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So whatever the agency had, it did not want to disclose how it had penetrated two of its enemies, the Soviet Union and the Cubans, in the middle of the Cold War, so they didn't give any of that a really commission. Look, I know that this is for people listening, right? This is going to be, again, I'll use the word unsatisfying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I don't know how many people have approached me or talked to me over the past many years who are certain of how he was killed. They just know it, right? And there's a variety of different theories, but it always involves sort of a cabal, whether it's the mob and the agency, whether it's others. Look, Gerald, if you'll stay with us, we've got to take a quick break and then we'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is author Gerald Posner. He's the author of Case Closed, Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK, and also the author of Killing the Dream, James Earl Ray and the Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Gerald, thanks again for sticking around. Very much appreciated.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
We've got a lot to cover here, and I don't think we'll be able to do it all in one episode, so I'm roping you into future episodes. Let's pick up on Oswald. You commented in our earlier conversation that he had visited the Soviet embassy, the Cuban embassy in Mexico. I can almost guarantee you that, yes, he was under surveillance by the agency.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
From a counterintelligence perspective, that's exactly what would happen. I don't know to what degree they were sharing information with the FBI, but I do know from my time that sometimes that information sharing was seriously lacking, and it certainly would have been worse back in the 60s and 70s when they didn't play well together. From your perspective, what are the chances?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I mean, we always talk about, or people who look at this a lot, they talk about the mob involvement in it, this agency involvement in it. What's the possibility that the Soviets and the Cubans, because look, Oswald was desperate to show his value to the revolution, right? I mean, he had an unsatisfactory living experience in St.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Petersburg, but he was still keen to prove his worth, basically, to the communist leaders. What's the chances that they saw that? And while they may have thought, as you pointed out, that he was somewhat unhinged, perhaps they saw him as someone they could turn and they did and used him to carry out the assassination. Do you think there's any merit in that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
But there apparently was upwards of, depending on who you talk to, upwards of $100 million set aside for a health initiative that included tens of millions of dollars of condoms for the residents of Gaza. So I thought we'd just get that out on the table. So I take your point, and I agree 100%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I think there could be, Mike, on the Cuban end. On the Soviet end, the reason I say no is, yeah, I was the first journalist to interview Yuri Nosenko, the defector who James Jesus Angleton thought was a fake defector. Amy Long interviews. I talked to Netroparenko, the the Kostakov, the other KGB agents who ended up in Mexico City, let me tell you, they had watched him when he had defected Oswald.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He tried to kill himself when they told him to leave Russia. They didn't want him there. Then they moved him out to Minsk. They kept all types of surveillance on. They knew he was unstable. And so if they wanted to do an operation that would involve taking a possible hit at the president of the United States, they couldn't trust somebody like him because if it unraveled, that was World War III.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
The Cubans, on the other hand, We're willing to play a little bit more aggressive. And although they may not have said to him, go and try to find a job so you can kill the president, they may have given him some encouragement. That's why I believe everybody is looking at the U.S. files in the National Archives. I'm wondering why we don't call on how we have no relations with them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
That's why we don't do it. But the Cubans could have information on this, but the others are the Mexicans. We do have a friendly relationship with the Mexican government. Mexican intelligence was watching these embassies as well, as well as monitoring the US to see what we were doing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They wanted to make sure that although it was a nest of spies, everybody played by some rules, so it wasn't playing out in violence on their soil. So Mexican intelligence files have never been released from this period.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They may well have had more intelligence on Oswald during his social time when he was outside the Soviet and Cuban embassies, going to these parties where he was with other people than we actually picked up in terms of the American intelligence. So I'd love to see what the Mexicans have. Yeah, I think that's an intriguing point. I would be somewhat skeptical that they would have much to add.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I don't know why I say that other than I just think given that time period, I don't know that they had the capabilities from an Intel service. But I think it's definitely worth pursuing, like everything else, right? I mean, everything's speculation until we see everything that's out there, which is one of the reasons I'm hoping this is a full release of the remaining material for JFK.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So with Oswald, I want to keep kind of digging into this, right? Because again, there's this notion that there were forces at play and typically those forces are the mob and the agency, the CIA. Talk to me a little bit about one thing that always kind of stands out, which is how interesting. An individual, if it was just Oswald, one individual goes out there and kills Kennedy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And then one individual, Jack Ruby, makes his way in, gets close access, and kills Oswald. So talk to me about Jack Ruby and what your insight provides to us. Yeah, I mean, Ruby's one of the major reasons, you know, that not only I was suspicious at the beginning, but a lot of people from the get-go just say there has to be something more to this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
When you actually investigate Ruby, I have more on him, I think, in the book than anybody had published at that time, sort of following him from before the assassination through every minute afterwards. He's really a guy who was a wannabe mobster. He's not a make man. He's not part of the mob, but he wants to be a tough guy. He throws people. He's his own bouncer at his club, his nightclub.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He throws people out. He pulls a gun on them once in a while. And in Jack Ruby's world, this guy, Oswald, had killed the president of the United States. And Ruby, when he gets the opportunity on a Sunday, he walks down the street and they're about to bring Oswald out and transfer him from the Dallas police over to the sheriff. He sees this ramp where he walks down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Look, there's a real need for, however you want to refer to it, a tool of diplomacy, the use or the extension of soft power from America. And that was, you're absolutely right, that was a key element of this, the driver behind USAID at the outset. How did it change, right? At what point? Is it too much autonomy with USAID?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And when he pulls his gun out and kills Oswald, it's almost the spur of the moment. He thinks the people are going to clap him on the back and say, Jack, you did the right thing. You cleaned the stain from Dallas. You eliminated the guy who killed the president. And when he's tackled by the cops, Mike, he says, hey, you know me. It's Jack. It's Jack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
All the cops knew him because they used to hang out at his club. He thinks he's going to get at the most what's called murder without malice. Texas charge in the 1960s, maximum sentence five years, sort of like a manslaughter charge. He's stunned when he gets convicted of murder. You know, one last thing on Oswald, by the way, when you talk about, you know, being part of on how he could have been.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He took a bus ride down to Mexico City. That's how he got there, three different bus stations overnight. When he's traveling to Mexico City six weeks before the assassination, September 26th and 27th, that's when the White House puts out a notice for the first time that Kennedy is going to be visiting Texas in November.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So every idea for a plot or time and place could not have happened before that announcement from the White House. Then Oswald tries to get to Cuba. He's rejected. A week and a half later, he comes back into Texas. So you have to look for a group, whether you want to say it's the mob, the Russians, the Cubans, the CIA, whoever. They have to bring them into a plot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
There's only a month and a half when he's in Dallas before that assassination. That's what I always challenge everybody to do. Show me a scrap of evidence. Show me something credible. a telephone call, a person, somebody reaching out to him. It's not like today when you can send a text, send a social media or direct message. You had to have some type of contact. It's a very narrow window.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And that's where it falls down where you just can't find Oswald in contact with anybody other than his Russian wife and his friends were hosting her out in urban Texas. Okay. It's a very valid point. I know right now there's a lot of people watching this and throwing things at the TV because it's never going to be settled.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
My argument with the release of the documents is always the same, which is, okay, they got to release them, but don't imagine somehow that it's going to put all of this to rest. Because again, as you pointed out earlier on, I don't think there's going to be a smoking gun Let's pivot real quick to Martin Luther King, because I've been fascinated with that assassination of MLK for some time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And I'm not a conspiracy theorist. I usually have found over the years in terms of investigations that once you do get the evidence in front of you, once you do find information, that tends to be a relatively straightforward answer. And oftentimes life's not as complicated as we might imagine. But with MLK, it's a little bit different. And I've thought for some time now that there's more here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And by that, I mean that there are other factors at play. Now, with James Earl Ray, how do you square this loop, right? How do you say that this was the act of an individual who couldn't even keep himself out of jail for petty crimes? Somehow he ends up looking like a university professor after dusting himself off or kind of going off the radar for a period of time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Then he ends up in Europe where he gets arrested eventually. Talk to me about the MLK situation and what your perspective is on that. Yeah. So, you know, it's interesting, by the way, because, you know, Oswald, when he killed Kennedy, was just turned 24 years old. We forget how young he was.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And often, as you know, the people in their 20s might grow out of that feeling that they want to change the world through a bullet. And in their 50s, if it didn't happen, they might just be sitting around watching old reruns on TV. Ray was 40, was a year older than Martin Luther King. It's unusual all of a sudden at 40 to turn yourself on to become an assassin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And I believe that Ray is more of an enigma, tougher case to solve. In the end, I'm convinced that Ray would have gone to prison and only stayed silent for one reason. That was to protect family. No one else. He would have turned anyone else in. He had two brothers who were also ex-cons. And I think that they were looking for a payday out of a racist lawyer in St.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So is this a matter of not shutting it down but reimagining it perhaps as an element of a different organization?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Louis who was offering up to a $50,000 bounty. Doesn't sound like a lot to kill Martin Luther King Jr. when you think of what a life is worth. But for the Rays, that was like hitting a lottery ticket. And Ray thought it was possible. And what was his goal? His goal was to get to White Run, Rhodesia or South Africa afterwards because he knew he thought he would have some safe haven there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So if you follow it, it's a small kitchen conspiracy. It is for money. And in the end, it's wider. But when I tell that to people or they read the book, they're disappointed, Mike, because when I say conspiracy, they want a deep state conspiracy. They want a conspiracy with Jake Hoover behind a fence in a dress shooting at Martin Luther King or something like that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They don't want the shorter story of, you know, an assassin doing it or payday. Yeah. Look, nobody wants J. Edgar Hoover in a dress. Thank you for that visual. And all the viewers of the Situation Report, thank you for that visual. So, you think essentially it was the act of an individual in a sense, right? It was him going after this bounty as opposed to the involvement of the feds in any way?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Well, as a matter of fact, the feds were down the street that day in terms of army intelligence, FBI, the security divisions that were down the street in a firehouse not far. They had visuals on where King was staying at the Lorraine Hotel, but they weren't there to protect him. They were there to spy on him, as you know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And one of the interesting things, I don't know if Trump was aware of, when he signed the executive order that said, let's release the MLK files as well. MLK's family came out and said, we'd like to see the files beforehand. The reason they said that is in the late 70s when the House Select Committee finished its work,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
The Black Caucus was the one that said, we don't want everything out because in those files are FBI surveillance tapes that were illegally obtained on King's private life. Audio tapes and video recordings to show that he was a philanderer, J.D. Grover intended to embarrass him and disgrace him in public.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
So that materials in the files clearly has nothing to do with the assassination and it should not be made public. Yeah, I agree with the first part.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I agree with the concept that the reason why they're concerned and likely what we'll learn from the release of those files are all sort of the atmospherics and the result of all that wiretapping and the surveillance that was going on on Martin Luther King. And so I understand why the family would be pushing back and saying we want to see everything before you release it to the public.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I would say this is I think – If we have another situation here, look, it was, what was it, 2017, when President Trump said, let's review, and then it turns out that he did keep things still classified. I think we'd go through that route again this time around, and there's material that's held back. I don't even know how you, how do you explain that, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And more to the point, you would have to explain it. You would have to do a better job as a government to say, this is why after all this time, we are not releasing... these pages or this material. No, you're right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They put themselves into a corner on this because, I mean, you may have a different view of this, but one of the reasons, there are a number of reasons, I don't think Pompeo's in Trump 2.0 is because Trump feels a little bit had on the fact that it was Pompeo that argued very, very well when he was running the CIA that some of the documents in 2017 on the Kennedy assassination should still be withheld for confidentiality reasons.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Any idea or insight or thought as to why that was the case? Why fight, you know, to keep these things classified? It can't just be because, you know, they don't want to release some social security numbers, right? I mean, if that's the case, you can say, you see that line right there? That's a social security number that we've redacted. So what... Is it from your perspective, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Because everybody's got crazy ideas about why they're not releasing this material or what they would expect to find if they saw it. So, you asked such a great question and the answer is so unsatisfying. I'll give you just one quick example. One of the things that I and others who have studied the assassination of Wyandotte for years was Angleton's testimony before the church committee in 75.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They had redacted large portions of that. Then they released some of it in 2017, some in 2018, some in 2022. So still Pompeo and others are saying there are parts of this that cannot be released and redacted. In 2023, we finally got the entire thing. And Mike, guess what? I'm happy to send these to you, but you know what they actually are redacting?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
They're redacting the fact that a Romanian defector was defected to the Norwegians and apparently exposed a great deal of the intelligence activity of Romania against Norway. And then there are words that are redacted, for instance, on another page. We passed it along to the French. It was taken by two sources too. And here's the new words, French counterintelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
It very clearly showed that redacted Romanian and Soviet services. And this is, I say to myself, you were fighting to keep this secret after 60 years when people look at it and think that you're hiding some secret about who killed Kennedy. That's crazy. And in my view, they over classified in these instances. And then they've held on to those classifications too long.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Well, that's been the history of, frankly, of intelligence operations is over-classification, right? I mean, that's just, you throw out a big net because, you know, okay, it's a human, you know, instinct, I think. You want to be more protective than not, right? You don't want to make a mistake, and so you tend to over-classify. But it has been a problem, and it's been a problem for decades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And so I think going into this, if they don't do a full release and just say, here you go, it's everything. Because, again, I don't believe there's a smoking gun in any of those files. RFK included. But I think, get that out there. Look, we've got a lot more, I've got a book here with all my questions for you, and we haven't gotten through 50% of them. So that means you got to come back, Gerald.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
No matter what the files show, you're going to get RFK Jr. asking Trump to form some type of commission to look for files elsewhere. So if there's no smoking gun in the files that are released, it's not going to stop Those who really believe that their government killed these political leaders and civic leaders, they're going to keep looking elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And so I just don't think that all of a sudden it's over, no matter, even if the release turns out to be very, very mundane. Yeah, no, 100%. This is not putting anything to bed, but I think it's time to get it all on the table. And then, yes, if there's other avenues to investigate, by all means, let's do it, right? But anyhow, listen, Gerald Pawsmith, thank you so much, man, for taking the time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And I hope you'll come back next time we call. Well, that's all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report for this weekend. If you have any questions or comments, you know what to do with them, right? Fax them to me or write them on a postcard and mail them to me or just email or text them. Whatever. Or you could reach out to me at PDB at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Because every month, we take some of your best questions and comments, and there's a lot of good ones in there. And we mush them all together into what we call our Ask Me Anything episodes. And keep it within reason, all right? Polite questions only or comments. To listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
by visiting pdbpremium.com. It couldn't be any simpler. I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
That's going to shock a lot of people. How could they not have oversight of expenditures from an organization like USAID? Or how could they have just dropped the ball on their other responsibilities in terms of audits and efficiency when Congress holds the purse strings?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Former Congressman Jim Renacci will join us to give his insight on that. Later in the program, President Trump issued an executive order last month to declassify records related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, former Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. Now, author Gerald Posner, he's spent a lot of time researching these assassinations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
But why not? I guess that's the big question that I have, and I suspect a lot of people have listening to you talk about this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I want to circle back to USAID specifically, but before I do, I just want to drill down a little bit more because I'm fascinated by this. I would have assumed that an organization such as USAID every year would be required to submit a proposal for their budget. and they would have line items.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Now, obviously, there will be certain events that come up, one-offs and events of the moment that have to be dealt with in an ad hoc manner. But for the most part, I would imagine that they were proposing a budget and that Congress would then, whether it's OMB or whomever, would then be going through that budget and approving it sort of on a line item basis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
And that doesn't happen from what you're saying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I am just fascinated by the inability of Washington DC to just get crap done, do their job, right? And look, I run a business, and if we didn't question where every dollar went when somebody came to us and proposed a budget, or if our clients, said, don't worry about a budget, you spend what you need to, that'll be fine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Now, okay, to be fair, that would be a happy day from a business perspective, but it doesn't happen. But let's focus on USAID in particular. Do you imagine that what could happen? I know this is speculation, but do you imagine that what could happen is we end up with a much smaller entity that is placed underneath the control and management and oversight of the State Department?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
He'll stop by to explain what we should and shouldn't expect to learn in the coming days. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. President Trump and Doge are taking a sledgehammer to the United States Agency for International Development, announcing massive layoffs and then folding that remnants of USAID into the State Department.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Do you think the president has overstepped in terms of, again, I'm just focusing on USAID. Do you think he's overstepped his authority?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Why was it set up as an independent agency? Why would it be given that sort of autonomy if, in fact, it is designed to be a tool of projection of U.S. diplomacy and power and influence?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Yeah, I don't know that it takes a rocket scientist or anybody with any government experience to imagine that that's problematic to say you're going to set up an autonomous independent organization to spend money. I don't have any issue with the current administration, with the Trump administration saying we're going to take a fine tooth comb to every dollar that goes out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
every tax dollar that goes out that the US government spends to ensure that it is in the best interests of the American taxpayer, of US national security, et cetera. How do you feel, and again, I know this was a sort of soft science, I'm asking you for opinion rather than talking about facts, but how do you feel about how the Trump administration went after USAID?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
To some, USAID was a pillar of American soft power, providing aid, shaping global influence and furthering U.S. interests abroad. To others, well, it was a taxpayer-funded boondoggle. And when was the last time you heard the word boondoggle? Propping up far-left pet projects, including DEI initiatives worldwide. So what's the reality? Is USAID an essential tool for diplomacy?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
It was fairly, what should I say, aggressive, sort of a weekend purge of their offices in a way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Do you think it's going to have any impact? I mean, it sounds like the U.S. Congress has been fairly sort of an inert body for a long time. So even with this sort of shock and awe start to the Trump administration, do you think it ultimately makes any difference or are we just going to see continued dysfunction?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
I hate to sound so cynical and I don't mean to denigrate all the people who work hard up on Capitol Hill because there's a bunch of them. But I'm curious.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 8th, 2025: Trump Takes A Wrecking Ball To USAID & Declassifies JFK Files
Congressman Renacci, if you wouldn't mind, we have to take a quick break, but if you'll stay right where you are, we'll be back shortly with the next segment of the Situation Report. Thank you again for joining us. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Not to disappear down that rabbit hole, but it kind of mirrors what we've been doing in Ukraine, right? The U.S. government tends to love status quo. And so, you know, give them just enough to kind of keep things the way they are and just keep kicking it down the road. Let's get another ceasefire going in Gaza and that'll, you know, make it not our problem.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And then somebody, you know, eight years or 10 years down the road can deal with it. I sound like one of those two old guys sitting up in the balcony in The Muppet Show. I don't know if you remember them. That's how I go through life nowadays, Brian, is I just sit up in the balcony and I just say cynical things. But why now, as far as the Rebels go, what prompted this offensive?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Absolutely. Listen, let's start with a sort of a generic question here about Syria. How screwed is the region?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. And this weekend, our Situation Report is coming to you from London. Now, that's in the United Kingdom. I'm just here for a few days getting my knighthood. It's very exciting. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Just to recap a little bit, because this is, for me, one of the fascinating parts here is the outside players. So Russia is providing some support. They are providing some assistance. Iran is providing some assistance, all to the Assad regime. So you have that element. On the rebel side, you've got – let's separate the U.S. and the SDF from now. Is there any coordination – I should ask this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Is there any coordination between the SDF, which is backed by the U.S., and the HTS and other elements of that rebel group?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Well, look, the com car is jammed, but we haven't even talked about Hezbollah. Hezbollah is sending fighters. into Syria to help. So yeah, we've got more to talk about here, Brian. And so I hope you'll come back. When we call, please pick up the phone. Brian Carter, Middle East Portfolio Manager for the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute. Look, man, really appreciate it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Thank you so much for your time. Wow. You thought the Middle East was complicated and then Syria kicks off. OK, coming up next, Iranian hackers are ramping up their cyber attacks, now reportedly targeting key members of Trump's incoming administration. We'll explore what that means for U.S. security with former FBI counterintelligence operative Eric O'Neill. And he'll be with us when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, it's been a month, right, since America wrapped up a historic election. You might have heard something about it. Yeah, it just happened. While the White House may be preparing for change, as they always do, the core challenges facing the country, well, they frankly remain the same. Look, the dollar continues its decline as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
adds, get this, $100,000 in new debt every second. Yeah. Oh, there goes another 100,000. Oh, and another. And well, you see what I'm saying? It just keeps adding up. Meanwhile, BRICS nations, right, are moving forward with what they call the unit. Catchy name. Their new global currency pegged 40% to gold and 60% to BRICS member currencies. Yeah, they're attacking the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
This shift could signal the start of a global monetary reset, possibly, one that reshapes the balance of financial power worldwide. Now, what do you do about it? Well, I've got one answer for you. Call the proud Americans of the Patriot Gold Group today, before it's too late. Now, mention PDB. And you'll always get best-in-class service from Patriots protecting Patriots.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Patriot Gold Group has the No Fee for Life IRA, where your IRA or 401k can be in physical gold and silver. And you may qualify, you may be eligible for the No Fee for Life IRA on qualifying rollovers. So call 1-888-PATRIOT. 870-5457 for a free investor guide. And don't forget Patriot Gold Group is Consumer Affairs top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And I'm here to tell you that's a lot of years in a row. Call 1-888-870-5457. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Now, this week, we learned that Iranian hackers are continuing their efforts to infiltrate the incoming Trump administration, with reports indicating that they've successfully targeted Kash Patel, the president-elect's nominee for the FBI.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Now, this isn't the first time that Iran has set its sights on Trump's team. Just in September, the Justice Department unveiled charges against three hackers tied to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, for compromising the electronic accounts of Trump campaign aides and others. These incidents highlight Tehran's aggressive cyber strategy aimed at influencing U.S. politics and security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
For more on this, let me bring in former FBI counterintelligence operative and founding partner of the Georgetown Group, Eric O'Neill. Now, he's also the author of an excellent book. It's called Gray Day, My Undercover Mission to Expose America's First Cyber Spy. Eric, thanks very much for joining us.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Let's talk about this, you know, at the 30,000 foot level, first of all. How serious and how successful has the Iranian regime been thus far in their cyber attacks and their hacking efforts?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Can you set the table? I mean, again, this... I'd mentioned at the top of the show that this is a complex situation. That's putting it mildly. But for the viewers' sake, can you kind of set the table on the Rebels' side? Who are the Rebels? Where did they start from? How would you categorize them in terms of other groups out there in the Middle East? Sure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
I'm sorry for interrupting, but I think when people think about that, I want to focus in a second on the attacks against the Trump administration in particular and their efforts to hack into those accounts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
But when people hear about the infrastructure, whether it's the power grid or it's wastewater or whatever it might be, transportation, I think a lot of times they think the perpetrators are essentially the Chinese or the Russians. So where do the Iranians fit in this? I mean, how aggressive have they been? How do they compare to the aggressiveness of the other key players?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Eric, with their efforts against the incoming administration, key players within the Trump world, what is their objective, do you think?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Are they looking for specific intel or is there a specific priority target that they're going after? Or is this more about just seeing what they can get up to, seeing what sort of chaos they can create, just kind of hoovering up whatever is out there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
No, I think that part of it is definitely true and has been for quite a long time, right? If you can chip away at the credibility of democracy, you know, sometimes I think the American public gets wrapped up in the idea that, you know, they're favoring one team or the other, right? Oh, you know, Putin wants this person to win. The Chinese want this person to win. Right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Sometimes it literally is just going after the credibility of free and fair elections or going after democracy and its concepts to sort of create this dissatisfaction. And they've been very successful, I would argue, from that point of view. But are you surprised that people like Kash Patel
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
others who have been in security positions within the government and have been you know for some time now in sort of the the world of the leading presidential candidate coming through the election season the campaign season are you surprised that people aren't operating encrypted systems you know and and creating more security around their communications
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Yeah, it does seem like those that are on the offensive, right? I mean, whether it's the Iranian regime or any other state-sponsored effort or, you know, pseudo-state-sponsored effort, it does seem like they are so aggressive that they can almost stay one step ahead, right? You come up with another defense mechanism. You come up with another way of preventing an attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
they've already moved on, right? So, you know, I'm not being critical because it is a difficult thing, whether you're in the private or public sector, but I am surprised sometimes that the security that's implemented within a campaign team isn't already as good as it can possibly be.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
How good is the guidance and how proactive is the guidance from the FBI when it comes to reaching out to these, you know, the various campaigns, but also let's talk about the corporations too. Is it a two-way dialogue or is it, okay, we've issued another memo, we've talked about a threat, off we go. I mean, how proactive is the Bureau in this effort?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
but that coordination between the Bureau and other elements of the government and the private sector in particular, I think is really important because sometimes I think in the past, it's always struck me as sort of a one way, hey, you tell us what's happening, right? So if you get breached as a company, you come and report it to us, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
But I sometimes have worried that there hasn't been a sharing of information to the degree possible. So it's good to hear that that's been improving. It's increasing. It is. We're going to take a quick break and then we'll be back to the PDB Situation Report with Eric O'Neill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And by the way, if you haven't picked up his new book, Gray Day, My Undercover Mission to Expose America's First Cyber Spy, then shame on you. Get out there, get that book during the break, and then we'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is former FBI counterintelligence operative and founding partner of the Georgetown Group, Eric O'Neill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Eric, thanks very much for sticking around. You talked about at the beginning of this, you mentioned the hacking, the cyber attacks that take place in the critical infrastructure of the US. Can you elaborate on that? How bad is it? How aggressive is it? Talk more about not just the Iranians, but other key players and kind of what their game plan is. But how insidious is it?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Is there a connection between with Salt Typhoon and what they have been engaged in and the fact that for years now, regional telecoms providers in the U.S. have been buying, because it's low cost, buying Chinese hardware to use in their telecom systems? Or is that just, look, they're doing whatever they can to get within our systems and to access whatever information is possible?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
I don't know if you can see it, but I've got my shocked face on right now, Eric.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
in for an espionage. Listen, I got to tell you something. This has been really, really great. And you've been a very good friend of the show. I hope you'll pick up the phone the next time we call. Eric O'Neill, former FBI counterintelligence operative, founding partner of the Georgetown Group. Thank you, man, for joining us today. And I hope to see you again here soon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Yeah, man, I tell you what, between our conversations about Syria and our conversations about cybersecurity and protecting your information and that of the U.S. government and other countries, well, maybe next weekend we'll have a cheery conversation, right? That's all the time we've got for the PDB Situation Report. It's been a delight to bring this weekend's show to you from London, England.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Next week, we'll be bringing it to you from the Middle East, from an undisclosed location. But now, listen, if you have any questions or comments, I want you to reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. It's always, always a happy day at the PDB Secret Lair.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
When Carl, the mailman, drops off this mailbag chock full of your questions and comments, and then what happens is our mailroom takes the most interesting and also the most bizarre questions and comments, and we smoosh them together into what we call our monthly Ask Me Anything episodes. Also, to listen to the podcast ad-free, right? Well, you know what to do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I told you it was very simple. I'm Mike Baker. And until next time, from some location somewhere in the world, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
I mean, that all sounds very nice and political, right? I mean, he's he's he's remaking his image. I'm sure he's got a public relations firm working with him on this. But do you believe it? Does I mean, is this is just he's doing this, you know, as window dressing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And because I think people when when folks first heard that Assad was was taking this this pressure and it was a real problem for his regime. I think that the initial reaction from a lot of people was, oh, well, that's good. but the concern is always what comes in behind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Start things off in Syria, where rebel forces continue their advance south, putting President Assad's regime on the defensive. Brian Carter from the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute will join us to break down the latest developments in this incredibly complex situation. And isn't that what the Middle East needed now? More chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And I think the more that people are hearing about what HTS is all about, this main group, and those that are kind of cobbling together with him, I mean, are you buying this remake of the image? Do you believe that that's the case, or is he just doing that because it allows him to advance the ball?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Now, there are so many layers here. I'm hoping you'll do for us this kind of... simplify what's happening, if that's possible, because there are a number of players, right? It's not just the Assad regime, the Syrian regime. And now the Syrian regime is essentially, not to oversimplify, but it's essentially an offshoot of Shia. So they are receiving significant support from the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
But who are the players out there? Because there are a number of them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Next, we'll shift stateside, where Iranian hackers are ramping up their cyber attacks, reportedly breaching the President-elect's nominee for FBI Director, Kash Patel. We'll get insights from former FBI counterintelligence operative and founding partner of the Georgetown Group, Eric O'Neill. But first, the Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Okay. Now, as if there weren't enough folks attending this party, you've also got the Russians, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Yeah. And I think they've always, I mean, obviously during the Cold War, Syria was aligned with the Soviet Union. And I think they still see it historically as sort of their foothold in the Middle East, their ability to have more influence in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
So you've got the Russians, you've got the Iranians, you've got the US, you've got Turkey, you've got a variety of different groups, the Kurds and others, all engaged out there. To what degree do you think Assad is actually in danger? What are the chances he collapses, his regime collapses?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
The civil war in Syria broke wide open this week after rebels achieved significant victories by capturing two major cities, Aleppo and Hama, in a rapid offensive that has shaken the Assad regime's hold on the region. The fall of Aleppo a long-contested urban stronghold, marks a symbolic and strategic blow to the government, while Hamas capture further isolates Damascus, the regime's capital.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
In the list of priorities, where is Holmes in terms of size and importance compared to, say, Aleppo, Damascus, Hama?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Listen, Brian, if you'll stay right there, don't go anywhere. We've got a number of terrific sponsors. We're going to hear from a couple of them right now. We're going to take a quick break and then we'll be right back with Brian Carter. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Look, if you're tired of the same old coffee from those mega corporations, and you know the ones I'm talking about, pushing their woke agendas, and they do, well, listen up. It's time to take a stand and support a brand that truly embodies American values. And of course, here I'm talking about Blackout Coffee, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
They stand with hardworking Americans who believe in the basics, family, faith, and freedom. They roast some of the most incredible coffee that you'll ever taste using only premium grade beans and shipped out to you within 48 hours of roasting. I'm serious about that. The beans are in the roaster, and then before you know it, they land on your porch. You bring them into the kitchen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
You make your coffee. It's in your mug, and it's delicious. So for the cold brew fans, let me tell you about this. Blackout Coffee is now also excited to announce the launch of their two new ready-to-drink cold brew coffee latte options. Look, don't settle for less. Make the switch to Blackout Coffee. Head on over to blackoutcoffee.com slash pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
And use the code, and this code won't surprise you, the code is PDB, for 20% off your first order. That's blackoutcoffee.com slash PDB, and the code is PDB. Look, join the movement and taste the difference. Remember, with every sip, you're supporting a brand that stands for America. And as we say around these parts, be awake, not woke. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
These developments suggest a dramatic shift in momentum, with rebel factions increasingly uniting against President Assad's forces, who now appear to be in retreat. Joining me now for more on this is Brian Carter. He's the Middle East Portfolio Manager for the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute. Brian, welcome to the show.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | December 7th, 2024: Will Assad Survive in Syria? & Iranian Hackers Target Kash Patel
Let me bring back our guest, Brian Carter of the American Enterprise Institute. Brian, thanks very much for sticking around. We'll need about another 12 hours, it seems, to sort through the complexity of the Syrian situation. But where do you think, or how would you describe, let me put it that way, how would you describe the current U.S. administration's position on what's happening in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the Patriots over at Patriot Gold today. Now, they've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. Think about that. Not four, not five, not six, but seven years in a row. Go to patriotgoldgroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
outlined the goals of the rebel uprising, which began late last week with a surprise offensive in the north, reigniting the country's brutal civil war. So far, his fighters have managed to rapidly seize large parts of northern Syria, including the critical cities of Aleppo and Hama, and are now advancing south toward the capital.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Speaking from an undisclosed location, Al Ghulani did not mince words, telling CNN that his coalition of militants will not stop their offensive until they've brought an end to the authoritarian Assad regime and evicted their Russian and Iranian backers from the country. The militant leader said, quote, The goal of the revolution remains the overthrow of this regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
It's our right to use all available means to achieve that goal. He continued, quote, the seeds of the regime's defeat have always been within it. The Iranians attempted to revive the regime, buying it time, and later the Russians also tried to prop it up. But the truth remains, this regime is dead, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Now, Al Ghulani, a former al-Qaeda operative, spoke of replacing the regime with a pluralistic government based on institutions and a council chosen by the people. Well, that all sounds fine, but I guess the question is, can you believe him?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
It was a marked change of tone from the hardline rhetoric al-Ghalani used in his last interview back in 2013 when he spoke to Al Jazeera about furthering the cause of a branch of al-Qaeda called the Nusra Front in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, al-Ghalani began as a fighter for the Islamic State of Iraq before being sent back to Syria to further the interests of the emerging ISIS terrorist group, after the civil war kicked off in 2011. But in the years that followed, as splits emerged between ISIS and al-Qaeda, he turned on his backers in Iraq and began fighting ISIS in Syria alongside al-Qaeda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
He would eventually turn on al-Qaeda as well, renouncing his ties and working to consolidate his power by brutally eliminating competitors and former allies. He has since worked to remake his public image. Oh, look at that. He's on a campaign to remake his image after working for ISIS and al-Qaeda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
But he's been working to remake that image as a moderate, appealing to Syria's religious and ethnic minorities. Al-Ghalani attempted to explain his supposed transformation to CNN, saying, quote, a person in their 20s will have a different personality than someone in their 30s or 40s and certainly someone in their 50s. This is human nature, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
OK, so so I worked for ISIS and then I worked for Al-Qaeda. But you know what? I don't know. What did he ever come to Jesus meeting? But it appears his coalition is still employing the tactical hardline Islamic radicals. They seized the central city of Hama on Thursday, Syria's fourth-largest city, reportedly breaking through the Syrian army's defensive lines by relying on suicide attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
The rebels have wasted no time in pressing south since taking Hama and as of Friday are nearing Syria's third largest city, Homs, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Now, Homs is the last major city in government hands on the road to the capital, Damascus, in southwest Syria, which, of course, is the seat of President Assad's government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
If the rebels take Homs, they will cut off the Assad regime from its loyalist heartland, as well as from Russian military bases on the Mediterranean coast that house bombers critical to the regime's defense. Additionally, its capture would sever smuggling routes between Lebanon and Syria used by Iran and their terrorist proxy, Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
an analyst for the International Crisis Group, told the journal, quote, if Holmes falls, I don't see how the regime can survive. Coming up, German intelligence authorities have thwarted an Islamic State-linked terrorist plot to attack a popular Christmas market in Bavaria. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
It's Friday, 6 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Although, to be fair, yes, if you're being accurate, it is the evening bulletin. And again, I apologize for my travel schedule. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the afternoon bulletin. Okay, fair enough.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Again, it's the evening bulletin, but let's not split hairs. I want to turn your attention to Europe, which is facing renewed threats of Islamic terrorism amid their ongoing migrant crisis. German authorities recently foiled a planned terrorist attack on a popular Christmas market in Bavaria. after receiving a tip from a foreign intelligence agency about an imminent threat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Following the tip-off, they raided a shared accommodation for asylum seekers in Augsburg, arresting a 37-year-old Iraqi asylum seeker who had engaged with operatives of the Islamic State terrorist group online. That's according to a report from Politico.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
The suspect had recently made a number of posts on social media glorifying suicide bombings and executions by the Islamic State, but intended to take things further. He scouted the city's popular Christmas market, taking photographs of the site in preparation for his attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
The suspect intended to use a vehicle to ram into the crowd, and that's a method reminiscent of past lone wolf attacks in Europe inspired by the Islamic State. The Iraqi migrant, who is also said to have openly supported jihadist ideology in multiple online forums, is reportedly awaiting deportation under a rarely invoked measure for individuals deemed an imminent security threat
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
The threat of Islamic terrorism has been growing inside Germany in recent years, and Christmas markets throughout the country have emerged as particularly vulnerable targets. Last month, authorities thwarted, there's that word again, thwarted, it's a fine word, a planned attack on a market by a 17-year-old Turkish male who also planned to plow through the crowd with a truck.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
The previous year, authorities foiled two separate attacks targeting Christmas markets by Iraqi and Afghan nationals. The planned attacks were likely inspired by the Berlin Christmas market attack in 2016, when a man who pledged allegiance to the Islamic State drove a truck through the crowd, killing 13 people. But the threat is not unique to Germany.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
In early October, Ken McCallum, head of the UK's MI5 security service, warned of the growing threat posed by al-Qaeda and ISIS, particularly in the context of ongoing unrest in the Middle East. While militant violence linked to these groups has not yet materialized on a large scale in the UK, Well, he said the risk is significant.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
First, an update on the civil war in Syria, where the leader of the Islamist rebel insurgents has given his first interview, vowing to press south towards Damascus and to topple the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
He pointed to the increasing radicalization of young people, noting that 13% of those under investigation for terrorism-related offenses in the UK are under the age of 18. That's a threefold increase over the past three years. Let me just read that again. That is surprising. He pointed to the increasing radicalization of young people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
noting that 13% of those under investigation for terrorism-related offenses in the UK are under the age of 18. McCallum warned that all of Europe was at a heightened risk as al-Qaeda, the Islamic State, and other militant groups worked to exploit the conflict in the Middle East to recruit new members in, quote, resumed efforts to export terrorism, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
And that, my friends, is the PDB evening or afternoon bulletin, whichever you prefer, for Friday, 6 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And look at that. I can tell from the calendar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
that it's Friday. And if it's Friday, that means that every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on the first TV, well, we launch a new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. We have outstanding guests this weekend, brought to you, of course, from London, England. And we'll be looking at a variety of issues, including, of course, the complex mess that is Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
and the Iranian regime's cyber attacks against the incoming Trump administration. So join us again on the PDB Situation Report. You can find that on the First TV every Friday evening at 10 p.m. Of course, our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, check that out, and every podcast platform where you might get your podcast stuff.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
Then we'll look at the renewed threats that Islamic terrorism poses to Europe as intelligence authorities in Germany thwart an Islamic State-inspired lone wolf terrorist attack targeting a popular Christmas market. That's not the first time that that has happened. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 6th, 2024: Architect of Syria Uprising Breaks His Silence & Islamic State Terror Attack Thwarted In Germany
We'll begin in Syria, where the leader of the Islamic rebel insurgents has spoken publicly for the first time, vowing to overthrow the regime of President Assad and push out Iranian and Russian interests as his fighters inch closer to Damascus. In an exclusive interview with CNN on Friday, Abu Muhammad al-Gulani, leader of the former al-Qaeda affiliate HTS,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Joining us now to give his perspective on the new tariff regime is Kenneth Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America. Ken, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Hey, thanks for having me back. Now, I'm going to ask you to take both sides of this argument, because frankly, I'm not smart enough to really understand the whole tariff situation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
I don't know if you've ever been to India. Why wasn't there pushback from previous administrations against this? It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with a major shakeup in global trade as President Trump announces sweeping new tariffs on imports. He did that on what's now called Liberation Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And I would play devil's advocate, but I don't think I'm clever enough to do that. So let's start with why... What's the positive side of this tariff regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Right. And that's an interesting point, Ken, because Certainly in the U.S. here, a number of people are acting shocked at what the announcement was on Liberation Day. By the way, I don't know if Liberation Day is going to be an official government holiday. One can only hope. But I think there was this... shock, right, from at least inside the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
I think there was less surprise from the global players because I think they've been anticipating this better perhaps than, and maybe it's just a media response and it's just a negative media response because that's what you're going to get with the Trump administration. I don't know.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah. You've given us the best case scenario earlier in the conversation. Give me the worst case scenario.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And that's for the manufacturers. That's for the importers. That's for the people on the business side. What about the consumers, right? Because, again, there's this concept here that, you know, what's happening, this tariff regime could send the U.S. and, you know, parts of the world into a recession. So, talk to me about that. And
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Doesn't that imply that, look, if the economy heads south in that regard, you know, we did say, look, he's different. He's a disruptor. He doesn't really care about politics in the traditional sense, but the party does, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
You really don't like those dogs, do you? No, I don't like those dogs. I've seen those robotic dogs. They're amazingly cute, actually. Let me interrupt you just for a second, though. Let me interrupt you because you said something really interesting that I want to pick up on, which is this is long-term. This is long-term. But look, I think maybe we can agree that the average American...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
It doesn't think in the long term, right? We make very quick decisions. Everyone's got ADHD. And so you see what I'm saying? I do. I do.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
They don't think about... But look, I guess my point, Ken, is it seems like we might be glossing over this idea that the American public is willing to take long-term pain for something like this. You can't, I mean, comparing it to the Chinese culture, I think is problematic because that's a whole different world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
That's a really interesting... element of this, I think. And look, I think from my perspective, I think it's excellent. I think it's about time that the U.S. tries to rebalance the global trade situation. I think that's a very good thing to do. I think trying to onshore manufacturing, all of those things, I think it makes sense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And I also agree with your very initial point, which is consistency is going to be important here. And it does look like right off the bat that there may be some negotiation going on for individual countries, perhaps. Yeah. But I also kind of like the idea that this is, in a way, you could argue it's apolitical, right? Our allies have been hit with the tariffs just like our adversaries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Absolutely. So I think that's also important. Yeah. So I like the idea. I guess what I'm concerned about when I look at this is the downside potential impact on on the ability for this to go for the long term. As you said, it has to be consistent, it has to be long term. And if the economy heads south for a period of time, you know what the voters are like. And- Yep, it's possible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Wait a second, Ken. Wait a second. Did you just make up that saying?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
The Subaru Forester does not compete with the Jaguar. You know, I had a Subaru Forester when I was younger, and it's a great car. It's a hell of a car.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
So, you know, I think the inconsistency, sorry to interrupt, Kim, but I'm mindful of time now, is also problematic, not just from sort of the business mindset, but also from an operational perspective. Inconsistency in this is going to really play havoc with the logistics and global supply chain concerns for a variety of reasons. Look, this has been fantastic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
I really appreciate you taking the time to sit with us and explain this. What I'd love to do is have you back on in a couple of months where we can analyze the current state of play, what's happened over the past several weeks. And so that would be excellent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And I also hope, and this is sincere, I hope that Liberation Day does become a regular holiday and has great traditions like picnicking and excess drinking. That's my hope.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
That's right. That's right. All right, Ken. Listen, Ken Raposa, the Coalition for a Prosperous America. This has been great. Thank you again for joining us and look forward to the next conversation, man. There's a lot to unpack there when we're talking tariffs. I guess that was part of that conversation was to try to say it's not just this or that. It's not as simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And that's probably true for most things. All right, China just wrapped up two days of military drills around Taiwan. It's part show of force and it's part warning. Beijing has also unleashed a fresh wave of threats, calling Taiwan's new president a, quote, parasite. So what message is Xi Jinping really sending? Well, I think he's sending the message that he doesn't like the Taiwanese president.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation joins us next to break it down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. China is once again turning up the pressure on Taiwan. This week, the Chinese military staged two days of war games around the island, deploying fighter jets, naval vessels, and long-range rocket units in what Beijing called a, quote, strong punishment for Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-teh.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
In addition to the military hardware, Chinese officials also deployed some, well, let's call it interesting propaganda, releasing a short animated video calling President Lai a parasite and accusing him of pushing the island closer to war. Lai, for his part, has called for peace and stability. But, well, China clearly isn't buying it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
So you ask yourself, what's behind this latest round of saber rattling and how serious is the threat? Those are all good questions. Joining us now to answer them is Steve Yates. He's a senior research fellow for China and national security policy at the Heritage Foundation. Steve, thanks very much for coming back on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Okay. Yeah. Now, it's interesting. You note that Taiwan was hit with the tariffs. I mean, a variety of allies were, right? Israel was hit with the tariffs, even though they canceled their tariffs on the US. The European Union, of course. What other reaction has come out of Taiwan at this point? Have they talked about retaliatory measures?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Except, I mean, to your point, though, it seems like up to this stage, it has been a little bit, and I've never really, I don't think I've ever said this on the air before, but willy-nilly. I think I can say that. I think I'm not too old to say willy-nilly. I don't even know if I've ever said that before. Well, that's okay. Every now and then I channel my mom. Look at this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah. Looking at the, going back to the issue of the recent military drills, What do you make of what appears to be, at the same time, them ramping up propaganda, sort of a covert action campaign? Do you put any significance to that or is it just kind of an aspect of what they typically would do anyway?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Well, I mean, I think they have in a sense, maybe this is not the correct way to view it, but the fact that they've now got, what, 54% tariffs on all goods coming out of China, you could argue maybe that's their response. It's not just an economic move. It's not just about rebalancing trade. Maybe they're trying to send another message to the Chinese regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
We're breaking new ground. We're breaking new ground. Breaking ground. Breaking ground. Yeah. So... So let's leave that to the side just for now because I want to revisit that. But maybe for the sake of everybody watching, can you give us a layman's explanation as to how tariffs work?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
It's a bit of a sidetrack here, but that's a really interesting subject. In your experience and from your time working this region, what is the access like for the average Chinese citizen on the mainland to outside information?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
It's interesting what you said about being inundated with information. It reminds me of this is apropos of absolutely nothing. I'm just warning our viewers. But we had a Russian defector years and years and years and years and years ago, dead now, who was moved to the States. And he just standing in a grocery store, just sort of just spaced out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
He was standing in front of a vast array of different types and brands of orange juice. He just wanted orange juice, right? But then he went to get orange juice and he was overwhelmed by the volume. It's not a perfect analogy to what you were talking about, but it's not bad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah, at some point. Steve, stay right there. All right. I've got a whole long list of questions still for you, but we have to take a quick break and then we'll be right back with Steve Yates on the Situation Report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. We're joined once again by Steve Yates, Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Steve, thanks very much for sticking around. We've been talking all things China and Taiwan. Let me ask you this. It's going to seem like a disjointed question to throw at you, but there's a reason for it. What do we know about the health of Xi Jinping and what do we know about his hold on power at this stage?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah. Okay, that's really interesting. The reason for going down that path is that if you look at the timeline, everybody always wants to know, when's China going to move on Taiwan, right? And then they want to know, what's that going to look like?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
But the question of when, I would argue, again, maybe I'm wrong, hasn't happened yet, but I could be, is it could depend on Xi Jinping's health because he could view this as his most important legacy, right? So, is he really going to step down, step aside before a move, whatever it looks like, on Taiwan? So, that's why I was asking you about his health.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Industry analyst at the Coalition for a Prosperous America, Kenneth Raposa, stops by to give us his take. Later in the show, China just wrapped up two days of military drills around Taiwan and labeled the island's new president a, quote, parasite. Well, that's not complimentary. It's the latest escalation in cross-strait tensions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah. Well, I mean, oh, hey, come on. The police? Are you kidding me? Wow. Hey, I'm there. I'm there. I just, you know. Yeah. My son? No, he doesn't have any. Fantastic. Although I will say this, the song you cited from Sting, not my favorite, but still. It wasn't the police either. It was Sting solo. Oh, I know. I know it was Sting. He got a little self-indulgent. I'm just saying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
So how well defended is Taiwan?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
What's your perspective on the PLA and the Chinese regime's military? In terms of an invasion, again, whatever that would look like, I agree with that. I can't imagine it's going to look like a series of missile barrages that just destroy the island. That seems counter to the Chinese regime's mindset, I think. But as far as the military goes, Is that even possible?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Would they look and say, why would we attack other Chinese? And here's, I guess, part of that question is, do they view Taiwanese as Chinese in a sense? So they'd be shooting at each other.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
This is, I just guess, I hate to ask this question, right? Because I know you're expecting it and it's always one of those, you know, we're just speculating here. But from all those years of dealing with the region, what do you think this is going to look like?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Well, I'll tell you what, you just uttered the secret word of the day, Moxie. So you win a prize, which is exciting. It's like the old Tonight Show when the duck would fly. Never mind, now I'm dating myself. It's a clown. Steve, listen, thank you very much.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
You're going to come back because we've really just kind of scratched the surface on this whole thing and there's other parts of it that I really want to talk to you about. So I hope you'll come back when we call you. Steve Yates, Heritage Foundation. Listen, man, thank you again for joining us. Well, that is all the time that we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. Don't look so sad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Come on, we'll be back next week. If you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes, or if you have any suggestions for how we should celebrate going forward, Liberation Day, right? What traditions should we have every year? Well, just reach out to me. It's pdbatthefirsttv.com. Send me your thoughts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
And every month, with your questions, our amazing team selects a bunch of them, and they produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes. Finally, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, yes, you can do that. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
We're commanders of the widget dynasty.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Our old friend Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation, he's going to join us to explain it. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. In a Rose Garden address on Wednesday, President Trump unveiled a series of sweeping tariffs aimed at reshaping U.S. trade policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Yeah, I mean, I do think that one of the, and this is obviously one of the things that people who are pro-Trump administration are, you know, they always cite is the fact that, you know, he's a disruptor in part because... to some degree, he doesn't care, right? He's not a traditional politician, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
So, I think, you know, traditionally, you get a pack of politicians in there and they'd look at this and go, well, the potential for recession, well, the potential for pain on the consumer's part, and from a political perspective, it's tough to tell the consumers or the voters that life's tough and you just got to deal with it. And so, I think
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
I do like the fact that there is this element of let's just try it. It's like with cutting waste and fraud out of the government, right? I mean, people talked about it for decades, generations, and nobody ever tries it because of just the general dysfunctional nature of Washington, D.C. But getting back to the tariffs,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
It sounds like, from what you're saying, it sounds like there's a number of ways that that additional cost can be absorbed, possibly absorbed by the manufacturer, maybe absorbed by the consumer. So it's not one size fits all and it's not as simple as saying, as you pointed out, the prices are going to increase, therefore the consumer is going to pay more. Am I missing something there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
It's not easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Watch yourself there. Easy, easy. I feel like I've just been insulted on my own part. Come on, Ross Perot. The giant is something. Maybe I'm a millennial, Ken. You don't know that. Maybe you are. Maybe I'm a baby boomer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Now, the plan includes a universal 10% tariff on all imports set to take effect on April 5th, with higher country-specific tariffs such as 34% on Chinese goods and 20% on European Union products beginning on April 9th. Are you keeping track of all this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
The announcement sent shockwaves through global markets, causing significant declines in stock futures and raising concerns, of course, about potential inflation and recession risks. Now, critics argue that these tariffs could increase consumer prices and disrupt international supply chains. But my next guest has quite a different outlook.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
Uh, it's, it's, it's obviously not the guys that make widgets either. I clearly know that. Um, and, uh, so listen, if you can stay right where you are, don't, don't go anywhere. Uh, we, I've got a whole page full of questions here. Uh, but stay there if you can. And, uh, we'll, uh, be right back with Ken Raposa, uh, on the situation report. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | April 5th, 2025: Trump's Economic Gambit & China Flexes On Taiwan
With us again is Ken Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America. We're talking all things tariffs. Ken, let me ask you this. I think people are confused over how we got, over a number of years, how we got to a situation where so many countries out there have high tariffs on the US. And it was clearly out of balance, but how did that happen over the years? Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining us once again is retired FBI Special Agent Kurt Peipel. Kurt, we were talking about the New Orleans terror attack that took place early in the morning of New Year's Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
On the same day, then we had another incident, and this one's still being investigated in terms of is it a terror attack, is it not? And that is the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded just outside of the entrance to the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Talk to me about that. There's a lot of complexity in this one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
And I think it's always a little bit dangerous to speculate about a perpetrator's mindset or mental health. This individual, again, like with New Orleans, there's some similarities, right? This individual and the attacker in New Orleans, both with military experience. And in fact, the Las Vegas incident, he was an active member of the military with the special forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
They both actually served at Fort Bragg, although there's no indication that they served at the same time, knew each other, etc. They both were in Afghanistan in 2009, I believe. Again, no indication that they knew each other at that point. But talk to me about what you know of the incident in Las Vegas. Certainly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Investigators have since discovered that both vehicles were rented through the same peer-to-peer app, raising questions about whether these attacks were coordinated. What do these incidents tell us about the threats that we face in 2025 and how might authorities respond to those threats?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Does it seem... I mean, I suppose it has to be taken into account. It's a factor in trying to determine motivation. But as an individual who was a Green Beret, a significant period of time in the military, and yet the...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report and welcome to a brand new year. It's 2025. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start today's show with a deadly New Year's Day, where two incidents over 1700 miles apart have shot the nation and sparked new concerns about terrorism on U.S. soil.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
the setup right the way that he had orchestrated this seemed very unsophisticated nuts i mean it was just you know some fireworks not even commercial grade it's just available out you know to anybody uh some fuel canisters nothing nothing nothing particularly sophisticated about what he was doing almost as if there wasn't really either a lot of thought or intent to do a lot of collateral damage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
I assume that this is just one of those elements that goes into, again, the investigation and trying to determine motivation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Yeah, I assume that that's, again, there's this process that you have to step through, which kind of works against kind of the people's desire to get answers immediately, right? Which then fuels a variety of conversations, particularly in social media. And it's very tough when you say things like, look, you've got to let the investigation play out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Well, here to share his insight is Kurt Peipel, a recently retired FBI senior agent with 20 years of experience and, full disclosure, now working for Portman Square Group, our company that's an intelligence and security and risk mitigation firm. Kurt, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
then that's very frustrating for people because we've become used to getting answers or thinking we can get answers immediately, whether it's because we can just Google search something or people are used to watching police dramas on TV and everything gets wrapped up in short order. So we do live in difficult times, and I think that makes it even more difficult on law enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
It makes it more incumbent upon them, I think, to be more transparent as we were talking about earlier, to be more proactive in explaining the stages of the investigation. So, I assume that with the Las Vegas incident, that one of the first things they do, because of the situation in New Orleans, is to try to draw any connections. Is anything related here?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Could there be a support mechanism that was fueling both efforts?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Well, and I'm sure they're also looking, obviously trying to determine a state of mind, looking to see whether there are any issues, mental health concerns, any conflicts within his family. I mean, all these things come into play, whether it's the New Orleans attack or whether it's this incident in Vegas. How do you mitigate this risk?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
From your perspective, how do you try, not that you can ever prevent everything, but how do you try to prevent the next one?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Yeah, of course, man. Of course. And look, honestly, you didn't need to get dressed up for the Situation Report. But thank you. Thank you for making the effort. I appreciate it. So let's kind of start at the 30,000-foot level with New Orleans. We'll start with New Orleans first. Can you walk us through how does an investigation like this unfold?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
It's one thing if you're talking about a government facility, right? Where if you, you know, you've got more control, you've got more ability to do that. If you're talking about the Vegas strip, good luck with that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Well, but I think there's good questions, important questions to be asked here, particularly with, I mean, you've got two distinct incidents, right? The Vegas situation, I think, is going to prove to be significantly different than what happened in New Orleans. Certainly. The New Orleans incident has precedent, and extremely recent precedent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
We had a similar situation at a Christmas market a couple hours west of Berlin. It's the same thing. We've had the same thing during a Christmas parade here in the US just a handful of years ago. We know that this is a tactic that can be used, whether it's from an organized terror group or whether it's from a lone wolf who's just radicalized.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
I think the concern, I think for some of the general public is are we learning lessons and are we doing what's necessary to prevent these types of scenarios?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Yeah, no, absolutely. Listen, there's a lot more we could be talking about here, Kurt, but being mindful of your time, hopefully we'll have you back. I appreciate you jumping on like this, Kurt Bible, former senior FBI agent, and of course now running cyber investigations for Portman Square Group. Had to put that in there. Yeah, yeah. Very self-serving on our part, wasn't it, Kurt?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Anyway, listen, thank you very much, Matt, and a happy new year to you. It's off to a bit of a sad and worrisome start, obviously, with these incidents, but I appreciate your time very much. Yeah. Thank you. Appreciate it. Coming up after the break, we'll unpack what Xi Jinping's New Year's message says about China's economic and geopolitical ambitions for 2025.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Did you catch Xi's New Year's message? It was scintillating. Gordon Chang, author of Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, will join us to break it all down. We'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. As we bring in 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered his New Year's address, setting the tone for the year ahead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
He acknowledged, interestingly, the economic challenges facing China and pledged more policies to stimulate growth in the face of what he called external uncertainties. Xi doubled down on this push for technological self-reliance, highlighting advancements in high-tech manufacturing as a point of pride.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
The attack occurs and then maybe, I mean, I don't mean for you to get too far into the weeds, but just kind of lead our audience through how this investigation unfolds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
But perhaps the most striking part of his message was his assertion that reunification, as he calls it, with Taiwan is, quote, inevitable. His words signal Beijing's continued hardline stance on the issue, raising concerns about what that might mean for cross-strait relations and regional stability in the coming year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
So what does Xi Jinping's New Year's message reveal about his priorities and his strategies for 2025? Well, I'm glad you asked. Here to give us insight is Gordon Chang, author of a great book, Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, and a very good friend of the Situation Report. You can follow him on X at Gordon G. Chang. Gordon, thanks very much for coming back on the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Pretty soon, I'm just going to have to start calling it the Situation Report with Gordon Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Yeah, he mentioned, he used a phrase, I think it was in talking about some of the economic challenges, I think his phrase was external issues, external vulnerabilities, as if he's not taking actual responsibility for the economy, saying maybe there's outside forces at play here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
practically is feasible when you talk about the US shutting out China? I mean, in your mind, is that an actual potential thing? It just sounds like we've talked about in the past, we've got to onshore our ability to manufacture, we've got to be less reliant on Chinese production. It never really seems to happen that way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
If you look at the economy, I want to do this a lot to go through here, as you pointed out, we could spend the better part of the day talking about his New Year's message. But let's look at the economy to start with. From Xi's perspective, How do you assess the top line concerns or problems that he's facing with the economy? How would you lay them out? How would you list them?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Driving it into the ground, how? How? And I know you know that I'm a brilliant economist, but talk to me like I'm not. Use smaller words.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Is there a legitimate middle class that exists in China?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Is there a primary recipient? I mean, where is most of that capital flight going?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
This may sound like a simplistic question, but, well, those are my favorite kind of questions. Those are great questions. In a place like the U.S. or other countries that have democratic elections, if the economy is heading south or if people are feeling it in their pocketbook, there's a recourse, right? I mean, you go to the polls and you vote the bums out and you bring in a new administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
In an environment like China right now, if there is a certain sense that the economy is getting worse, if people are feeling it in their pocketbooks, what's their recourse, if any?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
That is really interesting. Gordon, we've got a lot more to cover here, but if you'll stay put, don't go anywhere. We're going to take a quick break, and then we'll be right back on the Situation Report with Gordon Chang. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Gordon Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Gordon, we've been talking about the top line issues that were highlighted in Xi Jinping's New Year's address. You raised some really interesting points about current society in China. And one question that popped up when you mentioned that some folks are just kind of exiting society in one way or another. They're just saying, I'm done with it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Maybe they can't leave, but they're just sort of going off the grid. It leads me to wonder, Where is Xi Jinping's primary support coming from? Is it the rural population? Is it the elites? Where is his strongest support?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
How would you assess his relationship with the party elders? I mean, I recall at one point during a meeting, I'm probably gonna get this wrong, but I think it was in the past couple of years, he did get a fair amount of pushback from senior and some retired party elders during some meetings, which I thought was extremely interesting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
But how would you assess the relationship now that he has with those at the top of the party?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Let me ask you this, because I mean, again, part of the problem, I think in today's world, it's a problem, but there's also an upside to it, obviously. But a lot of this plays out in the open, right, in real time now because of social media. And everybody, in a sense, you know, the media is playing beat the clock against everybody who's got a smartphone. So information is flowing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Now, if we pivot... in looking at his New Year's address to his comments about Taiwan. Talk to me about that. How do you read what he said during his address about Taiwan and reunification?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Is there a sense within the Chinese population on the mainland that this is an important issue? I mean, just the person walking the streets of Shanghai or Beijing, do they think about Taiwan and say, you know, it'll be good to unify with Taiwan? I mean, is it something that matters in a sense to the general population or is this just something that sits with Xi Jinping and his view of his legacy?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
And what that means also is a lot of misinformation, a lot of theories, a lot of conspiracy ideas. Everything's flowing out there and it's happening very quickly. Now, much was made about a statement from an FBI spokesperson on scene. in the immediate aftermath of the attack, when she came out and said that it's not an act of terrorism, it's not a terrorist act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Well, I mean, given what you've said about the economy, it's unlikely that they're going to return to an age of prosperity and property prices skyrocketing and all those things. So where is this heading? Where are we going in your estimation? Let's say in the short term, in 2025, what do you anticipate? And I'm not going to hold you to it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Well, maybe I will the next time we get together on the show. But what do you anticipate during the course of this year?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Yet there was an ISIS flag on the truck. They knew at the time. I guess what I'm saying is, why would somebody make that statement when it's so obvious that it may be an incorrect statement?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
We're being mindful of your time, Gordon, and we're just about out of time, but I've got to ask this question. If that's the case, if we're in a very short window, essentially, of when Xi may act related to Taiwan, you would have to assume that his assessment is that should he do that, that the West... will not engage in a shooting match with him.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
What do you think the West's response will be if he moves on Taiwan?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Right now, I know all our viewers are going, oh my God, I can't believe we're talking about this a couple of days into 2025. but it's important and I don't know anyone better to help us understand what's happening in this part of the world than you, Gordon. I really, really appreciate your insight and love having you on the show.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Gordon Chang, if you haven't picked up his book, Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America, I don't know what you're doing with your time. You got to get out there and get it. If you have a bookstore nearby, do they still have bookstores? You should go get it. If not, I'm sure you can find it. Plan Red, China's Project to Destroy America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Gordon, thank you so much for your insight and your time. Really appreciate it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Absolutely, Matt. And to you too and your family. All right. Well, on that cheery note, look at that. Starting the new year out with terrorist incidents and talk of potential war in East Asia. Okay, that's all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report. Maybe next weekend we'll do a musical or something to lift your spirits.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
If you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes or limericks or whatever you'd like to send us, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. As you know, we take those questions, we take those comments, and every month we pull a bunch of them out of the mailbag smush them together in an episode that we call Ask Me Anything. And we've got another one in production right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Retired FBI Senior Agent Kurt Peipel joins us to provide insight into these attacks and the ongoing investigations. Later in the show, we'll examine Xi Jinping's New Year's message. Did you catch that? Where he laid out China's economic challenges and renewed his hardline stance on Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
We're going to push that out here in the very near future to listen to the podcast of the show. Ad-free, it's very, very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting bdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
I think the flag on the back of his pickup truck, I think the explosive devices, I think his video stating an allegiance to ISIS. I think his family, ex-wife talking about his radicalization and sort of the process of turning to Islam. All of those things, I guess, could be considered clues to motivation. So I just wanted to ask the question because it was such an odd thing for someone to say.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
And I think law enforcement has an extremely difficult job. I think everybody can agree on that. And it's also extremely difficult to try to prevent an attack like this. If it turns out to be a lone wolf, someone who's got motivation, it's not particularly sophisticated. So it's a very tough job.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
I think it just sometimes is made tougher by missteps or misstatements that probably are better kept to themselves before they have all the facts in place. I guess I'm just cycling through some of the bizarreness of social media. Something else that was picked up on immediately was how quickly they covered up the ISIS flag. and on the pickup truck.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Again, it's one of those things that you think, well, it probably means nothing. But I worry sometimes that law enforcement hasn't caught up to how social media works and what the optics are and how they really need to, if they want to damp down sort of some of the conspiracy theories, They need to think about that a little bit more every time there's, unfortunately, an incident.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
It's a part and parcel of the investigation nowadays is, you know, how do we deal with public perception? Anyway, that's all. I'm going to climb off my soapbox now. Kurt, you turn it back over to you. Talk to me about the process of looking for associates, sort of that forensic work that's involved in saying, is he acting alone?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Author and China expert and friend of the show, Gordon Chang, will join us to break down what this means for Beijing's agenda in 2025. But first, our Situation Report Spotlight. Two major incidents shocked the nation on New Year's Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
So there's so much here to try to unpack, but the security that was present for the New Year's Eve celebration. And look, the authorities, everybody knows how busy the French Quarter is in New Orleans during the course of a New Year's Eve, right? And then the Sugar Bowl, the college football playoff game was scheduled for New Year's Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
So in the immediate aftermath of New Year's Eve, you have these two major large-scale public events. The police superintendent in New Orleans, again, I don't mean to be playing armchair quarterback, but it's a security situation. And so you need to do a hot wash on these things and understand where there may have been breakdowns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
The chief of police stated that the security barrier system that normally would have been in place was essentially out for repair in preparation for the Super Bowl, which is in February. So, I guess, you know, my question is, what's your perception of their preparedness in advance of New Year's Eve?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
They obviously were just working off of a temporary plan to have police cars and other barricades take the place of what sounds to be or seems to be their tier one option for security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
First, in New Orleans, where 42-year-old Shamsa Din-Jabbar drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street, killing at least 15 people and injuring over 30. Now, Jabbar, an Army veteran, was fatally shot by police at the scene. The FBI has revealed that the suspect had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and is investigating the attack as an act of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
It is a little disconcerting, right? I mean, obviously, look, again, law enforcement has a very, very difficult job. But you have to tear these things apart after an incident like this to understand what needs to change and what needs to be improved. They're going to play the sugar bowl. Today, in fact, I believe it's already underway as we are talking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Is that concerning to you that they pushed it off by a day? But do you think that that's enough of a delay in the aftermath of this attack, both from a security perspective and also from any other optic that you may consider?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Kurt, if you'd stay right where you are, we have to take a quick break, and then we'll be right back with Kurt Peipel, a retired senior FBI agent, talking about both New Orleans and coming up, we'll be talking about the Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Vegas. Stick around. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Just hours later, in Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, killing the driver, 37-year-old Matthew Livelsberger, and injuring seven bystanders. The vehicle was packed with fireworks and gas canisters, turning what initially appeared to be an accident into a deliberate act.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | January 4th, 2025: Terrorism Hits Home & Beijing’s Strategy for 2025
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Do you anticipate that these tariffs that currently exist between the US and China, you think that could continue through the rest of this year and into next?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
For more on this, let me bring in former Deputy National Security Advisor to the Vice President and Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation, that's a mouthful, Steve Yates. Steve, thanks very much for joining us again. Thank you, Mike. It's great to be with you again. Thank you. Hopefully, you feel that way at the end of our discussion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Okay. Well, I certainly take your point that part of this in terms of what happens with China is dependent upon the US being able to negotiate these deals and get these agreements in place with economies like India, like China and others, South Korea. And we have to assume that that will be the case. There's a lot of impetus for that. Although, what do you make of the Chinese regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
In a sense, it's almost a threat where they've reached out to some of our allies and said, watch out, be careful. We do not want you to be making these trade deals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with the latest in the U.S.-China tariff war, perhaps you've heard about this, where both economies are starting to feel the heat, and Beijing may be quietly looking for an off-ramp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah. Xi Jinping, he's like the Tony Soprano of the diplomatic world. Yeah. He's coming in and saying the envelope's a little light to all our allies. But look, again, I think if you... If we talk about, look, Target, Walmart, others, some of the big boxes have put out word that we expect that some of the shelves are going to look a little bare, prices may go up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And so, I guess kind of going back to an earlier question, you do wonder, because part of this is a political, right? A domestic politics issue, right? And they're certainly looking at that, consumer confidence and sort of attitude towards the existing administration. So the question always is, well, how much pain would the U.S. population be able to bear?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Let's start with the China-US trade war, of course. It's always been a matter of, with something like this, I think, of who blinks first. Do you think China's blinked?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And the White House is saying there will be some pain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah. I was just going to point out the whole TP boo ha ha, right? And the hunt for toilet paper became paramount. Now, I think it's apples and oranges, right? I take your point about people put up with it to some degree, particularly early stages of the pandemic. But there was a sense of, you know, I don't want to compare it exactly, but sort of a 9-11, we're all in this together kind of thing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
I don't know that they'll feel that way. You're right about that. With a trade war, a trade war. But look, I want to pivot. I want to pivot. And because, you know, you and I can multitask here. And I want to move from China and get your opinion on, you know, the shuffle kerfuffle. I'm going to trademark that term. at the White House involving Mike Waltz and his deputy, Alex Wong.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah. Well, look, he lasted 100 days. You and I talked before the show, you know, that the measurement of time in Washington, D.C. now is referred to as a Scaramucci, right? In terms of, you know, that would be the shortest measurement of time. Yeah, mooches. But look, I think, you know, Waltz is moving over to be U.N. ambassador. So it's not like he's being banished from the administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But... You know, to your point that something had to be done, let me ask you why and in relation to what? Was it the pressure from that kind of the signal chat group, you know, gaffe or was it something else? Do you think there was a deeper underlying concern over Mike Waltz as national security advisor?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Well, I mean, apparently Marco Rubio will step in. He's going to do double duty. You know, according to reports anyway, they're currently vetting people. That's what I expect.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah. And I think given today's environment, the global concerns that we've got, the number of flashpoints and crises, you can't do that. I don't think we live in a world right now anyway where you can combine those two positions. Listen, Steve, as always, delightful. And I don't say that lightly. I appreciate it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
No. Yes, yes. Senior Research Fellow for China and National Security Policy at the Heritage Foundation. Listen, it's always excellent to get your insight. Thank you for stopping by and I look forward to the next time, man. Coming up next, well, the fourth round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran hit a delay. What? You mean it's not going smoothly?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
This time, just hours before negotiators were set to meet in Rome. Former Pentagon official Frank Gaffney joins us with his take on what's really going on behind the scenes. Welcome back to the Situation Report. The fourth round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran has been postponed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Talks were scheduled to take place in Rome this weekend, but Oman's foreign minister, who's been serving as mediator, says the delay is due to, quote, logistical reasons. Hmm. The timing, though, well, that raises questions. Just days earlier, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a sharp warning to the Iranian regime, saying that Iran would, quote, pay the consequence for its ongoing support of Houthi rebels in Yemen. Meanwhile, the U.S. slapped new sanctions on several companies allegedly tied to Iran's illicit oil and petrochemical trade. It's an economic lifeline for the regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
The official line may be about logistics, but behind the scenes, frankly, the pressure is clearly mounting. Joining us now is Frank Gaffney. He's the former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense in the Reagan administration and the president of the Institute for the American Future. Frank, thank you very much for taking the time to join us here on The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
What's your read on this news that the latest round of discussions between the U.S. and Iran have been postponed?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
What would that look like? I mean, you talk about targeted attacks against the IRGC, because there's been recently, there's been a fair amount of discussion, surprisingly, about the idea of an Israeli-led attack on their nuclear infrastructure. But if it's not that, and I take your point, the IRGC has its fingers in every aspect of the Iranian government and economy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And they really do pull the strings here. But what would that look like in your mind?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Do you think, going back to your comment that you started out with, where he's had an opportunity to de-escalate, or however you want to put it, but at every turn he's escalated, is that just simply a reflection of who's on the other side of the table, meaning President Trump and President Trump's tendency to be aggressive in something like this? So what I'm saying is, if it had been
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
I take your point. Look, the holy grail for decades has been that the population in Iran would rise up and say enough is enough. And we all, I think, in varying degrees understand that you don't get any sort of mid to long-term peace and stability in the Middle East as long as the current Iranian regime
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
continues its objective of trying to remove Israel and builds a network of proxies around Israel that has that objective. But I will say that for all these years that we've been hoping the Iranian population would rise up, it hasn't happened, and in a significant way, obviously.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
So I guess I tend to be a bit of a cynic because having spent all those years with the CIA and watching this closely, I don't know that without a more targeted approach, to the Iranian regime. And I take your point about the IRGC, but I guess, and I realize I've got to get to a question here, Frank, but work with me on this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
I fear that the current administration, the Trump administration, just like with the Biden administration and previous administrations, goes the negotiating route. And to your point, it just delays the inevitable in terms of their nuclear weapons program because military attacks on Iran directly, it would just be considered a bridge too far.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
somewhat different. Of course, we may not even be in this position because we wouldn't be looking to rebalance trade, which I think is absolutely the right thing to do. But I'm just wondering whether this is just a characteristic of the, perhaps of the Chinese mindset that if the person on the other side of the table is being aggressive, there's no way you can deescalate your position.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Are you against the idea of, maybe saying against is not the right way to put this, but do you feel that it's rather a fuel to exercise or just kicking the can down the road to target specific elements of their nuclear infrastructure in an effort to Again, I wouldn't stop the program to your point, but do you feel as if that's also just kicking the can down the road?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah. I mean, you've raised some really important points. And you're correct. It's always been a heavy lift gathering people. credible and certainly actionable intelligence related to their weapons programs. It's been one of the most difficult efforts within the intelligence community. And obviously, we've had to rely heavily on our liaison partners for that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Listen, Frank, we've got a lot more to talk about, but we need to take a quick break. So, if you could stay with us, we'll be right back with more from Frank Gaffney here on The Situation Report. Welcome back to the Situation Report. Joining me once again is the president of the Institute for the American Future, Frank Gaffney. Frank, thanks very much for sticking around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
You referenced in our earlier conversation the port explosion that took place recently in Iran. And clearly from your statement there, you don't believe that was an accident. It was attributed to mishandling of fuel supplies that were there at the port. What's your perspective?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Well, I think... One of the ways to understand how difficult it's been to have accurate read on their programs and where they are in terms of a breakout has been the various estimates to breakout, which for years now have been, oh, it could be weeks, could be months, could be over a year. So that tells you that your intel is somewhat lacking in terms of specificities. It's charitable. So-
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Yeah, I know. I'm nothing if not terrible. But I think it's interesting because the Israelis, at least reports are, that the Israelis have developed some very specific plans in terms of targeting and attacking some of the nuclear infrastructure. But their most effective plans are a combination of air power and you've got to put some boots on the ground.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
in terms of special forces and some very specific targeting using small teams. Again, that is a very complex operation. Not that they haven't engaged in other successful complex operations, but you can see, well, when they present a plan like that to the Trump administration, a potential default scenario is, well, okay, let's get those boots off the ground. Let's just talk about airstrikes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And then back to your point earlier, we're talking about some very hardened facilities here. So, And also, again, to one of your points about where this would take us, if there is an attack on the nuclear infrastructure, some estimates are saying, well, maybe that buys us a year. So, I think you raised a very important point. What are we doing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Are we just putting a Band-Aid on a sucking chest wound by doing that, as opposed to dealing with the actual problem, which is the existence of the current Iranian regime? That's my bottom line.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
What does it look like in your mind? What does the region look like if one day, say it's not too far in the future, the regime in Iran says, okay, we've done it. We're a member of the nuclear club. What does that then look like in the region?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Well, they're talking about estimates are somewhere in the region of 600 plus pounds of enriched uranium to 60%. And the heavy lift is getting to 60%. Getting to weapons grade of 90% or so is a relatively quick process. I don't want to oversimplify it, but- And you can even make it go.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation joins us to break it all down. Later in the show, a fourth round of nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran has been abruptly, yeah, that's a good word for it, postponed, with both sides blaming logistics. Always was a logistical issue. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Frank Gaffney, he stops by to give his insight on the negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Cheery note. Yeah. Listen, no, seriously, you know, Frank Gaffney, president of the Institute for American Future. I would love to have you back. There's a lot more that we could be discussing on air and taking it in different directions as well. Your insight is very much in perspective, is very much appreciated. So I hope when we call you, you'll come on back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But we very much appreciate your time here on The Situation Report. That's all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report. That's a lot to digest. If you have any questions or comments or humorous anecdotes, maybe you don't have any humorous anecdotes now after we've just talked about that, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Every month, our incredible team, and they are incredible, they select a bunch of your questions, and they produce one of our critically acclaimed and I'm sure at some point award-winning Ask Me Anything episodes. All right? Now, finally, to listen to the podcast of this show ad-free, yeah, you could do that. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdppremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
I'm Mike Baker, and until next time, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But what could be the downside to doing this? Because I agree, we need to do this, right? It's absolutely necessary. And for too long, the regime, not the people, the regime, people always say, well, you shouldn't talk about the people. I'm not talking about the Chinese people. I'm talking about the regime under Xi Jinping and previous leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
You know, they've spent years, decades, right, clawing their way towards the top of the heap through the theft of intellectual property and economic information and research and development. But in trying to reset China, this relationship, what could be the downside? Obviously a hit to the economy, but what else do you think?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Balance sheet freak out and biorhythms. You got to throw it all in there. Lots of Bs. Okay. No idea. Look, I mean, hey, to your point, I think some of their reactions, some of the way they've played this, meaning the Chinese regime, the Communist Party, I think in part has taken them by surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
They've been very good, I think, over the years at analyzing the leaders around the world, understanding how a country may react to a particular move on their part. But as an example, they came out recently and said, right, we're not going to export rare earth minerals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And I mean, look, they've got a near monopoly certainly on the refining of it and a large percentage of access to rare earth minerals. And then what happened, I think, caught them by surprise because suddenly the U.S., you know, we're looking at let's get rid of some of these regulations. We got to start digging. Right. We have to produce our own because we have that ability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
We've just stopped doing it because, you know, of the sage grouse or God forbid, we should impact a particular plant. And then there's the European Union. And for the EU to say they need to reassess and maybe get more aggressive in their own efforts for both production and refining of minerals, I think that what's happened is, look, that's a necessary move.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. The tariff war between the US and China is showing signs of strain on both sides. I think that's fair to say. In China, reports continue to emerge of factories slowing down and even shutting their doors altogether.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But I think the Chinese regime itself accelerated that movement, which probably caught them by surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
What do you think about, I mean, this is a two-part question. The notion that the regime, the Chinese regime, seems to be saying, okay, look, we're going to take some of these items and exempt them from tariffs. You could argue that is, in a sense, a move on their part over the past decade. week or so to try to start deescalating this issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And then earlier, you talked about the pain that they're going to start feeling in China. I think they already have, right? Factories are reportedly coming to a standstill, a lot of containers stacking up at ports, ships aren't moving. So there's the question of, okay, well, the Chinese population, they're feeling it. We're going to feel it here in the U.S. too over, you know, maybe a short time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
But, you know, I get the sense that the U.S. population won't suffer the short-term pain quite the same way that the Chinese population would.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
And in a quiet but telling move, Beijing is now circulating a 125% tariff exemption list to certain companies, trying to ease pressure on its economy without making a public concession in its ongoing fight with Washington. Back here in the U.S., the economy shrank at a 0.3% annual rate in the first quarter. That's the first contraction in three years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Okay. I want to follow up on that. But first, Steve, as you know, we have some terrific sponsors. But if you can stay right where you are, don't go anywhere. Unless you got to take a bathroom break, perhaps, in which case you can. But we take a quick break and then we'll be right back with Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me once again is Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation. We've been talking all things China, tariffs, trade war. You may have heard about it. Steve, in your estimation, how long is this going to last before we get to something that you could call normal?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | May 3rd, 2025: Economic Pain in Beijing & U.S.–Iran Negotiation Breakdown
Economists say the drop was driven in part by a surge of imports as companies scrambled to beat Trump's new tariffs. Both governments claim that they're open to negotiations, but neither looks ready to blink. And frankly, this is a game of who blinks first.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, well, for anybody listening to our conversation, I don't imagine they come away with an awful lot of hope, but hope is never really what you want to hang your foreign policy on. But if you look at just the unlikely opportunity for a second phase of the ceasefire, if you look at the fact that no credible governance, alternative governance seems to be taking shape,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
I think you're absolutely right. I think what we're looking at is, if not a return to hostilities, I think we're looking at continued, however you want to refer to it, occupation or our presence of the IDF in Gaza. And we may well be just looking at kicking the can down the road here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
That leaves 28 Israeli hostages still believed to be alive, with their fate hanging in the balance. Beyond the ceasefire, the question of who will govern post-war Gaza, well, that remains unanswered as Israel insists Hamas cannot return to power, but has yet to propose an alternative. Joining us now to discuss is Robert Greenway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Okay, that's really interesting. I'm glad you brought that point up. Are you optimistic about the upcoming, it's actually coming up very shortly, of the Arab summit in Riyadh?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, I agree with you. Look, people, you know, they stared in amazement when President Trump threw out that idea of U.S. ownership of Gaza and turning it into a resort area, a Riviera. You know, I never see a scenario where 2.3 million Palestinian refugees are going to suddenly move out of Gaza and the Egyptians and Jordanians and others will welcome them there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And I don't also see a scenario where, you know, from a political perspective here in the U.S., anybody would agree to taking 10 to 15 year ownership of Gaza. But the benefit, I think, to your point is that it it provoked a response from the Arab states. And I think that has been very helpful. If I could, in the remaining time that we've got, Robert. Let's shift over to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And with President Trump sitting down with President Zelenskyy from Ukraine, ostensibly to talk about the minerals deal, but what do you think that's going to deliver as far as a discussion?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Tensions are high as the fragile Gaza ceasefire deal inches closer to its expiration on Saturday. With no agreement yet on the fate of the remaining hostages, will Israel and Hamas return to the negotiating table or miss another round of war imminent?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah. What do you make of the of the talking point that's come out of Moscow over the years? And certainly it's been picked up by some, even in the U.S., for the most part. The idea that, you know, the West is responsible for this war. They forced Putin's hand, you know, by by this move towards or potential move towards NATO for Ukraine. What do you make of that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
He's the former deputy assistant to President Trump and director of the Allison Center for National Security at the Heritage Foundation. Robert, thanks very much for taking the time. Great to be with you. Thanks for having me. Absolutely. Absolutely. Now, go to the 30,000 foot level here. I know this is a very broad initial question, but from your perspective, where are we going with this?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, agreed. Robert, listen, the world's in a bit of a chaotic situation right now. We've got a lot more that we could be covering. I barely touched the list of questions that I've got written down here for you, but I want to be mindful of your time. So I hope next time we call you that you'll pick up the phone and agree to come back on the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Next, well, we turn to President Trump's energy strategy. He's pushing to ramp up domestic production on federal lands and waters, aiming to strengthen U.S. energy independence. Well, that's a good idea. But what does that mean for America's national security? Daniel Turner from Power of the Future joins us next.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Starte dein Testen heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Energy policy, it's not just about gas prices, right? It's about national security. That makes sense. The ability to produce and control our own energy supply means fewer dependencies, fewer vulnerabilities, and a stronger position on the world stage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Now, one of President Trump's first moves back in office, it was a major push to ramp up domestic U.S. energy production. He's calling it a matter of national interest, and he's not wrong, arguing that unleashing America's natural resources isn't just about economic growth, but it's about military strength and global security. His executive order lays it out plainly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Energy independence means less reliance on foreign powers and more leverage in global conflicts. Now, that's a sharp contrast to the last administration's approach, which saw the U.S. scaling back drilling and turning to imports even from adversaries. Trump says this shift will bring prosperity back to American workers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
But beyond the economy, what does this mean for America's standing in the world? And how does it position America in the world of fossil fuels versus clean energy? Well, joining us now is Daniel Turner. He's the executive director of Power of the Future. Daniel, thanks very much for being here today on The Situation Report. Great to be with you. Thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Let's start with a very broad question here. What's your perspective on where we're going with the energy policy? Are you pleased with what you've heard so far? And what do you expect in terms of pushback from the other side politically?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
We're coming up on the end of the first phase of the ceasefire with Israel and Hamas. What next from your perspective?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
You wrote an interesting piece recently that touched on the Keystone Pipeline and the complexity of that, both in terms of what the Biden administration did and trying to rejuvenate it. Talk to me about that, if you could.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
You know what? I can't believe, Daniel, that you think Gavin Newsom has presidential ambitions. That doesn't make any sense at all.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah. And how difficult is it? Because we have to roll back some regulatory policies from previous administration. How difficult is that process?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah. By the way, I don't mind you getting nerdy on me. Look, I don't know if you noticed, but I'm wearing a cardigan. So, you know, it looks like I just came from the chess club meeting. Sorry. Sorry, I digress, don't I? Okay, let's switch gears just slightly. We're still talking about energy. Talk to me about nuclear power in the country and where you expect that to go.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
The question is, I mean, I'm asking you this question. Can we get it built before the next presidential cycle?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah. Well, I mean, I guess to your point about the uranium, one of the problems that we've had for quite some time, right? I mean, not just with the Biden administration, but going back a number of years, is we've got abundant, right, mineral resources in the US. But the problem is trying to get them out of the ground, trying to get approval.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And then that process, the mining industry has basically been just constantly on the back foot because it just takes forever to try to get approval if you can even get it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Look, I've seen some mining operations overseas and they are extremely nasty, right? And it's a tough business wherever you're doing it, but nobody does it in a cleaner or more environmentally protected way than we do it in the US, right? And again, okay, that doesn't take away from the fact that, yeah, it's mining. It's got some drawbacks. So I take your point.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And I think also one of the interesting aspects of this is the foreign influence on mining in the U.S. And not to get nerdy on you, Daniel. but I'm about to. But as an example, the Chinese regime, this is in their best interest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
So what they've identified over the years is that they may not be able to shift federal policy in the US, but if they go after in an indirect way through what appear to be grassroots operations, some community organization that's targeting phosphate mining in Florida, whatever it may be. And then they can influence local and state policies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And if they say, okay, no, because they believe it's community driven, rather than there's influence from overseas, from countries that don't have our interests at stake, then they can impact this. Next thing you know, the state house in a particular location is saying, no, we're not going to authorize this mining. That benefits who? The Chinese regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
But from an internal political situation and from the general population there in Israel, do the people have an appetite for saying, fine, we're drawing a line under the ceasefire, we're reengaging with Hamas? I mean, is that something that the population is up for?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, absolutely. And every week opening up a new coal plant. Daniel, if you'll stay right there, right? We have to take a quick break. Don't go anywhere. And we'll be back with Daniel Turner here on The Situation Report. Stick around. Welcome back to the PDB Situation Report. Joining me again is Daniel Turner. He's the founder and executive director of Power of the Future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Daniel, thanks very much for sticking around. Appreciate it. Let's talk just briefly. Are you seeing any shift in the positioning of oil and gas companies? And by that, I mean, look, for the past number of years, they've gone sort of all in on clean energy, oftentimes to the detriment of the health and the welfare of the company itself, right? Are you seeing any changes in that sort of direction?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Wait, wait, wait, wait. Daniel Greta's got minions? See, I didn't realize the situation had gotten that dangerous.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
It's really hard to figure out where you stand on all of this because you keep mincing words. But let's yeah. So where does that leave clean energy, though? I mean, from your perspective, you know, it plays a role. But, you know, what type of role in sort of that, you know, let's do everything concept?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Again, I just can't figure out where you stand on an issue. Let's look at, if we could, mining just for a second. We talked about it briefly in the previous segment, but some big news in mining, at least in the US, was this discovery I guess it's been known for some time, of the lithium deposits in Arkansas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
You look at that, you look at the criticality of lithium as a mineral for batteries, for instance, and to what degree do you imagine that we'll be able to push back regulatory policies on mining and take advantage of a find like that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, I'm out in Idaho, home of the sage grouse, which... Yeah, it's remarkable. Tell me a little bit about Power of the Future, if you could. Again, you talked about it just a second ago, but what's the focus?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
That is really fascinating, Daniel. I give you a lot of credit for taking this on. I'm reminded of the push for banning gas-powered vehicles, as an example, and going to an all-EV future, and somehow the power grid was going to be able to support that, and somehow people imagined that, I don't know, that power didn't come from a coal plant or other sources other than just a wind farm somewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Look, Daniel, this has been fascinating. I think there's a lot more that we could be covering, and I hope we have that opportunity down the road. Daniel Turner, Executive Director of Power of the Future. Listen, thank you again very much for joining us here on the Situation Report. Well, that is all the time we have for this week's PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Now, look, if you have any questions or you have any comments, or maybe you've got a humorous anecdote or a joke and you'd like to share it, well, just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. I've told you this before, and I mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
The highlight of every week here at PDB headquarters, and I happen to be at the secret compound right now, is when Carl the Mailman drops off another sack of your postcards, your emails, your faxes, your telegrams, your candy grams. And every month,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Our amazing team, including the above-average interns, select a bunch of your questions, and we produce one of our critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything episodes. So keep those cards and letters coming, folks. Finally, to listen to the podcast of the show ad-free, well, you probably know what to do. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And until next time, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
You just mentioned kind of the revitalization of Hamas. What can you tell us about that? I have heard some reports that they've been busy recruiting and training new members.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
It does seem unlikely if the terms of the second phase of the ceasefire were in part a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Given the notion, or the reports anyway, that Hamas is busy trying to recruit new fighters, training new fighters, it would seem unlikely that the IDF would pull out entirely knowing that this cancer is still existing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Former deputy assistant to the president, Robert Greenway, joins us to break it all down. Later in the show, President Trump is pushing to expand energy exploration and production to secure America's energy independence. But what does this mean for the country's national security? Well, Daniel Turner, executive director of Power of the Future, he'll join us to discuss.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
If you could talk to me about that a little bit. If the Philadelphia corridor, right, as a weapons transfer route has been essentially shut down, then how do they rearm?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Okay. So, look, I hate to sound cynical because everybody wants, under the right terms, everybody wants the fighting to stop, the terrible situation for the Palestinian civilians to end, for an opportunity to rebuild. Everybody, in general terms, they want that, right? And you bring some stability there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
But I got to tell you, I mean, just talking with you now and just seeing what we've seen over the past couple of weeks, it seems like there's almost no likelihood that we're getting a second phase of this ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Okay, so let's play that out then. Let's say that, unfortunately, on Saturday, there's no movement into a second phase. And the IDF decides, okay, we have no choice. We have to go after and continue to go after Hamas. What does that look like?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight. The fragile Gaza ceasefire deal. It's set to expire this weekend with no agreement yet on a second phase to secure the release of the remaining hostages. Now, over the past six weeks, as I'm sure you know from following the PDB, Hamas has freed 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Because, you know, honestly, look, we've already got, you know, ramped up protests in New York City, you know, pro Hamas protests going on in New York City on Barnard College campus. And you could imagine those stepping up again. I don't see the international community, including the U.N.,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
staying quiet over renewed hostilities and the IDF going in, and yet more visuals of destruction and civilian death in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Now, you could imagine if that was the case, if you sort of a siege mentality, which again, the optics not necessarily good, but I take your point, right? And then specific targeted strikes against either specific commanders or lieutenants or whomever, fighters within the strip.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
If you were to combine that with the optic of increased aid flowing to the civilian population, then perhaps that mitigates to some degree that negative international narrative that always surfaces during these conflicts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, no, I take your point. I think they pretty much decided early on after the 7 October attacks that they are on their own, or at least have to proceed on their own. And yes, the dynamics change now with the election and the arrival of the Trump administration. What can you tell us about...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
The level of aid, though, that is flowing or that has been flowing since, say, the ceasefire started, and to what degree are we confident that that aid is not being taken or managed by Hamas?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
That's an initial step that mediators hoped would lead to lasting peace. But since January, both sides have accused each other of violating the deal and negotiations have stalled. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and that's a condition that Israel refuses to accept, particularly with reports that Hamas is busy recruiting and training new fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Okay. Robert, if you wouldn't mind staying right where you are, don't move, don't move. We got to take a quick break and then we'll be back with more from Robert Greenway. We'll be talking and continuing about Gaza, but I also want to talk with Robert about Ukraine. But we have to take a quick break. We'll be right back with more of the Situation Report. Yeah, we've all been there, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Tossing, turning, struggling to get quality sleep. You know what I'm talking about. I get it. When you don't sleep well, it's not just about feeling tired the next day. It's not. It makes you foggy at work. It makes you short-tempered with people, even people you actually like. And it kills your energy. I've been there, and I needed something... Well, something that actually worked.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
And that's where Beam's Dream Powder comes in. Look, this is not some gimmick. This is a science-backed, healthy hot cocoa that actually helps you sleep better. I've tried it, and it does make a real difference. And it comes in great flavors, which is important, right? Sea salt caramel, brownie batter, vanilla chai, and my personal favorite, do you know what that is? Well, it's cinnamon cocoa.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Yeah, of course. It's only 15 calories per serving and zero sugar, which is also important, so you can get a better sleep without the guilt. Now, Dream Powder is packed with natural ingredients, reishi, magnesium, melatonin, all designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer without waking up groggy. You just mix it with hot water or milk before bed, and you're good to go.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Bob's your uncle. It couldn't be easier. If you want to try Beam's best-selling Dream Powder, get up to 40% off for a limited time when you go to shopbeam.com slash Mike, that's M-I-K-E, just like you imagined, and use code Mike at checkout. That's shopbeam.com slash Mike and use the code Mike for up to 40% off. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
Joining me again is Robert Greenway, former deputy assistant to the president and director of the Allison Center for National Security at the Heritage Foundation. Robert, thanks very much. We were talking about Gaza. I've got one more question for you, and this probably kind of falls into the soft science category. And then I was hoping to touch on briefly Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | March 1st, 2025: Will Gaza Erupt Again? Cease-Fire Nears Collapse & America’s Energy Security
But with Gaza, is there any indication that the Palestinian civilian population is moving away from Hamas because we have this issue of, in long term, if we get any type of stability or peace settlement there, we have this issue of governance. So, to what degree, from your perspective, does the Palestinian civilian population, are they still all in on Hamas or have they been distancing themselves?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Situation Report. And joining me again is Benham Bentalablu of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. Benham, you made a really interesting point earlier. We were talking about how weak in reality is the regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
How does President Trump avoid what you refer to as the Trump trap in terms of sitting down at the negotiating table and their desire to buy time?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And you pointed out that one of the things that needs to be understood is not to take the narrative from the Iranian state media, the Iranian regime, what they talk about, how they talk, but to understand the conditions of the people, the population, getting the pulse of the population, being able to support them the next time they come out in the streets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Now, I guess I want to push back there a little bit. I don't disagree with you, but that's been kind of the holy grail for decades now, that at some point the population is going to rise up and get rid of this despotic regime and live the lives that they deserve. but it doesn't happen. And it's happened a couple of times in a mild manner, then obviously the administrations in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
at the time didn't pick up on that, they didn't pursue it, they didn't support. You know, what do we have that tells us that it could happen sometime in our lifetime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Welcome to the PDB Situation Report. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today in the Middle East, where Iranian leaders are reportedly telling their proxies to lay low out of fear of antagonizing President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Well, joining us to break it down is Bena Ben-Taliblu, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Bena, thanks very much for joining us here on The Situation Report. Always great to be with you. Happy New Year to you and the listeners. And to you as well. I hope your 2025 is off to a good start. I guess let's go from the 30,000-foot view.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Well, okay. So, you're not skeptical about the population at some point saying enough is enough. Are you optimistic that when that happens, the US or other relevant members of the global community will do anything about it in terms of support?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And I think that's really a critical point and I was going to ask you about this because
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
In theory, if what the hope is, not just for the global community in terms of seeing this regime step aside, but the people of Iran itself for a better life, if the hope is to get to that point, then theoretically, maximum pressure, a maximum pressure campaign that further degrades the Iranian regime's revenue streams and economic stability,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
That is in the interest of what we're talking about, right? But if there's a movement to sit down at the negotiating table, then as you pointed out earlier, one of the, you would imagine, one of the elements will be sanctions relief. then, again, to use one of your phrases from earlier, we're just kicking the can down the road, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
We're putting lipstick on a pig and letting some other generation maybe deal with a problem or try to find a solution later on. So we're not really solving anything if we sit back down. Again, I'm just positing this for your comic, so I want your perspective.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
What do you make of this report that the Iranian regime is essentially telling their proxies to sit on ice, don't attack, don't provoke, lay low?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
You know, we're not solving anything by saying we're going to sit down at the negotiating table and create a deal with the Iranian regime that, in reality, just keeps them in power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Yeah, I think if they were to go to the table, here's what I would love to see. I don't think it's going to happen. But if the team handling this for the White House would say, fine, we'll sit at the table and talk to you. But here's the situation. We're not talking about sanctions relief yet. We're talking about, as an example, full transparency on your nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
We will tell you what facilities we want to inspect, and this is how we're going to inspect them, and this is what we're going to do. That's an arms deal because, again, the previous one, John Kerry used to say, well, it's all based on verification. Well, yeah, verification of the sites that they allowed you to look at.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
So, if they would go in and be hard-nosed about it and say, here it is, otherwise, fine. We don't care. We're going to walk away and here's what we're going to do for you. We are doing the maximum pressure campaign. We are going to stop any revenue streams we identify going into your regime and the IRGC, which got its finger in every part of the economy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
But again, I think I'm kind of bloviating on hopes and dreams rather than what I believe they'll actually do. I think the desire in Washington, D.C. for status quo, right? Nothing happening on my watch is a good thing. I'm worried that that is going to kind of drive the day here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And we're going to end up with a very unsatisfactory result, which again, will leave the regime in power and with us really not solving any issues. Venom, I know that makes me sound really, really churlish and cynical, and I apologize for that. No, you're being smart.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
There's a lot more questions here on my little list of questions to ask you, but I'm afraid we're running out of time. From a timing perspective, let me ask you this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Have you heard anything coming out of, I don't know it's only the first couple of weeks of this administration, but have you heard anything about possible discussions, any timetable for dealing with the regime, with the Iranian regime?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Well, look, that's been the history of our dealings with this regime, is anytime they throw a Western-looking, talking, sounding, you know, spokesperson or diplomat or official from the regime, it's like Pavlov's dogs. The U.S., whoever's in charge, just, they salivate, and they think, oh, my God, look, finally, we've got an opportunity for reform and, you know, moderation. It's just...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
You know, we never seem to really learn. Look, if it's not Witkoff, frankly, Ben, I hope they give you a call. Listen, I'd be happy to take the call from anyone. This is all free advice. Anyway, Ben, I'm Ben Talib. Listen, senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. It's always a pleasure talking with you. And I hope when we call, you'll pick up the phone again and come on back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
All right. Well, there's a lot going on there. Moving on, President Trump is pushing for an Iron Dome missile defense system for the United States. Have you heard about this? But his plan doesn't stop there. Coming up next, we'll be joined by Senior National Security Editor at the National Interest, Brandon Weikert. Right. Discuss.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
He'll be here to talk about why Trump is reviving a long debated idea. And that would be space based missile defense. Remember Star Wars from the Reagan era? You don't. Oh, come on. Stay with us. Welcome back to the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
President Trump is doubling down on national defense, and his latest executive order lays out an ambitious plan, the creation of an Iron Dome system for the United States. Now, modeled after Israel's successful missile shield, the goal is to build a multi-layered defense network capable of intercepting incoming threats before they reach U.S. soil. That seems like a sound plan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
But this plan goes beyond ground-based interceptors. Embedded in Trump's strategy is a push for space-based missile defense, and that's a concept once championed by Ronald Reagan's Strategic Defense Initiative, otherwise known as Star Wars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Some military analysts question the feasibility, arguing that an Iron Dome-style system, well, it makes sense for a small country like Israel, but may not be practical for the U.S., given its vast geography. But Trapp and his team see it as a necessity in an era of hypersonic threats and advanced missile technology. Our next guest calls this technology the holy grail of American national defense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Brandon Weikert, author of Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower. And if you haven't read that, and then you don't know what you've been doing with yourselves, go out and get it. And also a good friend of the show joins us now. Brandon, thanks very much for being with us on the Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Oh, absolutely. Well, all right. America's Iron Dome system. What does that mean?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Hey, don't forget, that depends. I mean, you never know when Canada's going to attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Okay. Well, look, I mean, all those people who cry about the idea of weaponizing space, I mean, they're kind of late to the game, but it's already been weaponized, right? Right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
The idea that somehow the US should not be engaged in developing technologies for a, whatever you want to call it, Star Wars system is asinine because those who don't have our interests at heart, yeah, the Chinese, the Russians, they're all engaged in that activity already. So talk to me, what does that mean? I mean, I'm kind of throwing out these terms.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And as you might guess, I'm not a rocket scientist. But when we talk about sort of space-based intercepting systems, is the technology where it needs to be now? Or how far off in the future are we talking about?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
How come the US is behind the curve? You mentioned China, Russia. Why aren't we leading that effort?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Let's kind of go back to where we started with the Iron Dome system. Is there a place for something akin to an Iron Dome system in the U.S.? I mean, again, I know you talked about, look, it may be some sort of attack from a cartel, a rogue group on the border or somewhere. Fine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
But is there a, pragmatically speaking, do you get the sense that they actually are going to create an Iron Dome system or are we just going and leapfrogging straight to a space-based system?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
What does a space-based system look like? I mean, for those of us, and I know, again, Most of the, I don't know if you know this, but most of the Situation Report listeners are rocket scientists. I think nine out of 10. But for someone like me, explain it in simple terms with small words. What does that entail?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
All right, now answer me this, if you could. A hypersonic, say that's what we're facing, say a hypersonic missile. Yeah. Part of the problem is the ability to maneuver, the speed, it doesn't follow a ballistic flight path. But why is there an advantage or what is the advantage to tracking it from space and trying to attempt to knock it out as opposed to a land-based system?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Yeah, I was going to ask you that. I mean, because you could kind of look at this from both sides. You could say, okay, well, what you're implying is that the Iranian regime is significantly weakened and they're looking just to maintain a hold on power to survive. And so they're doing what they need to in order to try to save themselves. Or...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
What is the primary advantage there?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
So if you're shooting down- I knew you would have a smart, I knew you'd have a smart guy answer like that. Throwing gravity back at me, you know? Yeah, fine, Einstein. Talk to me about gravity. Okay, no, I'm sorry. I digress, exactly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Yeah, no, well, that does make sense in terms of increasing the response time. I mean, clearly that's not a statement of rocket science that I just made, but that does make perfect sense. Brandon, if you wouldn't mind, stay right where you are, right? Sure. Don't go anywhere. And we'll be right back after a quick break. Welcome back to The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Joining me once again is Brandon Weikert. Brandon is the author of a terrific book, Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower. It's a terrific read. Pick it up. It's got a lot of big words in it, but you can work your way through it. He's also Senior National Security Editor at the National Interest. Brandon, thanks very much for sticking around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Okay, we've been talking about the potential for an American Iron Dome system, moving a space-based weapons system, defense system out into space. Talk to me about where our competitors are. And in particular, I'm curious about the Chinese. How further down the road are they than the U.S. ?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
It almost seems also that you're implying that it's a very strategic plan on their part, very thought-out plan, and that they're basically just buying time with the idea that, I would imagine, that they're looking to rebuild their proxies and claw back some of the problems that they've experienced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
So we don't have any replacements. We don't have one sitting on the shelf that we can throw up there in case of an accident, a mishap, a problem.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Bennett Ben-Talibu of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies will give us his insights into Tehran's strategy. Later in the show, President Trump's latest executive orders include a push for a multi-layered homeland air defense system requiring the development of space-based interceptors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Okay, let me get this straight. Just so you put a picture out here for me in my simplistic world. So one of our, NC3, a key element of our national security, a satellite up there flying around. The Chinese regime, what you're saying is they've got a small satellite floating around up there at the same altitude or whatever we call it. Again, I'm showing my ignorance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And it's got a grappling hook on it. So at some point they can issue a command to that satellite and the satellite will, now I'm going to reference Austin Powers rather than Moonraker because I'm younger than you are. Oh, yeah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And they shoot this grappling hook out there onto our satellite, a key part of our national security structure, and tug it a little bit, and it goes off orbit, and then we're screwed. So... Yeah. That seems like a real flaw in our national security planning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Let me stop you there. Okay, they're quite a ways ahead of us. Is that because... They're better at strategic thinking and planning. Is that because they're an autocratic society and they can just budget and fund whatever they want to and they don't have to worry about pushback from various political elements and factions? What's their reasoning behind that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Because I think there's a lot of people watching who always imagined that the US and our allies, we're the best and the brightest, right? We've got the best engineers, the best thinkers, the best strategic planners, best technological capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And yet you're telling me we've got a serious goat rope here because we can't even figure out how to get spare parts and shore up a system that seems like it's got a real problem.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
No, I think that's a very important point. And I think also, again, I would go back to the fact that they exist in a system that once you say this is what we're going to do. You know, their system is screwed and it's terrible.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
But, you know, from an efficiency point of view, when you're talking about, you know, getting yourself on a war footing and budgeting for those sort of concerns, you know, they've got a little more efficiency because, yeah, they don't live in a federal system.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
That's motivating. I will tell you that's motivating right there.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Yeah. Well, look, I think the U.S. tends to look, you know, we we. Regardless of what administration, I think the Trump administration, to your point, is going to prove itself somewhat different. But typically, U.S. administrations always imagine somehow that we're part of a world community and that everyone is part of that community and is thinking about the betterment of mankind. And the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
tends to apologize for acting in its own best interests. Others don't. And I think it's fairly clear that the Chinese regime, whether they get there through a kinetic approach or whether they get there through other means, economic growth or whatever, however it is, you're right, they imagine themselves at the top of the food chain. And so that's where they've been going with this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Look, Brandon, we're pretty much out of time. And I hate to leave, you know, this is kind of like we're on the precipice here now that we've identified a major flaw in national security. So thank you for that. And what I'd love to do is let's continue the conversation here in the not too distant future. That sounds great.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Listen, Brandon Weikert, senior national security editor at the National Interest, author, friend of the show, man about town. As always, thanks for joining us. That's all the time we have for the PDB Situation Report. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
As you may have heard, we take some of those questions and comments every month and we smush them into a episode that we call Ask Me Anything. And the PDB crack production team is in the middle of putting another one of those together. So thank you very much for taking the time to send us your questions and your comments. To listen to the podcast of this show ad-free,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
which you can do, and it's very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was very simple. I'm Mike Baker. Until next time, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
It's getting to the 60% that takes the time, the effort, the work. Give us your perspective, if you could. I mean, how weak are they? We talk about, okay, obviously, that Hamas, Hezbollah, even the Houthis at this point have been degraded by Israeli actions for the most part. But looking at the Iranian regime, how weak are they?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Now, Brandon Weicker, author of Winning Space, How America Remains a Superpower, that's a great book, by the way, and you should pick it up, breaks down the technology behind what's being called America's Iron Dome. But first, today's Situation Report Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Well, and you referred to it at the beginning as a Trump trap. President Trump has stated that he would prefer to find some sort of diplomatic result here rather than get engaged in a direct conflict with the Iranian regime. So, it seems as if, and I think their intuition is probably right based on what you were saying.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
I think that they understand sort of the draw that they can use here with Trump's ability or desire to find a deal to negotiate, right? To say that he's at the table and he's struck a great deal. So, what's the alternative? Because if the Iranian regime indicates that they are willing to sit down and talk, That's it. I mean, you can't really tell you, what are you doing?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
You can't say, well, no, we're not going to do that. I mean, I don't know that there's any political will in Washington, D.C. that say, like, no negotiation. We're just going to get, you know, we're going to degrade the Iranian regime further. So how do you counter this? What's your answer?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Iran is reportedly urging its proxy forces, and there are a number of them, to stand down, fearing that provoking Donald Trump could spark a crisis that threatens the regime's survival. It's all about holding onto power for them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
According to an exclusive Telegraph report, Tehran is quietly ordering militias in Iraq and Yemen to halt attacks on US assets, warning them not to use Iranian-made weapons if they do act. Oh. A senior Iranian source put it bluntly, the regime feels an existential threat with Trump's return. Iran's leadership has reason to be worried.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
I take your point at the outset about What's important is getting the pulse of the people, the population, and understanding what that means to the stability of the Iranian regime and the fear that that may instill in the regime in terms of trying to hold on to power. I want to pursue that and then pick up on a couple of other things you've said.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
But right now, we're going to have to take a quick break. Venom, if you could just state what, don't go anywhere. And we'll be right back with more of the Situation Report. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Situation Report | February 1st, 2025: Is Iran Setting A ‘Trump Trap’? & America’s Own ‘Iron Dome’ System
Trump's first term saw the maximum pressure campaign, crippling sanctions, and the targeted killing of Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani. Now, with their proxy war against Israel in shambles, and Bashar al-Assad, of course, ousted in Syria, Iran's regional power has been severely weakened. So, you ask yourself, what does this restraint signal for the Middle East?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
In a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, President Trump said he's, quote, »pissed off« at Putin – I don't know if there's a Russian translation for the term »pissed off« – and threatened to impose secondary tariffs of 25% to 50% on all buyers of Russian oil if he feels that Moscow is blocking his efforts to broker a peaceful settlement to the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Der rare Kritik kam, als Putin die Legitimität des ukrainischen Präsidenten Zelenskys Leidenschaft in den Berichten der letzten Woche beantwortete und bemerkte, dass ein Interim-Gewerbe in der Ukraine notwendig wäre, um einen potenziellen Friedensvertrag zu beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Das wäre natürlich eines von Putins längst stehenden Objekten, Zelensky aus dem Weg zu bringen und ein neues pro-russisches Gewerbe zu installieren. Trump told NBC, quote, I was very angry, pissed off, when Putin started getting into Zelenskys credibility, because that's not going in the right direction.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Trump continued, quote, he's supposed to be making a deal with him, whether you like him or you don't like him, end quote. As a reminder, Ukrainian elections were scrapped last year due to the war and Zelenskyy has been leading under an extended period of martial law since the invasion back in February of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Putin has used this to try and undermine Zelenskyy's position, regularly criticizing the suspended elections and implying that the emergency martial law declaration makes Zelenskyy an illegitimate leader.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Putin sagte am Freitag, dass Verhandlungen mit den Vereinigten Staaten und europäischen Alliieren gemacht werden sollten, um in der Ukraine sozusagen temporäre Regierungen einzusetzen, bevor sich die Negotiativen für einen vollen Friedensvertrag weiterentwickeln.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Es wurde als ein weiterer Versuch von dem russischen Leiter gesehen, die Negotiativen zu zerstören und den Prozess auszudrücken, während sein Militär weiterhin inkrementale Prozesse gegen die Ukraine auf dem Kriegsfeld macht. Trump added to NBC, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Tarifen und potenzielle Sanktionen auf Russlands Bankensektor können, ehrlich gesagt, das letzte diplomatische Werkzeug bei Trumps Zugang sein, um Russland in die Linie zu bringen. Aber es gibt einen Grund dafür, zu hoffen, dass vielleicht solch eine ökonomische Bedrohung Putin verhindern könnte, um seine Begründung für die Negoziausschüsse zu rekalkulieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the Russian strongman is reportedly increasingly concerned over the fragile state of Russia's wartime economy. Moscow is currently grappling with persistently high inflation, labor shortages and interest rates that are sitting at a historic high of 21%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Existing sanctions from Europe and the US have further strained Moscow's finances, isolating them from critical foreign markets and, of course, the swift banking system. Russian exports to the US, for example, dropped from $29.6 billion in 2021 to just $2.9 billion in 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Moskau ist jetzt beruflich im Wettbewerb, um ihre Kriege weiterzumachen, mit einem Rekord von 16,3 Trillionen Rubeln, also rund 148 Milliarden Dollar, um die Kriegserfahrung im Jahr 2024. Es ist eine ständige Figur, die mehr als 8% des Russlands GDP und 41% ihres Gesamtbudgets betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Eine wachsende Gruppe von russischen Eliten hat sich gefordert, dass Putin eine Begründung zur Kriegssitzung für den Krieg ausübt, um ihre finanziellen Schwierigkeiten zu verhindern.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Wie wir letzte Woche diskutiert haben, gab es einen kleinen diplomatischen Durchbruch, nachdem Russland und die Ukraine zu einem unabhängigen US-verkauften Sturzfeuer verabschiedeten, die Angriffe auf Energieanlagen und die Sicherheit des Schiffes im Black Sea versicherten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Obwohl, selbst während des Gesprächs über den Verabschiedungsausschuss Putin bemerkte, dass er eine Verabschiedungssicherheit erwarten würde, bevor er sich auszeichnet. Grundsätzlich kommt alles, was Putin akzeptieren kann, mit bedeutenden Bedingungen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Beide Seiten haben sich bereits über die Verabschiedungssicherheit verurteilt, und der Kremlin hat gesagt, dass ihre weitere mögliche Abhängigkeit zum Verabschiedungsausschuss auf diese Verabschiedungssicherheit kontingent ist. But if Putin continues to delay progress on a deal, well, President Trump appears ready to ditch his deferential posture and take a tougher approach with the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Trump suggested that new tariffs could be leveled within the next month, though he said he plans to speak to Putin directly sometime later this week to convey his frustrations. Coming up next, China appears to be preparing to scuttle a deal that would see U.S. asset firm BlackRock take ownership of two critical ports in the Panama Canal. I'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Hey, Mike Baker here. Folks, in a world where everything feels, I don't know, mass produced, it's refreshing, isn't it, to find something real, like a real family business, producing and selling, well, how about the highest quality beef? Of course, I'm talking about the American company, Tritails. Now look, this isn't some corporate meat factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Es ist Montag, der 31. März. Willkommen im BDB-Afternoon-Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, as US-brokered peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine drag on, Präsident Trump ist mit dem russischen Präsidenten Putin, der eine neue Wave von Wirtschafts-Tarifen verursacht hat, irritiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Tri-Tales is a fifth generation, five generations Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman. There's no mystery. Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the differences the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Handpacked and ready for your table. And right now they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. Simple. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Check out TriTales. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, take a look around. What do you see? Well, we've got tariff wars.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
We certainly have those. We have recession fears. And we've got that stubborn inflation that keeps sticking around. No wonder gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. In volatile markets like right now, let me tell you, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take control. Safeguard your savings. Do something about it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Text PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Birchgold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold and you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
In an escalation of ongoing US-China economic hostilities, Beijing has opened an antitrust investigation that could torpedo an American-backed bid for control of Panama Canal ports, just days before the deal was set to close.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
The probe, launched by China's State Administration for Market Regulation, is targeting BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, which had been leading a consortium to acquire Hong Kong-based C.K. Hutchinson's portfolio of port infrastructure, and that would be including terminals anchoring both ends of the Panama Canal. C.K.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Hutchinson has since slammed the brakes on finalizing the transaction, citing the Chinese probe, and that's according to the South China Morning Post. Das Deal hätte die Kontrolle von 43 Städten in 23 verschiedenen Ländern geändert, was fast 200 Gebäude in den Händen eines US-leitenden Konsortiums betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Auf dem Papier gab es die Geschöpfe einer seltenen diplomatischen Druckabschlüsse bei einem Zeitpunkt, in dem die Beziehungen zwischen Washington und Beijing stetig verbessert wurden. But Beijing's move now threatens to recast control of the Panama Canal as yet another battleground in the broader economic war between the two powers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Chinese regulators claim the probe is focused on preserving, quote, fair competition, oh, it's all about fair competition with the Chinese Communist Party, and safeguarding public interest. That's a line amplified through state-affiliated channels, including the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Diese Bestätigung hat wenig mit der Spekulation in Washington zu tun, wo Offizielle immer mehr China's Griff auf Kanalinfrastruktur als strategische Bedrohung betrachten. Ca. 4% des globalen Maritime-Commerce fliegt durch den 51-Mile-Korridor. Für die USA liegt über 40% ihres Containertraffik auf dem smoothen Funktionen der Kanäle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
While the canal itself remains under Panamanian control, China has maintained port infrastructure on both the Atlantic and Pacific sides. As we've discussed here on the PDB, that arrangement, until recently, drew relatively little public concern. Aber Präsident Trump hat das Thema aufgenommen, bestätigte, dass die Vereinigten Staaten die Operation der Kanäle übernehmen sollten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Es scheint, dass Putin bei der White House Angst hat, dass Putin seine Füße auf das Thema der Negotiierungen drücken wird. Echt? Vielleicht, weil er sich nicht interessiert, seine Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden. Später im Show macht China offensichtliche Bewegungen, um zu langsamen oder einen Deal zu blockieren, den die US-Einsatzfirma Blackrock von der Hongkonger entity C.K.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Diese Position bezieht sich auf die Jahrhunderte der amerikanischen Beherrschung vor dem Handeln der Kanäle nach Panama, was ein tieflich bekämpftes Geheimnis der damaligen Carter-Administration bleibt. Trumps National Security Advisor Mike Walz bestätigte, dass Gespräche mit Panama-Führung auf dem Weg sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Sie sagen, dass sie sich jetzt in, Quote, Negotiierungen über die Begründung der Ports auf jeder Seite des Kanals engagieren. During his first trip abroad as Secretary of State, which began with a stop in Panama, Marco Rubio argued that US vessels should no longer be subject to tolls, claiming that since the US defends the canal, it shouldn't have to pay to use it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Rubio stated, "...it's absurd that we would have to pay fees to transit a zone that we're obligated to protect in a time of conflict." Meanwhile, the economic confrontation continues to intensify. The Trump administration has imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, blanketing all categories of goods with a sweeping 20% rate, with additional tariffs reportedly in the pipeline this week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
For Beijing, the antitrust maneuver appears to be more than a routine regulatory move. It's a move designed to frustrate and delay American ambitions at a critical logistical node. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 31st of March. We've made it to the end of another month. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 31st, 2025: 'Pissed Off' Trump Threatens Putin With New Tariffs & China Attempts To Thwart US Deal On Panama Canal
Hutchinson aus dem Panama-Kanal besitzen würde, um Präsident Trumps Plan, den strategischen Wasserweg von der chinesischen Kommunistischen Partei abzureißen. Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittagspotlight. Präsident Trump scheint sich mit Präsident Putin zu verletzen, der den russischen Führer mit zunehmenden Kriegsverhandlungen ein seltsames Begrüßungspotenzial ausübt.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
As of now, AFRICOM has released no further details about the targets hit in Saturday's strike, citing ongoing operational security concerns. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 31 March. If you have any questions or comments, well, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
And now, if you're so inclined, of course, you can listen to the show ad-free by simply becoming a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. Just visit pdbpremium.com. It couldn't be easier. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
It's Monday, the 31st of March. Well, look at that. We've survived another month. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And also look at that. I'm not on the road. I'm back off the road for once and in the Idaho compound. Good to be home. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
I doubt the mullahs have listened to either, but I digress. The 85-second video, initially published by Iranian state media, shows a vast network of underground tunnels. The exact location is unknown, but it's likely carved into the mountainous terrain of western Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The facility holds thousands of precision-guided ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges that seem to stretch from 850 to 1,550 miles. For reference, those missiles are capable of heading deep into Israel, across the Gulf to U.S. bases in Qatar and Bahrain, and even brushing southern Europe's edges like Greece or Italy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Two of Iran's top military leaders are seen touring the site, boasting that Iran's military power is now, quote, 10 times stronger than it was in 2024. Now, it's worth noting that there's a glaring design flaw in Iran's missile city, at least the one showcased in the most recent video.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Those tunnels appear to lack blast doors or separated compartments, and the missiles are stored out in the open, stacked one on top of the other. Well, that all sounds safe. It doesn't take a genius, of course, or a rocket scientist, to realize that a single penetrating strike, say from a bunker buster from a USB-2, could trigger a chain reaction and possibly destroy the whole site.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
I'm sure that military planners in Washington and Tel Aviv have clocked that vulnerability, and it's a safe bet that they're gaming out options as we speak, perhaps even discussing it on a group text chat. This is the third such missile base that Iran has unveiled in 2025 alone, part of what analysts say is a broader effort by the Iranian regime to show it won't be intimidated by the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
or its allies. Now, if you're a regular PDB listener, and I certainly hope that you are, you'll know that the timing of this reveal is no accident. It comes just weeks after President Trump issued a clear ultimatum to Iran, dismantle its missile and nuclear programs within two months or face consequences. We've also seen a steady buildup of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
military assets in the region, and this is important. CENTCOM now has two carrier strike groups within range, and as we reported last week, the U.S. has been amassing B-2 bombers and other air assets at Diego Garcia, a key strategic air base in the Indian Ocean. So there's no coincidence that the IRGC has released this latest footage now.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Last week, they flat out rejected direct talks with Washington. However, they've left the door open for indirect negotiations, possibly through Oman or Qatar. But frankly, that wasn't enough for U.S. President Trump. On Friday, he told the media, quote, My big preference is that we work it out with Iran. But if we don't work it out, bad things are going to happen to Iran, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
All right, coming up next, Hamas signals a possible hostage release in a new ceasefire proposal. And Syria's new president forms a surprisingly diverse cabinet in a break from Assad-era rule. I'll be right back. Hi, Mike Baker here. Look, in a world where everything feels mass-produced, it's refreshing to find something real. Am I right?
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
I mean, to find a true family business focused on producing real quality. And that's what you find when you buy your beef from Tritails. Now, Tritail's isn't some corporate meat factory. Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. No middlemen, no mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
We'll start things off today with a show of force from the Iranian regime. Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, has just unveiled a sprawling underground missile base packed with weapons capable of reaching across the region and beyond. We'll look at what their saber-rattling means and why one design flaw could be Iran's biggest vulnerability.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Bob's your uncle. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Speaking of which, I grilled up some of their ribeyes last night at the Idaho compound.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Absolutely delicious, not to mention, I've got some pretty good grilling skills. Okay, so whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. Use USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the BDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
In a bid to revive January's collapsed ceasefire agreement, Hamas is offering to free Israeli hostages, this time under an Egyptian-backed proposal that would see five released each week, including American Israeli Eden Alexander. A Hamas official told CNN that the proposal closely resembles a previous framework pitched by U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff earlier this month, though it remains unclear whether the deal includes the return of the remains of deceased hostages. In exchange for the phased releases, Hamas is demanding that Israel revert to the terms of the 19 January ceasefire, which saw a multi-week pause in fighting, an influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and the commencement of phase two negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
As we've been reporting here on the PDB since early this month, Israel cut off all supplies to Gaza, aiming to force Hamas to accept new terms more favorable to Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
That initial ceasefire, which was brokered after more than a year of war, resulted in the release of 33 hostages, eight of them deceased, in return for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The second phase was slated to begin just over two weeks later and conclude within 42 days, culminating in the release of all surviving hostages, a formal end to the war, and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. But talks quickly unraveled. The White House has laid the blame for the original breakdown and talks squarely at Hamas's feet, accusing the group of stalling negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Now, according to Reuters, citing security officials, Israel has expressed cautious optimism about the latest offer, viewing it as a possible on-ramp to a renewed truce. Even so, Netanyahu's office said Saturday it had submitted a counterproposal, quote, in full coordination with the United States, offering no further detail.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Hamas political chief Khalil al-Haya said in a televised address that the terror group had responded, quote, positively to the Egyptian proposal and warned Israel against obstructing progress. He insisted Hamas, quote, fully abided by the original agreement and expressed hope that Israel would reciprocate under the renewed framework.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
This renewed ceasefire dialogue comes against a backdrop of escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli forces have launched an intensified ground campaign in both the northern and southern parts of the Strip. That operation resumed nearly two weeks ago, ending a tenuous two-month lull.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Later in the show, Hamas says it's ready to release five hostages, including an American Israeli, in a new Egyptian-brokered deal for a temporary ceasefire. Plus, Syria's new president unveils a surprisingly diverse transitional government, marking a key step away from Assad-era rule and toward renewed ties with the West.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
On Saturday, Israeli ground troops advanced deeper into the southern city of Rafah, targeting the densely populated Jinnah neighborhood along the Egyptian border. The IDF said its objective is to expand a buffer zone along the border in order to shape the post-war geography of Gaza should a ceasefire be re-established.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Now, whether either side can overcome the political inertia and distrust that doomed the last agreement remains an open question. But for now, well, the offer is on the table while the war grinds on. Okay, shifting to Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The interim government has taken its most decisive step yet towards stitching the war-torn nation back together, swearing in a new transitional government nearly four months after the toppling of the Assad regime. The 23-member cabinet replaces the interim government led by former al-Qaeda member Ahmad al-Sharaa.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
He assumed leadership back in December after Assad was ousted in a sweeping rebel advance. Syria is now embarking on a five-year transitional period with elections on the horizon, in the distant horizon, since Sharaa has publicly stated it could take the full duration to prepare for a vote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
This freshly minted cabinet is notably diverse, drawing in appointees from Syria's mosaic of religious and ethnic minorities, widely interpreted as a direct response to mounting Western and Arab pressure to form a more representative government. as we've been tracking here on the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
That pressure reached a boiling point earlier this month following the massacre of more than 1,000 people, most of them Alawite civilians, along Syria's western coastline and in part in Damascus, in a brutal reprisal wave that underscored the nation's volatile sectarian landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Among the new ministers, an Alawite was tapped to lead the transportation ministry, a member of the Druze community was handed the agriculture portfolio, and a Christian woman, well known for her interfaith work and advocacy on women's rights in opposition to the Assad regime, was named Minister of Social Affairs and Labor.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Now, one conspicuous absence, well, that would be the Kurdish-led and U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF, and their associated autonomous civil administration in the Northeast. They were left out of the new cabinet entirely.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
That's despite a recent breakthrough deal between Shahra and the SDF commander that was agreed upon in Damascus, which established a nationwide ceasefire and called for the SDF's integration into the Syrian National Army. Two key holdovers from the interim government, the defense minister and foreign minister, kept their posts.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
That's a move that analysts say signals continuity on the security front. Additionally, the interim prime minister, prior to Shiraz's transitional reshuffle, has been reassigned as energy minister, tasked with jump-starting the country's decimated oil and electricity infrastructure. Two new ministries were also announced, a ministry of sports and a ministry of emergencies.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The latter will be headed by the leader of the White Helmets at Syria's renowned civil defense organization, likely a strategic nod to international donors and human rights groups tracking post-war recovery efforts. One structural shift worth noting is that there will be no prime minister in the transitional period. Shara will head the executive branch directly.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Given the recent rise in sectarian violence in Syria, this is an important step by the current interim leadership. And in today's back of the brief, U.S. forces strike ISIS targets, remember ISIS, in Somalia, taking out several militants in a coordinated operation with the Somali government. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
At the swearing-in ceremony, he declared, quote, this government is a declaration of our joint will to build a new state, vowing to restore national unity and public trust after years of bloodshed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Earlier this month, the Sharia also unveiled a new constitutional declaration that enshrines Islamic law as a guiding principle while simultaneously guaranteeing women's rights and freedom of expression. It's a carefully calibrated balancing act seen by many as an overture to Western allies in a bid to unlock sanctions relief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The formation of this transitional government is, without question, a critical inflection point. But whether it serves as a bridge to stability or simply a brief pause before the next chapter of violence in Syria, that remains to be seen. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, U.S. forces take out ISIS militants in Somalia. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Yeah, look around. What do you see? You see, what, tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation? Look, it's no wonder that gold, as a commodity, has been routinely hitting all-time highs. In volatile markets like the one we have right now, well, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. That is not a good idea. Take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
And that's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or a 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? Look, to learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's easy. Text PDB, as in President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
We are Theresa and Nemo and that's why we switched to Shopify.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
In today's Back of the Brief, the United States has quietly ramped up its counterterrorism campaign in East Africa, launching a targeted airstrike in northeastern Somalia over the weekend that killed multiple ISIS fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
The strike, carried out in coordination with the Somali government, hit a cluster of ISIS Somalia targets southeast of the port city of Bosaso, according to a statement from U.S. Africa's command. That's called AFRICOM, in case you were wondering what the acronym might be. While details remain limited, initial assessments suggest that several terrorists were killed and no civilians harmed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Though often overshadowed by the Al-Qaeda-aligned al-Shabaab terrorists, ISIS Somalia has carved out a foothold in the semi-autonomous Puntland region. And according to U.S. officials, the terror group has demonstrated both the intent and the operational reach to threaten American and partner interests in the area.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Iran is flexing its military muscle as the pressure from Washington continues to ramp up. In the latest move meant to showcase defiance, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, has released video footage of what they're calling Missile City, which of course is different from Paradise City, a great gunner's tune, not to mention Big City, a classic from Merle Haggard.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
Saturday's airstrike is the latest in a string of operations aimed at stemming that threat. It follows a separate strike just days prior, as well as a series of strikes in February that, according to Puntland authorities, eliminated, quote, key ISIS figures entrenched in the region's mountainous terrain. The uptick in U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 31st, 2025: Inside Iran’s Underground ‘Missile City’ & Syria Unveils Surprising New Government
airstrike activity in the region suggests that Washington is becoming increasingly concerned about the terror group's resilience and its potential to expand influence across Somalia's porous borders. But with ISIS Somalia keeping a lower profile than its al-Shabaab rivals, tracking the terror group's movements has proven to be challenging.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
He and Rosalind Carter, who passed away in November of 2023, shared 77 years of marriage. And that, as an aside, would be the longest presidential union in American history. Rest in peace there, President Carter. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 30 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
And I do hope you had a chance over the weekend to check out our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. As you probably know by now, that's our extended weekend show. This week's guests included retired General Ben Hodges, the former commanding officer of the U.S. Army Europe, and Dr. Robert Marbitt. He's the producer of an important and very sobering documentary on the fentanyl crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
You can catch this episode, as well as past shows, on our YouTube channel. Check that out. You can find it at At President's Daily Brief and, of course, all the podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
It's Monday, 30 December. Well, look at that. We're almost to the end of the year. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
And those survivors are now beginning to give their accounts of what happened. An Azeri crew member speaking from his hospital room told ABC News he heard several thuds as the aircraft flew over Grozny, Russia. Though he wasn't authorized to share details publicly, he recounted how he noticed blood shortly after hearing loud bangs outside the plane.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The crewman said, quote, I don't know what touched me. I just looked and saw blood. Another passenger recalled hearing two explosions about 20 to 30 minutes after takeoff, adding to the growing body of evidence that surface to air missiles from Russian air defenses likely caused the crash. Azerbaijani officials are now calling on Russia to take responsibility for the crash.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Yeah, that's definitely going to happen. On Sunday, the nation's president, Ilham Aliyev, openly accused Russia of shooting down the plane. though he did stop short of claiming that it was intentional. Speaking on Azerbaijani state television, Aliyev said, "...we can say with complete clarity that the plane was shot down by Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
We are not saying that it was done intentionally, but it was done." He added that the aircraft wasn't just hit by fire from the ground, but was also rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare. Aliev criticized Moscow for what he described as an effort to hush up the incident for days, saying he was upset and surprised by Russian officials' explanations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Originally, the Kremlin said the crash occurred after the Embraer 190 aircraft hit a flock of birds. Hmm. Meanwhile, Russian President Putin has issued what some might call a partial apology and others might just call a statement. On Saturday, the Kremlin acknowledged that air defense systems were firing near Grozny's airport as the airliner repeatedly tried to land there.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
However, the statement stopped short of admitting that these defenses hit the plane. Putin's apology, if that's what it was, to President Aliyev was limited to expressing regret that the tragedy occurred in Russian airspace, an inconvenience for Putin, a response unlikely to satisfy Azerbaijani officials.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
We'll start the show with the ongoing investigations into that deadly Azerbaijan Airlines crash and an apparent apology from Russian President Vladimir Putin, which stopped just short of accepting responsibility. So one could say, not an apology.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Aliyev has also demanded that Russia punish those responsible and provide compensation to both the Azerbaijani state and the injured passengers and crew members. Whether or not any of that happens, well, that remains to be seen. But Putin's Russia doesn't frankly have a good record of admitting guilt when it shoots down passenger planes, or really admitting guilt to anything.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Take Malaysian Airlines Flight 17, for example. Back in 2014, 298 people were killed when the plane was shot down over eastern Ukraine. Investigators later found that it was hit by a Russian-made missile system operated by pro-Russian separatists. But despite the evidence, Moscow has repeatedly denied any responsibility, calling the investigations biased and political.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Given that history, it's hard to say if Azerbaijan will get the accountability or justice that they're demanding for last week's crash. All right, coming up next, the latest from Western Russia, where North Korean troops are reportedly deployed in human wave attacks. And the Taliban retaliates against Pakistan after a series of airstrikes just last week. I'll have those stories when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Later in the show, the latest from the battlefields in Western Russia, where North Korean troops are reportedly being used in human wave attacks, leading to, of course, mounting casualties. Plus, the conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan is escalating after Pakistani airstrikes spurred Taliban retaliation this weekend, leaving casualties on both sides.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
More grim news coming from the front lines of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, with reports that Moscow is now using North Korean troops in what are being referred to as human wave attacks, with some soldiers choosing to take their own lives to avoid capture, driven by fear of retribution under Kim Jong-un's regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby weighed in on Friday, describing Pyongyang's forces as, quote, highly indoctrinated and being treated as expendable. He explained that they're forced into waves of assaults against Ukrainian defenses with little concern for their survival.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Kirby confirmed reports that suicides among North Korean soldiers are, quote, likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in the event that they're captured, end quote. South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed last week that at least one captured North Korean soldier died of self-inflicted injuries after being taken into Ukrainian custody.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that some captured North Korean troops could not be resuscitated, suggesting, quote, their own people are executing them in an effort to prevent their capture. According to Kirby, the North Korean troops deployed in Russia's Kursk region are being deployed into, quote, massed dismounted assaults with minimal protection.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
He described their tactics as ineffective and extraordinarily costly in human terms. Zelensky echoed this assessment, accusing the Russian military and their North Korean enforcers of displaying blatant disregard for the lives of these soldiers. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, estimates from U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
and allied intelligence indicate that North Korea has dispatched a minimum of 11,000 troops to support Russia's war effort. Zelensky reported via Telegram Friday that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the past week alone, while Kirby cited a lower figure of more than 1,000 deaths during the same period.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
And those are numbers which were corroborated by South Korean intelligence. The desperation of Moscow's approach is evident in its staggering casualty numbers. Earlier this month, British intelligence reported that over 45,000 Russian casualties took place in November alone. That's the highest monthly toll since the war began.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The report added that more than 1,500 Russian soldiers are being killed or wounded daily. Adding to the challenges for Ukrainian forces, Russia's grinding assault on energy infrastructure continues to strain the country's ability to weather the winter. Despite these obstacles, Ukraine does appear to be resolute, bolstered by its continued foothold in Kursk and a new stream of aid from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
government. All right, shifting to Central Asia, Afghanistan's Taliban government escalated tensions with Pakistan on Saturday with retaliatory strikes targeting what it described as, quote, several points within Pakistan. Now, the strikes come days after a Pakistani military airstrike inside Afghanistan killed at least 46 people.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The Afghan Defense Ministry, notably avoiding direct mention of Pakistan, framed the attacks as occurring, quote, beyond the hypothetical line. And that's invoking the contested Durand Line. That's a colonial era border established in the 1890s that Afghanistan has long disputed. In a statement, the Afghan ministry spokesman elaborated, quote, We do not consider it to be the territory of Pakistan.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
And in today's Back of the Brief, some sad news. Former President Jimmy Carter is dead at the age of 100. We'll take a look back at the extraordinary life of America's 39th Commander-in-Chief. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Therefore, we cannot confirm the territory. But it was on the other side of the hypothetical line, end quote. According to Afghan Taliban officials, these strikes were aimed at dismantling hideouts and coordination centers tied to, quote, malicious elements and their supporters orchestrating attacks inside Afghanistan.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The report from Reuters offered no details about casualties or specific strike locations. The Afghan Taliban government issued a sharp warning on Wednesday that they pledged sharp retaliation for the Pakistani military aerial bombardment, which they claimed killed mainly women and children in Afghanistan's Paktika province.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
As we previously reported on the PDB, Islamabad, for its part, defended last week's military operations, asserting that they were necessary to neutralize strongholds and training facilities of the TTP. That's essentially the Pakistani Taliban. For background, the TTP is a terror group affiliated with, but operationally distinct from, the Afghan Taliban.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The group has intensified its assaults along the border region, including the killing of 16 soldiers in a checkpoint attack earlier this month in northwest Pakistan. The relationship between Kabul and Islamabad continues to fray, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of providing sanctuary to terrorists responsible for cross-border attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Kabul, however, categorically denies these claims, further exasperating the cycle of accusations and reprisals. That's what we needed. We needed another area with increasing tension and conflict. And coming up in the back of the brief, former President Jimmy Carter has died at 100 years of age. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Multiple investigations into last week's deadly Azerbaijan Airlines crash in Kazakhstan are still underway, but preliminary findings are now settling on Russian air defense systems as the most likely culprit. And when I say most likely, I mean, well, that was the culprit.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. In today's Back of the Brief, former President Jimmy Carter, a one-time naval officer and peanut farmer who became the 39th president of the United States, died at the age of 100 on Sunday in Georgia, surrounded by his family.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
The Carter Center confirmed his passing, noting he had opted for home hospice care in February of 2023, after a series of hospitalizations, choosing to, quote, spend his remaining time at home with his family. In recent years, President Carter battled melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Carter's ascent to the presidency in 1977 was nothing short of improbable.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
a political outsider from Plains, Georgia. He campaigned on a promise to restore integrity to the White House. Well, there's a thought. Vowing to lead a government that is, quote, good and honest and decent and compassionate and filled with love, as are the American people, end quote. His tenure, however, oversaw a time of major political upheaval in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Carter grappled with one of the most significant crises in U.S. history, and that was the Iran hostage crisis. For 444 days, 52 Americans were held captive by revolutionary students in Tehran, a saga that culminated in a failed rescue mission costing the lives of eight U.S. service members. The crisis eroded national confidence and contributed to Carter's landslide defeat in 1980 by Ronald Reagan.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Domestically, his presidency faced economic challenges. Stagflation, a combination of stagnant growth and higher inflation, plagued the economy, while an energy crisis left Americans waiting in long lines at gas pumps. Yet Carter's presidency was not without triumphs.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
He brokered the Camp David Accords, facilitating an historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt, and formalized diplomatic relations with communist China, building on the groundwork laid by former President Richard Nixon. Perhaps Carter's most defining legacy, though, emerged after his presidency.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
As we reported on the PDB, the tragedy unfolded on Wednesday morning when Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8432 crashed in a remote area near Almaty, Kazakhstan. Now, the passenger plane was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, that's the capital of the Chechnya region in southern Russia. 38 people were killed and 29 survived.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
His decades-long post-presidential career redefined the role of former presidents as he dedicated himself to humanitarian work through the Carter Center, which was founded to, quote, wage peace, fight disease, and build hope. This work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
The President's Daily Brief
December 30th, 2024: Putin Apologizes for Deadly Plane Crash & ‘Human Wave’ Attacks in Russia
Carter's hands-on involvement with Habitat for Humanity, where he was often seen hammering nails alongside volunteers, became an enduring symbol of his commitment to service. Carter's death marks a historical milestone in U.S. political history, ending the longest life of any president, a previous record held by George H.W. Bush.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
As President Trump's patience wears thin over Moscow's reluctance to advance peace talks, Russian President Putin is offering what at first glance appears to be a small olive branch. It's very small, though one that comes with significant strings attached.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
On Monday, the Kremlin said that Putin has ordered a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine to commence on the morning of 8th May, right, May 8th, and run through the 11th of May. Now, that's coinciding with celebrations to mark the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It's according to the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
A spokesman for the Kremlin said Putin declared the ceasefire based on, quote, humanitarian considerations. Obviously an odd choice of words, given Russia's deadly strike last week on a Kiev apartment block that left a dozen civilians dead. Oh, not to mention that Putin started this three-year war with his full invasion of Ukraine, but okay, suddenly he would like to be known as a humanitarian.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
In announcing the planned pause in fighting, the Kremlin reiterated their claimed readiness to negotiate a settlement to the war, though one that addressed what they call, quote, the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis. That, of course, is the same thing they've said in the past. Now, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov later added that any deal
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
must include international recognition of Russia's control of Crimea, along with the four Ukrainian regions currently under Russian military occupation, terms that are essentially non-starters for leaders in Kyiv and the vast majority of EU nations. The Kremlin added that they expect Kyiv to reciprocate the temporary ceasefire and that they will respond forcefully to any violations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
It marks the second time in two weeks that Putin has promised a short-term pause in fighting following the 30-hour supposed truce over Easter. That pause was marked by hundreds of violations, though both sides still reported a brief dip in hostilities. The international response to Putin's latest offer was tepid at best as leaders remain highly skeptical of his motives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
And frankly, I'm just happy I was able to finally use the word tepid in the PDB. Ukraine's foreign minister said, quote, if Russia truly wants peace, it must ceasefire immediately. He noted that Ukraine has repeatedly agreed to a full 30-day ceasefire to facilitate negotiations and called on Russia to do the same.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
echoing that sentiment, an official at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council questioned why Putin was only offering a three-day pause. He told the Kyiv Independent, quote, anything that is not a comprehensive ceasefire is Russian manipulation for informational and military purposes, an attempt to hide its intent to continue the war, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
The White House was similarly skeptical, with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt saying both countries needed to come to the table to negotiate their way out of the conflict. Leavitt also stated Putin's offer falls well short of President Trump's expectations, saying, "...the President has made it clear he wants to see a permanent ceasefire first to stop the killing, to stop the bloodshed."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Putin's proposal comes on the heels of a pivotal meeting over the weekend between Zelensky and Trump on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral at the Vatican. As we covered earlier on the PDB, both sides called the 15-minute discussion productive and constructive, though the details remain unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Shortly after their talk, Trump also issued a rare rebuke of Putin, expressing open skepticism about the Russian strongman's commitment to peace. Trump said, quote, There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns over the last few days. It makes me think that maybe he doesn't want to stop the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
He's just tapping me along and has to be dealt with differently. End quote. It was a marked departure from Trump's typically deferential approach to Putin, with Trump floating the possibility of new pressure tactics on Moscow, such as banking and secondary sanctions. The diplomatic movement comes at a critical juncture for U.S.-led efforts to end the Russian-Ukraine war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Last week, Ukraine forcefully pushed back on a U.S. proposal to formally cede Crimea and their eastern territory to Russia and to permanently shut the door on Ukraine's NATO aspirations. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio subsequently threatened to walk away from peace talks entirely if leaders in Kyiv are not willing to compromise on these points.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
So, these points being, give up Crimea, give up 20 plus percent of the rest of your country, and never join NATO. Yeah, I can't imagine why the Ukrainians aren't excited about giving in to Putin's demands. On Monday, however, when asked if Zelensky was ready to give up Crimea, President Trump said, quote, I think so, according to a report from NBC News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Trump also expressed optimism over the weekend that Moscow and Kiev were, quote, very close to a deal after Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met again with Putin on Friday. But whether Putin's latest ceasefire offer will be enough to placate Trump and keep the peace process alive is unclear. On Sunday, Secretary Rubio said the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
would likely make a decision this week on whether they'll continue to try to broker a settlement. Rubio said, "...we have to make a determination about whether this is an endeavor that we want to continue to be involved in."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Coming up next, ties between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan continue to deteriorate as leaders in Islamabad warn of an imminent Indian military incursion into their territory. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, temperatures are warming up and I suspect you pulled the cover off the grill because it's grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on the grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, you probably know I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
It's a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it directly to your door. There's no middleman, there's no mystery here. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA prime and choice, hand-packed, and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
It's Monday, the 28th of April. Look at that. We are almost into May. Welcome to the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right. Let's get briefed. First, following a pivotal meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker here. Well, by now, I'm sure you know all about the tariffs and the trade wars, and I'm sure that you know that all that's pretty much thrown the global economy into some chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there is a silver and also a gold lining that I think some people have missed. What I mean by that is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. If you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
The first step is just to text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, Pakistan's defense minister warned today that an Indian military incursion was imminent following last week's deadly terror attack in the disputed region of Kashmir. The warning follows the deadliest civilian assault in Indian-administered Kashmir in a quarter of a century,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
an attack that left 26 tourists dead and triggered outrage across Hindu-majority India, with calls for retribution against Muslim-majority Pakistan. New Delhi wasted no time in pointing fingers, accusing Islamabad of backing militants and fueling cross-border terrorism. Pakistan, for its part, flatly denied the allegations and demanded a neutral investigation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Speaking from his office in Islamabad, Pakistan's defense minister told Reuters that Pakistan had reinforced its military presence along the de facto border and made, quote, strategic decisions to brace for a potential Indian strike, an attack he warned was, quote, imminent now. He declined to provide specific evidence for his claim. The defense minister also issued a chilling reminder.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
President Trump on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral at the Vatican, Russian President Vladimir Putin has promised a temporary three-day ceasefire and reiterated his claimed readiness to make a peace deal. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Pakistan would consider deploying its nuclear arsenal if faced with a, quote, direct threat to our existence." Meanwhile, the situation on the ground continued to deteriorate. India and Pakistan traded gunfire for a fourth consecutive night along the 460-mile line of control, that's the heavily fortified frontier that slices through the heart of Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
The Indian Army claimed it was responding to, quote, unprovoked small arms fire from Pakistani posts around midnight Sunday. No casualties were reported, and Pakistan's military has yet to comment on the latest exchange. At the same time, India ramped up nationwide military exercises, though defense officials insisted that some drills had been planned prior to the terror attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
In Kashmir, the security crackdown has been swift and sweeping. Police detained roughly 500 people for questioning and searched nearly 1,000 houses in an ongoing hunt for the gunmen, according to local officials. But the narrative only grew murkier over the weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
The Resistance Front, or TRF, the Islamist terror group that initially claimed responsibility for the attack, abruptly reversed course on Sunday, alleging that its earlier admission was the result of a cyber attack orchestrated by Indian intelligence. New Delhi dismissed the claim as disinformation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
The United States, caught between its strategic ties to India and its broader regional interests, reacted carefully. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Pruce over the weekend stated that Washington was, quote, monitoring developments closely and was in contact with both New Delhi and Islamabad at multiple levels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Bruce emphasized that the U.S., quote, stands with India and strongly condemns the terrorist attack, reflecting the deepening partnership between Washington and New Delhi, part of America's broader Indo-Pacific strategy to counter China's growing influence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
China, a longtime ally of Pakistan, weighed in too, backing Islamabad's call for an independent investigation and urging both sides to exercise restraint. Beijing also welcomed efforts to de-escalate tensions. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 28th of April. If you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Now, as you've probably seen from all the full-page ads in many of the swankier, glossy magazines, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's that simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 28th, 2025: Putin Announces Ceasefire In Ukraine & Pakistan Warns Of Imminent Indian Military Incursion
Later in the show, an update on the brewing conflict between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan as their forces continue to trade cross-border gunfire and leaders in Islamabad bolster their military defenses, warning of an imminent military incursion by the Indian military into Pakistani territory. All right, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Untertitelung des ZDF für funk, 2017 According to a reformist news outlet in Tehran, national crisis management officials say about 80% of the fire had been contained by Sunday afternoon. Despite the containment, Iran's interior minister confirmed the fire was still jumping from container to container.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Many of the injured had reportedly been discharged from hospitals, though the toll from the blast could still rise. Erstens. Iranische Geheimdienste berichten, dass die Explosion wahrscheinlich von einem Feuer nahe eines gefährlichen Materialdepots resultierte.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Aber frühere Untersuchungen von Ambria Intelligence, das ist eine Maritim-Risiko-Konsultanz, erzählten eine viel alarmierendere Geschichte. Laut der Konsultation der Firma, die Container, die die Explosion getötet haben, enthielten solidarische Rocket-Fluge, die nicht gereinigt worden waren und offensichtlich für das Ballistikmissilprogramm von Iran verbunden waren.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Zuerst in einem großen Wettbewerb für die US- und Mexikanische Kräfte. Die Border Patrol-Agenten in Tucson, Arizona, haben in der Vergangenheit real-time Intelligenz mit ihren Verteidigern auf der Grenze geteilt, lediglich zu der Zerstörung von Kartellschauplätzen auf der mexikanischen Seite der Grenze.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Ambry hat auch berichtet, dass ein Iran-flaggtes Wessel eine Anlage von Rocket-Fuel aus China im März aufgelöst hat. Die chinesische Staatsmedien haben bemerkt, dass drei chinesische Nationals in Saturdays Blast leichter verletzt wurden, weiter zu wehren, dass Verletzungen von volatilen Missilkomponenten involviert waren.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Ambry notierte, dass Iran's National Disaster Management Organization previously warned port officials about chemical safety violations, warnings that, it appears, went unheated. Iranian President Massoud Bezeshkin issued a statement expressing, quote, deep regret and sympathy for the victims and announced a formal investigation into the incident.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 28th of April. Look at that, we're almost through the month and heading in towards May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. And you can do that very simply.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Working off those tips, Mexican forces raided several sites, arresting four suspects and seizing a cache of weapons and drugs. Another major bust happened just south of Arizona, along a popular tourist corridor between the Lukeville border crossing and the beach town of Puerto Penasco.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
There, authorities uncovered weapons and equipment used by cartel scouts to monitor border patrol movements and coordinate smuggling operations through remote desert routes. The cartel lookouts serve as the eyes and ears for drug runners seeking weak spots and openings along Arizonas border. And the ongoing crackdown hasn't been limited to the border region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Last week, Mexican Marines launched a major operation in the rugged mountains of Durango, dismantling two clandestine meth labs in the town of Tamazula. Marines seized roughly 330 pounds of meth, along with nearly 3,200 gallons and 770 pounds of chemical precursors, the raw materials used to manufacture meth destined for U.S. streets.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
All of these latest blows are part of what's known as Operation Frontera Norte, the Northern Border Operation, which was launched in February after Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum and Trump struck a deal to escalate joint efforts against the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
As part of the agreement, Mexico deployed 10,000 National Guard troops across 18 cities near the northern border to stem the flow of drugs and dismantle cartel networks closer to their source.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Seit der Eröffnung hat die Operation einige große Gewinne erzielt, mehr als 2.700 Angriffe, die Verletzung von etwa 2.300 Feuerwaffen, etwa 376.000 Runden Ammunition und über 66.000 Pounden Narkotik, insbesondere mehr als 350 Pounden Fentanyl. But the cartels, as you may suspect, are not taking the hits quietly, and they're making sure that the world notices.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Last week, cartel violence erupted across three Mexican states, including Michoacán and Jalisco, as the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel lashed out in response to government pressure. Die Behörden haben den Kartell-Seniorlehrer und Logistiknetze in einem Versuch getarget, die Gruppenoperationen auszuschöpfen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In der Retaliation haben sich schwergearmte Gruppen, siebte Cargo-Trucks, sie aufgeräumt und sie benutzt, um Straßen zu blockieren, insbesondere große Routen, die Mexiko-City mit Guadalajara verbinden. Police reported at least 18 similar incidents across neighboring states with gunmen torching vehicles and paralyzing traffic.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In Michoacán, a police official speaking anonymously told reporters the violence was a direct response to military raids targeting cartel strongholds. By Wednesday evening, most fires had been extinguished and roads reopened. No casualties were reported, but the message was clear. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel will not be backing down anytime soon without a fight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
For background, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel is one of Mexico's most dangerous criminal groups. It's one of the cartels that President Trump officially designated as a terrorist organization earlier this year.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
formed after a split from the Sinaloa-Cartel back in 2010, they exploded into a brutal powerhouse, now estimated to have around 19,000 members, and that's according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration figures.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Alright, coming up next, President Trump sends a warning to Vladimir Putin after a private meeting with Ukraine's leader at the Vatican, and the US and Iran struggle to find a pathway to a nuclear deal. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, temperatures are warming up and you know what that means. Yes, it's grilling season. And here's a pro tip I'm about to pass your way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
I'm going to tell you where to get the finest beef that you can toss on that grill. I'm talking about a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, well you know, I'm talking about TriTales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
It's a fifth generation Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, there's no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the PDB. In what may be remembered as a pivotal moment for U.S.-Ukraine relations, President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky held a private meeting on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral at the Vatican.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
It's Monday, the 28th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a major cartel crackdown at the U.S. southern border and the subsequent violent retaliation that's now erupting across Mexico.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In their first encounter since the clash in the Oval Office earlier this year, you probably remember seeing that clash, the two leaders met inside St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday for a 15-minute conversation described as, quote, very productive by White House Communications Director Stephen Chung.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Zielinski's Chief of Staff similarly called the talk, quote, constructive, with both sides hinting that more details would be forthcoming. Photos released by Zielinski's office showed Trump and the Ukrainian strongman leaning in close with no aides in sight, a snapshot of intimacy that stood in sharp contrast to the rather bitter fallout that marred their last meeting in February.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
The discussion came at a critical juncture for US-led efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, efforts that have, as of late, hit serious roadblocks. Their February confrontation had prompted the White House to briefly pause intelligence sharing and military aid to Ukraine, a stark reminder of the tensions simmering beneath the surface of the Washington-Kiev relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
After the funeral, Trump boarded Air Force One and departed Rome, but not before sounding a notably tougher tone on social media. In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump expressed open skepticism that Russian President Putin was serious about peace. Really? Well, citing Russia's recent missile attacks on civilian areas. Yeah, that would do it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Including a deadly strike last week on a Kiev apartment block that left a dozen civilians dead. Trump flog neue Druckstrategien, z.B. Banken und zusätzliche Sanktionen, bemerkend, dass zu viele Menschen sterben. Die scharfen Bemerkungen haben einen klaren Schritt für Trump gemacht, der bis jetzt oft harscher Kritik für Zelenskyy als für Putin besorgt hatte.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Einen Tag früher hat er mehr optimistisch gespürt, dass Moskau und Kiew, z.B. sehr nahe zu einem Deal waren, nach den Berichtern von Special Envoy Steve Witkoffs Reise nach Moskau. Zelenskyy, für seine Partie, schrieb einen mehr vorsichtig hoffnungsvollen Notsatz.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In einem Telegram-Post sagte er, dass die zwei Leiter über die Schutz von zivilen Leben diskutiert haben, eine komplette Zerstörung zu sichern und das, was er so genannt hat, eine, Quote, vertrauensvolle und langfristige Frieden zu bauen. Er hahlte das Meeting mit Trump als einen, Quote, sehr symbolischen Moment, einen, den er sagte, könnte im Endeffekt historisch sein, wenn es Resultate bietet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
But despite the upbeat public messaging, major divisions do remain. Chief among them, Trump's proposal to legally recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea. That's a non-starter for Kiev and fiercely opposed by most European capitals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Other points of friction linger as well, such as the timeline for lifting sanctions on Moscow, the structure of security guarantees for Ukraine, and mechanisms for financial compensation to rebuild the country. Meanwhile, developments out of Moscow have only added to the uncertainty.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In a statement Friday, Kremlin-Mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov said Putin had told Witkow that Russia was ready to resume negotiations with Ukraine, quote, without preconditions. But skepticism in Kiev and western capitals remains high, and for good reason.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Later in the show, President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky hold a private meeting at Pope Francis' funeral, just before Trump fired a warning shot at Russian President Putin. Plus, the US and Iran wrap up another round of nuclear talks. But major divisions, as you can imagine, are still standing in the way of a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Many officials believe Moscow's sudden overtures are less about ending the war and more about buying time for further territorial grabs in order to leverage bargaining power in future negotiations. Zelensky, for his part, again urged the US to apply, quote, real pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire that would mark not just a pause, but a true step toward ending the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Okay, shifting to the Middle East. The third round of nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran ended on Saturday with major divides unresolved, particularly over Tehrans insistence on continuing to enrich uranium.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Speaking after the four-hour meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakci struck a cautious tone, saying that while he remained hopeful, quote, some of our differences are very serious, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
A senior Trump administration official, in contrast, painted the meeting as, quote, positive and productive, but declined to detail exactly where the differences referred to by Abakshi still lay, offering only that both sides had agreed to meet again soon in Europe. In other words, no real headway toward a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
At the heart of the stalemate is Iran's demand to maintain its ability to enrich uranium domestically. It's a capability that Washington views as a major proliferation threat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
According to US intelligence estimates, Iran is now producing enough enriched uranium each month to produce a single nuclear weapon each month and could convert it to bomb-grade material within one to two weeks if it chose to. Vor den Gesprächen in Oman hat der Staatssekretär Marco Rubio die Grundlage der USA wiederholen lassen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Washington würde ein zivilistisches Nuklearprogramm für Iran akzeptieren, aber nur eines, das auf importiertes Gas verlangt, um einen Weg zum nuklearen Waffen zu schließen. Das iranische Regime hat lange diese Anforderungen verweigert, das domästische Wachstum als reiches Recht zu bezeichnen und es klar zu machen, dass es keine Intention hat, zurückzukehren.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
That issue has become obviously one of the major sticking points, alongside American demands that any new deal curb Iran's ballistic missile program. Under the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran had been limited to enriching uranium to just 3.67%, civilian-grade but far below weapons-grade levels.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Since the US withdrawal, Israel has blown past that threshold, enriching to 60%, dangerously close, of course, to the 90% enrichment needed for a bomb. In an effort to speed up negotiations, Trump has set a hard two-month deadline to finalize a deal, warning that failure could leave the US little choice but to consider military options.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump said, quote, I think we'll have a deal. I'd much rather have a deal than the alternative, end quote. But despite Trump's public optimism, the foreign minister from Iran warned that the negotiations would be a, quote, difficult process requiring time. A not so subtle reminder that the Iranian regime wants more than just a piece of paper.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Iran is also seeking sweeping sanctions relief from the Trump administration's maximum pressure strategy, desperate to breathe life back into its battered economy. Like past talks, some exchanges were mediated indirectly by Omani officials, though top-level negotiators also held direct discussions. Technical teams from both countries were directly involved in the meetings.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, a massive explosion at Iran's largest commercial port kills at least 28 and injures hundreds, with earlier reports linking to a possible link to the mishandling of missile fuel. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Auf beiden Seiten der US-Mexiko-Border sind Gefährdungsorganisationen auf der Strecke, und jetzt sind die Kartelle wieder auf der Strecke.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Michael Anton, a veteran from Trump's first administration, led the US delegation. The Islamic Republic was led by some of their seasoned negotiators. Looking ahead, the next round could involve participation from the International Atomic Energy Agency, which has raised red flags about Iran's nuclear facilities and progress in their weapons program.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
The agency plans to send inspectors to investigate reports of newly constructed tunnels and an expanded security perimeter around Iran's Natanz nuclear site. Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief. Still in Iran, a deadly blast rips through Iran's largest commercial port, leaving dozens dead and hundreds injured. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Well, you've probably heard about the trade wars. I'm sure you've heard about the tariffs. That's all thrown the global economy into something you could call chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there is a silver lining.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
And it's not just silver, there's also a gold lining that I think some people have missed. You see what I mean is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. And while the policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free conversation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first step is to text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
In today's Back of the Brief, a massive explosion ripped through Iran's largest commercial shipping terminal over the weekend, killing at least 28 people and injuring more than 1,000 others, as earlier reports point to improperly stored missile fuel as the likely cause.
The President's Daily Brief
April 28th, 2025: Border Patrol and Mexico Crush Cartel Posts — Cartels Launch Bloody Retaliation & Trump-Zelensky Private Talks
Die Behörden sagen, dass am Donnerstag der Blast am Shahid-Rajai-Port nahe der südlichen Stadt von Bandar Abbas Wänden und Rüfen bis zu 30 Meilen entfernt und inszenierte Fahrzeuge über die Gegend, markierend einen der schrecklichsten industriellen Schäden, die Iran in den letzten Jahrzehnten gesehen hat. Die Staatsmedien haben berichtet, dass sechs Menschen unverantwortlich bleiben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Petro issued a rather bold statement, declaring, quote, I deny the entry of American planes carrying Colombian migrants into our territory. The United States must establish a protocol for the dignified treatment of migrants before we receive them, end quote. Well, as you might imagine, President Trump did not take kindly to the rebuke.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
It's Monday, 27 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, the Trump administration claimed a victory over Colombia this weekend after forcing the country to backtrack on their refusal to accept deportation flights from the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Later on Sunday, Trump issued a statement of his own, directing his administration to immediately impose emergency tariffs of 25% on all goods coming into the U.S. from Colombia, with the tariffs rising to 50% after one week if Colombia refused to reverse course. He also ordered a travel ban and visa revocations for all Colombian government officials, as well as their allies and supporters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Additionally, he declared visa sanctions on all party members, family members, and supporters of the Colombian government. He ominously warned, quote, these measures are just the beginning. We will not allow the Colombian government to violate its legal obligations with regard to the acceptance and return of the criminals that they forced into the United States, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Now, we should stress that these were not merely empty threats. The Trump administration moved swiftly to begin implementing the retaliatory measures, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio suspending visa issuances at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota and authorizing travel sanctions against those tied to the Colombian government. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Customs and Border Protection also said they were taking decisive measures to immediately enforce the travel ban on Colombian officials. Colombian President Petro initially dug in his heels, threatening to impose tariffs of 25% on all U.S. imports, which he later said he would hike to 50%. But, after several hours of diplomatic tensions, the Colombian government reversed course.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
By Sunday evening, the White House confirmed that Petro had agreed to all of Trump's demands, including the unrestricted acceptance of all illegal immigrants being sent from the U.S., The Colombian president even offered his presidential plane, while that's nice, to repatriate migrants from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
With their capitulation, Trump said the fully drafted tariffs and sanctions on Colombia would be immediately paused and held in reserve, but added that the visa restrictions would remain in place until the first plane load of Colombian deportees successfully arrived.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
The White House declared victory Sunday night, with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt saying, quote, Today's events make clear to the world that America is respected again. President Trump will continue to fiercely protect our nation's sovereignty, and he expects all other nations of the world to fully cooperate in accepting the deportation of their citizens illegally present in the United States.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Coming up, an update on Israel's ceasefire with Hezbollah as violence erupted between Israeli forces and protesters in southern Lebanon on Sunday, resulting in at least 22 deaths and raising concerns over whether lasting stability in the region is possible. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Then, as the White House granted Israel a ceasefire extension in Lebanon on Sunday, violence erupted between Israeli forces and protesters in southern Lebanon, resulting in at least 22 deaths and raising concerns, of course, over whether lasting stability in the region is actually possible. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
I want to provide an update on the Israel Hezbollah ceasefire, as tensions flared Sunday after Israeli forces opened fire on protesters in southern Lebanon. This development comes as Palestinians begin returning to northern Gaza following Israeli accusations of ceasefire violations by Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Now, according to Lebanese health officials, the Israeli Defense Forces, IDF, killed at least 22 protesters and injured over 120. The violence erupted in nearly 20 villages along the border as the protesters, some waving Hezbollah flags, called for Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon, a key condition of the ceasefire agreement that halted the Israel-Hezbollah war back in November.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
The IDF claimed it fired warning shots to disperse the crowds, accusing Hezbollah of inciting the unrest. An IDF spokesperson stated, quote, Hezbollah is trying to escalate tensions to distract from its declining influence in Lebanon and the region, accusing Hezbollah terrorists of sending, quote, rioters to instigate chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
The spokesperson urged Lebanese residents to avoid Israeli troops as a safety precaution. Lebanon's president called for restraint from the protesters while reaffirming that, "...Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, and I'm following up on this issue at the highest levels to ensure your rights and dignity."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Lebanon's president urged residents to trust the Lebanese army, which has been escorting civilians into border villages during the fragile ceasefire. Hours later, the White House confirmed that the deadline for Israel's withdrawal had been extended to 18 February, following an Israeli request for more time beyond the original 60-day deadline.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Israel cited the incomplete deployment of the Lebanese army in southern Lebanon as justification, claiming it was necessary to prevent a Hezbollah resurgence. Lebanese officials pushed back, arguing that their forces cannot fully deploy until Israeli troops leave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
The White House added that negotiations between the two governments on the extended deadline date would address the return of Lebanese prisoners captured after the 7 October 2023 Hamas terror attack on Israel. The Israel Hezbollah ceasefire agreement, brokered by the U.S. and monitored by the U.N.,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Over the weekend, we saw, I suppose what you could refer to as the first real test of President Trump's strategy of wielding aggressive tariffs as a foreign policy tool, and it ended in an early victory for the new administration. The incident began on Sunday morning when Colombian President Gustavo Petro refused to accept deportation flights from the U.S. carrying illegal migrants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
mandates Israel's withdrawal, the disarmament of unauthorized forces south of the Latani River, the redeployment of the Lebanese army, and the safe return of displaced civilians. All right, turning to Israel's ceasefire with Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
On Monday in Gaza, tens of thousands of Palestinians began returning north through the Netzerim corridor after Israel eased roadblocks late Sunday following mediation efforts by Qatar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
This follows our coverage on this morning's PDB of Israel accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire agreement by delaying the release of two hostages, a civilian woman named Arbel Yechud and a female soldier named Agam Berger. Now, Israel stated that Yehud's status as an alive female civilian placed her in the highest priority category to be freed in this first phase of the ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
While Hamas initially dismissed these facts, they later agreed to release Yehud, Berger, and another hostage by Friday. In exchange, Israel permitted displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, though the IDF warned civilians against aiding Hamas terrorists. According to Israel's Channel 13, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
monitors have been brought in to oversee the checkpoint on the Netzerim corridor, aiming to prevent the movement of terrorists and weapons. Hamas, however, framed the civilians' return as a, quote, victory, while Israel maintained its stance on ensuring security. The developments in southern Lebanon and Gaza reveal the precarious nature of current peace efforts in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
With ceasefire terms yet to be fully realized and tensions simmering, of course, on all fronts, the pursuit of lasting stability remains uncertain. And for that, I award myself the PDB Statement of the Obvious Award. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 27 January. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Not to mention, although I'm about to, if you're hankering for an ad-free APDB experience, well, we can make that happen. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 27th, 2025: Trump Pressures Colombia Into Submission & Violence Erupts In Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Extension
Two flights sent by the U.S. military were reportedly turned away, with Petro chastising the U.S. government for treating Colombian migrants as criminals. That's according to a report from Fox News. Well, to be fair, these early deportation efforts are directed against individuals with criminal records or convictions. So there's that.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The shift comes under newly appointed director John Ratcliffe, signaling a fresh approach to a debate that has, frankly, fractured intelligence agencies. The CIA's alignment with the FBI and the Department of Energy, which also supported the lab leak theory, points to growing momentum that the virus may have emerged from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, you think?
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
all while the Chinese regime continues to get away with providing zero transparency after several years and millions dead. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We're hearing reports of what's being described as a combative phone call between President Trump and the Danish prime minister, painting a contentious picture of U.S.-Danish relations over Greenland.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Yet this endorsement arrives, well, without any new evidence, and that's an admission made by a CIA spokesperson. Ratcliffe, previously the director of national intelligence under the first Trump administration, made this reassessment a top priority upon taking office.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News, Ratcliffe lambasted the agency's longstanding neutrality on COVID-19's origins, stating, "...the CIA has been sitting on the sidelines for five years and not making an assessment about the origins of COVID. That's a day one thing for me," he said."
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
His remarks underscore a broader push to refocus national security strategy on perceived threats from China, which he identifies as a critical adversary. The timing of this development is significant.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Former CIA Director William Burns reportedly urged the agency to adopt a clear position on COVID-19's origins during his final days at the agency, paving the way for Ratcliffe to declassify the agency's findings. This pivot places renewed scrutiny on a theory that, well, once was dismissed as fringe.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Proponents of the lab leak hypothesis have long pointed to U.S.-funded research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and its proximity to the wet market where initial COVID-19 cases emerged. Sometimes we would refer to those as clues. Critics of the zoonotic theory, which posits that the virus jumped from animals to humans, note that no intermediary host has ever been identified.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Further complicating the debate are whistleblower allegations that some CIA analysts were bribed to dismiss the lab leak theory. These claims have heightened tensions within the intelligence community, with the National Intelligence Council still backing the zoonotic explanation. The lack of consensus underscores the enduring complexity of pinpointing the virus's origins.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Well, in large part because the Chinese regime under Xi Jinping has refused to provide any transparency or to collaborate in any meaningful way with the global community. Yeah, so there's that. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton, a prominent advocate of the lab leak theory, praised Ratcliffe on X, stating, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Beijing consistently denies the lab leak theory, maintaining that the virus emerged naturally. However, these denials have done little to temper tensions, as Ratcliffe's tenure signals a hardening of the U.S. posture toward China.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
With millions of lives lost to COVID-19, Ratcliffe is calling for accountability from Beijing, well, good luck with that, setting the stage for potential diplomatic friction in the months ahead. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 27 January. Now, as all the hepcats know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is simple.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
It's Monday, 27 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with what was reportedly a clash between President Trump and Denmark's Prime Minister, over the subject of Greenland, with Denmark reportedly in crisis mode as Trump is said to be pushing hard for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdppremium.com. And I hope you had a chance to check out this past weekend's episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. You can catch it as well as past episodes on our YouTube channel. And you can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief, as well as, of course, all podcast platforms.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The story was first reported in the Financial Times, and according to European officials, the 45-minute conversation spiraled into direct confrontation. with Trump aggressively pushing for U.S. control of Greenland and even threatening to levy massive tariffs against the Danes. One source said of the conversation, quote, the intent was very clear. Trump wants it.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The Danes are now in crisis mode, end quote. Another added, quote, the Danes are utterly freaked out by this. Well, that must be a technical term. At the heart of the dispute is Greenland, which is, of course, semi-autonomous territory. While it's part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it has its own government and controls most of its domestic affairs, including natural resources and local policies.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
However, Denmark retains authority over areas such as foreign policy and defense. Now, Trump's interest in Greenland isn't new. He's been arguing since his last term that its strategic location is vital to American national security, particularly as China and Russia ramp up their Arctic investments.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Greenland's strategic location along the shortest route between Europe and North America and its role in the U.S. ballistic missile warning system has made it a key priority for Trump. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes echoed this, stating that the administration is focused on safeguarding US interests in the Arctic while fostering, quote, mutual prosperity with Greenland.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Meanwhile, the Danish prime minister has reportedly remained firm on the issue. During the call with Trump, she cited remarks from Greenland's parliament, reiterating that the island is not for sale and that its future lies in the hands of its own people.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The Danish leader also proposed increased Arctic security measures from Denmark and emphasized the contributions of Danish businesses to the U.S. economy, as well as the shared trade goals of the U.S. and the European Union. Still, Trump is frankly unlikely to back down on this.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
In his inaugural address, he framed the United States as a nation poised to expand its territory, hinting at a larger strategy that may include Greenland and even suggesting the U.S. retake the Panama Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Meanwhile, amidst all of this talk of Greenland's strategic importance, the European Union's top military official, General Robert Breiger, is suggesting that it would make sense to station EU troops in Greenland. In an interview with a German newspaper, Breiger stated, "...in my view, it would make perfect sense not only to station U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
forces in Greenland, as has been the case to date, but also to consider stationing EU soldiers there in the future." Breiger added that with Arctic ice melting, tensions with Russia and possibly China are likely to increase.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
He also stressed the importance of respecting borders, as outlined in the UN Charter, though he acknowledged that any decision about EU troops would ultimately require political agreement. It's worth noting that although Denmark is a member state, Greenland itself is not part of the EU. It voted to withdraw from the European community all the way back in 1985.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
All right, coming up next, the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holds as President Trump pressures Jordan and Egypt on refugees. And Secretary of State Marco Rubio pauses nearly all foreign aid. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right?
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
control of the Arctic island, referring to Greenland as vital to U.S. national security interests. Later in the show, the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continues to hold as President Trump pressures Jordan and Egypt to accept more Palestinian refugees and floats a plan to, quote, clean out Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know? that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers. It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to the fragile Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, four female Israeli soldiers taken hostage during the 7 October 2023 terror attack returned home Saturday as part of the second prisoner exchange.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
In return, Israel released some 200 Palestinian prisoners, including individuals convicted of deadly attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
In Gaza City, the four Israeli hostages, flanked by masked Hamas terrorists, offered faint gestures of resilience, waving and giving thumbs up as they emerged from months of captivity under what can only be described as extremely harsh conditions, including forced participation in Hamas propaganda videos.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The Iran-backed terror group, still seeking to project dominance after 15 months of war, paraded the hostages through the city to reinforce its narrative of control of the Gaza Strip. Thousands of people gathered to celebrate the soldiers' release in Tel Aviv, waving Israeli flags and chanting for the freedom of all remaining hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The hostages' families rushed to embrace their loved ones in emotional reunions as the four soldiers were declared in stable condition at a nearby hospital. Celebrations erupted on the Palestinian side as well. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank city of Ramallah, thousands cheered the return of the freed Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Many of the prisoners, wearing gray uniforms and appearing somewhat gaunt, donned Hamas headbands distributed by the crowd and were carried on the shoulders of jubilant supporters. Israel's prison service confirms 121 of the Palestinian prisoners were serving life sentences after being convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Among the released prisoners were Mohammed Odeh and Wael Qasim, both convicted of the 2002 bombing at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem that killed nine people, five of them U.S. citizens. A total of 70 of the released Palestinian prisoners were expelled to Egypt, with Algeria, Tunisia, and Turkey expressing willingness to accept them.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
However, the ceasefire agreement has hit a snag, exposing, of course, the fragility of the arrangement. Israel delayed the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, citing Hamas's failure to release civilian hostage Arbel Yehud, taken from a kibbutz, or communal settlement, during the 7 October terror attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Israel insisted that Yehud be released this week, given her status as alive and a female civilian, which placed her in the highest priority category to be freed in this first phase of the ceasefire arrangement. A senior Hamas official dismissed the delay as a minor issue and pledged her release next week.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Prime Minister Netanyahu's office reaffirmed that no displaced individuals would return until Yahud was freed. Mediators, including Egypt and the U.S. National Security Council, are working to resolve the impasse. Meanwhile, tensions simmered near the Gaza Strip's Netzalim Corridor, where Palestinians defied the delays and attempted to return to their homes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Plus, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes office, the State Department announces a pause on nearly all foreign aid, making exceptions only for emergency funding to Israel and Egypt. And in today's Back of the Brief...
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The Israeli military responded with warning shots, leading reportedly to the death of a Palestinian man, according to local Hamas officials. And that's a claim that the Israeli military denied, stating it only fired to disperse, quote, gatherings of dozens of suspects. The fragile ceasefire agreement comes in the context of continued international scrutiny and broader debates over Gaza's future.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
On Saturday, aboard Air Force One, President Trump proposed relocating up to one and a half million Palestinians to neighboring Arab nations like Jordan and Egypt. Trump described Gaza as a, quote, demolition site and suggested resettling its population to, quote, clean out the war-torn areas. with the region rebuilt using international aid.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Jordan's foreign minister rejected the idea as, quote, firm and unwavering, warning it would erode Palestinian identity in Gaza and deepen the crisis. Well, not to mention that none of the Arab countries actually want to take in any Palestinian refugees.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Trump, however, insisted the plan could be temporary, describing Gaza as a region mired in conflict for centuries, suggesting to, quote, build housing in a different location where Palestinians can maybe live in peace for a change, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
As negotiations for the second phase of the agreement, which entails the release of all hostages and a lasting halt to the fighting, have yet to begin, Israeli officials warn military operations in Gaza would resume if Hamas fails to meet its commitments of releasing the remaining hostages. The next hostage and prisoner exchange is slated for Saturday. All right. Moving over to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
In a sharp pivot toward President Trump's America First policy, the State Department froze nearly all foreign aid on Friday, leaving just emergency food assistance and military funding for Israel and Egypt spared from the suspension. A memo reviewed by AFP dispatched to all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
diplomatic posts revealed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructed a halt to new foreign aid obligations and extensions. Rubio's directive specified that, quote, "...no new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
It took, well, five years, but the CIA, the Central Intelligence Agency, finally shifted positions on the origins of the COVID-19 virus, now supporting the lab leak theory as the most plausible theory. Yes, well, there was a lab in Wuhan carrying out COVID work with a history of lax safety protocols, and then COVID breaks out in Wuhan. Such a mystery. If only we had some clues.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The memo aligns with an executive order signed by Trump last week, just hours after his inauguration, suspending foreign assistance for 90 days. In the order, Trump claimed that the U.S. foreign aid was often, quote, antithetical to American values and emphasized the need for alignment with the administration's foreign policy objectives.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The freeze affects billions of dollars in foreign assistance across multiple sectors, including high-profile programs like the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which has provided HIV-AIDS treatment to millions in Africa since its inception in 2003 under then-President George W. Bush. Notably, the freeze also halts military aid to Ukraine, a country that has been a recipient of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
weapons and financial support in the billions of dollars to counter Russia's ongoing war effort. Israel and Egypt remain exceptions, their funding safeguarded due to their strategic importance in U.S. foreign policy. Israel has seen its military aid expanded in major arms packages from the U.S. in the aftermath of the Hamas terror attack on 7 October of 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Conversely, regions like Sudan and Syria will see emergency food aid as their only continued support during this period of time. In a public statement on Wednesday, Rubio further justified Trump's executive order, declaring, quote, every dollar we spend, every program we fund and every policy we pursue must be justified by its contribution to U.S. safety, strength and posterity.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
The Trump administration has set an 85 day timeline to evaluate existing aid programs and determine their future within Trump's foreign policy framework. However, the decision, as you might imagine, was not met without criticism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Representative Gregory Meeks, the top-ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Relations Committee, and Democrat Representative Lois Frankel condemned the move, warning of devastating fallout for vulnerable populations. In a joint letter, they stated, "...now U.S. credibility is on the line, and it appears we will cut and run from American commitments to our partners around the world."
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Critics further argue that the freeze jeopardizes decades of bipartisan consensus on foreign aid as a cornerstone of American influence and global stability. Congress, which appropriates foreign aid, may actually end up challenging the administration's move. As the world's largest donor, the U.S. provided over $64 billion in overseas development assistance just in 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
That's citing data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Observers warn that this aid freeze could erode U.S. influence and open the door for adversaries like China, which of course has aggressively expanded its global footprint through foreign investment.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
All right, coming up in today's back of the brief, after five years, the CIA now supports the lab leak theory as the most plausible explanation for the origins of COVID-19. I'll be right back with those details. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 27th, 2025: Denmark Reportedly ‘Freaked Out’ Over Trump Greenland Call & US Pauses Foreign Aid
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. In today's back of the brief, after five years, the CIA has endorsed the lab leak hypothesis as the most plausible explanation of COVID-19's origins, albeit with with low confidence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Speaking to reporters, Trump doubled down, saying, quote, I've known him a long time, but he's sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don't like it at all, end quote. Trump's remarks came just hours after Ukrainian officials confirmed what they described as the largest aerial onslaught of the three-year war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
As we noted in this morning's PDB, Russian forces launched 367 so-called, quote, air attack vehicles from Saturday into Sunday, including ballistic and cruise missiles, guided bombs, and waves of Iranian-made Shahed drones that left at least 18 civilians dead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
The unusually sharp tone from Trump toward Putin comes as he faces renewed pressure from European leaders and members of his own party to adopt a more aggressive posture toward the Kremlin. Until now, Trump has resisted laying down explicit red lines, opting instead to keep diplomatic channels open.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
But on Sunday, he appeared to shift gears, telling reporters he's now, quote, absolutely weighing new sanctions in response to those attacks. That stance, however, does appear to be at odds with his own Secretary of State. Last week, Marco Rubio warned that threatening sanctions now could torpedo fragile negotiations. What negotiations?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Telling lawmakers that premature pressure might push Russia to walk away from the table altogether. Now, honestly, I'm not sure what table Secretary Rubio is talking about. As we've long tracked here on the PDB, peace talks remain frozen, and really, the talks aren't so much frozen as just non-existent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Moscow continues to dangle vague proposals, one recently labeled a potential quote memorandum, while Kiev insists that a full 30-day ceasefire must come first before any serious dialogue can begin. Meanwhile, the war effort shows no signs of slowing. By early Monday, Ukraine's defense ministry confirmed that Russian forces had launched yet another overnight wave of drones.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
In a coordinated response, Kyiv struck deep inside Russian territory, most notably targeting a Shahed drone factory in the Tatarstan region, some 500 miles east of Moscow, as well as a chemical facility northeast of the capital. In a telegram post Monday, Zelensky warned that Russian strikes were fueled by impunity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
He wrote, quote, Only a sense of complete impunity can allow Russia to carry out such strikes and constantly increase their scale. Zelensky went on to argue that force remains the only language that Moscow understands. He stated, quote, Like any criminal, Russia can only be brought to justice by force, the force of the U.S., the force of Europe, the force of all nations that respect life.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
The Ukrainian leader closed his message with a direct call for punitive action, urging Washington and Brussels to enact a, quote, blockade of Russian finances and trade in Russian oil. As for the Kremlin's response to Trump labeling Putin as crazy, mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov said, Honestly, Trump may be right. Putin does seem full-on crazy at this point. Okay, I just made that up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Peskov did not say that. Although, you know, I'll bet he's thinking it. Peskov actually chalked up Trump's comments to, quote, emotional overload, but stopped short of a full-throated rebuttal, opting instead to praise Trump's ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
But as drone warfare intensifies and diplomacy remains for the most part a non-starter, Trump's evolving tone toward Putin, well, it may mark a recalibration of how the White House looks to influence the war's outcome. All right, coming up next, there's a flicker, I guess a flicker is a decent enough way to put it, of progress in the latest U.S.-Iran talks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
We'll tell you what's new in round five of these talks when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The fifth round of negotiations between the U.S. and the Iranian regime wrapped up on Sunday in Rome. And while a breakthrough remains elusive, meaning nowhere in sight, officials from both sides and the Omani mediator are cautiously optimistic that progress is within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Bursaidi, who's been facilitating the talks, posted on X following the Rome meetings, quote, "...the fifth round of Iran-U.S. talks have concluded today in Rome with some but not conclusive progress."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
He went on to say that he hoped the parties could clarify remaining issues in the coming days, laying the groundwork for what he called a "...sustainable and honorable agreement." Now, the Iranian foreign minister echoed that sentiment in an interview with Iranian state TV, saying, I'm hopeful that in the next one or two rounds, we can reach solutions that allow the talks to progress.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
He admitted that, quote, we are not there yet, but we are not discouraged either. And from the American side, a senior U.S. official, speaking anonymously to the Associated Press, described the talks as, quote, constructive, there's that word again, but emphasized that there's still plenty of work ahead. Now, not to sound cynical, but taken collectively,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
The statements from the Iranian regime and the American side and Omani mediators can be realistically interpreted to mean that while there's no actual or meaningful progress, nobody involved wants to come out and say that these talks are potentially a waste of time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
It's Monday, the 26th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a surprising shift in tone and rhetoric from President Trump. He's now calling Vladimir Putin, quote, crazy following a weekend of intense Russian strikes on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
The Iranians, of course, are happy to drag this process out for as long as possible while they continue their enrichment and weapons programs and continue hardening their key sites from potential attack. while the U.S. is, well, reluctant to admit a meaningful agreement is not possible, since that would mean moving on to Plan B, which is a military response.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Still, nobody sounds more upbeat about where things are headed than President Trump. On Sunday, he told reporters, "...we've had some very, very good talks with Iran, and I don't know if I'll be telling you anything good or bad over the next two days, but I have a feeling I might be telling you something good." So, you ask yourself, what's actually happening?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
At the heart of the negotiations is a familiar formula. The US would offer partial relief from economic sanctions in exchange for Iran placing limits on its nuclear program. The big sticking point, as we've discussed in the past, is uranium enrichment. Trump has repeatedly insisted that Iran must stop enriching altogether. Tehran, meanwhile, is making it clear that that's not going to happen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
This weekend, a foreign ministry spokesperson from Iran reiterated that they will not even temporarily suspend enrichment to secure a deal. And today, Iranian President Massoud Poseshkin underscored that point even further, telling reporters, quote, it's not like we will die of hunger if they refuse to negotiate with us or impose sanctions. We will find a way to survive, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
As of now, no date or location has been set for the sixth round of talks, but both sides expect negotiations to resume in the coming weeks. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 26th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as you may have heard on the nightly news...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
To listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdppremium.com. Finally, for those of you in the U.S., I hope you've had a very good Memorial Day weekend. If you haven't already, please take a moment to thank a veteran or an active duty member of the military. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
Later in the show, modest progress is being reported in the fifth round of talks between the US and Iran. We'll have those details. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with President Trump issuing a rare rebuke of Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Sunday, calling him, quote, absolutely crazy after Moscow unleashed its largest aerial barrage of the war on Ukrainian cities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 26th, 2025: Trump Blasts ‘Crazy’ Putin In Rare Rebuke & U.S.-Iran Talks Inch Forward
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, quote, I've always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely crazy, end quote. Now, the president continued by saying, I've always said that he wants all of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
As for Figueroa, he remained a fugitive until Friday's raid. His death marks a rare win for Mexican authorities and a significant hit to Los Chapitos, as the cartel grapples with mounting pressure from Washington and a bloody internal power struggle with rival factions. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 26th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And hopefully you had a chance to catch the latest episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. You can find it and past episodes on our YouTube channel, check that out, at President's Daily Brief, as well as all the podcast platforms out there in podcast land.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
According to Israeli media, all, all, and I repeat that again, all of the regular army's infantry and armored brigades have now been deployed inside the Gaza Strip, positioning the Israel Defense Forces, the IDF, for the renewed ground offensive announced by Prime Minister Netanyahu. This repositioning follows an intensification of Israeli airstrikes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
It's Monday, the 26th of May. For those of you in the U.S., I hope you're having a very relaxing and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend. Now, I don't know who said it, but in the words of someone unknown, it's foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Over the weekend, the IDF said it struck more than 100 targets in just 24 hours, claiming the attacks focused on Hamas infrastructure across the strip. And the impact on Hamas is now coming into focus. And the picture, emerging from inside Gaza, points to a terror group in serious crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
One of the most significant blows came in the form of a precision airstrike that killed Mohamed Sinwar, the de facto head of Hamas in Gaza, and brother, of course, of the group's terminated leader, Yahya Sinwar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
According to Hamas and Arab officials speaking to The Wall Street Journal, Mohamed Sinwar was attending a meeting in a tunnel beneath Qan Yunis with several of Hamas's top commanders when the strike hit. The meeting reportedly violated Hamas's own wartime security protocols, creating a rare opportunity for Israeli forces to eliminate multiple high-ranking figures in one blow.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Alongside Sinwar, the strike also killed Mohammad Shabana, the commander of Hamas's Rafah Brigade, and other senior militants. Their bodies were recovered and quietly buried in temporary graves hidden within the tunnel network.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
This strike has left a gaping hole in the group's top leadership, compounding what insiders now describe as the worst internal crisis that Hamas has faced since its founding. According to a report published Saturday by the Saudi-owned Ashark al-Awsat, sources within Hamas say the organization is in a state of financial collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Civil servants under Hamas's governance haven't received regular pay, and the group's military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, hasn't paid its fighters in approximately three months. Funding for ministries and social services, once central to Hamas's ability to maintain public support, has all but dried up.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
The group is reportedly struggling to supply its fighters with basic military equipment, and even the families of dead or wounded members are no longer receiving consistent aid. And that's a major shift from Hamas's previous wartime policy. administratively. The situation is reportedly no better.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Following Israel's targeted strikes, Hamas is finding it difficult to fill key leadership roles inside Gaza. Anyone perceived to be attempting to re-establish or coordinate government functions is being targeted by the IDF, creating a climate of fear and paralysis within Hamas's governing apparatus.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Recruitment has also slowed dramatically as the group is no longer able to offer payments or support to new members. That, paired with the leadership vacuum, military losses, and airstrike pressure, paints a picture of a terror group that's bleeding from every direction.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
While the war is far from over, Hamas does appear to be facing its greatest test date, not just on the battlefield, but from within. All right, coming up after the break, Russia unleashes its biggest aerial attack of the war, and President Trump threatens steep new tariffs on Apple and the EU. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Russia unleashed another deadly wave of missile and drone strikes across Ukraine over the weekend, killing at least 18 civilians in the middle of the largest prisoner exchange of the three-year war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
The strikes occurred Saturday into Sunday, after Russia and Ukraine began their largest prisoner exchange since the full-scale invasion began in 2022 on Friday, swapping nearly 1,000 captured soldiers from both sides in a rare instance of coordination that briefly, I would emphasize the word briefly, raised hopes of a diplomatic thaw.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Let's get briefed. We begin in Gaza, where the Iranian-backed terror group Hamas is facing the worst crisis reportedly in its history. Its leadership has been decimated, and now the group can reportedly barely pay its fighters. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
But the renewed bombardment swiftly undercut any notion of de-escalation. According to Ukraine's Air Force, Russia fired 367 so-called, quote, air attack vehicles during the overnight barrage, including nine Iskander ballistic missiles, 55 cruise missiles, four guided air-launched missiles, and nearly 300 attack drones.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
It marked the fourth straight night of large-scale Russian bombardment, suggesting the Kremlin has resumed a deliberate campaign of long-range strikes aimed at exhausting Ukraine's defenses. Air raid sirens sounded in nearly every region of the country. Ukrainian officials said they shot down 266 drones and 45 cruise missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
But the sheer volume of projectiles overwhelmed some air defense systems. Ukraine's Interior Ministry confirmed 18 civilians were killed and 85 wounded. More than 80 residential buildings were reportedly damaged and 27 fires reported.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
President Zelensky described the attacks as, quote, "...deliberate strikes on ordinary cities," and said first responders were dispatched to more than 30 towns and villages.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Russia's Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the strikes in a telegram post, calling them part of a, quote, massive strike by sea, air, and land-based precision weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles, targeting what it described as Ukraine's military-industrial infrastructure, including drone factories, satellite facilities, and electronic hubs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
The ministry added they, quote, all designated targets have been hit. In Poland, which obviously shares a border with Western Ukraine, the Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed that its fighter jets were scrambled overnight in response to what it termed, quote, intensive activity by Russian long-range aviation near Polish airspace.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Meanwhile, Ukraine's own drone campaign inside Russia shows no signs of slowing. Moscow's defense ministry claimed it intercepted 110 Ukrainian drones overnight, although it did not detail any damage or casualties. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the broader diplomatic picture, well, remains bleak. Despite the prisoner swap, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
brokered talks under President Trump have failed to produce a breakthrough. Ukraine continues to insist on a 30-day ceasefire as a precondition for entering negotiations, something that the Kremlin has refused to grant. Zelensky has also rejected any deal that includes the surrender of territory, including Crimea and the four occupied eastern regions annexed by Moscow since 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Later in the show, Russia launches its biggest aerial assault of the war after swapping hundreds of prisoners with Ukraine because nothing says I'm interested in peace like swapping some prisoners and then launching a massive aerial assault. Plus, President Trump drops more tariff bombs, threatening the European Union and Apple with steep new penalties.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Putin's demands remain unchanged. Recognition of Russian sovereignty over annexed territory, a permanent ban on Ukraine joining NATO, and the so-called denazification of Ukraine. That's language that's rooted in a widely discredited Kremlin narrative portraying the Ukrainian government as a fascist dictatorship.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Putin's intention, of course, is to remove Zelensky and replace him with a pro-Russian leader. The Trump administration has signaled frustration with both sides, but has not moved to escalate pressure on Moscow. While the president has threatened additional sanctions, none have materialized, despite repeated calls from Kiev and several European capitals for stronger action.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Zelenskyy framed Sunday's attacks as further evidence of Russia's unwillingness to negotiate in good faith. He said, quote, Each such Russian terrorist strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia, adding, quote, Silence from America only encourages Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Zelenskyy doubled down that the war can be stopped, but only through Western pressure on the Kremlin to force Putin to think about ending the war rather than launching aerial assaults. Okay, moving over to the US.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
President Trump is now threatening to hammer both Apple and the European Union with punishing new tariffs, escalating pressure over what he described as unfulfilled trade expectations and offshoring American companies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
In a pair of scathing Truth Social posts, Trump zeroed in on Apple, warning the tech giant that it could soon face a 25% tariff on imported iPhones unless it shifts production back to American soil. The threat came just days after a private meeting with Apple CEO Tim Cook at the White House in a sit down that apparently did little to change Trump's view.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Trump posted, quote, I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhones that will be sold in the U.S. will be manufactured and built in the U.S., not India or anyplace else, end quote. The warning lands as Apple accelerates its pivot to India, aiming to reduce its exposure to Chinese manufacturing and sidestep existing American tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Bloomberg reports the company plans to assemble a growing share of its U.S.-bound iPhones in India moving forward, something that Trump is clearly determined to block. But Apple was only half the story.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
In a separate post, Trump lashed out at the European Union, threatening to impose a 50% tariff on all EU imports starting the 1st of June, unless Brussels returns to the negotiating table with what he called, quote, fair and reciprocal terms. The EU, he claimed, was, quote, formed for the primary purpose of taking advantage of the U.S. on trade. and had become increasingly obstinate in talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
The president cited a litany of grievances, ranging from the bloc's value-added tax structure, which essentially is a consumption tax added at each stage of production and distribution paid by the consumer, which he said acts as a stealth tariff to regulatory barriers, corporate litigation, and what he described as, quote, monetary manipulations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
All, he says, are contributing to a staggering $250 billion annual trade deficit. Trump's post went on to say, quote, there is no tariff if the product is built or manufactured in the U.S., The threat marks a return to Trump's signature American-first economic agenda, which prioritizes reshoring manufacturing and rebalancing trade relationships that he claims have long tilted against the US.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Trump stated that the current negotiations were, quote, going nowhere. The 90-day trade window between Washington and the EU expires on the 8th of July, meaning time is running out to avert a tit-for-tat tariff war. The administration, for its part, has already imposed a 25% levy on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, with a 10% baseline covering most other imports.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Officials say a fresh round of retaliatory penalties is ready to roll if Brussels doesn't blink. Over the weekend, Vice President J.D. Vance met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italy's prime minister in a bid to dial down the rhetoric. But with Trump throwing down the gauntlet Friday, well, hopes of a quick breakthrough seem increasingly remote. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
And in the back of the brief, a high-ranking Sinaloa cartel boss once aligned with El Chapo's son is gunned down in a firefight with Mexican police. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. As a new week begins, the signs are mounting that Israel is preparing to launch the next phase of its war against Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Coming up next in the back of the brief, a cartel kingpin with links to El Chapo's son goes down in a hail of gunfire. I'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
In today's Back of the Brief, a top Sinaloa cartel operative aligned with El Chapo's son was killed in a gunfight with Mexican security forces on Friday, ending a high-stakes operation to arrest one of the most wanted fentanyl traffickers in the hemisphere.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Jorge Humberto Figueroa, better known by his cartel alias El Pérez, was a senior member of the Los Chapitos faction, loyal to Ovidio Guzman, the son of imprisoned kingpin Joaquin Guzman, notoriously, of course, known as El Chapo. According to authorities, Figueroa opened fire on Mexican troops during the attempted arrest, and he was fatally shot in the exchange.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Mexico's Secretary of State Omar Garcia Harfuch confirmed the raid in a statement posted to X, writing, quote, as part of the strategy to build peace in Sinaloa, an operation was carried out to arrest Jorge Humberto Figueroa.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
Now, he didn't mince words about Figueroa's rap sheet either, calling him, quote, one of the main orchestrators of the attacks on authorities in 2019 in Culiacan and linking him to a string of homicides and kidnappings that had, quote, affected the peace and tranquility of Sinaloa society. Figueroa had been wanted by U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
federal prosecutors on charges of conspiring to import and distribute fentanyl. The State Department had placed a $1 million bounty on his head, naming him a top player within Los Chapitos, the ultra-violent wing of the Sinaloa cartel, blamed by U.S. officials for flooding American streets with synthetic opioids.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
His notoriety surged during the infamous 2019 Culiacan siege when cartel gunmen waged open warfare against the Mexican state after Ovidio Guzman was briefly captured. Figueroa is believed to have helped coordinate the mayhem, deploying armed cells wielding military-grade weapons that forced the government into an extraordinary retreat. That retreat ended with Guzman's release.
The President's Daily Brief
May 26th, 2025: Hamas On The Verge Of Collapse & A Cartel Kingpin Goes Down
The optics of that moment, where the government backed down to a cartel, well, that drew international backlash and symbolized Mexico's broader failure to control lawless regions overrun by organized crime. Guzman would later be recaptured in 2023 and is now serving a life sentence in the U.S. at the federal Supermax facility in Colorado.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Specifically, the Pentagon said that the Sprouts will assist in coordinating a robust response to maritime-related terrorism, weapons proliferation, transnational crime, piracy, environmental destruction, and illegal seaborne migration. General Gregory Guillot, the commander of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
It's Monday, the 24th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, the Trump administration deploys a second US warship to patrol the waters around the US-Mexico border in a bid to further curb illegal migration and drug smuggling.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Northern Command, said the deployment comes as a response to President Trump's executive order declaring a national emergency at the U.S. southern border, which ordered the Department of Defense to provide resources and troops to support the activities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Guillaume said the move, quote, demonstrates our resolve to achieve operational control of the border. Now, as we discussed on last week's PDB, such deployments mark a significant tactical shift in how the U.S. combats criminal activity along the southern border, as historically, border-related maritime operations fall under the U.S. Coast Guard's jurisdiction. The presence of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
naval warships in these waters, since an unprecedented move, appears to be more about optics. The ship is bristling with 96 vertical launch system cells carrying surface-to-air and land-attack missiles, as well as advanced naval guns. It also features sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities, and it's intended as a powerful message, of course, to the cartels that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
is no longer playing around when it comes to the integrity of the southern border. Like the USS Gravely, it will be accompanied by a U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachment that specializes in maritime military operations such as counterpiracy, drug interdictions, anti-immigration, and combat missions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
It arrives as officials with the Coast Guard report hundreds of migrant boat encounters near the San Diego coast over the past 90 days, with smugglers increasingly turning to sea-based routes due to the Trump administration's tightened security measures along the U.S.-Mexico land border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Following Trump's national emergency declaration on day one in office, the Pentagon deployed thousands of troops to assist border agents, and migrant encounters on land have since dropped to a record low.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
The administration is also turning up the heat directly against the cartels, using spy planes and drones equipped with advanced radar and infrared sensors in partnership with the Mexican government to track cartel operations. Whether the naval destroyers will function as a deterrence or play a more active and aggressive role in combating the Mexican drug lord's criminal enterprises,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Well, that remains to be seen. Coming up next, U.S. officials reveal that they've taken out, quote, key Houthi leadership, including the terror group's head rocket man, or missileer, which is different than a mousketeer, as the U.S. bombing campaign against the Iranian-backed militants enters its second week. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Well, let's take a look at what's happening in the world. Tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation. No wonder gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs, right? Look, in volatile markets like, well, right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. take control and safeguard your savings. It's really why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Now look, they've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself this, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free no-obligation information kit.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
And later in the show, as the American bombing campaign against the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen continues into its second week, U.S. officials reveal that they have taken out Quixote leadership, including the terror group's head rocket man. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold, and you can too. Again, just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing can feel, well, impossible, but with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals, or if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can do that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings sit around. Make your hard-earned money work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com slash pdb to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and a few important disclosures.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
That's get.stash.com slash pdb. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor. Investing, remember, involves risk and offer is subject to terms and conditions. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
airstrikes targeting Houthi strongholds in Yemen entered their 10th consecutive day with President Trump's national security advisor claiming that the campaign eliminated the terror group's top leadership over the weekend. The strikes, now a sustained component of the Trump administration's broader pressure campaign on Iran, showed no signs of abating on Monday. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
military effort is aimed squarely at degrading the capabilities of the Tehran-backed Houthis whose attacks have disrupted global shipping, threatened Israel, and targeted American warships. Appearing on CBS's Face the Nation on Sunday, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said the strikes have, quote, taken out key Houthi leadership, including their head missileer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Hmm, when was the last time you heard that title, missileer? The Houthis, for their part, have neither confirmed the loss nor acknowledged any setbacks, though the terror group has a history of minimizing damage while overstating its offensive capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Waltz added that the strikes have, quote, hit their headquarters, including command centers, communication nodes, weapons depots, and drone manufacturing facilities. Now, these are the backbone of the Houthi's terror infrastructure, and the destruction is likely to degrade the group's operational tempo. An apparent U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
The Trump administration is intensifying their efforts to tighten American military control of the U.S.-Mexico border, deploying a Navy warship to the region for the second time in less than a week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
strike on Sunday reportedly leveled a building in western Sana'a, killing at least one and injuring 13. That's according to the Houthi-run Sabah News Agency, which cited local health officials. Video from the scene released by the Houthis, though it's unverified, showed a collapsed structure surrounded by bloody debris.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Notably, the adjacent building remained intact, suggesting the use of a lower-yield U.S. munition, possibly to limit collateral damage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
As we've been discussing here on the PDB, the air campaign began on the 15th of March after the Houthis threatened to resume missile and drone attacks on vessels linked to Israel in what they claimed was retaliation for the ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
It's important to point out that the terror group maintains a deliberately vague definition of what constitutes, quote, Israeli linked maritime traffic. It's a tactic that has widened their scope of targets. Their actions prompted direct American military intervention to secure Red Sea transit routes vital to international commerce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Since November of last year, the terror group has launched strikes on more than 100 commercial ships, sunk two of them, and killed four sailors. They've also targeted and claimed to have struck the USS Harry S. Truman carrier, though in reality it has not been hit. The Houthis and their attacks on the carrier group have missed by over 100 miles at times. The Houthis claim additional U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
strikes have hit Saddaa, their longtime stronghold, as well as the Red Sea port of Hodeidah, an energy-rich Maghreb province, and still held by Yemen's internationally recognized government. The broader campaign represents Washington's latest effort to both suppress Houthi belligerence and dial back Iranian influence across the Arabian Peninsula.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Now, officials with the Navy said that the USS Spruance, that's an Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer, departed Naval Base San Diego on Saturday with the task of supporting interdiction efforts aimed at curbing illegal migration and drug smuggling.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
The initial waves of airstrikes killed at least 53 people. Despite the sustained U.S. strikes, the terror group insists that its operations will continue. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 24th of March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
And in case you missed the announcement during the morning press briefing... If you're jonesing to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Until recently, the vessel had been on a five month deployment in the Middle East defending against Houthi missile attacks, but will now patrol the waters off of America's western coast. That's according to a report from Fox News. Its deployment follows that of the USS Gravely missile destroyer, which was sent last week to the Gulf of America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 24th, 2025: Trump Rushes Additional Destroyers To The Border & Key Houthi Leaders Killed In U.S. Airstrikes
Of course, that's the body of water formerly known as the Gulf of Mexico on a similar mission. According to a statement from the Navy, the ships will help the U.S. military establish, quote, all domain dominance in the region and restore territorial integrity at the U.S. southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
According to a new report from the German newspaper Die Welt, China is considering sending troops to Ukraine. Now, China's PLA, the People's Liberation Army, wouldn't deploy to Ukraine to fight, but to function as part of a future peacekeeping force. Hmm. Makes you wonder how the North Korean troops that are fighting next to Russian soldiers would feel about that.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
That's get.stash.com slash PDB. This is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Investing, of course, involves risk and as they say, offer is subject to terms and conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In today's back of the brief, Venezuela has agreed to resume accepting deportation flights for its migrants after halting cooperation earlier this month, marking a major win for the Trump administration's deportation policy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
The pivot came Saturday when Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro's regime reached an agreement with Washington to resume deportation flights for Venezuelan nationals who crossed into the U.S. illegally. The first flight, touchdown Sunday, effectively ending a suspension, triggered after the administration reversed a Biden-era easing of sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Jorge Rodriguez, president of Venezuela's National Assembly and Maduro's lead negotiator with Washington, confirmed the policy shift, stating, quote, migrating is not a crime, but his remarks were laced with defiance. Rodriguez vowed to rescue, quote, our brothers kidnapped in El Salvador, That's a nod to Venezuelan deportees held in that country's prison from U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
deportation flights earlier this month, despite their affiliations with gangs like Trendo Agua, the TDA, and MS-13. Maduro himself echoed the message, calling the migrants, quote, kidnapped, framing the deportations not as a law enforcement effort, but as an affront to national dignity. That framing, however, hasn't slowed the Trump administration's momentum.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Speaking of an affront to national dignity, how about Maduro's well-documented theft of his country's last presidential election? Or his violent crackdowns on any dissent? Or maybe his arrests of political opponents and opposition activists? Maduro basically is giving a masterclass in affronting national dignity.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Regardless, since the collapse of the initial agreement, Washington has now redoubled pressure on Latin American governments to align with U.S. immigration enforcement priorities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Caracas would face, quote, severe and escalating sanctions if it refused to take its citizens back. That threat now appears to have paid off.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
As we've been tracking on the PDB, roughly 350 Venezuelans have been deported in recent weeks, including around 180 who had been held at Guantanamo Bay. The breakthrough with Caracas arrives amid legal headwinds for the administration. The White House has relied heavily on the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
It's a dusty wartime statute that grants the president sweeping authority to expel nationals from hostile states. That provision had been used to justify deporting Venezuelans to third-party nations like El Salvador, but a federal judge in Washington earlier this month issued a temporary injunction ruling that the administration's application of the law exceeds its statutory scope.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
It's Monday, the 24th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Coming to you yet again from a, well, an airport lounge somewhere. Not sure where it is at this point. I can't keep track. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start off with a major report out of Germany.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
The new deal with Venezuela offers a cleaner legal pathway, one less vulnerable to U.S. court challenges. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 24th of March. Of course, to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
According to the report, China is angling to join what British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is calling a, quote, coalition of the willing. That's the group of countries prepared to send troops to Ukraine to enforce a ceasefire between Kiev and Moscow, if and when that day comes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
An unnamed European Union diplomatic source told Die Welt that the situation is, quote, delicate, well, that's probably, again, putting it mildly, but that China's inclusion in a peacekeeping mission could help get Russia to agree to such a force. The thinking here is fairly simple. Moscow would never accept NATO troops in Ukraine, they've said as much repeatedly.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
not even under a UN peacekeeping mandate. But Chinese troops, well, that's different, given that China's Xi Jinping has basically propped up the Russian economy for the past three years and enabled Putin to keep his war machine chugging away. Now, if China has actually floated this idea as a possibility, it is highly likely that Chinese and Russian high-level officials have discussed the idea.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
And if they've discussed the idea and consider it an actual possibility, well, it would be because Putin and Xi view it as advantageous to their own interests. Up to this point, the biggest roadblock to any international peacekeeping force has always been Russia's total distrust of NATO. Well, not to mention Putin's lack of interest in stopping his war on Ukraine. There is that.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
But were he inclined to agree to some legitimate type of ceasefire, there's zero chance that Moscow would allow NATO boots on the ground in Ukraine. But China, despite some complicated history, is viewed by the Kremlin as a strategic partner and, as mentioned, an economic lifeline.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
If a peacekeeping force were needed to monitor or enforce a ceasefire, China might be the only major power that Russia wouldn't immediately reject. And that gives Beijing a very rare position, a kind of diplomatic leverage that no Western nation could claim. It could even let China present itself as a so-called, quote, honest broker, capable of holding both sides to account.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
And yes, I somehow managed to say that with a straight face. Now, to be clear, as mentioned, China has supported Russia throughout this war. They've parroted Russian talking points, ramped up trade, and sent dual-use goods that help Moscow on the battlefield. So the idea of China as a neutral party is humorous at best.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Something else worth mentioning, which makes this potential scenario remarkable and concerning. If China does send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, it would mark the first time ever that the Chinese military establishes any kind of presence in Europe. The People's Liberation Army has participated in peacekeeping missions in Africa and Asia, but never in a conflict zone in the West.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
That would be, in geopolitical terms, a huge milestone. It would signal a major evolution in how China sees its military role around the world, moving beyond regional power projection in the South China Sea or Indian Ocean and stepping onto the global stage in a much more assertive way.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
It would also allow China to test and refine its overseas operations, everything from logistics and chain of command to how it gathers intel and coordinates with foreign forces. And for Europe, the arrival of Chinese troops, even in a peacekeeping capacity, would raise all sorts of new questions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
China is reportedly considering sending troops to Ukraine as part of a future peacekeeping force. That's right, Chinese troops in Ukraine. I'll explain why that's such a big deal and why the consequences could reach far beyond Ukraine's borders.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
New diplomatic frameworks, new coordination protocols, new military rules of engagement, the list frankly goes on. It could even set a precedent. Once Chinese troops are on the ground in one European conflict zone, it becomes theoretically a lot easier to imagine them showing up in others, maybe in the Middle East or Central Asia. Symbolically, it's a Cold War reversal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
China, the once-isolated communist giant, stepping in to fill a role that NATO either can't or won't fill. To be fair, we're still a long way from any kind of ceasefire or peacekeeping agreement or the deployment of a peacekeeping force. But discussions are underway.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
President Zelensky and other European leaders are expected to meet in Paris this coming Thursday to talk through a possible peace plan and long-term security guarantees. If China really is serious about joining a mission in Ukraine, well, that subject may well be on the table during the Paris discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
All right, coming up next, a major escalation in the Middle East as Israel strikes Lebanon and ramps up operations in Gaza, while Hamas faces mounting pressure from Palestinians and Fatah leadership to step aside. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation. Well, no wonder gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs, right?
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In volatile markets, including the current one. Look, the important thing is don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take control and safeguard your savings. It's uncertainty and also the desire to diversify savings that is leading so many Americans today to turn to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
And it's worth asking, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Text PDB, as in President's Daily Brief, that's PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Look, with an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold. And you can too. It's easy. Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Later in the show, a major escalation in the Middle East as Israel launches airstrikes into Lebanon following a rocket barrage coming from Lebanese territory. Plus, as the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, continue their renewed efforts in Gaza, Hamas faces calls from Palestinians to relinquish their power in order to avoid, quote, "...the end of the Palestinians' existence."
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In a significant return to fighting, Israel launched two waves of airstrikes on southern Lebanon Saturday, killing at least seven in retaliation for a rocket barrage from the territory. The strikes marked the most serious flare-up with Hezbollah since last year's U.S.-brokered ceasefire began to fray.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
According to the Israeli Defense Forces, the strikes targeted dozens of Hezbollah positions, including weapons depots, command hubs, launch pads, and infrastructure nodes, most notably in the coastal city of Tyre, one of southern Lebanon's major urban centers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
But Hezbollah denied launching the rockets that prompted the IDF response, accusing Israel of fabricating a pretext to resume military operations. While the terror group typically avoids comment on such incidents, its uncharacteristic denial this time signals growing unease amid mounting pressure both at home and abroad.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
The first wave of Israeli strikes took place in the early morning, followed by a second barrage later that night, reportedly greenlit by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. In a joint statement, the two insisted the action was necessary to safeguard border communities from the Iran-backed terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Meanwhile, Lebanon's military said it dismantled three rudimentary Hezbollah rocket launchers and opened an investigation into the origins of the attack. Lebanese officials wasted no time, as you might imagine, in condemning the Israeli strikes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
The country's prime minister warned that the country was being pulled toward, quote, a new war, while President Joseph Aoun decried what he called, quote, attempts to drag Lebanon into a cycle of violence. The United Nations interim force in Lebanon echoed those concerns, urging all sides to recommit to what remains of the fragile ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
That truce, crafted by American and French negotiators back in November, had until the weekend managed to dial down a conflict that had been of course simmering and brewing for over a year. Under its terms, Hezbollah agreed to pull fighters and weapons back from the border, while the Lebanese armed forces were to boost deployments in the area.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In exchange, Israel was to begin withdrawing from newly occupied outposts by January. But Israel extended that deadline, pushing the withdrawal date to 18 February. It still maintains controls over five positions in southern Lebanon, citing the Lebanese army's failure to adequately secure the area.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In the meantime, Israeli airstrikes have continued, with Jerusalem insisting that they're aimed at preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its arsenal. Now, Hezbollah's campaign began in the wake of Hamas's 7 October terror attacks on Israel. The terror group framed its attacks as an act of solidarity with Hamas and the people of Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Since then, the border clashes have spiraled into the deadliest regional spillover of the Gaza War to date. Dozens of Hezbollah commanders, much like Hamas, have been killed, large numbers of fighters lost, and a significant portion of its weapons stockpile wiped out.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
For its part, Lebanon's military has struggled to reassert control in the south, where Hezbollah remains deeply entrenched, and frankly, that's been the history of Lebanon's military. President Aoun has repeatedly insisted that only the state should bear arms. That's a not-so-subtle jab at Hezbollah. Forcing that remains a politically fraught, if not logistically impossible task.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
At least until Israel's campaign to degrade Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed proxy was actually more of a fighting force than the Lebanese military. Okay, staying in the region, Israel confirmed it killed Hamas political leader Salah al-Bardawil in a Saturday night airstrike in southern Gaza, marking the third high-ranking Hamas official to be assassinated in the span of a week.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Bardawil, a longtime figure in Hamas's political bureau and head of its planning and development ministry, was killed alongside his wife in a drone strike that targeted a tent shelter in Khan Yunis.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
And in today's back of the brief, it looks like a win for the Trump administration's immigration agenda. Venezuela says it will once again accept deportation flights from the US, reversing a recent suspension. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll start things off today with a surprising development, that's putting it mildly, related to Putin's war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Israeli officials accused Bartowil of playing a central role in the terror group's strategic wing, claiming that his elimination would deal a significant blow to Hamas's ability to govern and its operational capacity.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Reports from the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry say at least 19 people, including Bartowil, were killed in strikes overnight, though those numbers could not be independently verified and did not distinguish between civilians and terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
The strike comes on the heels of Israel's assassinations of two other top Hamas figures last week, its internal security chief and the terror group's de facto government head, Issam Daalis. Together, the killings form part of an intensifying Israeli campaign to dismantle Hamas' leadership structure. As we've been discussing on the PDB, ground operations have also ramped up across the Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In the north, Israeli forces resumed combat in Beit Hanoun, an area previously cleared but now re-entered, as the IDF says it's targeting remaining Hamas infrastructure and expanding a strategic buffer zone along the border. Fighter jets carried out strikes ahead of a ground advance, which military officials described as a renewed phase of combat.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
In southern Gaza, Israeli forces encircled Tel Sultan, a neighborhood in Rafah long regarded as a Hamas stronghold. The IDF said troops are now conducting raids on tunnel networks and command centers that are believed to have housed hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Residents in Tel Sultan were issued a, quote, urgent evacuation order with an IDF Arabic language spokesman warning the area had become an active combat zone. Maps of the evacuation corridor circulated online, urging civilians to flee westward toward the coast on foot.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Meanwhile, in a rare break from internal silence, the Palestinian authorities ruling Fatah faction called on Hamas to relinquish its hold on Gaza. In a statement sent to AFP, a Fatah spokesman warned that continued fighting under Hamas rule would, quote, "...lead to the end of Palestinians' existence."
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
On Friday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said he ordered the IDF to seize more territory unless Hamas agrees to release the remaining hostages. Katz stated, quote, as long as Hamas continues its refusal, it will lose more and more land that will be added to Israel, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Though Israel has largely refrained from annexing areas that it's captured, Katz suggested the IDF might maintain a long-term presence in captured areas to safeguard troops and nearby communities. As we noted last week on the PDB, Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized a full resumption of hostilities after Hamas rejected a proposal to extend Phase 1 of the ceasefire. The message from Jerusalem.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Negotiations, if they occur at all, will now proceed under fire. All right, coming up in the back of the brief. A win for the Trump administration as Venezuela reverses its suspension of deportation flights from the U.S. We'll have those details next. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Saving and investing can feel impossible, but with Stash, well, it's not just possible, it's easy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals. Or if you want to just sit back and watch your money go to work, you can do that.
The President's Daily Brief
March 24th, 2025: China Considers Sending Troops To Ukraine & Israel Launches Strikes In Lebanon
Just opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Look, don't let your savings sit around. Make your money work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com slash PDB to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Now that's just financial aid, obviously there are other categories, humanitarian and military. Specifically, the report found that EU countries spent roughly 21.9 billion euros on Russian oil and gas over the third year of the war, compared with roughly 18.7 billion euros Das wurde für direkte finanzielle Unterstützung für Kiew bezahlt. Das ist laut einer Beobachtung von The Guardian.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Der Bericht vom Zentrum für Forschung über Energie und saubere Luft sagte, dass die kontinuierliche Bedeutung der Kontinente auf russische Energie ist, die die Anstrengungen der Ukraine unterbreitet, Moskau's Invasion-Force auszulösen, um natürlich auch Wladimir Putin finanzielle Verlust zu vermeiden, trotz des schweren ökonomischen Verlustes, den die Krieg in der Ukraine in Russland verursacht hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Analyst at the Research Center and co-author of the report told The Guardian, "...purchasing Russian fossil fuels is, quite plainly, akin to sending financial aid to the Kremlin and enabling its invasion. It's a practice that must stop immediately to secure not just Ukraine's future, but also Europe's energy security."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Now, following the Kremlin's invasion back on February 24th of 2022, European countries, in partnership with the US, have worked to wean the continent off Russian fossil fuels, imposing sanctions designed to stop direct oil imports. But a gaping loophole in the sanctions still allows countries to legally buy Moscow's crude, provided it's first refined into fuels elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
The report said much of the Russian fuel products are making their way to Europe through trade with countries like Turkey, India and China, who have maintained open economic relations with Moscow despite the war. For example, in the third year of the war, G7 countries purchased some 18 billion euros worth of oil products from six refineries in India and Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
with at least 9 billion of that oil refined from Russian crude. That would generate an estimated 4 billion euros in tax revenue for the Kremlin. Russia generates up to half of its tax revenues from the oil and gas sector and has used its so-called shadow fleet of oil tankers to bypass existing sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Last Wednesday, the EU agreed on new sanction measures targeting Russia's shadow fleet in an attempt to curb this covert trade. Forscher mit dem Forschungszentrum für Energie und Klimaschutz bestätigen, dass durch die Verbesserung von Sanktionen und die Schließung des Refinierungsloopholes russische fossile Nutzungserhöhungen um so viel wie 20 Prozent sinken könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Trotzdem ist Europa auch stark auf einen anderen großen Nutzungsstrom für den Kreml, welcher in Form von liquefizierten Natur-Gas-Exporten kommt. Die Kontinente hat eine Portion ihrer Direkt-Öl-Importe von Russland verwechselt, indem sie ihre Spenden auf liquefiedes natürliches Gas erhöht haben, seit der Krieg begann.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Nun, der Bericht hat für diese Importe einen großen Ausbruch genutzt, bemerkend, dass Russland der Nummer zwei Anbieter von liquefiedem natürlichem Gas in Europa letztes Jahr war. Dies hat den rund 242 Milliarden Euro, die Russland in den letzten Jahren von seinen fossilen Nutzern verdient hat, unterstützt. Mit der EU, die ca.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
39% mehr auf russische fossile Nutzungskräfte in 2024 betrachtet als auf Unterstützung der Ukraine, abhängig von militärischen oder humanitären Beiträgen, ist es klar, dass die Kontinentsstrategie sich ändern muss, wenn sie hoffen, die finanzielle Strafe des Krieges auf Moskau zu erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Ein Analyst mit der Atlantic Council Think Tank hat die EU angerufen, mit den USA in Konzert zu arbeiten, um die Verkäufer von russischer Kohle auf Drittparteien abzulösen, vielleicht die Sanktionen auf die Verkaufe dieser Produkte von Ländern wie Türkei und Indien anzupassen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Die PDB-Recherche-Team betrachtet auch die Anzahl der fossilen Füße, die die USA verkaufen, mit diesen gleichen Laufhäusern. The analyst said, quote, the third party states may reconsider purchasing Russian crude. And this, of course, would lead to a decline in Russian energy sales and it would weaken the Russian economy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
But with President Trump appearing intent on securing a settlement between Ukraine and Russia and normalizing economic ties with the Kremlin, Europe's options do appear limited. In the meantime, the EU is set to boost their financial aid to Ukraine as the war enters its fourth year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
On Monday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that Bloc would provide another 3.5 billion euros in financial aid to Kyiv, Das wird im März kommen. Das folgt 3 Billionen Euro, die die EU im Januar an die Ukraine gegeben hat, finanziert durch die Ausgaben von verschlossenen russischen Inhalte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Es ist Montag, 24. Februar. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst schauen wir uns ein Report aus Europa an, das zeigt, dass die EU mehr Geld auf russische fossile Füße als auf finanzielle Hilfe nach der Ukraine investiert hat, trotz der extensiven Sanktionen, die seit der Krieg begonnen sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Im Laufe des Jahres 2025 planen die EU, die Ukraine mit bis zu 35 Billionen Euro in Finanzhilfe zu bieten, um Russland am Meer zu halten. Wiederum, das betrifft nicht nur militärische und humanitären Hilfe. All right. Up next, Dan Bongino, a former Secret Service agent turned conservative political commentator, has been tapped by President Trump to serve as the next deputy director of the FBI.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. President Trump has appointed Dan Bongino as the next Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the FBI, marking another shift in the administration's ongoing effort to reshape the federal government's approach to justice and security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
The announcement, made Sunday night on Truth Social, places another prominent Trump ally in a powerful law enforcement role. Bongino, ein ehemaliger Geheimdienstagent und NYPD-Officer, hat keine vorherige Erfahrung in der FBI gearbeitet, ihn als den ersten Bürgermeister in seiner Geschichte ohne interne Hintergründe im Büro zu machen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Als Bürgermeister wird Bongino die FBIs täglichen Entschlossenheitsoperationen übernehmen. Das ist eine Position, die traditionell von Karrierebeamten mit tiefem institutionellen Wissen des Büros gehalten wird. Their role is crucial.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
All senior FBI officials report to the director through the deputy director, meaning Bongino will be directly responsible for implementing Trump's law enforcement priorities. While lacking FBI experience, Bongino is no stranger to the political arena.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Over the last decade, he's built a career as a high-profile conservative media figure, hosting the Dan Bongino Show and briefly taking over a time slot once held by the late Rush Limbaugh. Following Trump's announcement, Bongino confirmed that he would end his podcast to return to public service.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Trump praised Bongino's appointment in a Truth Social post, writing, "...working with our great new U.S. Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and Director Patel, fairness, justice, law and order will be brought back to America and quickly."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Balginas Begründung ist erwartet, Trumps Einfluss über die FBI weiter zu zementieren, ein Schiff in Prioritäten zu signalisieren, weg von Konterintelligenz und Konterterrorismus und zu dem, was die Administration beschreibt, als einen erneuten Fokus auf kriminellen Krimen. Anders als der FBI-Direktor, braucht der Abgeordnete-Direktor keine Senate-Konfirmation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Die Annahme kommt nur Tage nachdem der Senate Trumps handgepickter FBI-Direktor, Kash Patel, in einer 51-49-Vote aufgerufen hat. Patel, ein staunter Loyalist aus Trumps erster Administration, hat eine wichtige Rolle gespielt in den Vorschlägen des Präsidenten, die 2020-Elektion zu übertreten, und hat sich über die Prioritäten des Büros überholt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
später im Show. Dan Bongino, ein ehemaliger Geheimdienstagent, der sich als konservativ-politischer Kommentator bezeichnet hat, wurde von Präsident Trump getappt, um als nächster Verteidigungsdirektor der FBI zu arbeiten. Aber zuerst heute Nachts Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Bonginos Selection also coincides with Trump's plans to overhaul the federal government's workforce. The president has openly stated his intention to, quote, fire some FBI personnel as part of a larger downsizing effort overseen currently by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 24 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And according to word on the street, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, simply become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 24th, 2025: How Europe Is Funding Both Sides In Ukraine & Dan Bongino Named Next FBI Deputy Director
Als wir über das dreijährige Jahrzehnt der Ukraine-Invasion von Russland überlaufen, lernen wir, dass europäische Nationen, trotz extensiver Sanktionen, beide Seiten des Krieges indirekt finanzieren. A damning report out of Europe has revealed that the EU is spending more money annually on purchasing Russian fossil fuels than on financial aid to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Hamas verhindert die Verantwortung. Wirklich? Sie haben sie gefangen, sie haben sie am 7. Oktober verhaftet. Sie sind jetzt tot und Hamas wird keine Verantwortung nehmen. Stattdessen verurteilen sie einen israelischen Angriff. Die israelischen Verteidigungsgeräte verurteilen diesen Begriff, behaupten, dass forensische Beweise zeigen, dass ihre Kinder früh in ihrer Gefängnis verurteilt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Mexican authorities have arrested two high-ranking members of the Sinaloa cartel just days before the Trump administration designated it and other Mexican gangs as foreign terrorist organizations. It's almost like they've known where the cartel leaders have been all this time, but didn't have any motivation to arrest them. But perhaps that just makes me sound cynical. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Negotiierungen für eine zweite Phase von Verhandlungen, die mit weiteren Verhandlungserlässen und einem langfristigen Ausstiegsverbot, der 1. März beginnt, have yet to commence, despite initial talks being scheduled for early February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Hamas has made clear that it will not release additional captives without a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, demands that Netanyahu, with backing from President Trump, flatly rejects. As both sides remain entrenched in their positions, the ceasefire's future and the broader prospects for regional stability obviously remain highly uncertain. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Coming up in the back of the brief. Mexico announces the arrest of key members of the Sinaloa cartel. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
In today's Back of the Brief, just days before the Trump administration officially labels the Sinaloa Cartel and other gangs as foreign terrorist organizations, Mexican authorities arrested two of that cartel's top operatives in what appears to be a direct response to mounting US pressure. The arrests come at a pivotal moment.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Tensions between Washington and Mexico City have steadily escalated over cartel violence and the relentless flood of fentanyl into the United States. On Wednesday, in the cartels stronghold of northwest Mexico, authorities took Jose Canobio Insunza into custody. Now, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, Canobio Insunza was deeply embedded in the operational core of Los Chapitos.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
That's a faction of the Sinaloa cartel run by El Chapo Guzman's sons. Prosecutors say he played a key role in drug production and smuggling networks, overseeing the flow of cocaine and fentanyl into the U.S., His arrest, well, didn't come out of nowhere.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
A Chicago grand jury indicted him in November on charges of drug trafficking and financing a cartel security force responsible for protecting leadership and engaging in violent turf wars to maintain Los Chapitos' dominance in the trade.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Dann, in einer Bewegung, die den Effort Mexikas ausdrückt, zu zeigen, dass es in Aktion geht, haben die Behörden einen weiteren großen Schuss gespielt, weniger als 24 Stunden später. In der gleichen Region haben sie Kevin Alonso verhaftet, ein Figur, der zu dem Kartell-Sicherheitsapparat kritisch gesagt wurde, der Waffenverkäufer und die Sicherung für Senior-Kartell-Figuren verantwortlich war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
But it's the Trump administration's looming decision to classify the Sinaloa Cartel as a foreign terrorist organization that may prove even more consequential.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The designation, which places the cartel and other groups, including MS-13 and Venezuela's TDA gang, would give Washington new legal tools to go after cartel assets and members with the same sweeping authority used against international terrorist organizations." Unglaublich, spürte die Bewegung einen Rückgang in Mexiko-City.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Präsident Claudia Scheinbaum verpasste keine Zeit, die Entscheidung zu schlagen, sie zu beurteilen und zu beurteilen, dass sie ohne ihre Regierung konsultiert wurde. Er schreibt, dass die USA diese Bezeichnung als Prätext für unilaterale militärische Intervention nutzen könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Trump hat die Idee, die US-Mitglieder in Kartellen zu kämpfen, offensichtlich verfolgt, eine Idee, die in Mexiko mit starker Resistenz getroffen wird. For now, Mexico is walking a, well, let's call it a delicate tightrope, shall we? Seeking to demonstrate a crackdown on cartel leadership without conceding to demands that could be seen domestically as an erosion of sovereignty.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Whether these latest arrests will be enough to appease Washington or if the U.S. will intensify matters, well, that remains an open question. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 24 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, you know what to do. It's very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
First up, today's PDB Spotlight. This weekend, Europe was rocked by a pair of Islamist terror attacks that highlight an alarming trend of increasing violence across the continent. The first attack occurred on Friday evening in Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate, at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The victim, a 30-year-old Spanish man, was approached from behind by a 19-year-old Syrian refugee, who stabbed him in the neck. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries and doctors had to place him in an artificial coma. Glücklicherweise ist er seitdem stabilisiert und ist nicht mehr in einer kritischen Situation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Der Verbrecher, der in Deutschland als unabhängiger Miner im Jahr 2023 herrschte, hatte einen Koran, einen Betrug und ein Stück Papier mit Koranversen und dem Datum des Angriffs auf es geschrieben. Bewerber glauben, dass der Motiv für den Angriff religiös war. Oh, denkst du? Mit Behörden, die beweisen, dass der Verbrecher für mehrere Wochen planen wollte, die Juden zu töten.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Die Begriffe bauen sich auf. Dies wurde von seinen Statementen an die Polizei und der Wahl des Memorial als sein Ziel bestätigt. Einen Tag später, am Sonntag, gab es einen zweiten Angriff in Mulhaus, das ist eine Stadt in Ostfranz auf der Grenze mit Deutschland und Switzerland. Der Angriffspunkt war ein lokaler Markt.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Es geschah um 4 Uhr, als ein 37-jähriger Algerischer auf einen Stabbruch ging, schreitend Al-Akbar, mehrere Male. Well, yeah, that again seems like a clue regarding motivation. The assailant killed a 69-year-old Portuguese man who was attempting to intervene and injured two police officers, both of whom are now in serious condition.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The suspect was already on France's terror watch list and had been under house arrest after being ordered to leave the country following his release from a detention center in June. Now, if this sounds wacky, let me just read that to you again.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The suspect was already on France's terror watch list and had been under house arrest after being ordered to leave the country following his release from a detention center in June. The French government is treating the attack as an act of Islamist terrorism. Well done, Poirot. President Emmanuel Macron was quick to condemn the attack, calling it without any doubt an act of Islamist terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The assailants' background and actions mirror a disturbing pattern of individuals linked to terrorist activity, underlining the challenges, of course, authorities face in preventing such attacks. Nun, wenn Sie den Präsidenten-Daily Brief gehört haben, werden Sie wissen, dass diese Fälle keine isolierten Ereignisse sind.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Wie wir in den vergangenen Monaten gesehen haben, werden Terrorangriffe in Europa immer häufiger werden. Vor einem Monat führte ein afghanischer Migrant sein Auto in eine Gruppe in München, um eine Mutter und ihr Kind zu töten, und um mehrere Tausende mehr zu verletzen. Just this January another Afghan national killed a two-year-old boy and a forty-one-year-old man in a knife attack.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
It's Monday, 24 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Welcome to the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
In Dezember, a Saudi refugee drove an SUV into a Christmas market crowd in Magdeburg, killing six and injuring hundreds. Another attack by an Islamist in Munich in September. There was another by a Syrian asylum seeker in August in Solingen. Another by an Afghan refugee in Mannheim in May. Well, you get the point. I suppose you're beginning to see a pattern here.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The timing of these attacks couldn't be more significant, as they came just days before Germans were set to head to the polls for snap elections, which were held yesterday. The rise in violence has fueled the growth of right-wing anti-immigration parties. And the results of yesterday's elections in Germany reflected that fact.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The conservative CDU-CSU alliance secured the largest vote share of 28.7%, positioning their leader, Friedrich Merz, to potentially become the next Chancellor, replacing Olaf Scholz. The far-right AFD achieved a historical result with 19.8%, making them the second largest party. The ruling Social Democrats, SPD, suffered their worst defeat since post-World War II with only 16.4%. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Now, before we go to the break, a quick reminder. Don't forget that you can always check out the President's Daily Brief on YouTube at our juggernaut of a YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief. Just a reminder. It's more of a public service announcement, really.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Coming up next, President Trump shakes up his military leadership and Prime Minister Netanyahu delays the release of Palestinian prisoners until Hamas ends its, quote, humiliating ceremonies during hostage handovers. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denkt daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu hacken.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für instantane Schutz. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
We'll start today's show with a pair of deadly Islamist terror attacks in Europe this weekend. A brutal stabbing in Berlin and a violent spree in France underscore the growing threat across the continent. Later in the show, President Trump shakes up his military leadership, removing Air Force General Charles Q. Brown, known as C.Q.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
In a shake-up at the Pentagon, President Trump fired Air Force General Charles Q. Brown, known as C.Q. Brown, as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Friday in a move rooted in concerns by the administration that the military was increasingly fixated on diversity initiatives at the expense of its combat readiness.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Brown, ein Vier-Star-Fighter-Pilot und nur der zweite schwarze General, der jemals die Post beherrscht, steigte die US-Militärstrategie in pivoten Theatern, von den Frontlinien der Ukraine bis zum volatilen Ausflug des Mittleren Osten in den letzten 16 Monaten während seines Tenors. Trump beantragte die Entscheidung via Truth Social, mit dem Dank für C.Q. Browns über vier Jahrhunderte Service.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
while signaling a resolute pivot towards his administration's, quote, America-first strategy. Now, this sweeping Pentagon shake-up, orchestrated in tandem with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, also a critic of what he derives as the, quote, woke drift in military policy, forms the latest chapter in a broader campaign to reorient the armed forces squarely toward warfighting.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Hegseth, der lange gefragt hat, ob militärische Leiter für Merit oder Rasse ausgewählt werden sollen, hat früher für Browns Entfernung gebeten. In seinem Buch, The War on Warriors, hat Hegseth argumentiert, dass jeder General, der die DEI priorisiert, oder die Diversität, Qualität und Inklusion-Programme, die Tür zeigen sollte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Browns Entfernung ist nur ein Element in einer Kaskade von hochwertigen Pentagon-Entfernungen, die auch Lisa Franchetti, die erste Frau-Führerin der Armee, sowie der Vize-Chef der Air Force, James Slife, sowie einige der Top-Militär-Legal-Advisoren, nur aus guter Bedeutung. In allem wurden sechs Pentagon-Affiziere gefangen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
In der folgenden Reorganisation wurde Admiral James Kilby als Aktionschef der Naval-Operationen verabschiedet. So, with C.Q. Brown out, who is going to be the next top military officer? Well, I'm glad you asked. Trump took to Truth Social to announce his intention to nominate retired Air Force Lieutenant General Dan Kane as Brown's successor.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Praising Kane as a, quote, real general, not a television general, Trump contrasted him with what he deems ineffective military leadership. And that's a sentiment he echoed just days earlier at a Miami summit, where the president lamented, and how often do you hear people lamenting, quote, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Kane, der im Dezember verabschiedet wurde, hat Trumps Vorwürfe während seiner ersten Administration, während er in Irak war. Kane wurde von der Kommandantin gefragt, weshalb es Jahre dauern würde, um den Kampf gegen den islamischen Staat zu beenden. Und Kane argumentierte, dass der Kampf in so wenig wie einer Woche verabschiedet werden könnte, wenn er auf seine Art verabschiedet wäre.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Und diese Bemerkung ist grundsätzlich emblomatisch für den Appetit der Administration für swift, entscheidende Aktionen. Yet, even as the administration touts Keynes' robust credentials, including his time piloting F-16s, similar to that of C.Q. Brown, and a stint as associate director for military affairs at the CIA, his appointment is currently in controversy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Brown, as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and appointing retired Air Force Lieutenant General Dan Kane as his top U.S. military officer.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Traditionally, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is expected to have served as a combatant commander or service chief and to hold a four-star rank. As a three-star general, Kaine does not meet these conventional requirements, and though Trump wields the authority to waive such requirements, Kaines nomination is poised to face intense scrutiny during the Senate confirmation process.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
In der Bekämpfung des Verteidigungsgerichts hat Defense Secretary Hagseth Kane als das Vorbild eines, Quote, des Kriegsfeindes und des richtigen Leiters für den Moment beschrieben.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Für den Moment unterschätzt Trumps Ausstrahlung einen breiteren Versuch, die Leidenschaft der Militärs zu verschärfen, um die Effektivität des Kampfes zu priorisieren und die Politik des Pentagon mit seiner Verteidigungsvision zu verabschieden. Jedoch sind die abrupten Verabschiedungen möglich, Heated Debate on Capitol Hill. But to be fair, nowadays everything sparks heated debate on Capitol Hill.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Okay, turning now to the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. The agreement faces new uncertainty after Israel postponed the scheduled release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners Saturday, citing concerns over what it calls, quote, humiliating ceremonies staged by Hamas during hostage handovers.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The decision, announced early Sunday by Prime Minister Netanyahu's office following the return of six Israeli hostages, deepens doubt about the fragile agreement. The reversal came after more than 600 Palestinian prisoners had been boarded on buses at Ofra Prison, preparing for release in what would have been the largest single-day exchange since the ceasefire began.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Plus, just days after Hamas delivered the remains of the wrong person to Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu has announced a delay in the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners until the terror group ends the quote humiliating ceremonies staged during hostage handovers. Und in heute's Back of the Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Stattdessen haben die israelischen Behörden gefordert, dass sie zurückkehren und in ihre Zellen zurückkehren. Laut einer ehemaligen Kommandantin des israelischen Gefängnisservice, der südlichen Division, haben die Gefangenen Stunden gedauert, bevor sie lernten, dass ihre Entfernung abgeschlossen wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Israel's move follows growing outrage over Hamas' handling of both living hostages and the remains of deceased captives. Last week, as reported on the PDB, Netanyahu accused Hamas of committing a, quote, cruel and malicious violation, after forensic analysis revealed that the hostage remains returned as those of Shiri Bibas were not hers, nor did they belong to any other known hostage.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
While the bodies of her two young children, Ariel, aged four, and Kaffir, just nine months old when taken, were correctly identified upon their return, the deception sparked a firestorm of condemnation in Israel and renewed calls for a tougher stance against the Iran-backed terror group. Ja. Ja.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
The scenes drew swift condemnation, as you might imagine, from the UN and the International Red Cross, which labeled them exploitative. Yeah, that'd be about right. Notably, these were the last living hostages, expected to be freed under the ceasefire's first phase.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Netanyahu's office stated that Israel will not proceed with additional prisoner releases until Hamas ends the propaganda spectacles and guarantees dignified treatment of hostages. Hamas predictably responded by accusing Israel of fabricating pretexts to avoid fulfilling its obligations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
A member of Hamas' political wing went so far as to claim that the orchestrated ceremonies were meant to demonstrate humane treatment rather than mistreatment. Oh...
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Unter dem ursprünglichen Vertrag war Israel bereit, 602 palästinensische Gefühle am Sonntag zu beurteilen, mit 50 von ihnen, die zurzeit für schreckliche Angriffe gegen die Israeliten leiden, und 60 von ihnen, die längere Angriffe beurteilen. Näher 100 von denen, die für Beurteilung gefordert wurden, wurden beurteilt, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Ammar Zaban, ein Senior-Khamas-Figur, der 27 Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe für schreckliche Angriffe während der zweiten Intifada.
The President's Daily Brief
February 24th, 2025: Twin Islamist Terror Attacks Strike Europe & Trump Shakes Up Military Leadership
Mittlerweile wurde das Körper von Shirei Bibas am Samstag wieder nach Israel zurückgebracht, nachdem Hamas versucht hatte, ein anderes Körper wie das ihres früher auszupassen. In einem Statement wurde der Familie erklärt, dass sie in der Gefängnis verurteilt worden war, obwohl sie noch keine Beurteilung bekommen hat, wie sie und ihre Kinder speziell gestorben sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Mossad agents created a shell company through which they sold the group walkie-talkies laced with the hidden explosives. The scheme worked. with Hezbollah reportedly none the wiser that they had purchased these devices from their arch enemy. And as it turns out, Israel was playing the long game. Fast forward to 2022, Mossad saw another operational opportunity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
It's Monday, 23 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
They learned that Hezbollah had been buying pagers from a Taiwan-based company called Gold Apollo, apparently eager to pivot from smartphones to low-tech alternatives out of fear that Israel was exploiting their devices. Israel quickly moved to insert themselves as the supplier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
They established a shell company called BAC Consulting based in Budapest, Hungary, to pose as a legitimate international third-party supplier of the pagers, tricking Gold Apollo into doing business with them. They then began manufacturing pagers laced with an explosive material that could be triggered remotely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
To cover their tracks, Mossad also established at least two other shell companies and even took contracts with regular clients who they provided with normal pagers. One of the agents told 60 Minutes, quote, We created a pretend world. We're a global production company. We write the screenplay. We're the directors. We're the producers. We're the main actors. And the world is our stage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
That's a very flowery way to explain an operation. The retired agents said the pagers intended for Hezbollah had to be made slightly larger to accommodate the explosives hidden inside. They were then tested multiple times on dummies to determine the right amount of explosive material that would be needed to injure the carrier but not anyone in close proximity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
First, we'll begin with Israel, as Mossad agents reveal how they managed to infiltrate Hezbollah's operations and convince the terror group to buy explosive-laced pagers and walkie-talkies that would ultimately severely cripple Iran's once-powerful terrorist army.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
They also studied and tested what ringtones the pagers would use, seeking something that sounded urgent enough to prompt the fighter to take the pager out of their pocket when it was triggered. Once the devices were ready to go, Mossad began working to lure Hezbollah leaders into making a purchase.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The agents said it took roughly two weeks to convince Hezbollah to buy these slightly bulkier pagers. They employed false advertisements for the devices on YouTube that marketed the pagers as dustproof, waterproof, and providing a much longer battery life. To further dupe Hezbollah, they posed as businessmen, engineers, and marketing experts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The entire ruse worked, and soon the pagers began shipping directly to Hezbollah. Now, the first shipments arrived in Lebanon in the summer of 2022, but Israel reportedly increased production after Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah ordered his fighters to ditch their cell phones entirely last February. The shipments subsequently increased, with thousands of pagers arriving over the summer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
While the terrorist organization remained unaware of the infiltration, Israeli intelligence officers were waiting for their moment. And on September 17th, with roughly 5,000 of the booby-trapped pagers now in the hands of Hezbollah fighters, Israel triggered the devices.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The following day, they also triggered the explosive-laced walkie-talkies built 10 years earlier, some of which went off at funerals for militants killed in the pager attacks. The agents said the main goal was to send a message, not to maximize casualties. The psychological impact on Hezbollah was reportedly severe, leaving their fighters and leaders in a state of panic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
In the days that followed, Israel stepped up targeted strikes in Lebanon, killing most of Hezbollah's senior leadership, including Hassan Nasrallah. By the end of November, the group, now a shell of its former self, came to the negotiating table and signed a ceasefire agreement with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Coming up, Syria's new de facto leader is vowing to end the sectarian violence that has long plagued the country, promising the country's ethnic and religious minorities that they'll be protected under the new regime. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Then, Syria's new de facto leader is attempting to reassure the country's ethnic and religious minorities that they'll be protected under the new Islamist regime, promising an end to the sectarian violence that has long plagued the country. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Religious minorities in Syria, including the nation's Druze and Christians, may find a glimmer of hope ahead of Christmas as de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharah, formerly known as Muhammad al-Jilani, extends overtures, seeking to reassure them of their role in the emerging political order.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
In a meeting broadcast on Lebanese TV on Sunday, Shira sat down with Lebanon's Druze leader, a figure who represents an Arab minority that practices a distinct offshoot of Islam.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
In their talks, Shira pledged inclusivity, emphasizing that no religions would be excluded in what he called, quote, a new era far removed from sectarianism, a shift beyond the decades of strife in a nation long fractured by war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
Shira, who leads the Islamist group HTS, which was the driving force behind Assad's removal earlier this month, is under scrutiny from Syrians and foreign powers, as one of the biggest fears has been that HTS would bring a renewed wave of strict Islamic governance and repression on Syria's religious minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
But Sharab, shedding his former image as a rebel fighter in military fatigues for the look of a political leader in a suit and tie, began his part of a broader campaign to extinguish those fears among Syria's Druze, Kurdish, Christian, and Alawite communities. Speaking on the broadcast, Shiraz stated, quote, Being part of the Islamic environment does not mean the exclusion of other sects.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
On the contrary, it is our duty to protect them, end quote. The Lebanese Druze leader expressed optimism about the future of Syria-Lebanon relations, calling Assad's ouster an opportunity for constructive collaboration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
I want to begin by taking you back to Israel's covert attack on Hezbollah back in September of this year, as Mossad agents reveal new details about how they managed to trick the terror group into buying explosive-laced talkies and pagers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The Druze, in particular, endured systemic challenges under various regimes, and Shira's rhetoric could be seen as an attempt to secure their buy-in during a delicate transitional period. Shira also announced plans to dispatch a government delegation to a Druze-majority city in southern Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The delegation's mission, according to Shira, will focus on delivering essential services and underscoring Syria's, quote, "...rich diversity of religions." His public outreach forms part of a broader charm offensive aimed at both domestic and international audiences.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
As we've been tracking on the PDB, Shara has hosted numerous foreign dignitaries, including US diplomats in recent days and reiterated his commitment to rebuilding Syria after 13 years of civil war. Whether Shiraz's assurances will be enough to calm fears and foster unity among minorities in the war-torn country, well, that remains to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
But his efforts suggest an acknowledgement of the challenges ahead in steering Syria into this so-called new era. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 23 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
And of course, as you've no doubt probably read in the gossip columns, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
The surprise attack, which saw thousands of electronic devices simultaneously explode in the hands and pockets of Hezbollah fighters, marked the beginning of the end for the group's ambitions to wage a long term war with Israel. The attack killed two dozen Hezbollah fighters and took another 1500 of them out of commission while leaving its leaders severely rattled.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 23rd, 2024: Mossad Agents Expose Beeper Bomb Operation & Syria's New Rulers Seek End To Sectarian Violence
And just ten days later, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah would be killed. Speaking anonymously to 60 Minutes on Sunday, two recently retired Mossad agents said the operation began in earnest some 10 years ago when Hezbollah was looking to purchase a large quantity of communication devices for their fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
I hope you tune in. You can find it on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and, of course, all podcast platforms. Bis dann. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
And in today's back of the brief, good news for the new de facto head of Syria, as the US is scrapping the longstanding $10 million bounty on his head. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. A devastating act of terror unfolded this weekend in Magdeburg, Germany.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
A driver plowed a vehicle into a bustling Christmas market, killing at least five people, including a nine-year-old child and injuring over 200 others. The suspect has been identified as a 50-year-old Saudi national and doctor named Taleb Abdelmolson. He was arrested at the scene after his vehicle came to a halt amidst the carnage.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Authorities have since charged him with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder, calling the attack a deliberate act of terrorism. The scene at the Christmas market was, frankly, one of horror. Witnesses described the moment that the car careened through the festive gathering as both sudden and violent.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Stalls were destroyed, decorations scattered and the joyful sounds of the season replaced by screams. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, treating the injured and securing the area as police apprehended the suspect. Nun, dieser Angriff hat die Debatten in Deutschland und in Europa über die Sicherheits- und Immigrationspolitik eröffnet.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Deutschland hat in den letzten Jahren mehrere hochprofile Terror-Infektionen erlebt, einige von denen mit radikalisierten Individuen, die offene Grenzen verursachen. Kritiker argumentieren, dass nicht genug gemacht wird, um die Individuen, die in das Land eintreten, zu schützen, während andere sich gegen diese Tragödie beweisen, um gesamte Gemeinschaften zu verurteilen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Die Zeitung des Angriffs ist auch bemerkenswert. Weihnachtsmärkte sind natürlich eine geliebte Tradition in Deutschland, die Millionen von Besuchern jedes Jahr bildet. Aber dies ist nicht das erste Mal, dass ein Weihnachtsmärkte der Ziel der Terror-Angriff war.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Im Jahr 2016 gab es einen ähnlichen Angriff in Berlin, der zwölf Leben verurteilte und Dutzende verletzte, als ein Fahrzeug in einen Markt führte, und dieser Angriff wurde später mit ISIS verbunden. Nun, wir haben bereits angefangen, einige Details über den Verbrecher zu lernen und die Behörden haben bereits einen Motiv zusammengefasst.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Er flog nach Deutschland als Saudi-Refugee im Jahr 2006 und bekam den offiziellen Refugeestatus im Jahr 2016. In den letzten Jahren wurde er ein prominenter Teil der Saudi-Gemeinschaft in Deutschland als ein ausgesprochener Anti-Islam und Frauenrechtsaktivist. Er hat eine Webseite und soziale Medienkanäle für beide dieser Gründe gegründet, die sowohl Unterstützung als auch Kontroversie beobachten.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
In sozialen Medienposts, nur Tage vor dem Angriff, kritisierte er die deutsche Regierung, die es verurteilt hat, die Islamisierung des Landes zu fördern. Er beurteilt auch, dass die Behörden ihn wegen seiner Ansichten kensuriert haben. Beobachter analysieren diese Posts nun, gemeinsam mit seinem digitalen Hintergrund, um besser zu verstehen, warum er da ist.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
However, based on what we've already learned, it doesn't sound like your normal jihadi attack. In fact, he sounds rather anti-Islam and Islamophobic. In response to the attack, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has vowed to bolster security measures. Police presence at public events has been increased nationwide and counterterrorism units are on high alert.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
However, many are questioning whether these steps are enough to prevent future attacks. Internationally, leaders have condemned the violent attack. In a statement, US President Biden expressed solidarity with Germany, calling the attack a, quote, heinous affront to humanity.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of cross-border cooperation to combat terrorism. All right. Coming up next, a case of friendly fire over the Red Sea forces two U.S. Navy pilots to eject. And an update on Gaza ceasefire talks with a deal reportedly near completion. I'll have those stories when we come back. Vielen Dank.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
It was a close call for a pair of US Navy pilots this weekend when their F-18F Super Hornet fighter jet was mistakenly shot down by friendly fire over the Red Sea. According to US Central Command, the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg misidentified the aircraft as a threat, firing upon it and forcing the two pilots to eject.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
It's Monday, 23 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage and in our continuing game of Where's Waldo, appearing today from an airport somewhere in the northwest heading out towards the far east. So... Mit all dem gesagt, lasst uns berichten.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Glücklicherweise wurden beide sicherlich zurückgekehrt und initiale Untersuchungen beweisen, dass nur einer der Truppen kleine Schmerzen verursacht hat. Der Unfall entstand, als die Navy Strecken gegen Houthi-Militanten in Jemen durchgeführt hat, als Teil des US-leitenden Operationen Prosperity Guardian.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Das ist die umfangreiche multinationale Operation, um den Verbrauchern in der Region zu schützen. Over the weekend, US forces attacked the Yemeni capital of Sana'a, striking a missile storage facility and a command and control node.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
CENTCOM also said it struck multiple Houthi one-way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles, fancy way of saying drones, and intercepted an anti-ship cruise missile over the Red Sea. Die iranischen Backhutis sind weiterhin ein Verrückter in der Region. Als Erinnerung, seit November 2023 haben Huti-Missil und Drohnen-Attacken zwei Schiffe im Red Sea versunken und mehrere andere verletzt.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Sie haben beklagt, dass sie Schiffe nur mit Israel, den USA oder den USA verbinden, aber sie fangen oft ihre Schiffe indiskriminiert an. Zusätzlich zur Eskalation des Wochenends landete ein Misslein von Houthi-Militanten in Tel Avivs südlichem Jaffa-Bereich.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Die Houthis bekamen Verantwortung, sagten, dass ihr hypersonisches Ballistik-Misslein, namens Palestine 2, ein israelisches Militär-Target in Jaffa verursachte. Ein Houthi-Besprecher sagte, dass die Gruppe von Kämpfern den Misslein geöffnet hatte, um den Sieg der verletzten palästinensischen Bevölkerung und ihrer Kämpfer zu unterstützen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
In Wahrheit landete das Misslein in der Mitte eines Spielplatzes. Die Angriffe haben die Luftwaffen-Zirnen in Zentral-Israel ausgerichtet, um Hunderten von Tausenden von Residenzern in entgegengesteckte Bomben-Geläufe einzusetzen. Die Geheimdienste haben 16 kleine Verletzungen von zerstörtertem Glas und 14 andere Verletzungen verursacht, die die Menschen geholfen haben.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Die Verletzung ist ein rarer Fehler der israelischen Missil-Defense-Systeme, aber es ist nicht das erste Houthi-Projektil, das auf israelischem Gebiet landet. Back in July, the Houthis claimed responsibility for a deadly drone attack in Tel Aviv, the first such strike on the city by the group. Alright, shifting now to the ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
A hostage release deal is reportedly nearing completion, with one Palestinian official describing progress as much as 90% complete. Alright, we still got 10% to go. As we've been covering here on the PDB, the proposed ceasefire framework, which has come together through talks in Egypt and Qatar over the past several weeks, consists of three stages.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
However, before any of that can begin, there are still a few major gaps between the sides, most notably about the ongoing IDF presence inside Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
According to the BBC on Saturday, a senior Palestinian official involved in the negotiations raised concerns about the proposed establishment of a several mile wide buffer zone along Israel's border with Gaza, where Israel would retain a long-term military presence. Einer der teuersten Teile der Verhandlungen ist der Philadelphia-Korridor.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Das ist die neunmeilige Grenze zwischen Gaza und Ägypten, die früher als strategische Leitlinie für Hamas sorgte, aber jetzt von der IDF besorgt ist.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Während der israelische Vizepräsident Netanyahu versuchte, die Kontrolle über den Korridor zu behalten, hat die Verteidigungsministerin Israel Katz letzte Woche einen mehr konkiliatorischen Satz erhoben, der darstellt, dass es eine Möglichkeit gab, eine zunehmende israelische Rückkehr aus dem Bereich zu machen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Wir fangen mit der Tragödie in Deutschland an, in der ein Fahrer mit Unwissenheit in einen kräftigen Weihnachtsmarkt flog, fünf tot und über 200 verletzt. Die Behörden recherchieren die Verbrecher, als die Nation weint.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
According to an Egyptian outlet, once these issues are addressed, the ceasefire could be finalized within days. Once the signatures are in place, the deal would begin with a phased exchange of hostages and prisoners. The first stage involves the release of 34 Israeli hostages, including 11 men, 5 female soldiers and older or medically vulnerable individuals in return for 250 Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
The final list of prisoners, drawn from a group of around 400 individuals serving long sentences in Israeli prisons, has yet to be confirmed. Hamas is reportedly facing challenges in locating some of the 96 hostages believed to be in Gaza, only 62 of whom are thought to be alive.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
However, in a display of optimism, representatives from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in a joint statement after talks in Cairo on Saturday stated, "...the possibility of reaching an agreement is closer than ever, provided Israeli troops stop imposing new conditions."
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Israel bleibt relativ ruhig auf die jüngsten Entwicklungen, wahrscheinlich in einem Versuch, die Erwartungen zu gestalten. Jedoch, die Regierung versucht weiterhin, von den Familien derjenigen, die noch in Gaza gehalten wurden, Druck aufzunehmen, um einen Deal zu sichern.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Die kommenden Tage werden natürlich die Resolven von beiden Seiten testen, als sie mit der Aufgabe kämpfen, eine langfristige Frieden zu schaffen. Und wie immer, ich versuche nicht, das Wort langfristig oder permanent zu benutzen, wenn es um die Region geht. Also gehen wir einfach mit einem temporären Ausbruch. Coming up in the back of the brief. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
is removing a $10 million bounty on Ahmed al-Sharah, also known as Mohammed al-Jolani, the Syrian leader of HTS, who helped topple President Assad's regime. We'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessanter Faktum. Wissen Sie, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt werden?
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Denken Sie daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist Ihr Onkel, Landfall. Kontrastieren Sie das mit dem Vergangenheit. Ich meine, historisch waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir für eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Versorgung.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Später im Show beobachten wir einen Fall eines freundlichen Feuers über dem Red Sea, in dem zwei US-Navy-Piloten nachdem ihr Jet von einem US-Kriegsflug verletzt wurde, geflogen wurden. Plus, we'll have an update on the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, where Palestinian officials are claiming a deal is nearly complete and only a few sticking points remain.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
That's 20% off when you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com. In today's Back of the Brief, the U.S. announced plans to lift the $10 million bounty on Ahmed al-Sharah, also known as Mohammed al-Jalani, the head of HTS, following the toppling of President Assad's regime in Syria earlier this month.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
In the meeting led by Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf, the HTS leader committed to ensuring terrorist groups in Syria do not pose a threat to the U.S. and its allies. And that's a key condition for any future U.S. support, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Leaf beschrieb die Diskussionen mit HTS als, quote, sehr gut, sehr produktiv, das scheint positiv, und bemerkte, dass der HTS-Leiter eine, quote, pragmatische Stille auf verschiedene Themen präsentierte, z.B. Frauenrechte und die Schutz der Minderheitsgemeinschaften. Das ist eine offensichtliche Entfernung von HTSs früherer Reputation. Leaf sagte, quote, We will judge by deeds, not just by words.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
Deeds are the critical thing, end quote. Well, she's not wrong. According to NBC News, the U.S. is also exploring the possibility of removing HTS from its terrorist list. This decision hinges on the group meeting specific criteria, including ensuring Syria does not threaten its neighbors and avoiding alliances with terrorist organizations like ISIS. Yeah, you would think those would be conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
The Biden administration is aware of the complications that such sanctions create for humanitarian aid in Syria, particularly for groups assisting refugees returning to the country and those displaced by the decade-long conflict. While current sanctions allow dialogue with the HDS, they restrict material support, posing challenges for aid organizations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
The meeting also addressed humanitarian concerns and the fate of missing Americans in Syria, including journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted 12 years ago. Roger Carstens, the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, reaffirmed the administration's commitment to finding answers about Tices' condition and bringing him home, stating, quote, What I can tell you is this.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
The President of the United States believes Austin to be alive, and it's our duty to keep pressing and pushing to get a sense of certainty about what happened to him. The US delegation visit follows similar trips by diplomats from France, the UK and Germany, reflecting growing international attention on Syria's new interim government. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
December 23rd, 2024: Christmas Terror Attack in Germany & US Jet Shot Down Over the Red Sea
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 23 December. Look at that. You've got two more shopping days until Christmas. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And I hope you had a chance over the weekend to check out our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. As always, great guests, insight, news you can use.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's Bamboo Sheet Set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true. Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessanter Faktum.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Wissen Sie, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt werden? Denken Sie daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob, dein Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And in today's Back of the Brief, a follow-up on a story we brought you last week, as the Pentagon officially announces that the US will be withdrawing a significant number of troops from Syria. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. I wanted to start today with a story you're not seeing on the front pages, but one that suggests President Trump's tariff policy might be working.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Versorgung. Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com. In today's Back of the Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
We told you last week that it was coming, and now the Pentagon has made it official. The U.S. will be shrinking its military footprint in Syria, pulling out roughly 600 troops over the coming months and bringing total troop levels below 1,000.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the move on Friday, saying the reduction reflects, quote, significant steps that we've made toward degrading ISIS' appeal and operational capability regionally and globally, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Er zeigte, dass die US-Kontrolle in Syrien in der Position bleibt, irgendwelche Remnanten von ISIS in Syrien zu schießen, bemerkend, dass der Ausdruck in Ordnung ist mit Präsident Trumps Philosophie von, Quote, Frieden durch Kraft. Während Parnell nicht viele Spezifiken erhielt, sagte ein ungenannter US-Affizier der Associated Press, dass etwa 600 Personal weggehen wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Die New York Times hat auch berichtet, dass das Militär drei ihrer acht Ausstattungen in Nordrhein-Westfalen in Syrien schütten wird. Bis jetzt sind rund 2.000 US-Truppen an verschiedenen Orten in Syrien, v.a. im Norden, wo sie zusammen mit lokalen kurdischen-leitenden Kräften gearbeitet haben, um eine Rückkehr von ISIS zu vermeiden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Diese Mission begann, nachdem der Terrorgruppe große Teile von Territorium über Irak und Syrien besiegt hat, bis 2014, bevor sie in den folgenden Jahren zurückgeworfen wurde. But let's be clear, this drawdown doesn't mean that the US is stepping away from the region. In fact, the broader picture tells a very different story.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
While forces are being pulled from Syria, the US military presence across Central Command, covering the greater Middle East, is actually growing. As we reported here on the PDB, two aircraft carriers, the Carl Vinson and the Harry Truman, are now launching strike missions against Houthi rebels in Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
The Pentagon has also repositioned Patriot air defense systems to the region, diverting them from the Indo-Pacific theater. And B-2 stealth bombers have been deployed to Diego Garcia, the joint US-UK military outpost in the Indian Ocean. So, while boots may be leaving Syria, American firepower across the region appears to be increasing.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 21st of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. You just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's really very simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Now, I'm no economist, I know that surprises you, but I'm not half bad at recognizing patterns. And over the past several days, a fairly clear one has begun emerging. Countries are either announcing or considering plans to boost imports of US goods, moves that are clearly aimed at appeasing President Trump into lifting tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
According to reports, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia and Bangladesh are amongst a number of nations planning to offer up concessions. We're talking everything from soybeans and cotton to liquefied natural gas and high-end industrial equipment. And together, those four countries alone represent a combined population of more than 640 million people. That's nearly twice the size of the US.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And that's a very large potential market for American exporters. So... Let's walk through what we're seeing here. We'll start with Japan, which is reportedly weighing major concessions on U.S. agricultural goods, soybeans, rice, meat, fish and potatoes. It's also considering revising its car safety regulations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Now, on the surface that might not sound like much, but those regulations have historically been used to prevent foreign carmakers from penetrating the Japanese market. Thailand has agreed to buy $500 million worth of U.S. liquefied natural gas next year with a 15-year plan to import 15 million tons in total. That's potentially billions of new dollars flowing into the American energy sector.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Indonesien begleitet, US-Importe von bis zu 19 Billionen Dollar zu erhöhen, insbesondere 10 Billionen Dollar in Energie-Vorschlägen, zusammen mit großen Verkaufsvermögen von Weizen, Sojaprodukten und amerikanischer Industrie-Maschinerie.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Und Bangladesch signaliert jetzt, dass es Verkaufsvermögen von US-Farmgütern wie Kotten auflösen wird, während es auch Tarife auf Gas-Turbinen, Semi-Kondukteure und medizinisches Equipment schlägt. Sie pflegen sogar, Nontarif-Berufe wie redundantes Testen und Verpackungsregeln zurückzuheben, die den US-Akzess lange verringert haben. Also fragst du dich selbst, was hier eigentlich passiert ist.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Well, for all the noise about trade wars, what we're seeing is more like economic hardball. Trump isn't using tariffs necessarily to isolate the US, he's using them as leverage to strong arm America's way into foreign markets and to boost key industries, agriculture, energy and advanced manufacturing. Es ist ein bisschen wie die Diplomatie von Schiffen, nur mit Tarifen anstatt von Schiffen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Und es fordert Länder, echte Konzessionen zu präsentieren. Konzessionen, die Zugang zu über 500 Millionen neuen Kunden erlangen können, wenn es um diese vier Länder allein geht. Und wir wissen, dass es auch andere große Spieler gibt, die Konzessionen betrachten, auch Indien. Das sind noch 1,5 Billionen potenzielle Kunden, für die von Ihnen im Homekeeping-Score.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Now, many have framed this as Trump needing 90 trade deals in 90 days in order to justify the 90-day tariff pause. But in reality, Trump doesn't need 90 deals, he just needs enough of the right ones. Deals that shift the balance in America's favor, open high-value markets and prove that the tariff strategy can actually extract real concessions. So, will it work? Well, that does remain to be seen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
The White House hasn't sealed any deals yet, and the clock is ticking. Add in the chaos that often surrounds Trump's team, and the outcome is, well, frankly anything but predictable. But the early signs are hard to ignore. And if the reporting we're seeing is accurate, foreign nations are now hearing a consistent message coming from the White House. The tariff pause is temporary, and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
wants access to your markets. Alright, coming up next. Russia breaks its own Easter ceasefire with more strikes on Ukraine. And the US arrests a wanted terrorist, marking a major win for India and a boost in law enforcement ties between the two countries. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Now, look, I know you know this, but owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility. You need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. That's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with the Stopbox Pro. Es ist eine Lockbox, die dir sofort Zugang zu deinem Feuerarm gibt. Keine Elektronik, Kehren oder Codes sind benötigt.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Das 5-Button-Locksystem respondiert zu deinem einzigen Input. Es ist gebaut für Muskelmembran, sodass du nicht denkst, sondern reagierst. Schau, ich habe ein Stopbox Pro zuhause und es ist ein exzellentes Stück Kitsch. Es ist extrem gut gemacht, sehr solid, sicher und einfach zu verwenden und das ist wichtig. With the Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
It's Monday, the 21st of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And for those of you celebrating, I hope that you had a very happy and peaceful Easter. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with signs that the Trump White House's tariff strategy may be paying off.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Your firearm stays secure and always within reach. For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use code PDB at stopboxusa.com, but they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. This is a very good deal. That's 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use code PDB at stopboxusa.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Erkundet einen besseren Weg, um Sicherheit und Bereitschaft mit Stopbox zu balancieren. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Wussten Sie, dass Fast Growing Trees das größte Online-Nursery in den USA ist? Wussten Sie das? Mit tausenden verschiedenen Pflanzen und über 2 Millionen glücklichen Kunden. Sie haben alle Pflanzen, die Sie brauchen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Fruchtbäume, Privatsphäre-Bäume, Sie haben Ihre Blumenbäume, Sie haben Ihre Schrauben. Sie nennen eine Pflanze, sie haben es wahrscheinlich. Was auch immer du dich interessierst, hat Fast Growing Trees dich geschlossen, um dein Lieblingsjahr direkt zu deiner Tür zu bringen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Es ist eine tolle Firma, die dir hilft, dein Outdoors oder dein Indoors zu sprucen, mit einer riesigen Menge Pflanzen und ohne die Zeit und Probleme von Besuchern in beschlossenen Dörfern. And this spring they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now is the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a temporary Easter ceasefire over the weekend, but as Monday morning dawned, well, it was clear the guns actually never went silent. In a video released by Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Putin, flanked by Chief of the General Staff Valery Yaroslavov, said that guided by humanitarian conditions...
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Russian forces would halt military operations between 6pm Sunday and midnight going into Monday. He declared, quote, I order that all military actions be stopped for this period, end quote. And then he winked. How magnanimous. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy responded hours later with cautious optimism.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
In a message posted to X late Saturday, he said, "...if Russia is now suddenly ready to truly engage in a format of full and unconditional silence, Ukraine will act accordingly, mirroring Russia's actions." He reiterated that the US's proposal for a 30-day ceasefire remained on the table and that, "...the answer to it must come from Moscow."
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
But the skepticism in Kyiv was clearly on display and ultimately justified. Within the first six hours of what Moscow claimed would be a peaceful pause, Ukrainian officials reported 387 artillery shellings, 19 ground assaults and nearly 300 drone incidents launched by Russian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Despite this, the Russian Defense Ministry insisted its forces had adhered to the ceasefire and instead blamed Ukraine for breaking it. Moscow accused Ukrainian units of carrying out 444 attacks on Russian positions during the truce window, including 900 drone-related strikes and multiple munitions drops.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
On Sunday, Zelensky fired back, accusing Moscow of, quote, trying to create a general impression of a ceasefire while continuing business as usual on the battlefield. Now, this isn't the first time a Russian-announced truce has unraveled in real time.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Back in January of 2023, Moscow proposed a ceasefire during Orthodox Christmas, but the effort quickly collapsed when both sides accused the other of violating the terms almost immediately. Meanwhile, in Washington, the political will to continue brokering a negotiated end to the war, well, appears to be wearing thin. On Friday, President Trump said the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Japan, Indonesia and others are offering deals and opening their markets of hundreds of millions of people to American goods. I'll have those details. Later in the show. It was the Easter ceasefire that never was. Despite Vladimir Putins announcement of a holiday truce, Russian forces pressed ahead with attacks in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
would take a pass on further diplomatic efforts unless tangible progress was made quickly. As we reported here on the PDB last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed that sentiment, saying the U.S. was, quote, not going to continue with this endeavor for weeks and months on end, as it had other priorities to focus on.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Rubio added, "...we need to determine very quickly now, and I'm talking about a matter of days, whether or not this is doable. If it's not going to happen, then we're just going to move on." And after another failed truce and another round of finger pointing, it's unclear whether diplomacy has any path forward here. All right, turning to the U.S. The FBI has announced the arrest of a man on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
soil wanted by India for terrorism, marking a rare and significant win for New Delhi and another sign of tightening law enforcement ties between the U.S. and India under the Trump administration. The FBI says Harpreet Singh, an Indian national, was taken into custody Thursday in Sacramento, California.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Now Singh is said to have entered the US illegally and managed to evade capture for years, relying on disposable phones and encrypted messaging apps to stay off the radar. Indian authorities say Singh is a key figure in what's called Babar Khalsa International, a banned Sikh separatist group with ties to Pakistan's intelligence services.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
The group seeks to establish an independent Sikh homeland known as Khalistan by violently seceding from India's Punjab region. He is accused of providing funds, weapons and logistical support to operatives inside India and has been linked to a grenade attack last year on a retired police officer in a northern city of India.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
While no injuries were reported, the attack was seen as part of a broader campaign of intimidation and violence. Authorities in the Indian state of Punjab say Singh wasn't just involved in that one attack. He allegedly orchestrated a string of targeted killings, grenade assaults on police compounds and extortion campaigns across the region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Im Januar hat Indias National Investigation Agency eine Geldaufgabe für Informationen gefordert, die zu Singhs Behandlung führt. Jetzt, dass er in der US-Verwaltung ist, wird der Fokus auf das Nächste wechseln, ob Singh in Indien extradiert werden wird. Das ist keine kleine Frage.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
India has submitted more than 60 extradition requests to the US over the past two decades, most of them unsuccessful due to concerns over the strength of evidence, differences in legal standards or fears that the accused could face political persecution or human rights abuses if returned.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Singh's arrest is being viewed in India as a breakthrough moment in a system that has long frustrated Indian authorities. And there are signs of a broader shift. Just this month, the U.S. extradited a Pakistani-Canadian man named Tahir Rana. He was accused of helping plan the deadly 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
That move was widely praised in India and seen as a gesture of goodwill from the Trump White House. Also, Vizepräsident J.D. Vance und seine Frau planen eine Besuch in Indien nächste Woche. Während die Agenda größtenteils unter den Rappen bleibt, ist die Zeitung nicht wertvoll, um einen breiteren Eindruck zu geben, um die Beziehungen zwischen den beiden Nationen zu erneuern und zu stärken.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Okay, kommen wir zum nächsten in den Hintergrund der Brief. Die US-Militär annunziert einen großen Ausdruck von Truppen aus Syrien. Ich habe diese Details nächstes Mal. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, you probably heard about the tariffs, right? The trade wars. It's thrown the global economy into chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, frankly, it's weighing on all of us. But I'm here to tell you that there's a silver lining that some people might have missed. It's not just a silver lining. Actually, it's a gold and silver lining. Präsident Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And perhaps at some point folks will realize that Putin has no interest in stopping his war at this time. Unless, of course, he feels the pain, he's not coming to the negotiating table. Plus, an accused terrorist wanted by India has been captured on US soil, marking a major win for New Delhi and a notable moment in US-India cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. Look, the first step is simple.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birchgold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birchgold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, I am very happy to report, the weather's turning, springtime is here, and that means it's grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
And I am about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on that grill. And I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, you know, I'm talking about Tritail's Beef. Look, Tri-Tales is not some corporate meat factory. It's not a mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middlemen, there's no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 21st, 2025: Signs Emerging That Trump’s Tariff Strategy May Be Working & The ‘Easter Truce’ That Wasn’t
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now they've got a special offer just for listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Mike Baker here. Now, as you may have read in the gossip papers, I'm currently in the Middle East, part of a team of five riders, 10 camels, and an amazing support team traveling 700 miles through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan on behalf of the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. And while I'm away, the terrific Mike Slater is filling in for me here on the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Trump told supporters at a rally on Sunday, quote, with the stroke of my pen, I will revoke dozens of destructive and radical executive orders and actions by the Biden administration. And by this time tomorrow, they will all be null and void. Notably, Trump will invoke a national emergency at the U.S. southern border to unlock funds from the Defense Department to address the immigration crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
He will also move to designate a number of drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and direct his administration to reinstate his first terms Remain in Mexico policy for illegal aliens or migrants seeking asylum in the United States. Trump is expected to reinstate a series of his first-term policy directives that President Biden had rescinded on his first day in office back in 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Moving on from immigration, Trump will declare a national energy emergency in an effort to immediately boost domestic production and lower consumer costs. At the same time, he will sign an executive order to, quote, unleash Alaska's natural resource potential, which will facilitate liquefied natural gas exports from the state.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
A senior advisor to Trump told Axios, quote, "...national security is a key issue here. Energy is fundamental to our foreign policy, and reducing American energy production curtails our ability to exercise our foreign policies."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Trump's executive actions on energy are expected to facilitate greater investments in America's domestic energy markets with the hopes of boosting job creation and lowering prices for the American people. They also aim to ease construction of fossil fuel infrastructure, such as new pipelines, which President Biden cracked down early in his administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Trump also plans to overturn a suite of Biden-era energy policies, including his predecessor's cap on oil and gas leasing in the Gulf of Mexico, which Trump also said at his inauguration speech will now be known as the Gulf of America, and a slew of EPA regulations targeting power plants, vehicles, and oil and gas infrastructure, often dubbed the Green New Deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Moving on to the bloated federal government, Trump will issue an executive order called Schedule F, which will curtail job protections for federal workers. This will pave the way for the activity of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, or DOJ, led by Elon Musk, which seeks to cut waste within the federal government.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Notably, Trump will also sign orders rescinding federal government diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, as well as one proclaiming that the U.S. government will recognize only two sexes, male and female. Advisors framed the actions as part of Trump's restoring sanity agenda and said it would go a long way towards, quote, defending women from gender ideology extremism.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
In his inaugural speech, he also talked about just restoring common sense. Now, we're just scratching the surface here, but you get the idea that Trump wants to send the message from the outset that his second term will be marked by promises made, promises kept.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Meanwhile, former President Biden spent his final hours in office issuing a wave of controversial preemptive pardons, including earlier in the day ones for Tony Fauci, retired General Mark Milley, Representative Liz Cheney, and all the members of the House January 6th Select Committee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
The Biden administration had expressed fears that the recipients would be targeted for investigation and prosecution under the Trump administration. Those were followed by last-minute pardons for members of the Biden family, including for his brothers Jimmy and Frank, and his sister Valerie, along with their spouses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Biden said his family has faced unprecedented attacks and threats, and that he had no reason to believe these attacks would stop after he leaves office. Regarding the political pardons, Trump immediately slammed the move, calling it disgraceful. In a text message to NBC News, adding, quote, many are guilty of major crimes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Thanks, Mike. Monday, 20 January 2025. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. First, President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to kick off his second term in office by signing as many as 100 executive orders just within hours of taking office today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Don't forget, of course, Biden a couple weeks ago preemptively pardoning Hunter Biden, not only for the crimes he was charged with, but also any other criminal activity that he possibly could have been engaged in in a very specific amount of time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
With Trump now officially sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, we'll keep you updated on what promises to be a chaotic week that drastically shakes up the status quo in D.C. Coming up next, Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire in Gaza, following the release of three Israeli hostages from Hamas captivity on Sunday. More on that after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Welcome back to the President's Daily Brief Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Want to provide an update here on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement. Early Monday, Israel released 90 Palestinian prisoners just hours after Hamas freed three Israeli hostages on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Three female Israeli hostages in the opening exchange of this fragile accord aimed at halting 15 months of war. Now, there are some conflicting reports, but best we can tell, prisoners included between 62 and 69 women and a dozen East Jerusalem residents, which were released in two waves. The Israeli prison service did not provide a breakdown of those released.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Most of the prisoners were transported from Ofer Prison to the Beitounia checkpoint in the West Bank. There, crowds of relatives and supporters gathered in the hundreds, cheering and chanting, some climbing onto buses, waving the flags of Fatah, Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and other terrorist factions, including Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
These Jerusalem residents were released in a second wave to their homes after being transferred from the detention center. However, tensions marred the process, with Israeli officials accusing the Red Cross of deliberate delays to depict Israel as uncooperative. claims that the organization has yet to address.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Among those released were figures accused of brutal terror-related activities, though notably none were charged with murder. According to the Associated Press, high-profile names include Khalida Jarar, a leading member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a terror group that carried out attacks on Israelis decades ago, including plane hijackings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Meanwhile, outgoing President Joe Biden used his final hours in office to issue a wave of controversial preemptive pardons. Later in the show, Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire in Gaza, following the release of three Israeli hostages from Hamas captivity on Sunday. First, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Gerard was accused of masterminding the 2019 bombing that killed a 17-year-old Israeli girl in the West Bank and was arrested again in 2023, detained without formal charges under Israel's administrative detention policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Other notable names released are Dalal Kashib, the sister of Halas's former second-in-command, and Abla Abdel-Rassoul, the wife of the PFLP leader who ordered the assassination of the Israeli tourism minister back in 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Under the terms of the ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the Biden administration, Hamas will gradually release 33 hostages, including children, women, and elderly individuals, some of whom may already be deceased. In return, Israel is committed to releasing nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners over the next six weeks. if the ceasefire holds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
The next exchange is set for Saturday, with Hamas slated to release four living female hostages in exchange for 30 to 50 Palestinian detainees for each hostage. Looking ahead, the more challenging second phase of the ceasefire agreement arrives in two weeks, with plans to negotiate the release of the remaining living hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
For now, the ceasefire holds tenuously, as questions linger about its durability and the broader implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations. There's also a new variable of the now president, Donald Trump. The world watches closely, uncertain whether this fragile peace can endure or if the cycle of violence is inevitable.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
That is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 20 January, this inauguration day. To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater for the podcast Politics by Faith, host of The Morning Show on SiriusXM Patriot. We will be back tomorrow. Until then, stay safe and spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
Donald Trump sworn into office as the 47th President of the United States. and he's hit the ground running. Trump expected to sign close to 100 executive orders on Monday, aiming to immediately deliver on dozens of campaign policy priorities while taking a hatchet to a number of his predecessors' executive actions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 20th, 2025: Trump's Deluge Of Executive Orders, Biden's Preemptive Pardons, & Israel Releases 90 Palestinian Prisoners
While a full picture of the orders is not yet clear, they will cover a wide range of issues, including immigration, climate and energy policy, diversity initiatives in the federal government, It's all according to the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
An assault New Delhi insists was a work of Islamabad-backed Islamic terrorists. Pakistan, of course, continues to deny any involvement or responsibility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Ashok Kumar, director general of the Center for Joint Warfare Studies in New Delhi, that's a think tank under India's Ministry of Defense, told reporters that Chinese personnel worked side by side with Pakistani forces to recalibrate the air defense systems and enhance surveillance capabilities ahead of the confrontation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
It's Monday, the 19th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Now, as we covered here on the PDB, India responded to the Kashmir attack with cross-border airstrikes on the 7th of May, targeting what it claimed were nine terrorist camps operating inside Pakistani territory. Islamabad countered with its own show of force, claiming it shot down six Indian fighter jets, including three French-made twin-engine fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
India has yet to confirm or deny the alleged losses. Crucially, Pakistani forces utilized Chinese-made J-10C jets in the retaliatory strikes, also deploying the Beijing-developed PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile, which had never been used in combat before. That detail has alarmed defense analysts across Asia, particularly in Taiwan, which could face similar tactics in future conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Adding to the intrigue, Pakistan's foreign minister, Ishaq Dar, told Parliament that a high-level Chinese diplomatic and military delegation, led by Beijing's ambassador, was already at the foreign ministry on the morning of the strikes. Dar said, "...we apprised them about all the developments taking place until that time, and they were very happy."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Behind the scenes, analysts from the Center for Joint Warfare Studies believe Beijing may have used the skirmish to field test its defense tech under live combat conditions. Officially, India has not confirmed China's role, and Beijing, for its part, has issued no denial.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Still, in a carefully worded statement on Monday, China's foreign ministry called for maintaining a, quote, full and lasting ceasefire, adding that it would continue to play a, quote, constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Now, I'm not sure if constructive role means what they think it means.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
First, an update on the current and admittedly somewhat fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, as we learn that China played a direct role in helping the Pakistani military shoot down Indian fighter jets during the brief clash over Kashmir earlier this month. We'll discuss the implications for regional stability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
As we noted last week, President Trump announced what he described as a, quote, immediate ceasefire on the 10th of May, following high-level engagement with both New Delhi and Islamabad. The truce has largely held so far, but analysts warn the region remains on edge after what many describe as the most serious military confrontation between the nuclear rivals in more than four decades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Meanwhile, Pakistani Foreign Minister Dar is currently in Beijing for a three-day visit, where he's expected to hold, quote, in-depth discussions with his Chinese counterpart on regional security and the broader bilateral relationship.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
As Pakistan and China tighten military and diplomatic ties, India faces a growing strategic challenge, grappling with Islamabad's cross-border militancy, but also Beijing's role as a silent power broker in South Asia. Now, the situation is a very interesting example of shifting alliances and geopolitical landscapes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
The script has been flipped essentially over the past several years, with India, long an ally of Russia and the former Soviet Union, now aligning itself more closely with the US, while Pakistan, once a relatively close ally of the US, now building closer alliances with both Russia and China. Coming up next, Israel begins large-scale ground operations across the Gaza Strip. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, this July, there's going to be a very important meeting that you should know about. It's a global summit of BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro. Now, the bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia and India and Iran, they're all meeting with a goal of displacing the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
dollar as the global currency, and they're calling that effort – it's a catchy name – the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition, of course, won't happen overnight, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
So you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard earned dollar savings? Well, the first thing you could do is check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold can help move your hard earned savings into a tax sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. Now, for those of you in the U.S., the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, it's not just a long weekend. You know that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
First and foremost, well, it's a chance to remember all of those who have served and sacrificed. But then, yes, it is a long weekend. And it's also the kickoff to grilling season. Now, let me tell you, if your grill could talk, which admittedly would be odd, it would be begging for something better than just grocery store beef. That's why I order from Tritails Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Look, Tritails is a real Texas ranch, fifth-generation ranch, not a faceless meat corporation. Tritails ships pasture-raised, grazed-finished Black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, there's no middlemen, just real premium beef delivering great taste in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Later in the show, Israel begins large-scale ground operations against the Gaza Strip as part of a major new offensive that aims to dismantle Hamas's remaining military capabilities and take full control of the battered enclave. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. And if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free flat iron steaks with your order. Stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
With ceasefire talks stalled between Israel and Hamas, leaders in Jerusalem are taking the fight directly back to the terrorist organization in Gaza, aiming to ultimately break the group's hold over the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Over the weekend, the Israeli military announced the launch of a major new ground offensive across the Gaza Strip, hitting more than 670 Hamas terror targets and killing dozens of militants, including a senior member of the military wing of the Popular Resistance Committees. That's a group that operates under the Hamas umbrella.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
The offensive follows a week of intensified airstrikes launched by the Israeli Air Force across Gaza and vows by Prime Minister Netanyahu to eradicate Hamas once and for all, according to a report from ABC News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
The campaign, which is expected to last a year barring any diplomatic breakthroughs, seeks to achieve, quote, all the goals of the war in Gaza by destroying Hamas's military and governing capabilities and taking full control of the Gaza Strip. Israeli leaders hope to apply enough sustained pressure to force the terror group into agreeing to a ceasefire and releasing the remaining hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
While details of the ground offensive are not yet entirely clear, in a statement on Sunday, the IDF said, quote, End quote. The campaign's name is a reference to the biblical figure of Gideon, a military leader and judge in ancient Israel who was said to have led the Jewish people to victory against their adversaries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
As we previously discussed on the PDB, the sweeping plan to expand their military campaign to seize and hold the entirety of the Gaza Strip was unanimously approved by Israel's Security Cabinet back on the 5th of May. IDF officials said their troops had already, quote, dismantled terrorist infrastructure sites above and below ground and are currently being deployed in key positions within Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
They're particularly focused on destroying Hamas's remaining weapons depots, terror cells, tunnel networks and anti-tank launch sites, according to a report from The New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Officials said five army divisions numbering tens of thousands of soldiers are involved in the new offensive, though as of Sunday night, they had yet to reach the center of major cities like Gaza City and Khan Yunis, as they did in the early days of the war following Hamas's brutal 7 October attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Amid the fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, we're now learning that China played a direct role in assisting Islamabad in the shooting down of Indian fighter jets earlier this month, a revelation that risks deepening tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
the collateral damage of the renewed offensive already appears to be quite high, with the Hamas-run Ministry of Health claiming Israeli airstrikes over the weekend killed at least 103 people, though, as always, we should note that those figures do not differentiate between civilians and terrorist fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Officials with the IDF blamed Hamas for the civilian deaths, saying the group was still primarily operating in residential areas in order to use the local population as human shields. On Monday, the IDF warned residents of the southern city of Khan Yunis to evacuate to the coast immediately as they gear up for a major attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
As we touched on last week, Israel said the campaign will likely displace roughly half of Gaza's civilian population, over one million of the enclave's roughly 2.3 million population.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Critically, unlike past operations inside Gaza, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said IDF forces will remain inside captured areas of the enclave after the operation is completed in order to prevent Hamas from reconstituting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Meanwhile, in a somewhat surprising reversal, Netanyahu said Monday that as the operation unfolds, Israel will lift their blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza in order to address the looming threat of widespread famine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
The shift in policy is thought to be due to increased pressure put on Israeli leaders by the Trump White House and other key allies who argued that extending the blockade would risk undermining international support for Israel's efforts to destroy Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
On the diplomatic front, Israeli officials resumed indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas in the Qatari capital of Doha on Saturday, though reports indicate that little progress has been made. Israel has maintained their position that, to end the war, all of the remaining 58 hostages, living and dead, must be released, and that the terror group must demilitarize and exit Gaza forever.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Hamas has flatly rejected those terms, instead demanding a ceasefire that sees Israel withdraw from the enclave before the remaining hostages are freed. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 19th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
And of course, as you've no doubt heard from family and friends, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. See, I told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Thank you. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
According to Indian defense officials, Chinese military advisers assisted Pakistan in repositioning its radar systems and satellite coverage just days before the aerial clash, enabling Islamabad to track Indian aircraft, weaponry, and troop movements in real time. The collaboration reportedly followed the 22 April terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 tourists dead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Let's talk about your financial hell, shall we? I know, not everybody's favorite subject, but it's important. Now, when your credit isn't perfect, well, it can really feel like the system is stacked against you. But Kickoff, that's the company we're talking about, Kickoff, it's K-I-K-O-F-F, it gives you the smartest tools to build your real credit fast.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Now, with transparent affordable plans starting at just $5 per month, there's no hidden fees and zero interest. Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit, and it's simple. You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see good behavior, and your credit can grow fast. Look, users with the credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
With over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there's a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app. Start building credit with Kickoff today, and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's 80% off the normal price when you go to getkickoff.com slash Mike today. That's Kickoff without the C, so kickoff.com slash Mike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash Mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new Kickoff customers first month only. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Average first-year credit score impact of plus 84 points.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 19th, 2025: How China Helped Pakistan Shoot Down Indian Jets & IDF Begins Massive Ground Offensive In Gaza
Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024 for Kickoff credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time, and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Individual results may vary.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
for kick-off credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Individual results may vary.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
In today's Back of the Brief, the Trump administration is weighing a proposal to permanently relocate as many as one million Palestinians from Gaza to Libya. According to five individuals familiar with the matter, the plan has progressed far enough that American officials have raised it directly with Libyan leadership. That's according to an NBC News report.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
In exchange for resettling the Gazans, the U.S. would reportedly unfreeze billions of dollars in Libyan assets that have been locked down since the Muammar Gaddafi era. The sources say Israeli officials have been kept informed throughout the process.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
That's a notable shift from recent approaches that have often sidelined Jerusalem in high-stakes negotiations, such as the release of Israeli-American hostage Eden Alexander from Hamas captivity. Still, the report suggests that the idea gained enough internal traction to spark discussions about offering incentives, such as free housing and financial stipends, to encourage voluntary relocation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
But the logistics are another story. Well, the logistics and the politics. Gaza, under rubble and lacking a functioning airport, isn't exactly conducive to mass movement. And post-Gaddafi Libya remains deeply fractured, and that's putting it diplomatically, with rival governments in Tripoli and Benghazi still vying for control more than a decade after the fall of the Gaddafi regime.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Wir fangen heute an mit neu entdeckten Dokumenten, die auf Hamas' Motivation für die 7. Oktober-Terror-Attacken auf Israel aussehen. Und wenn das, was in den Dokumenten ist, genau ist, dann bestätigt das, was viele schon lange erwartet haben. Der Massaker war nicht nur um Israel zu schießen, sondern um die Diplomatie zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Basically, putting it in a nutshell, Libya remains a hot mess." The proposal is not out of step, though, with President Trump's broader vision for Gaza's future, which he's floated over the last several months. In early February, you may recall, Trump made headlines by suggesting the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
could, quote, take over Gaza and turn it into the Riviera of the Middle East, while offering regional relocation options to neighboring Arab states. As we covered last week here on the PDB, Trump doubled down on the concept during his Gulf State tour, pitching the idea of transforming Gaza into a, quote, freedom zone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
In his words, well, quote, I have concepts for Gaza that I think are very good, adding that U.S. involvement would be key. Die arabischen Staaten haben bis jetzt keine Rede über massenhafte Verlängerung gefeuert, die regionalen Verstabilisierungen und die permanenten Verlängerung der Palästinenser.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Aber in Jerusalem, einer der Hardline-Mitglieder der Koalition des Bundespräsidenten Netanyahu, gibt es eine wachsende Momentum, die Krieg als Werkzeug für Gaza's post-Khamas-Future zu verwandeln, insbesondere die Rede über die Verstärkung von Zettelungen in der Strip.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Despite the international pushback, momentum among hardline officials dovetails with the Trump administration's ambitions for a post-Hamas Gaza. Whether the proposal moves from concept to reality, well, let's just say, if I were a cynical betting man, I would bet a pile of fat stacks that there is zero chance a million residents of Gaza are going to resettle in Libya.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 19th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And finally, hopefully you had a chance to check out our latest episode of the extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. If not, well, you're in luck. You can still catch it and past episodes on our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
You can find our YouTube channel at presidentsdailybrief.com. as well as podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
According to a document reviewed by the Wall Street Journal, the assault was designed specifically to torpedo the peace negotiations that were taking place between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The document in question is a transcript. It's minutes of a high-level Hamas political bureau meeting that was held inside Gaza on the 2nd of October, just five days before the attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Israeli forces say they discovered the document buried in a tunnel beneath the enclave. During the meeting, Yahya Sinwar, who was the top Hamas leader in Gaza at the time, told fellow militants during the meeting that what was needed was, quote, an extraordinary act to sabotage the normalization process between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
He warned the group that if the Saudis move forward with a deal, it would, quote, open the door for the majority of Arab and Islamic countries to follow the same path. In other words, normalization wouldn't just happen with Riyadh, it would spread across the region, leaving Hamas and the Palestinian cause politically isolated.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Sinwar reportedly went on to say, "...there is no doubt that the Saudi-Zionist normalization agreement is progressing significantly, and that Hamas had to respond with a move that would "...bring about a major shift in the paths and balances of the region with regard to the Palestinian cause."
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
According to the documents, Sinwar also expected support from other Iranian-backed militant groups in the so-called Axis of Resistance, a reference to the network of anti-Israel proxy forces that of course includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and various militias in Syria and Iraq.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Now, if you've been listening to the PDB since the start of this war, this really shouldn't come as a surprise. There have been multiple signs pointing to this strategy since the beginning. Just weeks after the attack, the deputy commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, praised Hamas for halting the normalization effort.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
He said, quote, those who intended to pursue the effort have now adopted positions against the Zionist regime, end quote. That was a thinly veiled reference to Saudi Arabia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
And back in June, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said that the October 7th attacks had, quote, thwarted all of the enemy's plans, adding that the operation had, quote, dispelled all hopes of reviving this plan of normalization. But this document... This is the first time that we're hearing it straight from Hamas personnel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Now, speaking of Hamas leadership, some major news out of Gaza this weekend. The man widely considered to be the group's de facto commander, Mohammed Sinwar, was reportedly killed in a major Israeli airstrike. He was found in a tunnel complex between Khan Yunus alongside the bodies of 10 aides. That's according to reports from Saudi outlet Al-Hadath.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Mohammed Sinwar ist natürlich der jüngere Bruder des zerstörten Yahya Sinwar, der gleiche Mann, der am Oktober 2. Strategie-Meeting geleitet hat. Bekannt zur israelischen Intelligenz als, Quote, der Schatten, der jüngere Sinwar war ein elusiver Figur, der helfen konnte, Hamas' zerstörte Kommandstruktur nach mehr als einem Jahr Krieg mit Israel zu verbinden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Der IDF hat noch nicht offiziell seinen Tod beurteilt, aber diese Beurteilung wird in den kommenden Tagen erwartet. All right. Coming up next, President Trump steps in to revive stalled peace talks between Moscow and Kiev. And the FBI investigates a deadly California bombing as an act of terrorism. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Now, this July, perhaps you've heard about this already, but this July there's going to be a global summit of what's called the BRICS Nations. It's going to be held in Rio de Janeiro. Now, this block of emerging superpowers, it includes China, Russia, India, Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this project the Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for US dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Well, the first thing you could do is check in with the professionals at Birch Gold. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. You can claim your free information kit on gold simply by texting PDB to the number 989-898. Mit einem A-plus-Rating mit der Better Business Bureau und Tens von Tausenden glücklicher Kunden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Lass Birchgold dich mit einem kostenlosen Informationen-Kitsch an Owning Gold vor Juli und dem Rio Reset. Texte einfach PDB zu 989-898 heute. Willkommen zurück bei PDB. After last week's failed ceasefire talks in Turkey, President Trump announced over the weekend that he'll be speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone this morning in another effort to end the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Wir beginnen heute mit neu entdeckten Dokumenten der israelischen Verteidigungsfuhr, der IDF, die Licht auf Hamas' Motivation für die brutalen, oktober 7, 2023, Angriffe auf Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
The call is expected to be followed by conversations with Ukrainian President Zelensky and several NATO leaders. On Truth Social on Saturday, Trump posted, quote, Hopefully it will be a productive day. A ceasefire will take place and this very violent war, a war that should have never happened, will end, end quote. Moscow confirmed the outreach.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
The Kremlin's mouthpiece, Dmitry Peskov, told a state-run outlet, quote, The conversation is in the works. According to officials, the two leaders will hash out terms for a temporary truce and possibly float the idea of a face-to-face summit. Trumps Announcement comes on the heels of Zelenskys failed attempt to sit down with Putin in Ankara, Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
As we discussed here last week on the PDB, the Russian leader had kept the world guessing about his attendance for days, will he show, will he not show, before ultimately opting to no show. Putin instead dispatched a junior-level delegation, led by former Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky, best remembered for overseeing the doomed 2022 Istanbul talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Zelenskyy, der in die Türkei geflogen war, um einen bedeutenden direkten diplomatischen Ausbruch zu gewähren, hat die Kremlin-Delegation als etwas mehr als Theater-Props verabschiedet, um klarzustellen, dass er sich nur mit Putin selbst engagieren würde.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Even so, he authorized a Ukrainian delegation led by his defense minister to proceed to Istanbul for preliminary talks, quote, out of respect for Trump. The mandate of the Ukrainian team, negotiators said, was narrowly focused to explore pathways for implementing and monitoring Trump's proposed 30-day unconditional ceasefire. But despite the effort, talks yielded no breakthrough.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Russian Envoys came armed with sweeping demands, the same demands they've been throwing on the table for quite some time. Ukraine's permanent withdrawal of NATO ambitions, a halt to all Western military aid, official recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea and four occupied regions, and a full Ukrainian military pullback from territory now under Russian control.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Kiev, of course, flatly rejected the terms, calling them non-starters. Parallel to Trump's weekend outreach. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a call Saturday with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, urging support for an immediate pause in hostilities. European allies have echoed that appeal, lining up behind Trump's proposal and Zelenskys conditions for a temporary halt in fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
But while diplomats wrangle, the war on the ground has only escalated. On Sunday, Ukraine's Air Force reported that Russia launched a record 273 drones overnight. That's the largest single drone attack since the invasion began. Previous high was 267 back in February.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Der kiewerische Regierungsvorsitzende berichtete, dass ein Zivile getötet wurde und drei andere in der Angriffsschütze verletzt wurden. Luftschutzwaffen verletzten 88 Drohnen, während noch 128 aus dem Radar verschwanden sind, wahrscheinlich Dekole, die ausgedrückt wurden, um die ukrainischen elektronischen Kriegssysteme zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Journalisten von The Kiew Independent beschrieben eine Nacht, die durch mehrere Explosionen über die Kapitale und die vorliegenden Regionen pünktlich war, die die Szene und die Koordination der Angriffsschütze beobachten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Despite mounting frustration among allies over Moscow's intensifying attacks, the Trump administration has not yet imposed new sanctions on Russian oil exports, leaving open the possibility of escalation should peace talks fail. For now, officials say, well, diplomacy remains a priority, but pressure is mounting for a tougher response. Okay, shifting stateside.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Reportiert wurde eine kalkulierte Strategie, die sich um regionalen Politik umsetzen wollte. Wir haben die Details. Later in the show, after last week's faltering attempt to bring Moscow and Kiev to the table in Turkey, President Trump is now making direct calls to both Putin and Zelensky, hoping to break the diplomatic deadlock.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Federal authorities have identified the suspect, now deceased, in the Palm Springs, California, Fertility Clinic bombing as 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus. The explosion tore through the American Reproductive Center's facility on Saturday, killing the suspected bomber and injuring at least four others.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis confirmed that bomb technicians and Joint Terrorism Task Forces were deployed to the site, calling it, quote, a major explosion. The shockwave was reportedly felt over a mile away, with damage observed several blocks from the blast zone. Video circulating on social media showed nearby storefronts with shattered glass and debris scattered along the street.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Davis stated, quote, make no mistake, this is an intentional act of terrorism. According to an internal LAPD briefing obtained by the Los Angeles Times, authorities believe that Bartkus intended this to be a suicide bombing. Investigators also found two rifles, reported to be an AK-47 and an AR-style weapon, along with ammunition near the charred remains of his vehicle.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Sources familiar with the investigation say Bartkus, a resident of 29 Palms, California, had recorded statements opposing the idea of bringing people into the world, quote, against their will.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
The Associated Press reports, he posted a rambling pessimistic-like manifesto online shortly before the attack, calling it, quote, an act of war against what he described as the pro-life, pro-natalist movement. Authorities believe the clinic was deliberately chosen. Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Miles told reporters, terrorism came knocking on the door of Palm Springs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
He added, quote, I can tell you that this city will rise and be more effective as a beacon of hope than before. Retired FBI agent and former hostage negotiator Jason Pack told Fox News that the forensic process could take days. He said, quote, whether this was a single large device or multiple smaller ones, those answers will come from detailed lab testing and scene reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Pack added that residue analysis, shrapnel fragments and blast patterning will be key to understanding the device's composition and yield. Despite the extensive structural damage, a clinic spokesman confirmed the facility's IVF laboratory, housing sensitive reproductive material, such as eggs and embryos, remained intact. The spokesman stated, quote, no staff members were harmed. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the bombing as, quote, unforgivable, adding, quote, the Trump administration understands that women and mothers are the heartbeat of America. California Governor Gavin Newsom also offered condolences and pledged full cooperation with the federal investigation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Authorities say this may be the largest bombing investigation in Southern California since 2018, when a man planted a bomb disguised as a package at a spa in Orange County. The FBI confirms that there are currently no outstanding threats to the public as the investigation continues. Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
The Trump administration is reportedly eyeing a radical solution to the Gaza crisis, one that involves moving a million people to Libya. Well, that sounds reasonable. I'll have those details next. Mike Baker hier. Well, look at that calendar. You see what's coming up? Memorial Day. Now, Memorial Day isn't just a long weekend. Of course it's not.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Plus, according to the FBI, a deadly explosion at a reproductive clinic in Palm Springs, California, is being investigated as a targeted act of terrorism. Und in heute's Back of the Brief. Could the answer to Gaza somehow involve Libya? Well, a controversial relocation plan is reportedly under serious discussion. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
It's first and foremost, frankly, it's our chance to remember all those who have served and sacrificed. But then after that, it's also the kickoff, frankly, to grilling season. And let me tell you, if your grill could talk, it would be begging for something better than just old grocery store beef. And that's why I order from Tritails Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
It's a real Texas ranch, not just some faceless meat corporation. Tritails ships pasture-raised, grain-finished Black Angus Beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, no middlemen. Just real premium beef with great taste in every cut. And right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their Ribeye and New York Strip Specials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
And if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free Flatiron Steaks with your order. Stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about financial health. Let's talk about your financial health. No hidden fees and zero interest, Kickoff helps you score big when it comes to credit. And it's simple.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
You make on-time payments, credit bureaus see good behavior, and your credit can grow fast. Users with credit under 600 grew an average of 84 points in their first year with Kickoff. With over 1 million users and thousands of positive reviews, there's a reason why Kickoff is the number one credit builder app.
The President's Daily Brief
May 19th, 2025: Secret Hamas Documents Reveal True Reason Behind Oct. 7 Attacks & Trump To Speak With Putin
Start building credit with Kickoff today and you can get your first month for as little as $1. That's 80% off the normal price when you go to getkickoff.com slash Mike today. That's Kickoff without the C. So getkickoff.com slash Mike. Here's a mandatory disclaimer for Kickoff. Mandatory disclaimer for Kickoff. Vielen Dank.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Die USS Gravely, das ist ein Schiff, das bis jetzt gegen Houthi-Missile-Attacken im Mittleren Osten verteidigt war, ist nun Teil des Trump-Administrations-Pushes, um die Kontrolle über die südlichste Grenze zu stärken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
The USS Gravely left its base in Virginia over the weekend, heading to the US Northern Command's area of operations, and that's a massive zone, covering the continental US, Alaska, Canada, Mexico and surrounding waters up to 500 nautical miles out. According to Pentagon officials, the warship is there to, quote, protect U.S. territorial integrity, sovereignty and security, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
But, well, as you might have noticed, that's rather vague. And the exact role that the ship will play is still unclear. What we do know is that this deployment marks a shift. Denn normalerweise fallen grenzüberschreitende Maritim-Operationen unter der Jurisdiktatur der US-Kostgärten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Ein Anflug eines Kriegsschiffes schlägt eine Eskalation darin, wie die Regierung die Immigration und Sicherheit auf der Grenze behandelt. Wenn Sie sich fragen, welche Art von Waffen die USS Gravely trägt, Well, I'll tell you, it's armed to the teeth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
The ship typically carries Tomahawk cruise missiles, surface-to-air missiles and advanced naval guns capable of striking targets on land, sea and in the air. It also carries anti-submarine warfare systems and close-in weapon systems designed to intercept incoming threats within seconds. Das Schiff wird auch eine spezialisierte Bundeswehr-Landeswehr-Verteidigungsstelle tragen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Teams trainieren für Missions, die von der Stoppung von menschlichem Verbrechen bis zum Konterterrorismus zählen. Offizielle sagen, es hilft, Schüsse, transnationales Verbrechen und Piraten zu beheben. Nun, das ist nicht das erste Mal, dass ein US-Präsident militärische Kräfte an die Grenze gesendet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Beide die Militär- und die Nationalen Guards wurden in der Vergangenheit an die Grenzpatrouille unterstützt. Letzteres Mal hat das US-Militär z.B. z.B. z.B. z.B. z.B. z.B. z.B. But using a guided missile destroyer, well, that's what we would call upping the ante.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
The border is largely landlocked with rough terrain and narrow waterways, making a warship's role in the operation, well, somewhat unusual. Kritiker argumentieren, dass die Bewegung mehr um Optik als um Effektivität handelt, bemerkend, dass illegale Grenzen auf der Grenze momentan auf einem Rekord-Low sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Andere sagen, dass dies ein klarer Beweis ist, dass die Regierung Einführung steigert, auch wenn es ungewöhnliche Methoden benötigt. Kommen wir zum nächsten Thema. Die Trump-Administration geht weiter mit der Deportation von Hunderten von Trenda-Iragua-Gangmitgliedern, der TDA-Gang. Sie werden direkt zu El Salvador's Mega-Prison eingeladen. Ich habe diese Details, wenn wir zurückkommen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Trump administration executed a mass deportation of nearly 240 members of the TDA gang, the notorious Venezuelan prison gang, over the weekend, invoking the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act for the first time since World War II to sidestep immigration courts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Now for background, the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, yes, I suspect you probably knew it was 1798, is a rarely used wartime statute that grants the president sweeping powers to detain or expel foreign nationals from enemy nations without trial during war or invasion. Last applied to intern Japanese and German and Italian nationals over 80 years ago, the law remained dormant until now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
In einer Geschäftsordnung am Sonntag bezeichnete Präsident Trump venezuelische Nationen, 14 und älter, mit Beziehungen zur TDA als, Quote, alienen Enemien, die sie als subject to immediate deportation, unless they hold US citizenship or legal residency.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Die Entscheidung folgt durch einen Kampfversuch, der in einem Oktober-Rallye gemacht wurde, in dem Trump versuchte, wartime Kräfte auszuwählen, um TDA-Mitglieder des Landes zu zerstören. Einige Stunden nach den Deportationen hat ein federaler Gericht in Washington einen Anruf vorgelegt, weitere Verschiebungen zu blockieren und irgendwelche Flugzeuge, die noch in der Luft waren, zurückzukehren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
The Justice Department, however, argued the ruling came too late. By the time the decision was handed down, the deportees already exited US airspace. Two deportation flights ordered to return remain unaccounted for, and it remains unclear whether individuals were readmitted to the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Vizepräsident Bambondi brachte das Gerichtsgericht auf, der den Berichterstatter für die Sicherheit der Amerikaner mit Terroristen beurteilt hatte. Die Trump-Administration hat seitdem die Entscheidung an die US-Berufsgerichtshofung geopfert. Laut Staatssekretär Marco Rubio waren die Deportationen 23 MS-13-Gangmitglieder, obwohl die Gang nicht in Trumps Proklamierung explizit genannt wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Es ist Montag, der 17. März. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Wir fangen mit einem unerwarteten Ausflug an die US-Mexiko-Border an, einer, die die US-Navy betrifft.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
As we previously reported here on the PDB, the White House formally classified both TDA and MS-13 as foreign terrorist organizations in February, setting the stage for expedited removals under national security provisions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele confirmed the arrivals on Sunday, releasing footage of 238 TDA prisoners being transferred to his country's high-security terrorism confinement center, where they'll be held for at least a year. His government circulated images of the detainees shackled, kneeling under armed guard and with shaved heads, all hallmarks of Bukele's gang crackdown.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
When reports emerged of the US judge's order halting further deportations, Bukele mocked the intervention on social media, responding with, quote, Oopsie, too late, end quote. Huh, I did not see the El Salvadoran president using the word oopsie. Hmm, but it fits. Rubio disclosed that Bukele had agreed last month to accept deportees of any nationality from the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Bukele himself appeared to acknowledge the political trade-off on X, posting Sunday, "...the United States will pay a very low fee for them, but a high one for us."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
The Trump administration defended its use of the Alien Enemies Act with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt stating, quote, These heinous monsters were extracted and removed, where they'll no longer be able to pose any threat to the American people, end quote. With the deportees now in El Salvador, legal experts raise questions over whether U.S. courts retain jurisdiction over them.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Nun, die ACLU und eine Gruppe namens Democracy Forward haben in erster Linie fünf venezuelische Männer von der Verschmutzung des Alienen-Enemies-Aktes besucht, aber sie haben ihre juristische Herausforderung gestärkt, um alle, die unter Trumps Proklamierung befestigt werden, umzusetzen. Weil, naja, warum würdest du nicht die Rechte krimineller Gangmitarbeiter im Land illegal verteidigen?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Basically, the left's reasoning for opposing this deportation, which according to recent surveys, as the support of almost 90% of American survey respondents, is that, well, Trump. The left imagines that Trump will broaden the administration's focus beyond TDA, MS-13 or other criminals and start deporting anyone or anything in the country illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Toddlers, nuns, puppies, using the Alien Enemies Act. And so, for the time being, the left finds itself defending the rights of gang members, who the vast majority of Americans want gone. It's an interesting political dilemma.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Ein geistiger Missildestroyer wurde ausgeführt, um die Region zu kontrollieren, mit Offizieren, die den Bedarf haben, die US-territoriale Integrität, Souveränität und Sicherheit zu schützen. Wir geben Ihnen die Details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
A hearing on the lawsuit's merits is scheduled for today, and Trump's decision to invoke wartime authority to bypass the judicial system is expected to come under further legal scrutiny, with additional court hearings set for later this month. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 17th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as you've no doubt heard by now, to listen to the show ad-free, you can become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. It's that simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Später im Show, trotz einer Gerichtsordnung, geht die Trump-Administration mit der Deportation von Hunderten von Mitgliedern des violenten Gang-Trender-Iragua, TDA, die direkt zu El Salvador's Mega-Prison gesendet werden. Nun, die Deportation von kriminellen Gang-Mitgliedern, das scheint die Art von Sache, die jeder leidenschaftliche Bürger unterstützen könnte. Und noch nicht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 17th, 2025: U.S. Missile Destroyer Deployed To The Border & Trump Defies Court on Deportations
Es ist eine Trump-Polizei. Also, natürlich, gibt es Opposition. Aber zuerst, heutes Afternoons Spotlight. Die US-Militär hat gerade einen ungewöhnlichen Schritt in die Grenzsicherheit genommen, mit einem geistigen Missile-Destroyer, um US-Wasser nahe Mexiko zu kontrollieren.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The IDF says the first strike targeted terrorists operating a drone near Israeli positions, while a second hit terrorists recovering drone equipment. The military identified six of the dead as Hamas terrorists, including a participant in the 7 October attacks and a former prisoner released in the ceasefire deal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Hamas, as expected, condemned the strikes, accusing Israel of, quote, sabotaging any opportunity to implement the truce. Well, to be fair, we wouldn't have needed the truce if Hamas hadn't slaughtered 1,200 men, women, and children and taken over 250 hostages back on 7 October of 2023. and then, of course, proceeded to kill many of those hostages. So, well, there's that.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the ceasefire's first phase expired earlier this month, and with Hamas refusing to budge on its latest demands, Eden Alexander's fate, the fate of the other remaining living hostages, and the future of the broader ceasefire hangs in the balance. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 17th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Now, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Now, hopefully, you had a chance to catch our latest episode of the award-winning PDB Situation Report over the weekend. Okay, to be honest, we haven't won any awards yet. I just made up the award-winning bit. But you have to admit, it's got a nice ring to it.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
This weekend's guests included David Dowd from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, as well as Fred Fleitz, former senior CIA analyst and national security official. You can catch it and past episodes on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and on all the podcast platforms, wherever you get your podcast stuff.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The strikes hit a Houthi stronghold in the capital city of Sana'a, several Houthi military sites in the southwest city of Taiz, and a power station critical to the group's operations in Yemen's northwest. The bombardment left at least 31 dead and more than 100 injured, according to local reports, even though those figures can't yet be independently verified.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
It's Monday, the 17th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, the U.S. launched airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen this weekend, just days after the group vowed to resume attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said Sunday that the operation took out multiple leaders of the Iranian-backed terror group, calling it a, quote, overwhelming response, as opposed to what he described as the feckless reaction of the Biden administration to the Houthis' provocations over the past 16 months.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Trump announced the action in a post on Truth Social, where else would you announce the action, where he criticized his predecessor's, quote, pathetically weak response to the Houthi attacks, noting that it's been more than a year since a U.S. flagged commercial ship was able to safely traverse Mideast waters. Trump said, quote, the Houthi attacks on American vessels will not be tolerated.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
We will use overwhelming lethal force until we have achieved our objective, end quote. He added a direct warning to the Houthi militants, saying, "...your time is up and your attacks must stop starting today. If they don't, hell will rain down upon you like nothing you have ever seen before." Now, despite the threat, Houthi leadership issued a typically defiant response.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
A spokesman with the group's political bureau called the U.S. strikes a, quote, war crime, claiming they mostly killed women and children and vowed to continue attacks on commercial and military vessels until the blockade on aid coming into Gaza is lifted. In a statement, the Houthis said, quote, our Yemeni armed forces are fully prepared to respond to escalation with escalation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
As a reminder, since Hamas launched its terror attacks on Israel back on 7 October 2023, the Houthis have carried out at least 145 attacks on commercial vessels and 174 attacks on U.S. military ships in the Red Sea and Suez Canal area, one of the world's most vital maritime corridors, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Their attacks have rattled global trade, driving up shipping costs and disrupting critical supply chains across the world. Some 70% of global trade traffic is now diverting around South Africa to avoid Houthi attacks near the Suez Canal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The Houthis are the last Iranian proxy group of any real capability left in the Islamic regime's axis of resistance, after Israel laid waste, of course, to the leadership of Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza last year.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The Biden administration took a cautious approach with the Houthis, launching targeted strikes at various times last year on the group's infrastructure and boosting maritime patrols in the region. But the actions, well, frankly, did little to deter the Houthi aggression. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that the Trump administration's approach will be far more comprehensive, stating Sunday that U.S. strikes will continue at an unrelenting pace until the Houthis capitulate or no longer have the capability to disrupt international shipping.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
President Trump also sent a blunt warning to the terror group's backers in Iran, saying, quote, To Iran, support for the Houthi terrorists must end immediately. Do not threaten the American people, their president, or worldwide shipping lanes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
If you do, beware, and he spelled beware in all caps, so you know that means business, because America will hold you fully accountable and we won't be nice about it, end quote. Secretary Hegseth echoed those sentiments on Sunday, arguing that Iran has been enabling the Houthis for far too long and that the regime, quote, better back off, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
We'll break down the results of those strikes and how the Houthis are responding. Later in the show, the Trump administration clearly had a busy weekend on the national security front. A joint U.S.-Iraqi operation took out a senior Islamic State leader, one responsible for funding and planning global terror operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Like the Houthis, the Iranians are also digging in their heels. The top commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, issued a warning on Sunday, saying, quote, Iran will respond decisively and destructively if they take their threats into action, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Still, the regime was quick to distance themselves from the Houthi attacks, claiming that Iran plays no role in shaping the national or operational policies of the Houthis. And they managed to say that with a straight face. The new U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
strikes come less than two weeks after the Trump administration redesignated the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, reimposing a label that former President Biden had lifted. A source familiar with the White House's strategy confirmed that their new campaign against the Houthis will last for days, if not weeks. All right. Coming up after the break, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
and Iraq take out a senior ISIS leader. And after seven months, Ukraine's bold push into Russia's Kursk region appears to be over. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB. A joint Washington and Baghdad operation has eliminated a senior leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, known as Abu Khadija, who played a key role in the terror group's global financing and logistics.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The strike, conducted by an American drone in Iraq's western al-Anbar province on Friday, also killed another ISIS operative. Now, special forces operations from the U.S. and Iraq are currently sifting through the wreckage, gathering intelligence from the strike site. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Central Command characterized the mission as a, quote, precision airstrike, while General Michael Carrillo underscored Khadija's significance, calling him, quote, one of the most important ISIS members in the entire global ISIS organization.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Soudani echoed that assessment, describing Khadija as, quote, one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world, and confirming Iraq's direct coordination with U.S. forces in carrying out the strike. This operation is just the latest in Iraq's ongoing counterterrorism campaign, which, with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
backing, has systematically dismantled ISIS terror cells over the past two years. Sudani framed the strike as yet another blow, quote, against the forces of darkness and terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
President Trump took to Truth Social to celebrate the mission's success, asserting that Khadija had been, quote, The commander-in-chief also credited both the Iraqi government and regional authorities for their role in supporting the operation, before adding that Khadija's, quote, miserable life was terminated.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the killing of the senior ISIS figure in the region comes as the terror group has been regaining ground in Syria, conducting more attacks than at any point since its territorial collapse nearly six years ago. The UN reports that there were more than 300 ISIS-led attacks in Syria last year alone.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The Islamic State once controlled large portions of Syria and northern Iraq after its lightning offensive back in 2014. Though Iraq officially declared victory over the group in 2017, ISIS remnants have continued to wage a brutal insurgency. Just last year, the terror organization also claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Plus, after seven months, it looks like Ukraine's invasion of Russia's Kursk region is coming to an end. And in today's back of the brief, negotiations to secure American hostages in Gaza have stalled. Hamas is refusing to release one captive and the bodies of four others unless Israel implements its ceasefire agreement. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Khadija's death marks the third time since 2019 that a top ISIS leader has been eliminated in Iraq or Syria. It's worth noting that, historically, the terror group is known for swiftly replacing its terminated commanders. Those successors often operate in the shadows, their identities sometimes unknown for months. Okay, turning now to the front lines of the Ukraine-Russia war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Kyiv's seven-month offensive in Russia's Kursk region is, frankly, all but over. A rapid Russian counteroffensive in recent days has shattered Ukrainian positions, reclaiming nearly all the ground lost since last October. On Sunday, Russian forces recaptured Sudza, the largest town Ukraine seized in Kursk, home to some 5,000 people before the war. The attack was swift and overwhelming.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Precision airstrikes, relentless artillery barrages, and infantry assaults forced Ukrainian defenders into a desperate retreat. By the time the dust settled, Ukraine's forces had fallen back to a narrow strip of land just 40 square miles, down from the 530 square miles that Ukraine controlled at the height of their offensive in Kursk. Ukraine's withdrawal was anything but orderly.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Russian advances cut off escape routes, leaving Ukrainian forces trapped in scattered pockets across the border region. Even attempts to evacuate the wounded were met with relentless Russian fire. By the time Ukraine's top commander arrived at the front, Any hopes of salvaging the operation had vanished. Battlefield maps released by both Kyiv and Moscow confirm the extent of Ukraine's losses.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
What remains of its presence in Kursk has now been reduced to isolated holdouts. Meanwhile, Russian officials wasted no time consolidating control, clearing out extensive minefields left behind by retreating Ukrainian units. As we've discussed here on the PDB, Ukraine's Kursk incursion initially delivered a strategic and symbolic blow to the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Launched back in August of 2024, the offensive caught Russia flat-footed, forcing its forces into a frantic deployment. Ukrainian troops stormed across the border, seizing over 100 villages and towns, stretching Moscow's defenses thin and proving that Kiev could mount an attack deep inside Russian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
The early gains, driven by Ukraine's tactics and Western-supplied weaponry, rattled Russian commanders. Russian President Putin became the first Kremlin leader since Stalin to face the grim reality of having to expel a foreign army from Russian soil. But once Moscow regrouped, the response was overwhelming.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Russian forces began unleashing a punishing aerial bombardment, deploying glide bombs and fiber optic guided drones that shredded Ukrainian supply lines, armored columns and defensive positions. These drones gave Russian operators real time targeting precision, making resupply efforts nearly impossible for Kyiv. And then, of course, came the North Koreans.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
By December 2024, an estimated 11,000 North Korean troops had arrived in Kursk, fresh from months of training inside Russia. Unpracticed in modern battlefield tactics, the North Korean units resorted to large-scale human wave attacks, which, while crude and costly, proved effective.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
I guess it's amazing what can be accomplished on the battlefield when you don't care about the lives of your soldiers. By March, Ukraine's hold on Kursk was disintegrating, and now Ukraine's forces have all but abandoned the region. The retreat has sparked backlash within Ukraine's military leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Critics argue that Ukraine's top commander waited too long to pull back, needlessly exposing troops to encirclement and heavy losses. But Ukrainian President Zelensky downplayed the setback, insisting that the operation did achieve strategic goals. He pointed out that the incursion demonstrated Ukraine's offensive capabilities and delayed a potential Russian assault on northern Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
President Trump has unleashed the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since taking office, hitting the Houthi militants of Yemen and sending a blunt warning to their financial and military backers in Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
For now, Ukraine is shifting its focus to other battlefronts. In the east, Kiev's forces have blunted Russian advances, while in the north, Ukrainian troops are counterattacking in Sumy, where Western intelligence warn of a looming Russian push.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Meanwhile, on the diplomatic front, President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, told reporters Sunday that the president is expected to speak with Putin this week. According to Witkoff, Putin, quote, accepts the philosophy of Trump's proposed ceasefire terms, whatever that means. The details of any potential deal remain unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Putin previously insisted that any ceasefire must include Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and recognizing Russian territorial gains. Those are terms that Kiev has repeatedly rejected. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, Hamas is refusing to release an American-Israeli hostage and the bodies of four others unless Israel agrees to its ceasefire terms. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
In today's back of the brief, Hamas declared that it will only release American Israeli hostage Eden Alexander and the bodies of four American hostages if Israel fully complies with its ceasefire terms. The terror group framed the demand as the U.S. worked to revive stalled negotiations. A senior Hamas official, speaking anonymously on Saturday, detailed the conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Israel must immediately resume negotiations on the ceasefire's second phase once the hostages are freed, reach a final agreement within 50 days, and withdraw from the Philadelphia corridor. That's the buffer zone along the Israeli-Egyptian border. But the demands don't stop there. Hamas is also insisting on unrestricted humanitarian aid and the mass release of Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Israel suspended aid to the enclave earlier this month to push Hamas into accepting a temporary extended ceasefire. Israel dismissed these terms outright. Late Saturday, Prime Minister Netanyahu's government refused to make unilateral concessions, warning that a pullout from the Philadelphia corridor would hand Hamas a smuggling lifeline, allowing it to rearm through the tunnels.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
On Saturday, just days after the Houthis vowed to resume attacks on Israeli vessels, President Trump ordered a series of decisive airstrikes targeting the group and promised more to follow until they permanently cease their attacks on commercial and military ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. That's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Alexander, a 19-year-old American-Israeli soldier, was abducted during Hamas's 7 October 2023 terror attacks on Israel and is believed to be the last surviving U.S. citizen held hostage in Gaza. According to Israeli officials, Hamas is still holding 59 hostages, with at least 35 of those presumed dead. Efforts to broker a new ceasefire deal remain stuck in neutral.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Over the weekend, Netanyahu ordered negotiators to continue indirect talks, but there's been little movement. President Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has been pushing for a revised deal, yet Hamas last week rejected a U.S. proposal that Israel had agreed to, which would have freed half of the remaining hostages in exchange for Israeli commitments to discuss a permanent ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
March 17th, 2025: Trump Unleashes Hell On The Houthis & ISIS Commander Eliminated In Iraq
Meanwhile, tensions on the ground are boiling over. While no major fighting has occurred in Gaza since the ceasefire took hold on 19 January, Israeli airstrikes remain active. On Saturday, airstrikes pounded a northern Gaza town, killing at least nine people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Vance zeigte in den Ländern in Europa, die freie Sprache kriminalisieren und populistische Verteidiger marginalisieren. Er bestätigte, dass die wachsende Bedeutung von Zensur sowie die Schrecken der politischen Opposition, argumentierbar eine größere Bedrohung der Stabilität Europas sind als Russland oder irgendein anderer Außenseiter.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
In his address, delivered in front of some of Europe's top political brass, Vance accused European leaders of abandoning free speech, encouraging unchecked migration and generally ignoring the will of their voters. He warned of what he dubbed, quote, the threat from within and of, quote, the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Vance sagte, Quote, I can tell you plainly, there can be no security if you are afraid of the voices, the opinions and the conscience that guide your very own people. Europe faces many challenges, he said, but the crisis this continent faces right now is one of your own making, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Now, the Vice President cited the behavior of authorities in countries like the UK, Germany and Sweden, where political groups and voters outside the mainstream, particularly conservatives, have been increasingly subjected to investigations, arrests and even prosecution for protesting things like mass migration, the war in Ukraine or reproductive rights.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Manche haben sogar die ganze Rache des Staates gegenüber etwas so unheimlich wie einem Social-Media-Post gefeuert, langsame Gefängnis-Sentenzen zu landen, nur um eine kontroversielle Meinung auszudrücken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Dieses Stifeln der Demokratie, warnt Vance, riskiert, zwischen europäischen Alliieren und den USA eine Fissur zu erzeugen und könnte Bedingungen für die Interaktion von Amerika mit dem Kontinent auf Themen wie Verteidigung und Verhandlung haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Er sagte, Britannien sei vielleicht der größte Konzern, wenn es um den Fall eines Mannes ging, der mit einem zweijährigen Konditionenabschluss und einem 11.000-Dollar-Gewinn von einem britischen Gerichtsschatz vorgeschlagen wurde. Wir sollten bemerken, dass dieser Fall in vielen europäischen Ländern in diesen Tagen kaum einzigartig ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
He also condemned Romania for annulling the results of its December presidential election over claims of Russian interference on social media, saying, quote, End quote. End quote. He then turned his ire towards the organizers of the Munich conference for banning lawmakers representing populist parties on both the left and the right from participating in the conversation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Vance stated, quote, to many of us on the other side of the Atlantic, It looks more and more like old entrenched interests in Europe hiding behind ugly Soviet words like disinformation or misinformation simply do not like the idea that someone with an alternative point of view might express a different opinion or vote a different way or dare I say it even win an election."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Vance sagte, dass die Unabhängigkeit von Regeln nicht das leitende Prinzip eines neuen Weltkriegs werden muss, argumentiert, dass solches Verhalten in den Händen von Russland und China spielt. Vance's remarks prompted outcries and denunciations from Europe's political elite. Well, there's a surprise with Germany's Minister of Defense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Sie hat sogar Vance's Sprache mehrere Male mit Schreien von Nein unterbreitet. Später am Wochenende brach der Vorsitzende der Munich Security Conference in Träumen, während er die Anwesenden beantwortete, lamentierend, wenn man weint, glaube ich, dass Vance's Sprache zeigt, dass die USA und Europa keine gemeinsame Wertschätzung mehr haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Now, if you think Vice President Vance was being over the top in his criticism of Europe's crackdown on speech, well, it's worth bringing to your attention a 60 Minutes piece that ran this weekend. The segment highlighted how Germany is literally criminalizing free speech, with German prosecutors telling CBS that posting insults online or speaking them publicly... ist ein Verbrechen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Sie haben weiter erklärt, dass das Posten von, Quote, militärischem Verbrechen, das online auch ein kriminelles Verbrechen ist, wirklich, wie das Reposten von Inhalten, das, Quote, Missinformation bezeichnet wird. Der Bericht hat bemerkt, dass letzte Woche die deutschen Behörden mehr als 50 arme Räder gegen Individuen verurteilt haben, das Posten einer rassistischen Karte online.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Die Verbrecher behaupten, dass, obwohl die Deutschen freie Sprachverbrechen genießen, oder das tun sie, Quote, es hat auch ihre Grenzen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Looking ahead, Vance's tough stance against European overreach will likely, and by that I mean will, have significant implications for the Trump administration's relationship with Western allies going forward, particularly as the White House pursues peace negotiations with Russia to end their war on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
And at the same time, European leaders are currently meeting to discuss their response to Trump's apparent intent to sideline the EU from taking part in any peace negotiations. Coming up next, the Trump administration takes aim at Pentagon spending, with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, looking to trim some 8% from next year's defense budget.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
I'll have those details after the break. Running a business, well, it's not easy. And I know that firsthand. Look, as a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache with endless receipts, approvals and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in. Now, RAMP streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Es ist Montag, der 17. Februar. Willkommen bei der PDB-Afternoon Bulletin. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns kurz sprechen. Zuerst sprechen wir über den Fallout von Vizepräsidenten J.D. Vance's Rede an der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz am Freitag.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
There's no more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses. RAMP takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams that are buried in busy work, RAMP flips the equation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Look, most companies spend about 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. RAMP changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth and high-impact decisions. And making the switch is effortless. Over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp. Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Once again, that's ramp.com slash pdb. Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC and terms and conditions apply. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But, I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denken Sie daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu kracken.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für Instant Protection. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
wo er europäische Leiter über ihre Versuche, demokratische Normen zu steifeln, verurteilen, leaving some officials in tears. Later in the show, the Trump administration takes aim at Pentagon spending, with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency looking to trim some 8% from next year's defense budget, which is a budget that exceeds currently over $800 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. The Pentagon is offering up lists of potential cuts as the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, led by Elon Musk, moves into overhaul military spending in the coming days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
The shakeup, part of President Trump's broader push to rein in the federal deficit, is expected to gut billions from the defense budget and fundamentally reshape military priorities in the months ahead. According to the Wall Street Journal, DOGE aims to trim 8% from next year's defense budget, and that's a budget that currently exceeds over $800 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Trump has placed his confidence in Musk to root out widespread fraud and waste within the Department of Defense, which has the largest discretionary budget in the US government. With cuts looming, defense officials are scrambling to offer up targeted reductions in an effort to stave off severe slashes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
The Army has proposed phasing out outdated drones and armored vehicles, while the Navy is looking at decommissioning frigates and some other ships. Army spokesman Colonel Dave Butler said in a statement that the service is taking a, quote, proactive approach to making our spending more efficient.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Well, there's a thought, adding, quote, there are several systems that we know won't survive on the modern battlefield. Yeah, those could be cut then.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
The Air Force has yet to reveal its recommendations, but Musk has been vocal in his criticism of the F-35 stealth fighter program, calling it a, quote, flop and pointing to its cost overruns, that near two trillion, that's with a T, trillion dollars. And that could be considered slightly over budget.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
But the proposed cuts are certain to face stiff opposition in Washington, where lawmakers have long-shielded defense programs that bring jobs to their districts. Well, that is how they get reelected. The F-35 program alone is spread across some 48 states, making any attempt to trim it a political minefield. However, the Trump administration appears, well, less concerned with political fallout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth begrüßte Doge's Intervention, sagte letzte Woche, dass er Efforts unterstützt, Waste in einer Institution zu beherrschen, die fast 3 Millionen militärische und zivilisierende Personal betreibt und ein Budget beträgt, das jährlich 1 Trillionen Dollar beträgt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Die Veränderung kommt nur Monate nachdem Präsident Biden auf 895 Millionen in Defense Spendung für das jährliche Fiskaljahr eingestellt hat. Aber die Trump-Administration drückt einen strategischen Schiff
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
toward cutting-edge technology, including hypersonic missiles, cyber warfare capabilities and unmanned drone fleets, while also ramping up shipbuilding to counter China's aggressive naval expansion. Doge staffers have been working to restructure government agencies to identify spending reductions and redundancies since the start of the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
And last week, Trump signed an executive order granting the group sweeping authority Jetzt, das laute Kollision, das Sie hören, naja, das ist der Geräusch von Doge, der in die massive, unbewegbare Kollektion von Verteidigungscontractoren, Lobbyisten und selbstinteressierten PolitikerInnen in Washington, D.C. Und das, meine Freunde, ist die PDB-Abends-Bulletin von Montag, 17. Februar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Wir beginnen in Europa, wo Vizepräsident J.D. Vance eine überraschende, um es nicht zu sagen, Rede an der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz am Freitag eröffnet hat, die Kontinenten in Richtung politischer Repression fliegt und einige europäische Offiziere in Träumen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 17th, 2025: European Official Breaks Down In Tears Over Vance Speech & DOGE Comes For The Pentagon's Budget
Wenn Sie Fragen oder Kommentare haben, bitte schicken Sie mich an pdbathefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, which you could do, become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdppremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
His deputy, Lieutenant General Ivan Kasyanenko, oversees SSD's European operations. A former Russian Air Force officer with deep ties to military intelligence, he previously operated under diplomatic cover in Iran, playing a role in facilitating Moscow's drone and missile cooperation with Tehran. But SSDs activities extend far beyond bombings and assassinations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Authorities say the terrorist threat in Europe isn't going away anytime soon. And look at that, we're still in the introduction segment and we've already got a winner for the Statement of the Obvious Award. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. It's been nearly two weeks since President Trump floated the idea of the US taking over Gaza and turning it into a Middle Eastern version of the Riviera.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The unit is also tasked with infiltrating Western companies and universities in an effort to recruit foreign agents, particularly in Ukraine and Serbia. While SSD operations peaked last summer, intelligence reports suggest a recent lull. The reason? Well, some analysts speculate that Moscow may be looking to create diplomatic space with the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
But Western security officials cautioned that Russian intelligence has only grown more aggressive, particularly in Germany. That's a country that Moscow views as NATO's weak link due to its energy dependence on Russia and deepening internal divisions. NATOs Deputy Assistant Secretary General warned that Russia's wartime mindset demands a, quote, similar response from the West.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
And Washington appears to be taking that warning seriously. In December, the EU imposed sanctions on SSD operatives for their role in orchestrating assassinations, sabotage and cyber attacks across Europe. The US sanctioned SSD members on similar charges back in December.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
In der Zwischenzeit kümmern sich die US- und europäische Gesetzgeber für erhöhte Kontraintelligenz-Operationen gegen russische Covert-Aktivitäten. Sobald Moskau seinen Schattenkrieg gegen den Westen auslöst, schlägt die Erhöhung des SSD ein gefährliches neues Kapitel ein, das die US- und NATO-Alliierten einen viel aggressiveren Stand nehmen könnte. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
A deadly knife attack in Austria is now linked to ISIS, as authorities warn the terror threat in Europe remains as real as ever. I'll have those details when we come back. In today's Back of the Brief, a 14-year-old boy was killed in a stabbing and five others were wounded in what Austrian officials are calling an Islamist attack carried out by a Syrian asylum seeker.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The attack, which took place on Saturday near a main square in a town bordering Italy and Slovenia, has reignited Austria's already tense debate over immigration and national security. Drei von den Verletzten bleiben in intensiver Arbeit, während eine andere in stabiler Zustand ist. Eine der Verletzten wurde verurteilt und bekommt eine Ausbeutung.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Die Behörden identifizierten den islamistischen Verletzten als einen 23-jährigen syrischen Mann, der an der Szene verhaftet wurde und seitdem mit Mörder und attemptiertem Mörder verhaftet wurde. Austrias Interior Minister revealed that an Islamic State Flag was discovered in the suspect's apartment. That could be a clue. Along with evidence suggesting he pledged allegiance to the terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Officials believe he was radicalized online over a short period of time, stating that the suspect had a, quote, Islamic terror motive for the attack. Austrian Police say the Islamic attacker could have claimed more lives if not for the intervention of a delivery worker, also a Syrian national, who drove his vehicle toward the suspect, halting the assault.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
On Sunday, officials confirmed the ages and nationalities of the wounded, two 15-year-olds and three adults, aged 28, 32 and 36. Four are Austrian citizens, while one is Turkish. The interior minister stressed that the suspect had no prior criminal record. He held a valid residence permit and was not on any law enforcement watch lists.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
However, initial reports suggested the Islamist was still awaiting a decision on his asylum application. The Interior Minister framed the attack as a stark reminder of the growing terrorist threat within Austria, stating, quote, So those in a position of responsibility, the police, the authorities, must draw the necessary conclusions from that, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The attack has fueled debate over Austria's asylum policies, particularly after last year's election, where the National Conservative Freedom Party won the most votes for the first time. The party's leader wasted no time in calling for a, quote, rigorous crackdown on asylum.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
And let's just say, well, the reaction has been not overly positive. Um es zu beurteilen, hat Trumps Plan, die Bevölkerung von Gaza, alle 2,3 Millionen von ihnen, außerhalb von Gaza, permanent zu beurteilen, während Washington die Reconstruktion übernehmen würde. Diese Bewertungen sagen, dass es 10 bis 15 Jahre dauern könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The interior minister echoed those concerns, stating Austria must enact, quote, legal reforms to give law enforcement greater authority in monitoring asylum seekers from Syria and Afghanistan. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 17 February. Now, I hope you had an opportunity to check out the latest episode of our weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
If not, well, it's available along with past episodes on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and as well, of course, on all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Kritiker, insbesondere die meisten Regierungen in der Region, haben es als alles von unrealistisch bis zu ausreichend, Quote, ethnische Reinigung geschlagen. But while much of the world has been busy rejecting Trump's plan, something else has been quietly happening, something arguably, well, more significant.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The Overton window in the Middle East may have just shifted in a way that would have seemed impossible just a few short months ago. Wenn ihr euch nicht mit dem Overton-Window-Konzept verbunden habt, dann ist es im Grunde die Reihe von Ideen, die in einem bestimmten Zeitpunkt in der öffentlichen Debatte sozial akzeptabel sind. Und diese Winde wechselt sich über die Jahre.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Dinge, die früher undenkbar gewesen wären, können plötzlich im Mittelland werden. Und im Mittleren Osten, naja, das wechselt sich normalerweise sehr langsam. The region is built on deep traditions, authoritarian rule and religious influence, factors that tend to resist rapid change.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
But today, as Arab leaders scramble to offer an alternative to Trump's plan, some of them are saying something that not long ago would have been completely off the table. And that is, that Hamas needs to go. Nehmen wir zum Beispiel den Generalsekretär der Arab-League. In einem Interview am 11. Februar auf dem Saudi-Arab-Channel hat er den Hamas angerufen, um sich abzuschließen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Er hat sogar verurteilt, dass Trumps Plan, Arab-Nationen in ihre eigenen Vorschläge zu pressen, geplant war. Und jetzt, am Arab-Summit später dieses Monats, werden die Führer genau das tun. Eine Alternative, die sie sagen, wird an die Palästinenser, Arab-Nationen und die internationale Gemeinschaft akzeptabel sein. And the Arab League official isn't the only one saying that Hamas has to go.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The United Arab Emirates presidential advisor Anwar Gargash also backed the idea, calling it, quote, rational and appropriate.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
He said, quote, the interests of the Palestinian people must come before the interests of Hamas, especially in light of the calls to displace the Palestinians from Gaza and the war that resulted from Hamas' decisions that destroyed the Gaza Strip and tore its human and social fabric, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Dann gibt es Tariq al-Humayad, einen jungen Saudi-Journalisten, der gerade einen Artikel in dem London-basierten Saudi-Daily Al-Shaq Al-Awsat genannt hat, namens Hamas muss Macht verlängern. Sein Argument? Nun, es ist, dass das Entstehen von Hamas eine praktische Alternative zu Trumps Plan ist.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Es würde Ägypten und Jordan von Unstabilität schützen, einen weiteren Krieg auf Gaza mit US-Vorbereitung verhindern und den Weg für Reconstruktion öffnen. So, while there isn't yet a full Arab consensus, it's clear that the conversation has shifted. But as you'd expect, and this will not be a shock, Hamas isn't exactly on board. And by that I mean, they're definitely not on board.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
They're nowhere near the board. And of course it's likely that the Iranian regime, responsible for funding and building and training and resourcing Hamas, well, they won't be on board either. The last thing the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, wants... ist, noch mehr Einfluss in die Region zu verlieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Over the weekend, top Hamas official Osama Hamdan made it clear that his group has no plans to step aside. In fact, he outright rejected any proposal that excludes Hamas from Palestinian leadership, saying, quote, End quote. Hamdan sagte, wirklich, wir können nicht wegsteigen. Wie sonst werden wir Billionen von Dollar machen? Das ist unser Geld, und wir geben es nicht ab.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Und ja, ich habe das letzte Quote gemacht. Also, was Hamas sagt, ist, wenn eine arabische Koalition versucht, Gaza ohne Hamas zu übernehmen, dann wird Hamas sie als Feind vertreten, so wie sie es mit Israel tun. So what does all this mean? For one, it highlights how Trump's plan, no matter how unlikely, has forced Arab leaders to confront an uncomfortable reality.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Hamas' rule in Gaza is a major roadblock to any long-term peace or reconstruction. And while Hamas still has strong support from Iran, the pressure from within the Arab world is growing. We'll be watching closely as the Arab League Summit approaches, because for the first time in a long time, the future of Hamas' grip on Gaza isn't just an Israeli concern, it's an Arab one as well.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Es ist Montag, der 17. Februar. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily-Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns briefen. Wir fangen heute mit den arabischen Nationen an, die Heizung auf Hamas aufzunehmen. Nur Wochen nachdem US-Präsident Trump seinen kontroversiellen Plan für Gaza geflogen hat.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Alright, coming up after the break. A White House team heads to Saudi Arabia for Russia-Ukraine peace talks as European leaders scramble to respond. Plus, Western intelligence services warn of a secret Russian spy unit that's behind sabotage and assassinations across Europe. What will Putin think of next? I'll be right back. Running a business, well, it's not easy. And I know that firsthand.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Look, as a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache with endless receipts, approvals and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where RAMP comes in. Now, RAMP streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. There's no more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
RAMP takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams that are buried in busy work, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend about 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
RAMP changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth and high-impact decisions. And making the switch is effortless. Over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Once again, that's ramp.com slash pdb. Cards issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC and terms and conditions apply.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Welcome back to the PDB. The Trump administration is set to dispatch senior officials to Saudi Arabia for direct talks with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in the coming days in an abrupt move that, well, blindsided Kiev. A Ukrainian official speaking to Politico said there are no plans for a Ukrainian delegation to attend, casting immediate doubt on the talks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Well, yeah, I mean, typically it would be good to have the invaded country at the negotiating table when discussing the fate of the invaded country. Dementsprechend sind die europäischen Alliierten völlig aus den Negotierungen verlassen, die Frustration zwischen NATO-Mitgliedern, die Washington für einen unilateralen Deal über einen koordinierten westlichen Ansatz betrachten, füllen.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Trotz der Unwahrheit ist Präsident Trumps Team voran. Nationalen Sicherheitsanwärter Mike Walz, Staatssekretär Marco Rubio und Südostasien-Anwalt Steve Witkoff werden die amerikanische Delegation führen. But one key figure is notably absent, and that would be Trump's special envoy for Ukraine-Russia negotiations, retired General Keith Kellogg.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The Kremlin, meanwhile, is assembling its own high-level team, including intelligence and economic officials, as well as Kirill Dmitriev, a seasoned negotiator who has played a key role in the past US-Russia prisoner exchanges. Now, these talks could mark a pivotal moment in Trump's push to broker an end to the nearly three-year-old war.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Einige Leiter kümmern sich jetzt offensichtlich um Hamas, um sich zu entfernen. Wir werden das, was hinter diesem Schiff liegt, auspacken. Später im Show geht ein White House Team nach Saudi-Arabien für russische-ukrainische Friedensgespräche, während europäische Führer, naja, sie schrecken, um zu reagieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Speaking to reporters last week, Trump confirmed that he expects to meet with Russian President Putin face-to-face in Saudi Arabia, stating, quote, we ultimately expect to meet. We'll meet in Saudi Arabia, see if we can get something done, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
If the meeting does occur, it would be the first direct high-level peace talks between Russia and Ukraine since the war began in 2022 with the Russian invasion. At the Munich Security Conference this past week, European leaders reacted with alarm, warning that a deal struck without their input would be unacceptable.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made his position clear, stating, "...a dictated peace will therefore never find our support." Trumps diplomatic maneuver has only deepened European anxieties about US commitment to NATO. Those fears were exasperated after Vice President J.D. Vance, speaking at the same conference, downplayed the threats posed by Russia and China.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Instead, Vance accused European leaders of suppressing free speech, warning that their biggest security threat comes from, quote, within. Still, Vance signaled that Washington would hold Moscow accountable, cautioning that the US retains, quote, economic and military tools of leverage if Russia fails to negotiate in good faith.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth initially dismissed the idea of Ukraine joining NATO as part of a peace agreement, but later seemed to shift, stating, quote, everything is on the table, end quote. Yeah, that's a shift. In Munich, Ukrainian President Zelensky struck a skeptical tone regarding Trump-Putin talks, stating bluntly, quote, Putin is a liar.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
The Ukrainian President added, I hope that President Trump will pressure him because I don't trust him, end quote. Die Ungewissheit um Trumps abrupte Gespräche hat europäische Führungskräfte geäußert.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Der französische Präsident Emmanuel Macron hat am Montag einen Ursprungssummit in Paris gegründet, bei dem europäische Union-Führungskräfte zusammen mit NATO-Sekretär General Jens Stoltenberg verabredet wurden. Trumps Ausstieg von Putin, während er NATO-Alliieren auf der Seite hält, hat das, was eine größtenteils unifizierte westliche Strategie in der Ukraine war, beendet.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
While Kellogg sought to reassure European allies in Munich that Kyiv would be part of any final agreement, he made it clear that European governments would not have a seat at the table. The fact that EU institutions and EU countries collectively have allocated some 133 billion dollars to Ukraine assistance since the February 2022 invasion, while the US has allocated some 120 billion dollars,
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Außerdem sagen westliche Intelligenzorganisationen, dass Russland eine neue geheimnisvolle Spion-Unit gegründet hat, die mit der Behandlung von Sabotage, Verbrechen und Angriffen in Europa beteiligt ist. Man wundert sich, ob wir jetzt darüber sprechen, wie geheim es ist. Und in heute's Back of the Brief, a deadly knife attack in Austria has been linked to the Islamic State.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Well, it would seem to imply that the EU has paid for their seat at the table. The EU has also taken on the lion's share of training Ukrainian soldiers and has taken in vast numbers of Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war. The point being, well, it's an interesting strategy on the part of the US administration
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
to imply that European nations shouldn't be fully engaged in the peace process, particularly when US officials stated just last week that they expect the EU to shoulder the responsibility for ensuring that any peace deal is enforced and maintained.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
With negotiations set to begin sometime soon in Saudi Arabia, the stage is set for high-stakes diplomacy that could reshape the trajectory of the war, not to mention future relations between NATO, the EU and the US. All right, shifting to Russia. Western intelligence officials uncovered a shadowy unit within Moscow's spy services known as the Department of Special Tasks, or SSD.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
And it's clear that they did not spend a long time coming up with a clever name for their department. The unit, formed in 2023 in response to Western military aid to Ukraine, is tasked with carrying out sabotage, assassinations and infiltration operations across Europe and beyond. Überraschend ist, dass die Kremlin, naja, sie verurteilen alles.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Kremlins Sprechleiter Dmitry Peskov hat die Angelegenheiten als, Quote, unsubstanziierte Angelegenheiten verabschiedet. für das 2018-Poisoning von Russischer Doppelagent Sergej Skripal und seiner Tochter Yulia in den USA und dann die 2014-Chekische Ammunition-Depot-Explosion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Aus der russischen Militär-Intelligenz-Headquarters in Moskau, hat die SSD nun einige der gefährlichsten klandestine Missionen übernommen, die früher von der russischen Federal Security Service und anderen Intelligenz-Branchen behandelt wurden. Und ihr Rekord ist bereits sehr hoch. Die Westen-Intelligenz-Agenzien haben die SSD mit einer Serie von hochprofilen Angriffen verbunden, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
mit einem 2024-Assassination-Plot gegen Armin Papager, den CEO der deutschen Armutsindustrie Rheinmetall, einer der wichtigsten Anbieter der Ukraine. Das Unit hat sich auch mit einem Plot verbunden, in dem incendiäre Geräte auf DHL-Kargoplänen geplant wurden. Das ist ein Scheme, das, wenn es erfolgreich war, natürlich Flieger für Nordamerika aufnehmen könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Neben diesen Operationen sind die SSD-Operativen hinter Arsene-Attacken auf europäischen Waffenfaktoren, versuchten Bomben in Frankreich und koordinierten Sabotage-Effekte in Polen und Ukraine, um Infrastruktur zu destabilisieren und Moral zu reduzieren.
The President's Daily Brief
February 17th, 2025: Arab Leaders Turn On Hamas & Trump Team Pursues Russia Peace Deal
Am Helm des SSD ist Colonel General Andrei Averyanov, ein Veteran der russischen Tschechischen Kriege und eine wichtige Figur in der Annexierung von Crimea. Wollte von tschechischen Behörden für seine vorgesehene Rolle in dieser tödlichen 2014er Ammunition-Depot-Explosion, unterschreibt Averyanovs Bedeutung Moskaus wachsende Willen, direkte, hohe Risiko-Operationen gegen den Westen abzuhalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets from turbulent times. Speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold. They've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. Think about that. Go to patriotgoldgroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Monday, 16 December. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
He also condemned those casting the rebels as a liberation movement, arguing that they are nothing more than terrorists intent on subjugating the people of Syria. That's according to a report from ABC News. Well, if anybody knows anything about subjugating the people of Syria, it would be Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
While it's true that the groups who overthrew Assad, particularly the leading militant organization HTS, are recognized internationally as terrorist organizations, the irony of his statement is still hard to ignore. He made no mention of his own storied history of oppression and war crimes, including longstanding accusations that he used chemical weapons on his own citizens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Instead, he tried to paint himself as a man who worked tirelessly to save his nation from malign influence, saying he, quote, refused to barter the salvation of his nation for personal gain, seriously, or to compromise his people in exchange for numerous offers and enticements, end quote. The dude is actually playing the victim card here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
I mean, it would be funny if there weren't so many dead Syrians left in his wake. Regarding his hasty escape to Russia last Sunday, which we detailed on Friday's PDB Afternoon Bulletin, Assad claimed that he did not choose to abandon his country, but left Syria after an urgent request by his allies in Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Assad said, "...my departure from Syria was neither planned, nor did it occur in the final hours of the battles." Official reports say he schemed to flee Damascus for safety in Moscow via a Russian air base in northwestern Syria and kept his inner circle in the dark about his plans. Well, not so, according to the exiled dictator.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Assad claims he traveled in the dark of night last Saturday to the Russian air base in the Latakia province in order to oversee combat operations. Oh, well, that's a different story, isn't it? But upon arrival on the morning of December 8th, Assad said it had become clear that the front lines had fallen and their forces had completely withdrawn.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
As the situation continued to deteriorate, with the Russian airbase coming under drone attack, Assad claimed the Kremlin requested that the base's command arrange for his immediate evacuation to Russia. Notably, he said the evacuation request came after the fall of Damascus and collapse of the military. Assad continued, quote, End quote. Wow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
In his statement, no doubt intended to burnish his tattered image with his remaining Syrian loyalists, Assad went as far as to claim that as the rebel offensive swept through the country, he, quote, stood alongside the officers and soldiers of the army on the front lines while they were actually in retreat, just meters from terrorists in the most dangerous and intense battlefields, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
He added that the overthrow of his regime, quote, does not diminish my profound sense of belonging to Syria and her people. It is a belonging filled with hope that Syria will once again be free and independent, end quote. Now, look, here on the PDB, I do sincerely try to avoid adding opinion or pontification to the news we discuss. Just bring you the facts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
But when it comes to Assad's version of all of this, Well, what a load of crap. And the people of Syria do not appear too broken up, of course, about the dictator's sudden departure from power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Syrians across the country have taken to the streets to celebrate the collapse of his regime over the past week, particularly the release of tens of thousands of political prisoners from Assad's notoriously brutal government detention centers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
To fill the void, the rebels have named Mohammed al-Bashir, who previously ran parts of northern Syria on behalf of the rebels, as the new caretaker prime minister. In that role, he'll oversee a transitional Syrian government until March of 2025, when the rebels claim they will establish a more permanent administration, purportedly chosen by the Syrian people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
But let's just remember the old adage, actions speak louder than words. Coming up, the federal authorities have announced plans to deploy a state-of-the-art radar detection system to solve the drone mystery that has left officials across the tri-state region baffled. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Let's get briefed. First, former Syrian President Assad is speaking out from his exile in Russia for the first time since the collapse of his regime this past Sunday. Although you have to ask yourself why anyone would care what an overthrown, brutal, despotic dictator has to say. But we'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Returning now to the U.S. and the drone sightings across the tri-state area.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
New York Senator Chuck Schumer is demanding the deployment of advanced radar systems to track and identify the aerial swarms. At the center of Schumer's appeal is the Robin radar system, a cutting-edge Dutch technology recently declassified and touted for its ability to detect and track drones with precision. So how exactly does this system operate?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Well, the radar system uses artificial intelligence to three-dimensionally map drone flight paths and can reportedly track drones within a three-mile radius. The CEO of Robin Radar Systems elaborates that the system's 360-degree mapping
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
can track a drone's precise movements, adding, You could also see the flight path and find out where the drone came from or where it lands, and that is usually the place where your operators stand. This offers what Schumer described as an unparalleled advantage in identifying operators and deciphering intentions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Additionally, the system's portability, whether mounted on drones or aircraft, enables authorities to monitor areas that are otherwise difficult to access. Hmm. But one does wonder whether Schumer has invested money into the Robin radar systems. The Senate Democratic leader underscored the urgency of adopting this technology immediately. Well, maybe there's a clue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Stating, quote, you should not have to shake an eight ball to see what it is. There ought to be better technology. And there is. End quote. He sounds like he's doing a commercial. It seems odd. that folks are turning to Chuck Schumer for drone advice.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Sunday that the federal government is deploying a drone detection system to the state to aid in investigations into the drone sightings. However, there's no indication yet that this is the same system being touted by Schumer. I mean, who knows? Maybe they're shilling for different commercial companies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Then, from the U.S., an update on the unidentified drones that have baffled officials across the tri-state region as federal authorities announce plans to deploy a state-of-the-art radar detection system in New York to solve the mystery. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Now, perhaps I'm just being churlish, but wouldn't you think that the U.S. military would have the absolute most advanced drone-related technology and would be able to get this sorted out straight away? And speculation that the drones might be tied to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
military operations, well, that was quickly dismissed by Schumer, who confidently stated, quote, the military would have told us that, end quote, or would they have? If it's part of a secretive government effort, look, the last person you'd want to tell would probably be Senator Schumer. As they say in Washington, the most dangerous place to be in D.C.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
is standing between Chuck Schumer and a TV camera. Federal authorities have similarly ruled out connections to foreign governments, though the lack of concrete answers intensified public and legislative demand for action.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Both Schumer and Hochul are backing new legislation that would mandate drone registration and expand the state's authority to detect, track, and neutralize unmanned aircraft systems. Schumer's office indicated that the bill, which he is co-sponsoring, could pass before the end of 2024 after previous efforts stalled in committees.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Whether Schumer and Hochul's efforts will yield definitive answers or merely add to the confusion, well, that remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the Biden administration continues to downplay the mystery, attributing many sightings to misidentified planes or helicopters. Yet Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has acknowledged that some of these sightings are confirmed drones.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Mayorkas added that the federal government is deploying additional resources, personnel, and technology to support the New Jersey State Police in addressing the issue. We're getting right on it. Honestly, the current level of ineptitude in properly dealing with this problem, along with the apparent inability to handle the messaging and communication with the public,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
It does remind me of that infamous Chinese spy balloon and its long march across the U.S. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 16 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's easy. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
See, I told you it was easy. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
deposed Syrian President Assad has broken his silence from exile in Moscow, issuing his first public statement on the Islamist rebel uprising that toppled his family's dictatorship after 50 brutal years ruling over Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 16th, 2024: Feds Deploy Drone Detection System To Northeast & Assad Speaks
Assad, who fled the country on December 8th as the rebels took control of the capital city of Damascus, attempted to push back on what he called a flood of misinformation and false narratives regarding his departure. Ooh, I see a rewriting of history in the making here.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Parliament impeached President Yun Suk-yeol on Saturday after his controversial martial law declaration backfired, leaving even his ruling party to turn against him. Wie wir auf dem PDB berichtet haben, kommt dieser seismische Wandel nachdem Yoon den 3. Dezember den Marschallschutz beurteilt hat, die Truppen in den Parlament zu befreien, um die Opposition-Geführer zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Der unvorhergesehene Akt hat spektakulär gefolgt, die breite Proteste und die Verurteilung von über Südkoreas politischem Spektrum getötet. Die dramatische Konfrontation führte zu Regierungsleuten, die sich physisch durch die Militärbarrikaden des Nationalen Ausschusses zerstörten, eine Wahl gefordert, die Martial-Law zu nullifizieren, und Yuns Verschuldung zu beantragen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Zuerst sah Yun aus, als obdachlich, seine Aktionen, wie nötig, in einer Rede am Montag, um das Land zu retten, von dem beobachteten Oppositionspartei-Chaos und der Angelegenheit, für seine Präsidentschaft zu kämpfen. His ruling People Power Party, the PPP, stood by him, blocking an initial impeachment vote last week and urging Yun just to step down voluntarily.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
However, his refusal to relent, coupled with widespread public outrage, triggered a political chain reaction. The turning point came when the PPP leader withdrew his support just before Yun's speech, denouncing the president's actions as indefensible and calling impeachment, quote, the only way to defend democracy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Am Donnerstag wurde der Parlamentsentwurf überwältigt, und Yun war nur der zweite Präsident von Südkorea, der sich von der Arbeit entfernen musste. Unter dem gesetzlichen Prozess des Landes hat der Premierminister die Rolle des gesetzlichen Präsidenten beschlossen, während die gesetzliche Gerichtshof die Fähigkeit des Jungen verlassen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Der gesetzliche Gerichtshof der gesetzlichen Gerichtshof hat eine, quote, swift and fair review, set to begin Monday, set to begin Monday, though notably the process could take up to six months. Währenddessen sind Yuns legalen Schwierigkeiten auf der Bühne.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die Berichterstatter haben mehrere Untersuchungen in Bezug auf Angelegenheiten von Verbrechen, Verbrechen von Macht und Verbrechen, mit dem Parlament einen besonderen Ausschuss verabschiedet, um seine Martial-Law-Deklaration zu beurteilen. Laut der Yonhap-Newsagentur wurde Yun auf Sonntag beurteilt, aber fehlte, weiter die politische Krise zu entfalten.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die Behörden vorbereiten bemerkenswert Anrufe für hochrangige Militäranwälte, die die Beurteilung beurteilen, z.B. der Chef des Special Warfare Command und der Chief of the Capitol Defense Command. Es ist wichtig zu bemerken, dass, obwohl Jung die Immunität von den meisten kriminellen Fällen als Sitzungspräsidenten behält, die Beurteilung von Verbrechen oder Rebellion nur Erlebnisse sind.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Analysts noten, dass, während er von dem Land verabschiedet worden ist, die Behörden es möglich haben, ihn zu verabschieden, wegen einer direkten Begegnung mit seinem Präsidenten-Sicherheits-Service.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Jun, für seine Partei, hat gefeiert, weiter zu kämpfen, am Sonntag zu deklarieren, dass er, Quote, nicht auf seine Vision für die Nation aufgeben wird, auch wenn seine politischen und legalen Kämpfe zählen. Coming up in the back of the brief an update on the Franklin Fire in Malibu where firefighters are still battling to bring the blaze under control. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
In today's Back of the Brief, the Franklin Fire in Malibu, California, has entered a critical phase, as cooler weather and calmer winds provide a vital window for firefighters battling the over 4,000-acre inferno.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Aber um ehrlich zu sein, wer hat einen Martial-Law-Debakel zu einem bestimmten Zeitpunkt in ihren Leben nicht gehabt? Und in heute's Back of the Brief werden wir das Neueste über das zerstörte Wildfeuer in Malibu haben, das die Feuerwehrleute immer noch nicht beherrschen. Aber zuerst heute's PDB Spotlight. seit den 7. Oktober-Attacken von Hamas auf Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Since erupting last Monday, what began as a five-acre blaze exploded into a fast-moving wildfire, driven by punishingly low humidity and wind gusts surpassing 50 miles per hour that propelled flames at a staggering pace. An seinem Peak verbrauchte die Feuerwehr über fünf Fußball-Fields von Land pro Minute.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Laut Cal Fire haben über 1.700 Feuerwehrleute mit einer Kombination von Grund-Crews und Luftverschmutzung die Franklin-Fahrer ausgestattet. Feuerwehrleute beschreiben den Malibu-Seaside-Terrain als, quote, steif und sehr gefährlich, und das ist es.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Aber notierend ist, dass die Behandlung über 40% am Sonntag erreicht wurde, und das ist eine signifikante Verbesserung von den frühen Tagen der Feuerwehr. Over the weekend, evacuation orders were lifted for several neighborhoods, granting residents a tentative return to their homes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
However, fire officials cautioned that containment efforts remained fragile, depending on weather conditions that could shift at any moment. Die Ursache des Feuerbruchs bleibt unter Investition und die Offiziere haben nicht die mögliche Faktor für menschliche Aktivität beurteilt.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Als die Woche anfängt, bleiben die Feuerkräfte in einer Runde gegen den Glocken, hoffnungslos das unfavorable Wetter zu kapitalisieren, bevor die regionale, berühmte Santa-Anna-Winde zurückkommt. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 16 December. If you have any questions for me that you'd like me to address on the air, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
The PDB Operations Center is busy preparing another episode of the critically acclaimed Ask Me Anything, in which we answer your questions and relay your comments to the global PDB community. And I hope you had a chance to check out this past weekend's PDB Situation Report. We had excellent guests, including Brian Carter and Steve Yates, with a focus on Syria, the Middle East, China and Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Give it a watch over on our YouTube channel. Check that out. You can find it at President's Daily Brief. It's chock full of information and insight. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Nun, es war eine schlechte Heldin nach der anderen für das iranische Regime. Der Verlust von Assad ist nur der neuesten und vielleicht am stärksten schmerzhafte Schlag für ihre Ambitionen in der Region. For years, Iran's Islamic regime has relied on allies like Assad and proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas to maintain its influence.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
But with Assad gone, one of those pillars has obviously crumbled and others are significantly weakened and decimated. The question now is, could the Mullahs and their Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, be in danger? Für Jahrhunderte war Assad eines der nahesten Alliierten von Teheran. Unter der Assad-Familie war Syrien im Grunde ein Satelliten-Standort von Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Es war ein wichtiger Hubschrauber für die iranische Influenz, als Transit-Punkt für die Entfernung von advanced Weaponry, z.B. precision-guided Missiles, Drohnen und Anti-Tank-Systeme, nach Hezbollah in Libanon. Es war auch die Route für die Transfer von Krieger, trainiert von der IRGC,
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Nicht zu erwähnen die Billionen von Dollar in finanziellen Unterstützung, die Hezbollahs riesiges Netzwerk von sozialen Geräten, Medienanlagen und militärischen Operationen finanziert. Ohne Assad ist dieser Korridor jetzt weg. Die Sieg der Rebellen schließt eine kritische Supply-Line zu einer der mächtigsten Proxys von Iran. Und sprechen wir von Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Sie befinden sich in ihrer eigenen, naja, wir nennen es eine existenzielle Krise. Die Gruppe wird manchmal als die Krone in Iran's Terror-Empire genannt, aber sie befindet sich im Moment mit unvorhergesehenen Verlusten in Libanon, sowohl militär als auch politisch.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Israels Angriffen haben ihre Waffen-Depots und Operationen-Hubs getargetet, während der interne lebanesische Unruhe, gefuehlt von einer verlassenen Wirtschaft, ihre öffentliche Unterstützung verringert hat. As we've been reporting for months here on the PDB, Hezbollah has suffered significant leadership losses due to targeted Israeli military operations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Most notably, their Secretary General, Hassan Nasrallah, was killed in September in an airstrike in Beirut. Diese Angriffe haben viel von Hasbullahs vorderen Führungstherrn, insbesondere Hauptkommandanten und Mitgliedsführer, eliminiert, die Gruppens Struktur stark zerstört. Berichte zeigen nun, dass fast alle der Gruppens vorderen Kommandanten neutralisiert wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Hasbullah ist nun ein Schatten ihres ehemaligen Selbst, unterschätzt von seiner kompletten Unmöglichkeit, zu intervenieren, als Asads Kräfte zurückgezogen wurden und letztendlich von den Rebellen zerstört wurden. Okay, so, let's just zoom out here and take a look at it from a 30,000-foot view. This isn't just about Syria or Lebanon. These are pillars of Iran's so-called Axis of Resistance.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Give the knowledgeable folks over at Patriot Gold a call today. They've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. That's a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Monday, 16 December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Assad's Syria, Hezbollah in Lebanon, various militia groups in Iraq, Hamas in Gaza and the Houthis in Yemen all acted as Tehrans outposts in its campaign to dominate the region and, of course, to remove Israel from the map, as they've stated many times in the past as an objective. But what we're seeing now is the axis crumbling and the Islamic regime in Iran is looking increasingly isolated.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Their proxies are under pressure, their economy is in tatters, hammered by sanctions and their own mismanagement and the corruption of the IRGC. And perhaps most importantly, the regime appears to be losing credibility at home. Lasst uns nicht vergessen, dass die Iraner seit über zwei Jahren gegen ihre Regierung protestiert haben. Und die Schmerzen sind noch nicht weg.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Sie begannen im September 2022, nach dem Tod des 22-jährigen Masa Amini, während er in der Behandlung der Iraner Moralpolizei war. Ja, immer besorgt werden, wenn dein Land das, was sie nennen, die Moralpolizei, hat. Seine Tod, beruflich wegen schweren Schrecken, spürte Enttäuschung und wurde der Katalysator für nationwidee Demonstrationen, die von Frauen und Jugendlichen geführt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die Proteste fokussierten sich in erster Linie auf Frauenrechte, besonders gegen die mandatierten Hijab-Gewohnheiten, aber spielten sich schnell in breitere Antigewohnheitsbewegungen ein. Über die Zeit haben sich diese Proteste, naja, sie haben sich verändert.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Wirtschaftliche Anstrengungen über Inflation, Unabhängigkeit und Regierungsverletzung haben sich mit Anrufen für Regimeveränderung verbunden. Was als isolierte Demonstrationen begann, hat sich in einem gewachsenen Bewegungsstil entwickelt, mit Slogans wie »Women, Leben, Freiheit«, die über Städte, Städte und sogar rurale Bereiche resonieren, die typisch die Stärken für das Regime sind.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Trotz der brutalen Verbrechungen von Sicherheitskräften, die Hunderten von Todesfällen und Tausenden von Angriffen verursachten, haben die Iraner die Regime durch Angriffe, öffentliche Demonstrationen und verschiedene Arten von ziviler Unabhängigkeit weitergeleitet. The focus now isn't just about women's rights or economic hardship.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
It's about a growing sense of anger toward a regime that prioritizes foreign wars, proxies and nuclear ambitions over the well-being of its people. The protests are revealing deep discontent with a government that pours resources into supporting groups like Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis, while failing to address crumbling infrastructure, water shortages and poverty at home.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
In den Tagen, seit dem Fall von Damaskus, hat die Regierung einen starken öffentlichen Aufprall gegenüber den Billionen von Dollar, die in den iranischen Blüten gespart wurden, um den Assad-Regime aufzubauen. Die Kritik kommt aus unerwarteten Orten, insbesondere von Konservativen, und fliegt frei auf TV-Kanäle, Rednern und in virtuellen Städten, die von Tausenden von Iraniern besucht wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
It also appears on the front pages of newspapers every day. One former lawmaker declared on social media that Iranians should rejoice at the fall of Assad, saying, quote, End quote. Nun, natürlich sind Tehrans Sicherheitskräfte unvergesslich und der Regime hat eine Geschichte, dass sie hart auf dem Abflug hinkommen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
In den Jahrhunderten gab es Momente, in denen viel der Bevölkerung bereit war, sich gegen das Regime zurückzuheben. Aber diese Momente wurden in der Fase einer brutalen Repression kurzlebig. Aber seit dem 7. Oktober fühlt es sich an, als ob der Regime gegen die Verteidigung gespielt hat. Seine Proxys wurden als niedriger als beauftragt ausgewertet.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Assads Fall ist ein wichtiger Körperblut für ihre regionale Strategie. Und ihr Compadre in Chaos, Wladimir Putin, ist natürlich enttäuscht mit seinen eigenen Problemen wegen seiner Ukraine-Invasion. If the regime can't project power abroad and can't maintain stability at home, well, that would appear to be a recipe for internal upheaval.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
And, frankly, there are numerous regional players in the Middle East who would not shed a tear if the current Iranian regime were to go the way of Assad. Alright, coming up next. New satellite images expose Iran's drone motherships. And we'll have the latest on South Korea's political chaos as the nation's legislature votes to impeach the president. I'll have those stories when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business, and this spring they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessanter Faktum.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Wissen Sie, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt wird? Denken Sie daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist Ihr Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Verpackungen. Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. And in the ongoing game of Where's Waldo. This week we're still somewhere in the Middle East. Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Schiffen wir nun in die USA und die mysteriöse Drohne-Aktivität über den Skien von New Jersey. Neue Satellitenbildungen zeigen Irans sogenannte Drohne-Mothership, die ihre ersten Seetrials durchführt. Und diese Trials sind weit von der Ostküste der USA.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die Satellitbilder, die von Maxar-Technologien erhoben und mit The Hill teilt, zeigen einen konvertierten Kommerzialkontainerschiff, der nun als Drohnenlaunch-Vessel ausgeführt wurde und auf einem iranischen Flughafen im persischen Golf geankert wurde, nicht auf dem Jersey Shore, wie man es vorhin erwähnt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die Vesselsmodifikationen betreffen eine Ski-Jump-Rampe, natürlich benötigt man eine dieser, und ein eingelagertes Flugzeug, beide für den Launching und Recovering von Drohnen. Auf der Flanke des Fahrzeuges befinden sich zwei ähnliche Wesen, die zeigen Iran's wachsende Drohnen-Arsenal.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Interessanterweise, und, naja, ich glaube, bemerkenswert genug, hat der Drohnen-Fahrzeug seit Wochen ohne Zugang gearbeitet, mit Satelliten-Daten, die zeigen, dass es irgendwann zwischen 12 und 28 November aus Iran aus dem Naval-Port fliegt. Spekulationen über das Wachstum des Fahrzeugs haben letzte Woche einen Fieber-Pitch erreicht, als New Jersey-Repräsentant Jeff Fandrew
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
beurteilt, dass ein iranischer Schiff die Drohnenaktivität auf der Ostküste verantwortlich war, eine Erklärung, die der Pentagon schließlich als unabhängig verabschiedet, bestätigte, dass es, Quote, keine Beweise gab, die Iran zu den Beobachtungen linken. Of course, the Pentagon unfortunately failed to provide evidence that would link the drones to anyone.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Van Drew's citing from his confidential sources regarding the whereabouts of the drone carrier suggests Iran had been conducting clandestine drone operations near New Jersey and Staten Island. The latest satellite imagery, well, along with the statements from the Pentagon and White House, would seem to refute that notion.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Wir beginnen heute's Show mit einem Blick darauf, warum der iranische Regime vielleicht in Schwierigkeiten ist, da sein wichtiger Alli, Hezbollah, auf der Suche nach der Rückkehr von verdächtigen Leidenschaftsverlusten kämpft, während der Fall des Assad-Regimes in Syrien die Influence Tehrans in der Region deutlich verringert.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Still, the drone mystery, well, it continues, including a sighting that had the FAA temporarily shut down Stewart International Airport, that's some 60 miles north of New York City, for a drone buzzing overhead on Friday night. Since mid-November, New Jersey residents have flooded federal hotlines with nearly 5,000 tips.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
However, federal investigators, including the FBI, confirmed that fewer than 100 of those reports yielded any actionable leads. Against the backdrop of escalating unease, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York called on Congress Saturday to pass the Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Authority Security Safety and Reauthorization Act, who comes up with the names for these acts.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Legislationen, die die FAA-Übersicht von Drohnen-Aktivitäten verbessern, und die lokalen Behörden ermöglichten, die Aufmerksamkeit zu erhöhen, um zu reagieren auf mögliche Threaten. Hochul sagte, das sei zu weit gegangen. Das ist ziemlich die Quote. Er drückte auf zusätzliche föderale Ressourcen, um die Zerstörung zu beantworten.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
New Jersey-Gouverneur Phil Murphy, ehemaliger Maryland-Gouverneur Larry Hogan und mehrere Mitglieder des Kongresses haben auch die föderale Regierung geäußert, um die Zerstörung zu beurteilen. Trotz dieser Bemühungen bleibt die Grundlage der Drohnenaktivität unbekannt, was in der heutigen Welt mit der heutigen Technologie seltsam scheint.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Die FAA und die FBI haben noch nicht einen klaren Link zwischen den Anzeigen und irgendeinem offiziellen oder domestischen Schauspieler erstellt. Und natürlich gibt es immer die Möglichkeit, dass die Drohnen Teil eines US-Government Black-Files-Projekts sind, vielleicht Testfähigkeiten oder neue Technologien, obwohl man sich fragen muss, warum sie in plain sight funktionieren würden.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Und für jetzt, der iranische Drohnen-Karrier, naja, es bleibt im persischen Golf aufgestanden und es gibt noch keine Beweise, dass es mit den Drohnen in den USA eine kritische Infrastruktur zerstört.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
And in other unidentified mysterious drone news, there's lots of it, the airspace over Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, that's a massive military complex in Ohio, was closed temporarily over this past weekend due to, you got it, drone intrusions. The airspace has since reopened, but while there's no word on the origins or ownership of those drones.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Now, Wright-Patterson is home to the Air Force Research Lab, the Air Force Material Command, the 655th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, and the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, among other important elements.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Look, if it seems like the US government, the military and law enforcement don't have clear, consistent guidelines for dealing with drone intrusions over and near critical infrastructure, well, you wouldn't be wrong. Perhaps, and here I'm just spitballing, perhaps it's time that they get that sorted out. Okay, turning to South Korea. We're in a historic move.
The President's Daily Brief
December 16th, 2024: Will Iran Be The Next To Fall? & Iran’s ‘Drone Motherships’ Revealed
Später im Show zeigen neue Satellitenbilder Iran's sogenannten Drohnen-Motherships, und es scheint, trotz einiger Beleidigungen, dass sie nirgendwo am oberen Osten sind. Außerdem werden wir ein Update auf den politischen Chaos in Südkorea haben, wo die Parlamentarier die enttäuschende Präsidentin nach seinem Martial-Law-Debakel empfohlen haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Radio Free Asia is reporting that by Thursday of last week, virtually no cargo ships were bound for the U.S., Where ships once departed in constant rotation, now stacks of unshipped containers are sitting idle, missing the critical 9th of April deadline set by President Trump's new 125% tariff announcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Shanghai's terminals, ports that just days ago were bustling with activity, came to an abrupt halt, according to Chinese media outlet Kaixin. Earlier in the week, nearly half the vessels at those docks were headed for American shores. But now... Well, it's silence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Similar scenes are unfolding in Shenzhen at the Yantian Terminal in Guangdong, one of the busiest and most important export gateways in all of China. This region is basically the heart of the country's trade engine. It churns out electronics, machinery, textiles and more. An export businessman there said the slowdown is visible and dramatic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
und der Bottle-Neck scheint nicht am Ende des Wassers zu stoppen. Werkstätten sind voller ungeleiteten Produkte, die hauptsächlich für US-Betreiber geplant sind. Die Werkstätten in China's Top Export Provinces sind beruflich auf dem Standstill, und viele Arbeiter sitzen jetzt unabhängig von ihren Zukunftsvermögen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
According to the New York Times, some garment factories that primarily ship to the US have already shut down temporarily. Others are scrambling to reroute goods to alternative markets or find new customers inside China itself.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Factory managers are of course anxious, some facing last-minute cancellations from US buyers, others wondering if their slim profit margins will survive this latest round of disruption. As we reported this morning, the administration carved out temporary exemptions for key products like smartphones and hard drives and other electronics.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
That gives American tech firms and consumers some short-term relief, but President Trump has made it clear that those goods aren't off the hook permanently. They'll simply be reassigned to a different tariff schedule and category at some point in the future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Bottom line, if the point of the tariffs is to exert pressure and cause disruption inside China, well, then it appears that the mission is accomplished or being accomplished. Goods are piling up in Chinese ports and factory production is slowing. But with supply chains so deeply intertwined, the ripple effects obviously won't stop at the Pacific.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
The real question now is how long both sides are willing to endure the pain. And as with most trade wars, well, okay, frankly, as with most wars, it's all a matter of who blinks first. Alright, coming up next, at least 30 people are dead in Russia's latest missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Look at that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
It's grilling season. Very happy to report that. And I'm very happy to let you know where you can get the finest beef to throw on the grill. It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I am talking about TriTales Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Now, this isn't some corporate meat factory, not some mass-produced operation of a faceless corporation. Tritails is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, there's no mystery here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch... Big Flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support Real Ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Präsident Trump hat den Gold- und Silber-Bullion aus den steigenden Tarifen spezialisiert. Und während diese neuen Policien signifikante finanzielle Chaos triggeren, hat die Regierung die Möglichkeit behauptet, sich zu diversifizieren in prekische Metalle. Wenn Sie sich um Ihre Erhöhungen interessieren, empfehle ich Ihnen, eine kostenlose Berchgold-prekische-Metalle-Spezialistin zu haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
The first step is to text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with signs of trouble at China's largest commercial ports. Factories are going quiet and goods are piling up, all likely fallout from President Trump's new tariffs. Later in the show, Russia marks Palm Sunday with a missile strike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, that's simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep. Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true. Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights. Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Make sleep a priority now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Visit CozyEarth.com and use my exclusive code PDB for up to 40% off. That's 4-0, 40% off Cozy Earth's best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas and more. That's CozyEarth.com, code PDB. And if you get a post-purchase survey, well, tell them you heard about Cozy Earth right here. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessantes Faktum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Wisst ihr, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt wird? Denkt daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist dein Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, nicht wahr?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich teure Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ausgestattet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Russia unleashed a deadly missile bombardment on the heart of the Ukrainian city of Sumy over the weekend as people gathered for Palm Sunday celebrations, provoking international outrage and leaving many questioning the Trump administration's approach to peace talks with Russian President Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Zwei Ballistik-Missilien haben die Stadt um 10.15 Uhr am Sonntag, als Zivilisten die Kirchenverwaltungen anwesend waren, mindestens 34 Menschen getötet und mindestens 117 verletzt in der jüngsten Todesstrecke in der Ukraine dieses Jahres. Einer der Missilien rippte durch ein Universitätsgebäude, während der andere über eine brenzlose Straße detonierte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Ukrainer Offiziere sagten, dass Kluster-Munitionen in der Angriffszeit verwendet wurden, um so viele Menschen wie möglich zu töten, so ein Bericht der Associated Press. Two children were among the scores of people killed, with another 15 children wounded by the attack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Images from the scene showed bombed-out buildings, shells of burned-out cars and dozens of black body bags lining the side of the road. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy issued a fiery condemnation of the strike, saying, "...only filthy scum can act like this, taking the lives of ordinary people. Russia wants exactly this kind of terror and is dragging out this war."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Zelenskyy called for a swift global response to the attack, adding, "...without pressure on the aggressor, peace is impossible. Talking has never stopped ballistic missiles and bombs. We need to treat Russia as a terrorist deserves." Nun, der Angriff auf Sumy war der zweite große-Skala-Attack, der in nur über einer Woche zivilisierte. Es folgte einem sterblichen 4.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
That's not a traditional way to celebrate Palm Sunday. With a missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing at least 30 and signaling President Putin, well, has zero interest in peace. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
April-Missil-Angriff auf Zelenskys Heimatstadt, der 20 Menschen, insbesondere neun Kinder, getötet hat. Die internationale Verurteilung des Angriffs war schnell, mit den ukrainischen europäischen Alliieren, die neue Sanktionen gegen Moskau anrufen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Kajikales, der Europäische Union-Foreign-Polizei-Chef, nannte es ein, Quote, schreckliches Beispiel für russische intensivierende Angriffe, während die Ukraine einen unabhängigen Ausbruch erhielt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Der französische Präsident Emmanuel Macron sagte, Putin habe wieder einmal einen, Quote, blöden Ausdruck für die Menschenleben, die internationalen Rechte und die diplomatischen Bemühungen von Präsident Trump, und sagte, dass die USA und europäische Alliierten müssen sich bewegen, um sofort starke Maßnahmen einzusetzen, um Russland in einen Ausbruch zu bringen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
UK-Prize-Minister Keir Starmer hat diesen Ereignis geäußert, indem er sagte, er sei, Quote, überrascht und, Quote, Putin müsse jetzt zu einem vollen und sofortigen Ausbruch ohne Bedingungen verabschieden. Ja, das wird passieren. Die EU-Ambassadier der Ukraine nannte es, Quote, Kriegskrieg, wie es die Führer in Lithuania und Deutschlands wahrscheinlich nächster Kanzler Friedrich Merz.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Merz sagte, der Angriff zeigte, dass es naiv war, sich mit Putin zu engagieren, der klar die westlichen diplomatischen Übertreibungen als Zeichen der Schwierigkeit bezeichnete. Er suggerierte, es sei Zeit, die Ukraine mit Taurus-Long-Range-Missilen in Koordination mit europäischen Alliieren zu starten, um Kiew zu helfen, Russlands weiterer Aggressionen zu kontern.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
We should note, Russia's strikes came just two days after US-Envoy Steve Witkow met with Putin to discuss peace prospects. Given the timing, Poland's foreign minister said Putin was clearly mocking the goodwill of the Trump administration, demonstrating that he has no real interest in pursuing peace negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Leaders across Europe implored the Trump administration to take a more hardline approach against Russia. And members of the Trump administration offered similar condemnations, with retired US General Keith Kellogg, the special envoy for Ukraine, accusing Russia of violating, quote, any line of decency by brazenly targeting civilians.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Staatssekretär Marco Rubio nannte es eine furchtbare und, Quote, tragische Erinnerung darauf, warum Präsident Trump und seine Administration so viel Zeit und Arbeit in der Versuchung sind, diesen Krieg zu beenden, Ende Quote. Nun, Präsident Trump hat Augenbrauen mit seiner Reaktion.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Der Präsident nannte den Angriff, Quote, schrecklich, aber sagte, Quote, ich wurde gesagt, sie haben einen Fehler gemacht, aber ich denke, es ist eine schreckliche Sache. Ich denke, die ganze Krieg ist eine schreckliche Sache.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
The impact of the escalating US-China tariffs war is already being felt, not just in the markets or financial circles, but on the ground at China's largest export hubs. In Shanghai and Guangdong, two of the country's most critical ports for foreign trade, operations have essentially slowed to a crawl.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Der Kremlin hat mittlerweile eine flimsy Justifikation für den Angriff erhoben, indem sie beurteilt haben, dass sie eine Beratung von ukrainischen Militärbeamten beurteilen und dass ihre Angriffe exklusiv auf militärische und nahe militärische Angriffe angewiesen sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Der russische Minister des Verteidigungsgerichts hat sich so weit verurteilt, dass er die Karnage der ukrainischen Militärbeamten verurteilt hat, dass sie ihre Bevölkerung als menschliche Schilder verwendet haben, indem sie Beratungen in densely populierenden Bereichen halten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
But Ukraine's Minister for Foreign Affairs hit back, noting that since Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited pause on strikes on energy infrastructure in late March, Moscow has launched almost 70 missiles, 2,200 exploding drones and 6,000 guided aerial bombs at Ukraine, mostly targeting civilian infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
The latest strikes come as Kyiv warns that Moscow is building up forces for a fresh spring offensive to improve its negotiating hand in ongoing peace talks. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 14th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 14th, 2025: Chinese Factories Halt And Ports Jammed In Trade War Fallout & Russian Missile Attacks Rocks Ukraine
Starte deinen Test noch heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump expanded the military's authority along the U.S. southern border, signing a presidential memorandum that transfers jurisdiction over a stretch of federally owned land to the Defense Department to enhance border security operations. The order, released Friday evening, grants the Pentagon control over what's known as the Roosevelt Reservation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
That's a 60-foot-wide corridor of federal land that cuts through California, Arizona and New Mexico. Now, it's important to point out that American Indian reservations remain exempt from the order, not included in this order. Trump wrote in the memo, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
The move effectively clears the path for the military to take the lead on a series of enforcement and infrastructure efforts, potentially including expanded barriers, heightened surveillance operations and advanced detection systems. According to defense officials, the Pentagon is expected to evaluate the initial phase of operations, including staffing requirements, within the first 45 days.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Though the memorandum stops short of explicitly authorizing detention centers, senior administration officials confirm that the Roosevelt Reservation is being actively considered as a staging ground for temporarily holding migrants who enter the U.S. illegally.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
With the federal detention system nearing capacity, the administration views the site as a critical pressure valve in its broader effort to streamline deportations. Offizielle beurteilen, dass aufwändige Bottlenecks im Migranten-Prozess die Risiken der Mass-Deportation-Strategie des White Houses unterbinden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Seit seinem ersten Tag im Büro, hat Trump keine Zeit verpasst, eine nationalen Erkrankung an der südlichen Grenze zu beurteilen, aktivistische Truppen zu mobilisieren, zusammen mit den Texas-National Guard Units und Staatsanwälten unter einer separaten Disaster-Deklaration. Diese militärische Präsenz ist seitdem ein Körnerstein der Regierungs-Border-Strategie.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
The new order comes as unauthorized border crossings have dropped to their lowest levels in years. After a prolonged surge during the Biden era, the numbers sharply declined in early 2025, lower than during Trump's first administration.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Now the White House attributes this outcome to a combination of stricter enforcement policies, accelerated deportations and a vastly expanded federal presence on the ground. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 14th of April. If you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, we head to the U.S. southern border, where President Trump has given the Pentagon new authority over federal land to expand immigration enforcement efforts. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. There may be a slight thaw in the trade war between the US and China, at least for now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
And hopefully you had a chance to catch the latest episode of the PDB Situation Report over the weekend. If not, well, there's no need to stress, you can catch it and past episodes on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and of course on all podcast platforms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Our terrific guests this past weekend included Gordon Chang and George Barrows, talking all things China, Russia and Ukraine. And of course we went through my famous tips on making fancy Easter Sunday table centerpieces out of classified documents. You don't want to miss that. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the BDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
In a surprise move late Friday night, the US Customs and Border Protection published a new list of exemptions to President Trump's sweeping tariff policy. Among the products now spared from steep import taxes would be smartphones, hard drives, processors, solar cells, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, flat panel displays and memory chips.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Die Veränderung scheint diese Geräte von der Basis-10%-Tarif, die für die meisten Länder geeignet ist, und mehr wichtig, von der massiven 145% China-spezifischen Tarif, die einfach in Effekt ging. In anderen Worten, naja, der Techniksektor hat einfach eine massive Leitlinie.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Die Rückkehr ist natürlich besonders willkommen für Amerikas Tech-Giants, die auf China für sowohl Arbeit als auch Komponenten stark aufmerksam bleiben.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Während Politiker auf dem ganzen Spektrum seit Jahrhunderten für das, was sie als Dekoupling bezeichnen, geholfen haben, spielt das Land natürlich immer noch eine wichtige Rolle beim Produzieren und Zusammenfassen von amerikanischer Technik, sowohl wegen ihrer massiven Produktionstätigkeit als auch wegen ihres intrakten Unternehmens.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Nun, wenn du ein klares Beispiel dafür willst, dann schau dir Apple an. Obwohl ihre Geräte in Kalifornien designt sind, sind fast alle iPhones, iPads und MacBooks in China von Foxconn zusammengebaut, die Hunderten von Tausenden Arbeiterinnen und Arbeiter in den berühmten Industrieparken umfasst.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Diese Faktoren relying on nearby Chinese companies to supply key components like glass screens, batteries and camera modules before final assembly. Any disruption, be it from tariffs or political tensions, could send shockwaves through Apples global supply chain. And the costs add up fast. According to the Wall Street Journal, producing an iPhone Pro in China costs Apple about 550 US dollars.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
But with tariffs in place, that number would jump to 820 dollars. That's an increase that would almost certainly be passed on to American consumers, with prices for the new iPhone potentially pushing 2,000 dollars. That kind of sticker shock. Es könnte die Bedrohung und die Effekte des Rippels über den gesamten Konsum-Elektronik-Sektor verursachen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Also könnte es Zeit sein, das alte Flip-Phone aus den 1980er-Jahren zu brechen. Oh, das waren gute Geräte. Und danke Gott, ich habe meinen Beeper aufgenommen. Es ist nicht nur Apple. Im Allgemeinen zählt China für fast 25 Prozent aller elektronischen Geräte, die in die USA importiert werden. Das ist laut der US-Internationalen Vertreterkommission.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Whether we like it or not, the American tech economy still flows through Chinese factories. Of course, China is retaliating too. On Friday, Beijing raised its tariffs on US imports to 125%. But notably, it also announced that it had no intention of increasing those duties any further. That, along with the White House's exemptions, suggests that both sides may be seeking to cool things down.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Nun, die USA sind natürlich nicht so abhängig von Exporten nach China, wie China bei Exporten nach den USA ist, aber der Einfluss wird immer noch bedeutend sein. China bleibt der dritte größte Verkäufer amerikanischer Produkte, hinter nur Kanada und Mexiko, die im letzten Jahr fast 150 Billionen Dollar in US-Exporte gekauft haben.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Das betrifft kritische Sektoren wie Landwirtschaft und Flugzeug, Zwiebeln, Pfeffer, Fleisch, Flugzeuge, Teile. Wenn die Handelskriege weitergehen, können Industrien, die bereits auf dünnen Grenzen arbeiten, besonders im Südwesten und im Pazifischen Nordwesten, die Schmerzen relativ schnell fühlen. Für jetzt, die neuesten Bewegungen können der Technikindustrie ein bisschen Raum geben.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Aber, bis jetzt, ist die breitere Handelsbeziehung, naja, das bleibt ungewiss. Alright, coming up next. America holds direct talks, well, sort of, with Iran for the first time in years. And the Trump administration lays out its plan to acquire Greenland. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, it's grilling season. Oh, that's a good thing.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on your grill. It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. Now, of course, I'm talking about TriTales Beef. This isn't some corporate meat factory, not some mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch, where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. No middlemen, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
It's Monday, the 14th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a shift in the US-China trade war. Now the White House is exempting smartphones and other key electronics from its new round of tariffs, hoping to spare American consumers and tech companies.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
The US and Iran held their highest level official discussions in years on Saturday, launching indirect nuclear talks in Oman amid rising tensions over the Iranian regime's accelerating uranium enrichment program.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
The meeting, held at a fortified compound on the outskirts of Muscat, was brokered by Omani Foreign Minister Saeed Badr, who shuttled messages between the two sides for just over two hours.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
While Tehran initially rebuffed the idea of face-to-face contact, the talks ultimately yielded a brief, direct exchange between Special Envoy Stephen Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araji, the first such meeting since President Trump returned to office. The White House later described the discussions as, quote, very positive and constructive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Iranian state media confirmed the short direct exchange, with Arachi signaling openness to a follow-up session focused on establishing a general framework for a new nuclear accord. He told Iranian state media, quote, we're seeking an agreement as quickly as possible, though reaching a deal will not be easy, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Speaking aboard Air Force One, President Trump struck a cautiously optimistic tone, telling reporters, "...I think the talks are going okay. Nothing matters until you get it done." Sources familiar with the negotiations say Iran is pressing for rapid sanctions relief. Zugang zu Billionen an kühlen Währungen auf der Welt und ein Ende der US-Pressur, die Öl-Exporte nach China richtet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
In der Rückkehr hat Tehran einen Vorschlag vorgelegt, den Uran-Einsatz zurückzuwerfen, zu dem 3,67%-Kapseln, das unter dem 2015-Nuklear-Deal gesetzt wurde, den Trump 2018 verlassen hat. But there's a long road between intent and execution. As of now, the Iranian regime is enriching uranium to 60% purity, just short of the 90% threshold needed for a nuclear weapon.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
And they've stockpiled more than 18,000 pounds of enriched material. That's according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. While U.S. intelligence officials say that the Mullahs have not yet taken steps to weaponize the material, they warn that it is approaching breakout capability.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Iran versucht weiterhin, dass ihr Programm für friedliche Gründe ist, und hat Redline gedreht während der Gespräche, die Entschädigung, das Reaffirmen ihres Rechtes, sich zu enrichieren, und die Opposition zu allen Inspektionen, die außerhalb des Kurses der existenten IAEA-Protokolle sind. Nun, also, nicht wirklich mit irgendwelchen bedeutenden Konzessionen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Es scheint, als ob sie eine Seite aus Wladimir Putins Negotiations-Playbook nehmen. Auf der amerikanischen Seite hat Witkow die Grundlage der Trump-Administration wiedergegeben. Iran muss keine nukleare Waffe erhalten lassen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Der ehemalige Staatssekretär Mike Pompeo hat diese Botschaft auf Fox News unterschrieben und gesagt, dass kein Vertrauen möglich ist, ohne dass das iranische Regime seine nuklearen Ambitionen völlig verlassen. Analysts say the opening for diplomacy is likely a byproduct of mounting US military pressure.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Rebecca Grant, a senior fellow at the Lexington Institute American Think Tank, stated, quote, all the options are not only on the table, they're all deployed to the Middle East. She's referring to what we've been tracking here on the PDB regarding the March deployment of B-2 Stealth Bombers to Diego Garcia, a joint UK-US military base in the Indian Ocean, and the deployment of two carrier groups.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
I'll have the latest details on that. Later in the show, American and Iranian officials just held their first face-to-face talks in years. Well, sort of face-to-face. With the exception of a brief direct conversation, the bulk of the discussion was held indirectly using Omani mediators. The White House is calling the meeting, quote, constructive, with more negotiations on the way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
She added, quote, Iran either has to talk or get their nuclear facilities bombed, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Vertreter General Jack Keane hat eine ähnliche Untersuchung gefordert, mit Fox News zu erzählen, dass sie zu der Schlussfolgerung gekommen sind, dass der Präsident sehr ernsthaft an einem israelischen-gelegten US-gelegten Angriff auf Iran zu unterstützen, um ihre nukleare Unternehmensentwicklung aufzunehmen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
That posture aligns with Prime Minister Netanyahu's Oval Office meeting with Trump last week, where he reiterated support for a Libya-style disarmament model, one that would require Iran to surrender its nuclear infrastructure entirely. The next round of talks is scheduled for 19 April, again in Oman. However, inspection protocols remain a sticking point. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
officials say any deal must include extensive inspections um sicherzustellen, dass Iran sein Waffenprogramm unter dem Radar starten kann. Und wie wir hier auf der PDB in der Vergangenheit diskutiert haben, hat der alte 2015-Verein nicht die volle Verwaltung gegeben, da die Iraner die Möglichkeit hatten, bestimmte Fakultäten, bestimmte Schlüsselfakultäten, aus der Inspektionsliste zu halten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Okay, turning stateside. President Trump's longstanding ambition to acquire Greenland from Denmark has shifted from rhetorical flair to official policy, as the White House begins orchestrating a campaign to bring the world's largest island under American control.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Am Zentrum dieser Strategie ist ein steigender öffentlich-relevanter Druck, der sich auf die Bevölkerung von etwa 57.000 Greenlandern konzentriert, viele von denen Inuit sind, mit tiefen ältere Beziehungen zu den indigenischen Gemeinschaften in Alaska. Als Teil dieser Messungsoperation schlägt die Regierung hart auf kulturelle Gemeinschaft und ökonomische Voraussetzungen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
According to officials familiar with the plan, the U.S. intends to portray its stewardship as a gateway to prosperity, modern infrastructure and protection from foreign adversaries. Social media campaigns and targeted advertising are expected to play a key role.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Internal White House discussions have floated the idea of linking Greenland's future to Alaska's economic model, where residents receive yearly dividend checks from oil revenues. The underlying pitch? Align with the US and you'll get paid. Aktuell bietet Dänemark Griechenland mit rund 600 Millionen Dollar in Zinsen. Unter US-Gewerkschaft könnte diese Figur dramatisch erhöhen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Eine Bewertung, die in der Westseite geblieben ist, zeigt, dass die USA jährlich so viel wie 10.000 Dollar pro Person bieten könnten. The administration argues that this investment would be recouped through access to Greenlands vast and largely untapped natural resources, including rare earth minerals, uranium and oil spread across its 836,000 square mile expanse.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
For reference, that's an area equivalent to approximately 22% of the US. Still, there is a high degree of skepticism, both in Greenland and in the US. In Greenlands most recent election, an independence-leaning party favoring closer ties with the US won just 25% of the vote, suggesting that while interest in alternatives to Danish rule exists, widespread support remains elusive.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
As we've discussed here on the PDB, Vice President J.D. Vance and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz have already traveled to Greenland to pitch the vision in person, laying the groundwork for what President Trump envisions as a peaceful annexation via Greenlandic self-determination. Now, Danish officials, however, are not buying it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
The Danish Prime Minister has publicly slammed the effort as coercive and dangerous, bluntly stating, quote, you cannot annex another country, end quote. Well, somebody should tell that to Vladimir Putin. While the White House insists its approach is democratic and voluntary, Trump's repeated assertions that the U.S. will gain control, quote, one way or another, has obviously unsettled Copenhagen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief. President Trump gives the Pentagon control of key federal lands along the US southern border, expanding the military's role in immigration enforcement. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, the tariffs and the trade wars have thrown the global economy into chaos. I think that's fair to say.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Plus, the Trump administration has revealed its plan to acquire Greenland. They're not giving up on that. It doesn't include a military option, but the US may be ready to spend big to make the Arctic Island American. Now, given inflation, I suspect that Greenland is going to cost a lot more than what the US spent on either Manhattan or the Louisiana Purchase back in the day.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions is weighing heavily, frankly, on all of us. But there's a silver lining that I think most people missed. And actually, it's a silver and gold lining. Präsident Trump hat den Gold- und Silber-Bullion von diesen steigenden Tarifen spezialisiert.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Und während diese neuen Policien signifikante finanzielle Chaos erzeugen, hat die Regierung die Möglichkeit behauptet, sich zu diversifizieren in reiche Metalle. Also, wenn Sie sich um Ihre Erhöhungen interessieren, empfehle ich Ihnen, eine kostenlose Konsultation mit einem Berchgold-Reihe-Metall-Spezialisten zu haben.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Schauen Sie, der erste Schritt ist, PDB zu 989-898 zu schicken und Ihren kostenlosen No-Obligation-Informationen-Kits auf Gold zu bekommen. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birchgold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of your pocket.
The President's Daily Brief
April 14th, 2025: Trump Rolls Back China Tariffs & American And Iranian Officials Meet Face-To-Face
Find out why so many Americans trust Birchgold Group to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, all you gotta do is simple text BDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
But fear not, during my absence, the esteemed Mike Slater will be filling in for me to ensure that the PDB keeps you informed every day. I'll be back on 8 February, assuming we make it. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
An update out of Iran, where the Islamic regime recently released footage of so-called underground missile cities and claimed they're ramping up weapons production as they prepare for the imminent return of Donald Trump to the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Later in the show, we'll have the latest on the elusive ceasefire in Gaza, as mediators report a potential breakthrough in negotiations that could see a deal finalized as early as this week. Now, there have been a lot of false starts and dashed hopes during the course of past negotiations. So, let's hope a deal is finally reached.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Aber zuerst möchte ich mit Iran anfangen, wo der islamistische Regime ein Ausdruck von Macht für Israel und die USA vermittelt, eine Reihe von Kriegsgames durchgeführt und über ihre riesigen offensiven Missilien-Fähigkeiten geredet, bevor Donald Trump nach dem Oval Office zurückkehrt. Über den Wochenende.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Offiziere des iranischen Islamistischen Revolutionär-Gardenkorps, dem IRGC, haben Fotos von einer undergrounden Missile-City entdeckt, die besagt, dass sie Waffenproduktion und die Verarbeitung von neuen speziellen Missilen aufräumen, so ein Bericht von den Zeiten von Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Das Foto zeigte den IRGC-Kommandanten, der den großen Untergrundkomplex durch Tunnels tourierte, die groß genug waren, um Truppenflieger und mehrere Missilien-Produktionen zu organisieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Nun, die Basis wurde in den iranischen Missilien-Attacken gegen Israel im April und Oktober dieses letzten Jahres verwendet, und die Offiziere, sagte das veröffentlichte Foto, zeigten nur 10% des Untergrundkomplexes. Offizielle beschreiben den Ort als ein, Quote, dormantes Volcano, Warnung, Quote, der Volcano, der unter diesen Bergen liegt, kann in der kürzesten Zeit möglichen, Ende Quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
In der Fotografie hat der IRGC-Chef die Erklärung verabschiedet, dass das iranische Militär von seiner Proxy-Wahl mit Israel und dem Fall des syrischen Diktators Assad katastrophal verletzt worden ist. And they describe that as just enemy propaganda. He said in reality, the regime currently has more missiles than it's able to store. Okay, sure, pal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Apparently, they've had to rent out several self-storage units. The IRGC leader said, quote, maybe the enemy thought that our production power has stagnated, but the growth rate of our missile power is rising, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Die Sabre-Rattlung kam, als der Regime eine Serie von Luftwaffen-Exzerszenzen am Sonntag gehalten hat, die etwa 110.000 Mitglieder seiner Volunteer-Mitgliedschaften in der städtischen Stadt Tehran beobachtet haben. Die Exzerszenzen wurden berühmt, ihre Antworten auf Luft-, Missil- und elektronische Kriegsverletzungen in wirklichen Kriegsbedingungen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Die Drillen sind Teil von zwei Monaten von Übungen, die der Regime am 4. Januar begonnen hat, die bereits Kriegsgänge betrifft, die die IRGC betroffen, eine wichtige nukleare Installation in Natanz gegen Mock-Attacken von Missilen und Drohnen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Am Montag sagten iranische Offiziere, neue Drillen und Kriegsgänge, die später dieses Monats geschliffen wurden, würden zusätzliche Missil- und Drohnen-Städte entdecken, z.B. Untergrundsitzungen im Süden Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Iranian Leaders are said to be readying for the possibility that President-elect Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu may partner to attack Iran's nuclear sites after the 20 January inauguration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Recently discussed on the PDB, Trump is mulling scenarios where the US could either support an Israeli military strike against Iranian nuclear facilities or mount their own preemptive strikes on the sites. Still, it remains unclear what Trump's preferred path forward is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Despite speculation regarding a potential strike on Iran, other sources close to Trump have said he'll likely attempt to strike a new nuclear agreement with Tehran before turning to military options. Trotzdem präsentiert Trump eine Rückkehr zu der Quote-Maximum-Pressure-Kampagne gegen Iran, die er während seines ersten Termins gesehen hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Transition-Sourcen haben gesagt, dass es beginnen wird mit drastisch erhöhten Sanktionen auf das Regime, besonders die, die sich auf ihre Öl-Exporte richten, als Teil einer breiteren Strategie, um Iran's finanzielle und militärische Unterstützung von Terroristen-Proxys im Mittleren Osten zu schlagen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Coming up next, we'll have the latest on ceasefire talks in Gaza, as mediators report a potential breakthrough in negotiations that could see a deal finalized as early as this week. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Anyone can watch what you're doing and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutet 100% deines Vertrags durch sichere, encrypted Servern, damit dein ISP deine Browsing-Historie nicht sehen kann. Weil all dein Vertrag durch ihre Servern fließt, wissen Internet-Service-Betreiber jede einzelne Website, die du besuchst.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
It's Monday, 13 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. As you've probably heard by now from family and friends, or maybe you heard it during a recent White House press conference, I'll be in the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan starting tomorrow until 7 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Weißt du das? Und sie halten an dieser Information. Und weißt du, dass in den USA ISPs legal ermöglicht sind, diese Information an Advertisern zu verkaufen? Das ist wahr. ExpressVPN arbeitet auf all deinen Geräten und ist einfach zu benutzen. Und das ist wichtig. Just fire up the app. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, Code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
I want to provide an update on the Israel-Hamas negotiations, as a midnight breakthrough led mediators to present a final draft agreement, potentially paving the way to end the war, at least for a period of time, in Gaza. The proposal follows months of diplomatic wrangling by the US, Qatar and Egypt, as well as by President-elect Trump's transition team.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
According to officials involved in the negotiations, the draft, delivered in Doha, outlines terms for a ceasefire and hostage release, marking substantial progress in the discussions. The officials stated, quote, the next 24 hours will be pivotal to reaching a deal, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Gutters Vizepräsident hat die Gespräche am frühen Montag verabschiedet, mit hochrangigen israelischen Offizieren zusammenzubringen, insbesondere den Händen von Mossad und Shin Bet. Trumps US-Anwalt D. Witkow war auch eine zentrale Figur in den Negotiativen, die zwischen Doha und Jerusalem reist, um den Unterschied zwischen den Parteien zu reduzieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
While optimism surrounds the latest developments, several roadblocks remain. Hamas officials told CNN that they now demand an Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphia corridor. That's a nine-mile-long strip of land along the Gaza and Egypt border. Hamas is pressing for a permanent ceasefire, whereas Israel hesitated to commit beyond a temporary halt to hostilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu previously vowed to fight until achieving, quote, "...total victory." According to CNN, disagreements also persist over the size of a proposed buffer zone inside Gaza along the Strip's eastern and northern borders, adding further complexity, of course. Hamas insists on reverting to pre-7 October dimensions of 300 to 545 yards.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
In der Zwischenzeit drückt Israel's Counter-Proposal für eine Erweiterung von 2.200 Yards, mit den Sicherheitskönnern von den 7 Oktober-Terror-Attacken, bei denen natürlich die Buffer-Zonen keine Befreiung bieten. Die 20. Januar-Inauguration des Präsidenten-Elekt Trump erzeugt Anstrengungen bei den Negotierungen, mit vielen in der Region, die es als de facto zu Ende beobachten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Five of us from the UK Special Forces Club are setting off on an epic trek to raise awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. Der Fund arbeitet, um die Vereinigten Königsländer, die Militär und die Veteranen und ihre Familien in nötigen Zeiten zu kümmern. Fünf Fahrradfahrer, zehn Kamels und eine großartige Unterstützungsteam.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Trump last week issued a warning to Hamas, stating, "...if those hostages aren't back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East." His envoy, Witkow, reportedly pressed Israeli negotiators in Doha to finalize the agreement before the transition of power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Outgoing President Biden, remember him, also prioritized the talks, aiming to secure a ceasefire as a diplomatic legacy before departing office. Biden emphasized the urgency during a call with Netanyahu on Sunday, stressing, "...the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and return of the hostages with a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a stoppage in the fighting."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
The Biden administration remains optimistic about an impending deal, with White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan telling Bloomberg News earlier today that an agreement could be reached as early as this week. Well, not to be churlish or cynical, but the Biden White House has been optimistic about every failed potential deal since negotiations started last year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
I mean, at this point, you'd think they'd keep their powder dry and simply say they're working on it and are hoping for the best. As the negotiations enter a critical phase, time is limited for a resolution before the change in US leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Officials close to the negotiations describe the coming hours and days as pivotal for securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages, as international pressure mounts to finalize an agreement. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 13 January. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
And remember, Mike Slater will be guest hosting during my absence starting tomorrow, Tuesday, 14 January. I know the PDB community is in very good hands while I wander in the desert. And if you'd like to learn more about the trek and our cause, the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund, please go to their website. Look at me with a prop. Huh? How about that? Thank you, PDB prop department.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
That's www.sfcbf.org for more information. You can also follow along by checking out the Trek's Instagram, Facebook and other social media sites. Just search SFCBF Trek. That's it. Couldn't be simpler. I'm Mike Baker and until early February when we reach Aqaba, please stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 13th, 2025: Iran's Underground Missile Cities & Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough
Es ist ein 700-Mile-Tour durch die Wälder von Saudi-Arabien und Jordan, um die 1917-Route von Arabien und einer kleinen arabischen Armee zurückzukehren. crossing what was considered the uncrossable desert. Now, I'll be providing updates on our progress whenever we have decent comms.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
More on that when we come back. In today's Back of the Brief, I want to provide the latest on the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. After progress over the weekend in containing the Palisades and Eaton fires, firefighters prepare for a dangerous resurgence of high winds that could threaten new areas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Starting with the Palisades fire, which is wreaking havoc across the affluent Pacific Palisades enclave and neighboring coastal areas, The blaze has consumed over 23,700 acres. Containment crept up to 11% on Sunday, that's up from 8% on Friday, thanks to a brief reprieve from high winds and a rise in humidity.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
The fire has destroyed over 5,300 structures and continues to threaten iconic landmarks along the Pacific Coast Highway, ranking among the most destructive fires in state history. Inland, the Eaton Fire, left a similarly devastating trail, scorching over 14,000 acres in the Altadena and Pasadena areas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Though containment jumped to 27% over the weekend, up from just 3% on Friday, the fire's erratic behavior leaves over 39,000 structures at risk. More than 105,000 residents in Los Angeles County are under evacuation orders, while an additional 87,000 are on evacuation warnings. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the death toll from the fires has climbed to at least 16.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
As firefighters race against the clock to increase containment, the National Weather Service issued a red flag warning beginning for Monday evening through Wednesday, citing low humidity and forecasted gusts of up to 65 mph, which of course adds to the potential for fire explosiveness. The Santa Ana winds, while less severe than last week's, pose a renewed threat to containment efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Die Nationalen Wetter-Services-Affiziere beschreiben die erwarteten Bedingungen als, Quote, extrem gefährlich. Auf dem Boden sind fast 8000 Feuerwehrleute, die die Palisades und die Eden-Ferre kämpfen, mit Rückführungen von Nachbarländern, wie Nevada, Oregon und Idaho.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Über den Wochenende haben die internationalen Alliierten den Kampf begonnen, als sich Kanada ihre Luftwaffen-Tanker und die Wildland-Kollegen aus Ontario, Québec und Alberta getestet hat. Zudem hat Mexiko auch Feuer-Kollegen nach Los Angeles eingepflegt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Zusammen mit diesen Feuerkräften arbeiten sie langweilig, um densaubere Gebäude wie Brentwood und Encino zu schützen, die über den Wochenende den Palisades-Fall schlussendlich übernommen haben. And the cause of the fires, well, that remains under investigation. Meanwhile, residents and first responders alike face a tense and uncertain week as Los Angeles braces for renewed high winds.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
The next 72 hours will be critical for containment efforts. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 13 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And I hope you had a chance to watch the latest episode this weekend of our PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Let's get briefed. Today we start in Russia, where the captured diary of a dead North Korean soldier reveals the reality faced by Pyongyang's troops on the front lines of Vladimir Putins war against Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
If not, you can catch it, along with past episodes, on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and wherever you get your podcast stuff. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, should you so be inclined, become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. Told you it was simple.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Later in the show, hopes are once again high, they just keep going up and down, that a ceasefire in Gaza is on the horizon, with Israelis reportedly caught off guard by Hamas' flexibility during the latest hostage talks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Plus, ein Update auf Trumps Versuch nach Griechenland, mit Berichten, dass Dänemark privat zu seinem Team rausgekommen ist, um vielleicht die Öffentlichkeit auf der Insel zu erhöhen oder die US-Militärpräsenz dort zu erhöhen. Und in heute's Back of the Brief, das Neueste aus Los Angeles, wo Wildfires seit sieben Tagen aufgeräumt haben und die Todesquote weiter steigt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Aber zuerst, heute's PDB Spotlight. Die Ukraine hat Details über die nordkoreanischen Soldaten auf den Frontlinien Russlands gegen die Ukraine veröffentlicht, die auf der grünen Realität von Pyongyangs Truppen vorgelegt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Der ukrainische Präsident Zelenskyy und die SBU, die Ukraine's counterintelligence agency, haben am letzten Samstag erklärt, dass zwei schmerzhafte nordkoreanische Soldaten in der Kursk-Region gefangen wurden und in Kiew für medizinische Behandlung und Befragung genommen wurden. According to the SBU, neither soldier speaks English, Ukrainian or Russian.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
So South Korea's National Intelligence Service, the NIS, is assisting in communications efforts. One of the soldiers told Ukrainian authorities that he was born in 2005 and has served as a rifleman in the North Korean military since 2021. He claimed that he thought he was being deployed for training, not to fight in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
The second soldier, born in 1999, has been a sniper reconnaissance officer since 2016. His testimony corroborated the account of his younger comrade. Zudem gab ein Soldat eine falsche russische Militär-ID an einen Mann aus Tuva, der nahe an der Sibirien-Region ist, während der andere überhaupt keine Identifikation hatte.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Ukrainer Offiziere suggerieren, dass das ein intentionaler Versuch von russischen Kräften war, die Identitäten ihrer nordkoreanischen Alliierten zu beschleunigen. The captured soldiers revealed they received just one week of training and coordination with Russian forces before being deployed to the front lines in Kursk.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
That is consistent with growing reports about the hasty and reckless use of North Korean troops by Russia. Mehr Aufmerksamkeit über das Leben der Nordkoreaner auf dem Kriegsfeld kommt aus einem Diplom, der von einem toten koreanischen Soldaten im Dezember stattgefunden wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Es ist Montag, der 13. Januar. Willkommen bei der Presidents Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Die Wall Street Journal hat berichtet, dass das Diplom ein kruderes Stick-Figuren-Drohwerk enthält, das zeigt einen Soldaten, der als Bait genannt wird, der still steht, um einen Drohnen zu fangen, während zwei andere versuchen, ihn zu schießen. One more indication of Pyongyang's and Moscow's disregard for individual lives.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
The dead soldier's writings also reveal the depth of his psychological conditioning. In one passage, he wrote, "...even at the cost of my life, I will carry out the supreme commander's orders without hesitation. I will show the world the bravery and sacrifice of Kim Jong-un's special forces."
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Drone-Fotos aus den ukrainischen Special Forces zeigen koreansche Soldaten, die sich über offene Felder auf dem Fuß bewegen, mit schwarzem Kamouflage, das sich natürlich gegen den schneeigen Boden vergleicht. Sie scheinen Armut-Vehikeln oder Artillerie-Support zu benötigen, die unnötige Training und schlechte Integration mit russischen Kräften bezeichnen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Militär-Experten beschreiben ihre Taktiken als gefährlich ausgestattet, resultierend in hohen Besatzungsraten. Zelensky sagte, dass etwa 4.000 nordkoreanische Soldaten seit Dezember getötet oder verletzt wurden. US-Affiziere bestätigen, dass mehr als 1.000 in nur der letzten Woche des Jahres 2024 gestorben sind.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Nun, wenn Sie unsere besondere PDB-Erkennung von gestern, von Sonntag, verstanden haben, werden Sie wissen, dass ich morgen einen epischen Vier-Weg-Trip durch die Wälder von Saudi-Arabien und Jordan mache, um die Aufmerksamkeit für den UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund zu erheben.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Berichte zeigen, dass viele Nordkoreaner die Verletzung von Suizid preferieren, mit einigen beruflich von ihren eigenen Freunden beendet, wenn sie verletzt sind. All right. Coming up after the break. Renewed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza with reports of surprising flexibility from Hamas in hostage talks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
And an update on Trump's pursuit of Greenland as Denmark signals openness to boosting security on the island. I'll have those stories when we come back. Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessantes Faktum. Wissen Sie, dass 60% der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Jahr in einem Landfall hervorgehoben wird? Denken Sie daran. 60% in einem Jahr. Bob ist Ihr Onkel. Landfall. Vergleichen Sie das mit dem Vergangenen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, nicht wahr? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Mega-Korporationen, die sich um Wachstum interessieren, schütteln grundsätzlich leckere Sachen aus, die alle fehlend fühlen. Aber American Giant handelt sich um nachhaltige Produkte, die nicht ansteckend verwendet werden. Sie machen Kleidung, die am Ende hergestellt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Also ist das Kauf von American Giant ein Investition, nicht nur in die Kleidung, sondern eine Gemeinschaft, die versucht, die richtigen Dinge zu machen. Sie glauben in einen neuen Art von bewusstem Kauf, was für mich Sinn macht, weil kleine Änderungen etwas Großartiges hinzufügen können. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Fünf Mitglieder des UK Special Forces Club, insbesondere ich, zehn Kamels, und du hörst das nicht oft, und ein fantastisches Unterstützungsteam, ein unglaubliches Unterstützungsteam. Wir werden 700 Meilen betreten, als wir die berühmte 1917-Krossung des unverkennbaren Desserts wiederentwickeln, mit einer kleinen arabischen Armee, mit Lawrence of Arabia, T.E. Lawrence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu dispatched a delegation to Doha to finalize a potential hostage and ceasefire deal with the terror group this weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Now the move follows signs of cautious progress in negotiations and urgency by President-elect Trump to secure an agreement before his inauguration. According to the Times of Israel, on Saturday, Netanyahu's decision followed consultations with Israeli security chiefs, officials from the Biden administration and members of Trump's transition team.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Mossad-Chef David Barnea und IDF-Hostage-Negotiator-Major General Nitzan Alon led the Israeli delegation, while Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff has been actively engaging with mediators in Qatar, describing the President-elect's resolve to finalize the deal, quote, within days.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Last week, the President-elect warned Hamas, quote, if those hostages aren't back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East, end quote. CIA-Direktor William Burns unterschrieb die kritische Art und Weise dieser Gespräche, beschreibend sie als, Quote, ziemlich ernsthaft und vorgesehen, eine mögliche Schlussfolgerung, Quote, in den nächsten paar Wochen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Burns kritisiert die bipartisane Kooperation zwischen den ausländischen und zukünftigen US-Administrationen als eine Beitragung zu tangiblen Prozessen. The first phase of the proposed agreement would reportedly involve the release of 34 hostages, some deceased, paired with a temporary ceasefire that expanded humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, the negotiations end on a contentious issue.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
die Zahl von palästinensischen Gefängnissen in Bezug auf sie zu lassen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Laut einer Hamas-Source, die von einem saudischen Ausgleich am Sonntag berichtet wurde, und natürlich gibt es nichts Gerechteres als eine Hamas-Source, demonstrierte der Terrorgruppe unerwartete Flexibilität während dieser Beratungen, die bemerkenswerte israelische Delegate mit dem Vertrauen, Liste von lebendigen Gefängnissen abzuschließen, 11 Gefängnisse an die Liste zu stecken, was Israel bei den neuesten Diskussionen beantragt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Among the key concessions, Hamas is said to be open to accommodating temporary Israeli military presence in the Philadelphia corridor, the closure of the Rafah crossing or the positioning of Israeli forces between north and south Gaza. However,
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Die Berichterstatter beurteilen, dass diese Verabschiedungen auf Sicherheitsgrundlage waren, dass verabschiedete Bewohner durch einen elektronischen Checkpoint zurückkehren können, was in den letzten sechs bis acht Wochen erwartet wird. Eine zweite Phase wurde tendenziell ausgesprochen, die sich auf die Verabschiedung von internationaler Aufmerksamkeit konzentriert.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Dies würde auf die 2005-Versammlung konzentrieren, die die Koordination zwischen europäischen Monitoren, Ägypten, der palästinensischen Autorität und den USA betrifft. The terror group insists on these guarantees to ensure long-term implementation and a pathway to a permanent ceasefire. For Netanyahus' government, the stakes are extremely high.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
The Prime Minister is under intense pressure to secure the return of all hostages, both living and deceased, while navigating domestic backlash over Hamas' demands to release thousands of Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Now, they went from Al-Waj in Saudi Arabia to Aqaba in Jordan. While I'm away, good friend Mike Slater has graciously agreed to fill in. He'll be guest hosting here on the PDB to ensure that you stay informed and up to date. Now if you want to learn more about the TREC, and I hope you do, and about the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund, please check out the website. That's at www.sfcbf.org.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
In an Interview with a Palestinian outlet, the head of the Palestinian Prisoner Affairs Committee, who represents those held in Israeli prisons, claims his estimates indicate that actual number of Palestinian prisoners to be released will be more than 3,000. His claims follow Israel's insistence on including additional hostages on the release list, including wounded soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
However, in the interview... Der Vorsitzende der Kommitee beurteilt, dass Israel mehr Terroristen auslösen würde, die Lebenssentenzen für Stürmer, die nicht in der humanitären Kategorie bestehen würden. Das wären Frauen, Kinder und das Leere. Okay, wir schalten zu einem Update auf die Vereinigten Staaten, potenziell Greenland zu eröffnen. Hättest du je gedacht, dass du das Wort hören würdest?
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Dänemark hat in den letzten Tagen vorgesehen, private Nachrichten an den Präsidenten Trump zu senden, um die Willen zu erklären, die Sicherheit in Griechenland zu erweitern oder die US-Militärpräsentation auf der weltweit größten Inseln zu erweitern. Wie wir hier auf der PDB berichtet haben, hat Trump während einer weitreichenden Pressekonferenz letzte Woche erklärt,
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
dass er Greenland, einem dänischen Autonomie-Territorium, ein wichtiges Asset für die nationale Sicherheit der USA ist. Der Präsident-Elekt hat erwähnt, dass er Tarife auf Dänemark aufgeben würde, wenn sie seinen Offer, Greenland zu den USA zu verkaufen, verabschieden, und die Nutzung der Militärwaffe nicht kontrollieren würde. while Denmark retains responsibility for its defense.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Greenland's significance has grown in recent years, opening new Arctic sea lanes and sitting atop vast deposits of valuable minerals. Trump has repeatedly underscored the island's critical role in national defense, citing its potential to counter growing Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Natürlich, Trumps Erinnerung auf militärische Aktionen, die europäische Allies, wie man sich vorstellen könnte, mit Dänemark, die sich um eine öffentliche Klatsch mit der kommenden Administration krempelt, während er ruhig Washingtons Sicherheitswürdigkeiten beantwortet. Zwei Berichte, nahe der Situation, berichten Axios, dass Kopenhagen Trumps Team übernommen hat.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
While Greenland unequivocally is not for sale, they are open to exploring other avenues of collaboration, including enhanced military cooperation. It's important to note that the US already operates a key military base in Greenland under a 1951 agreement with Denmark. The outpost is crucial for missile defense and monitoring the Arctic, primarily from Russian aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Danish officials are exploring further investments in Greenlands defense infrastructure in consultation with the Greenlandic government to deepen ties with Washington. Trumps rhetoric prompted high-level talks on Friday in Copenhagen between the Danish Prime Minister and Greenlands Prime Minister.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
In a press conference after the meeting, the Danish PM emphasized Denmark's commitment to dialogue with the incoming US administration, Sie hat einen formalen Treffen mit Trump gefordert. Greenlands Bundespräsident hat seine Aufmerksamkeit für die Geschäftspartnerschaften geäußert, aber hat keine Bedeutung für die Verkaufsvermögen verweigert. Übrigend. Donald Trump Jr.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
besuchte Greenland letzte Woche. Nun, dieser Besuch, kombiniert mit der Rhetorik des Präsidenten Alex, hat die dänischen und griechenländischen Offiziere ungewiss, wie ernst Trumps Vorhaben ist. Meanwhile, current Secretary of State Antony Blinken under the Biden administration sought to downplay Trump's idea of US control over Greenland, saying, quote, it is not going to happen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Blinken then added, of course, I'm out of a job in one week, so maybe I shouldn't talk about what is and isn't going to happen this year, end quote. Okay, that was that last part I just made up. Fair enough. Now, the idea does actually have its advocates.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
James Stavridis, a former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, described Greenland as, quote, a strategic gold mine for the US, emphasizing its location at the top of the North Atlantic. Speaking in a radio interview on Sunday, Stavridis stated, quote, it's not a crazy idea.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
We could do an awful lot in terms of business, investment, box out the Russians, box out the Chinese, and work very closely with Greenland, end quote. Now Stavridis added, quote, it doesn't have to become the 51st state, but it can certainly be an economic objective for us, end quote. With the Arctic becoming increasingly contentious, Greenlands strategic value, well, it does remain undeniable.
The President's Daily Brief
January 13th, 2025: The Grim Reality For North Koreans in Russia & Gaza Ceasefire Hopes
Whether Trump's rhetoric translates into action, potentially making him the first US president in eight decades to secure new territory for the US, well, that, of course, remains to be seen. Okay, coming up in today's back of the brief. Firefighters in Los Angeles continue battling deadly wildfires with the first responders from across the country joining the effort.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, leaving in place only the 10% baseline tariff that Trump has imposed on all countries, along with the 20% duty imposed on China earlier this year related to fentanyl manufacturing. China will in turn slash its 125% retaliatory tariffs on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
It's Monday, the 12th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, the U.S. and China reached a breakthrough during trade negotiations this weekend. How about that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
goods to just 10% and will remove all non-tariff countermeasures, such as export restrictions on certain rare earth minerals. In their joint statement, both sides said they recognized, quote, the importance of a sustainable, long-term and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship, end quote. Oh, just get a room.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Many analysts did not expect much to come from this first round of trade talks, which were, as you know, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Trade Representative Jameson Greer on the U.S. side and top economic star Heilei Feng on the Chinese side. But it appears they overestimated just how much economic punishment China was willing to absorb.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
As we previously discussed, China's export dependent economy has been battered by the tariffs, which have forced factories across the country to shut down and put as many as 16 million jobs in jeopardy. Secretary Besson remarked that the tariff war had amounted to, quote, the equivalent of an embargo between the US and China that threatened to imperil the global economy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Besson said that both sides, quote, concluded that we have a shared interest. The consensus from both delegations is that neither side wanted a decoupling. President Trump echoed that sentiment on Monday, saying, quote, We're not looking to hurt China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
The reductions are set to take effect on Wednesday, the 14th of May, at which point both nations have agreed to establish a mechanism to continue discussions about economic and trade relations. The discussions will take place in China, the US and possibly mutually agreed upon third countries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Secretary Besson said, quote, I would imagine that in the next few weeks we will be meeting again to get rolling on a more fulsome agreement. Notably, President Trump said Monday that as part of their new understanding, China has agreed to, quote, open up to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
businesses, calling it perhaps the, quote, most important thing to come out of the negotiations, though he did not elaborate on the development. Secretary Besson, however, said the communist regime had discussed potential purchase agreements of key American goods, which, if they materialize, could go a long way towards narrowing America's nearly $300 billion trade deficit with China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
That deficit, which Trump says is the result of unfair trade practices that have offshored American jobs and undermined U.S. manufacturing, has been the main driver of the president's tariff agenda. Investors reacted jubilantly to the news of a trade breakthrough with China, which comes on the heels of a trade deal struck between the U.S. and U.K. just last Thursday. All major U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Agreeing to a 90-day tariff pause that will significantly slash rates, marking a major de-escalation in the economic standoff that has global investors celebrating. Markets are up on the news. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
stock indexes rallied after the announcement, with the S&P 500 hitting a more than two-month high and the Dow Jones Industrial Average jumping more than 900 points. Still, we should caution that uncertainty remains and much hinges on the actual progress made towards a lasting trade deal in the weeks ahead.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
All right, coming up next, Hamas unconditionally released American-Israeli hostage Eden Alexander from captivity in Gaza on Monday, following direct talks between the Iranian-backed terror group and the Trump administration. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Now, this July, and maybe you've heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of what's known as the BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro. Now, this bloc of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia and India and Iran, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling it the Rio Reset. That's a catchy name.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
As the BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for US dollars could decrease, and that would bring down the value of the dollar, of course. While the transition won't happen overnight, of course, well, the real reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
So you ask yourself, well, what can you do to protect your dollars, to protect your hard-earned savings? I'll tell you. Birch Gold Group could help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. So claim your free information kit on gold simply by texting PDB on the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
With an A-plus rating with a Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. Let's take a few seconds to talk about eating smart, right? Eating healthy. Now, a big part of that effort is knowing where your food comes from, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Later in the show, following direct talks between Hamas and the Trump administration, the Iranian-backed terror group unconditionally released American-Israeli hostage Eden Alexander from captivity in Gaza on Monday. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
That just makes sense, how it was raised and how it was handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, well, someone else will, and that would probably be a large faceless corporation. Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, then I've got just the place for you to turn to. I'm talking about where you can go for high-quality beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
And, of course, I'm talking about Tritail's Beef. Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense, no middlemen, just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness and rich marbling and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
We'll begin today with a surprise breakthrough regarding US-China relations, as the two global economic powers agreed to substantially roll back tariffs on each other's goods for 90 days, as well as to remove most economic barriers as part of a deal to defuse the trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. After over a year and a half in Hamas captivity, Eden Alexander, the last known living American Israeli hostage, was released unconditionally today following direct talks between the Iran-backed terror group and the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
The release took place just north of Khan Yunis, where Hamas transferred Alexander to the International Committee of the Red Cross. He was then handed off to a special unit of the Israel Defense Forces, evaluated by military doctors, and reunited with his family before being airlifted to a hospital in Tel Aviv for further care.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
The major win for President Trump follows days of direct engagement between Hamas and the president's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who landed in Israel earlier today to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
According to Israeli officials, Trump's team informed the prime minister's office Sunday night that the release would be offered as a, quote, gesture to the Americans without conditions or concessions. Alexander, a 21-year-old dual citizen raised in New Jersey, moved to Israel after high school to enlist in the IDF.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
He served in the Golani Brigade and was abducted during Hamas's 7 October 2023 terror attacks on Israel. His release after more than 550 days in captivity marked a sharp departure from previous hostage spectacles staged by Hamas, which were covered here on the PDB. Gone were the public parades, the masked gunmen, and the forced expressions of gratitude by the hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
This time, Hamas's military wing made clear there would be no ceremony, no release certificates, no propaganda optics. Alexander's freedom was granted without demands or performance. In a statement posted to Truth Social, President Trump called the release, quote, "...a step taken in good faith toward the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
and the efforts of the mediators to put an end to this very brutal war and return all living hostages and remains to their loved ones." Hamas framed Alexander's release as part of, quote, steps toward a ceasefire, the opening of border crossings, and the entry of aid and relief into Gaza. But Israeli officials were quick to downplay any notion that this marked a shift in war policy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Government spokesman David Mentzer credited the release to, quote, relentless military pressure exerted by our brave IDF forces, while Netanyahu's office reiterated that, quote, negotiations will take place as fighting continues. As of today, 59 hostages remain in Hamas captivity. Only 21 are believed to be alive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged this much last week in stark terms, saying, quote, We know for certain that there are 21 alive. There's no argument about this. There are three where there is doubt. The bodies of four American citizens believed to have died in captivity remain in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
As we've been tracking here on the PDP, delegations from the US and China met in Geneva this weekend for marathon trade negotiations, and the talks apparently did not disappoint. Both sides agreed to lower their reciprocal tariffs on the other by 115 percentage points for a period of 90 days, during which discussions will continue on securing a long-term trade deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Alexander's parents issued a statement thanking President Trump and Witkoff, calling their son's return, quote, the greatest gift imaginable. They urged Israeli leaders to keep pressing forward, adding that no hostage, living or dead, should be left behind. For now, Hamas says no further hostages will be released unless Israel agrees to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
And that is an ultimatum that Netanyahu has flatly rejected. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 12th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And I hope you had a chance over the weekend to catch our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. If you did not, well, don't fret.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
You can find past episodes of the Situation Report on our YouTube channel, which you can find at President's Daily Brief. And of course, we're on all the podcast platforms, wherever you get your podcast stuff. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security, right? Especially your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
And what I want to do is tell you about a great company called DeleteMe. Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches, well, are common enough to make everyone vulnerable. Look, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. You know that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
And having your address, your phone numbers, your family members' names hanging out on the internet can have actual consequences in the real world, and it makes everyone vulnerable. With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan by texting PDB to the number 64000. The only way to get that 20% off, again, just text PDB to 64000. That's PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 12th, 2025: US-China Agree To Slash Tariffs In Major Trade Breakthrough & White House Secures Release Of American-Israeli Hostage From Hamas Captivity
That's according to a report from NBC News. The announcement, which was made in a rare joint statement released by Washington and Beijing, signaled the short-lived but economically devastating trade war may soon be coming to an end. The temporary pause will effectively lower U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Speaking ahead of the trip, Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt described the tour as a pivotal moment in U.S.-Gulf relations, saying it reflected a shared vision of a, quote, golden age for both America and the Middle East, united by stability, opportunity, and mutual respect.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Chief of Staff Susie Wilds told the New York Post the president's schedule was, quote, almost entirely about business deals and investment in the U.S., Among the proposals expected to headline the agenda, a pledge by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, to inject $600 billion into American ventures. The three stops of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE are key.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Together, those countries command some of the world's most powerful sovereign wealth funds, making them ideal launchpads for Trump's push to supercharge the U.S. economy through foreign capital. Wiles says oil production, sovereign fund activity and tech ventures will dominate the agenda at each leg of the trip.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The truce follows the worst bout of fighting in decades between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. And while the shooting has stopped, well, questions remain about what comes next and how the deal came together in the first place. The ceasefire was publicly announced on Saturday morning by President Trump via Truth Social.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Tomorrow, that's on Tuesday, Trump will attend a Gulf Cooperation Council summit hosted by MBS, pitching expanded regional economic coordination to leaders from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. The Saudi crown prince remains a central figure in Trump's Middle East playbook.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
He was the first leader that Trump called after beginning his second term, and that conversation, according to aides, included a renewed commitment to funnel vast sums into U.S. projects. Still, it's not just economics on the agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Aides say that Trump will also press for security cooperation on, quote, shared visions for regional stability, including counterterrorism efforts and conflict resolution. Those specific talks will center on the Israel-Hamas war and the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. The trip also carries historical resonance.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Trump's 2017 visit to Riyadh, his first foreign stop as president, led to a landmark $350 billion arms deal over 10 years, including $110 billion in contracts that went into immediate effect. Trump's itinerary continues Wednesday in Doha, where he'll meet the Qatari emir and tour a U.S. military base. On Thursday, the president travels to Abu Dhabi for bilateral talks with the UAE president.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
White House officials say the trip is designed to project a shift away from endless regional conflict toward commerce-led diplomacy. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 12th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Now, in case you haven't heard the news, if you'd like to have an ad-free experience with the PDB, well, you can do that. Simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And as always... You can check out our YouTube channel, where you can catch all things PDB, including episodes of our highly acclaimed weekend show, The PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Go to YouTube and check out At President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
It's Monday, the 12th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Well, it was a weekend marked by diplomacy and negotiations, which, frankly, is far better than a weekend marked by missiles and trade wars. Okay, well, starting in South Asia, where a fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan is holding.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The president wrote, quote, Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. But according to top U.S. officials, the ceasefire agreement actually goes beyond just putting the guns down.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said shortly after Trump's post that both India and Pakistan had agreed to, quote, start talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site, suggesting that the U.S. may have helped broker something more enduring. Rubio said the ceasefire followed two days of intense diplomatic efforts led by himself and Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Vance, who were reportedly on the phone nonstop with senior officials from both countries. Now, the diplomatic push by the U.S., well, it comes as something of a surprise, especially after Vance told Fox News just days earlier that the India-Pakistan conflict was, quote, fundamentally none of our business.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Well, um, except for the fact that they've both got nuclear weapons, and it is in America's best interest to not have a nuclear war break out. That's bad for global business, of which the U.S. plays a significant role. But at the same time, Vance signaled that the White House wasn't planning to get involved, aside from encouraging a general de-escalation. So, what changed?
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
According to CNN, the turning point came when Vance Rubio and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles received what's being described as, quote, alarming intelligence about the conflict. We don't know what that intelligence entailed, but sources say it convinced the Trump administration that a significant escalation, possibly even a broader war, was imminent if action wasn't taken quickly.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Vance reportedly briefed President Trump late Friday morning before placing a direct call to Indian Prime Minister Modi. During that call, the vice president urged Modi to open lines of communication with Pakistan and to pursue avenues for de-escalation. That call seems to have kick-started a fast-moving series of behind-the-scenes negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Through Friday night, Rubio and State Department officials were reportedly working the phones with both Indian and Pakistani counterparts. By Saturday morning, Trump announced what he called a quote, full and immediate ceasefire, followed minutes later by Rubio's confirmation of the agreement and the upcoming talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Now, despite the optimistic tone coming from Washington, the parties involved aren't necessarily telling the same story. India's Ministry of Information said the ceasefire was negotiated, quote, directly between the two countries, a statement that appeared to downplay U.S. involvement. On the other hand, Pakistani officials are crediting Washington heavily.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The nation's prime minister publicly thanked President Trump for his, quote, leadership and proactive role for peace in the region. One Pakistani official told CNN that Secretary Rubio was particularly instrumental in sealing the deal, describing a last minute push that brought both sides to the table. Still, this ceasefire is just the beginning.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
There are major unresolved issues between the two countries, including a key water sharing treaty that India suspended in the wake of the terror attack that ignited this conflict in the first place. Now, whether that treaty is reinstated and whether these negotiations can deliver a lasting peace, that remains to be seen. All right, coming up after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
President Trump claims a, quote, total reset with China after trade talks in Geneva. And Vladimir Putin proposes peace talks with Ukraine. But Zelensky says, not so fast, not without a ceasefire first. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, perhaps you've heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of the BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
That's the bloc of emerging superpowers, and it includes China, Russia, India, and Iran. They're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling it the Rio Reset. That's catchy, huh? As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
While this transition obviously won't happen overnight, the Rio reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. Birch Gold Group can actually help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Right? That's one step you can take to help protect your savings. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The truce came together after US officials received alarming intelligence, prompting a last-minute diplomatic scramble led by Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. We'll have those details. Later in the show, President Trump says a, quote, total reset has been negotiated with China following high-level trade talks in Geneva. But, you ask, what exactly does that mean?
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Now, with an A-plus rating with a better business bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The United States and China may be inching toward a major breakthrough in the tariff war, marking what President Trump called a, quote, total reset in economic relations with the communist regime. Trump made the announcement Saturday night on Truth Social, hailing the weekend Geneva summit as a turning point after more than 10 hours of back to back negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The president did not provide many specifics of the trade talk summit. However, he described the marathon talks as, quote, friendly and constructive, saying the two sides discussed, quote, many things and that, quote, much was agreed to. Well, that's generally vague. Trump added, quote, we want to see for the good of both China and the U.S. an opening up of China to American business, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
leading the American delegation with Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Trade Representative Jameson Greer. And in a sign of how seriously Beijing is treating the negotiations, Chinese leader Xi Jinping dispatched his top economic czar alongside Beijing's public security minister. The heavyweight Beijing team signals that Xi is feeling the economic pressure and wants tariff relief now.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
While no formal deal has yet been announced, officials from both delegations said the conversations laid the groundwork for dialing down tensions between the world's two largest economies. The communist regime's state-run news agency called the summit, quote, "...an important step toward resolving the dispute."
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
As we've been tracking here extensively on the PDB, the Trump administration slapped a 145% tariff on Chinese imports earlier this year. Beijing fired back with a 125% tariff on American goods, but now there appears to be movement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Trump has floated an 80% tariff as a potential reset point, a figure intended to at least kickstart a broader rollback while maintaining leverage against the Chinese Communist Party. Commerce Secretary Howard Letnick told Fox News on Friday that the administration may ultimately settle around a 34% baseline. That's a figure that Trump proposed back in April.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Several White House insiders say the 80% figure was a strategic opening gambit designed to let Besson negotiate downward without ceding American leverage. Trump underscored the significance of the moment with a Truth Social post, in all caps, which of course, as you know, signals importance. reading, quote, great progress made, and three exclamation marks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The weekend summit came against the backdrop of mounting economic distress inside the CCP. Treasury Secretary Besant has warned that the tariff war could cost China over 10 million jobs, while Goldman Sachs now estimates more than 16 million Chinese workers are at risk as export orders plummet to lows that have not been seen since the height of the COVID lockdowns.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Speaking from the White House before the talks, Besson emphasized the imbalance, stating, quote, They sell almost five times more goods to us than we sell to them. So the onus will be on them to take off these tariffs. While Beijing continues to insist publicly that the U.S. must fully drop its unilateral duties, its tone, well, appears more measured than in past statements.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
For now, high tariffs remain locked in place. However, Washington and Beijing appear to be seeking an off-round, one that could reshape the future of trade relations. Okay. In the first major diplomatic overture in months, Russian President Putin on Sunday proposed direct peace talks with Ukraine, even as his military continued hammering Ukrainian cities with drone strikes.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Speaking at a televised address from the Kremlin, Putin invited Ukrainian officials to meet in Istanbul, "...without any preconditions," saying talks could begin as early as Thursday and would aim for a "...durable peace."
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
And is Beijing on the same page? Well, those are very good questions. Plus, Vladimir Putin is calling for direct peace talks with Ukraine after more than three years of war. That would be Putin's war. President Zelensky says he's willing to meet, but only if Russia agrees to a full ceasefire first.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
But the proposal came absent any real concessions, and within hours, Russian forces launched another wave of drone attacks across Ukraine, injuring at least one civilian and damaging homes near Kiev. Ukrainian President Zelensky responded with careful diplomacy, calling Putin's offer a, quote, positive sign, but insisting Moscow must prove its sincerity by implementing a complete ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
In a post on X, Zelensky wrote, quote, The very first step in truly ending any war is ceasefire, adding that Ukraine expects Russia to enforce a, quote, full, lasting and reliable halt to hostilities starting on Monday. That condition remains unmet. The Kremlin has not agreed to pause hostilities, highlighting the wide gulf between rhetoric and reality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The timing of Putin's proposal is no coincidence. His outreach came just hours after a delegation of European leaders visiting Kiev on Saturday demanded an unconditional 30 day ceasefire or threatened, quote, massive new sanctions. The Kremlin dismissed the appeal as merely a, quote, ultimatum.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Putin doubled down, saying any truce must follow negotiations, not precede them, and said he looks to further discuss the framework with Turkish President Erdogan. French President Macron acknowledged the optics of Moscow's offer, but warned that Putin was stalling. Macron said on his return from Kyiv, quote, It's a first step, but it's not enough.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Standing firm that an unconditional ceasefire is not preceded by negotiations. Still, the optics do matter. Neither Putin nor Zelensky wants to be seen by President Trump, at this stage, as the obstacle to peace.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Trump, who has repeatedly vowed to end the conflict and cast himself as a central figure between Moscow and Kyiv, posted on Truth Social Sunday night, quote, a potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine. The president added that a peace deal could save thousands of lives from the, quote, never-ending bloodbath.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
But behind the hopeful veneer, Putin has not budged from the hardline demands that he laid out in 2022. He continues to demand that Ukraine abandon its NATO ambitions, recognize Russia's control over four eastern regions, and accept permanent neutrality.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
In his address on Sunday, Putin cited the 2022 draft agreement that would have barred Ukraine from entering military alliances in exchange for security guarantees from the five permanent members of the UN Security Council. That agreement ultimately collapsed after Russia refused to halt its offensive. He also repeated long-standing claims that Kiev is being manipulated by Western governments.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Putin stated, quote, the decision is now up to the Ukrainian authorities and their curators, who are guided, it seems, by their personal political ambitions and not by the interests of their peoples, end quote. Now, with Russian troops occupying roughly one-fifth of Ukraine and continuing to take territory, albeit slowly, Putin is offering talks, but only on his terms.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
And in today's Back of the Brief, President Trump lands in Riyadh today, kicking off a week of high-stakes talks with key Gulf nations. We'll explain what's on the agenda. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. After days of intense airstrikes, drone attacks, and cross-border shelling, a fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan appears to be holding.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, President Trump touches down in Riyadh to kick off a diplomatic push across the Gulf with plans to court major investments and strengthen ties with Arab partners. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, all right, let's talk about eating smart, right? About eating healthy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Now, a big part of that effort is, well, knowing where your food comes from, how it was raised, how it was handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, you know, how you source your food, then someone else will. It'll probably be some large faceless corporation. Now, let's talk about beef specifically.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
If you're a fan of beef like I am, look, frankly, I was raised on meat and potatoes, then I've got just the place for you. I'm talking about where you can turn to for high-quality beef. And, of course, I'm talking about Tritail's beef. Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness and rich marbling and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your security, shall we? Specifically, let's talk about your online security. Now, I want to talk about a company called DeleteMe. DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when, frankly, surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
Look, it's easier than ever, you know this, to find personal information about people online. And having your address or your phone numbers or family members' names hanging out on the internet can have actual consequences in the real world and does make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
With Delete.me, you can protect your personal privacy or the privacy of your business from doxing attacks before sensitive information can be exploited. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now, at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan simply by texting PDB to the number 64000.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
The only way to get that 20% off is to text PDB to 64000. That's PDB to 64000. Message and data rates may apply. In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump touched down in Riyadh today, kicking off a three-nation tour through the Gulf aimed at securing hundreds of billions in investments and reaffirming America's role as a regional power broker.
The President's Daily Brief
May 12th, 2025: The ‘Alarming Intel’ That Forced the India-Pakistan Ceasefire & A ‘Total Reset’ In China?
According to the White House, the visit represents a comprehensive vision to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties between the U.S. and the Gulf states, which are flush with sovereign wealth.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Merz, whose center-right Christian Democratic Union won the largest share of the vote in Germany's federal election in late February, is hoping to form a viable governing coalition by Easter alongside the Social Democratic SPD party that would enable him to pursue increases in defense spending and potential nuclear sharing agreements with Britain and France.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
It's Monday, the 10th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, following President Trump's sharp reversal of U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
On Sunday, Mertz said, quote, sharing nuclear weapons is an issue that we need to talk about. We have to become stronger together in nuclear deterrence. We should talk with both countries, always also from the perspective of supplementing the American nuclear shield, which we, of course, want to see maintained, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
But it's not just Germany that has their eye on acquiring a nuclear deterrent. Mertz's remarks came just two days after Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said his country was already engaged in serious talks to gain some of France's nuclear arsenal for protection. That's according to a report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Tusk said Friday, quote, Poland must pursue the most advanced capabilities, including nuclear and modern unconventional weapons. This is a serious race, a race for security, not for war, end quote. The remarks followed the EU's emergency summit in Brussels last Thursday, which aimed to boost defensive spending among the bloc's members after President Trump indefinitely paused U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine. In blistering remarks following the summit, Tusk took Europe to task over their failure to take unified and decisive actions against Russia when they first invaded Ukraine more than three years ago.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
He argued that Moscow would have been helpless against a unified Europe, but said, quote, Cowardice among the continent's leaders prevented them from mounting the proper response, leaving them now in a vulnerable position. Tusk told his Parliament Friday, quote, our deficit has been the lack of the will to act, having no confidence, and sometimes even cowardice, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Given the current stakes of the war, with Russia pressing their perceived battlefield advantage over a newly hamstrung Ukraine, Tusk argues that nuclear weapons are needed to ensure that Poland does not suffer the same fate as Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Tusk added that Poland is working to build an armed force of 500,000 soldiers and is instituting a nationwide plan to ensure every adult male in Poland undergoes military training. For context, Poland currently has an army of roughly 200,000, and that's the third largest in NATO after the US and Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
policies on Ukraine last week, European nations are now scrambling to find their own solutions to countering Russian aggression, with Germany and Poland considering a nuclear deterrent. Later in the show, the Hamas terrorist group has reportedly proposed a five-to-ten-year truce with Israel to end the war in Gaza, following direct talks with the Trump administration's hostage affairs envoy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Furthermore, Tusk signaled that Poland will likely withdraw from a number of international treaties banning the use of certain bombs and other munitions as they work to beef up their weapons stockpile, though he said Poland is committed to maintaining a strong relationship with the US, which provides Poland with most of its weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Still, the Prime Minister warned that given the events of last week, the continent must prepare for a future where they cannot rely on the U.S. to come to their aid. Coming up next, Hamas has reportedly proposed a five- to ten-year truce with Israel to end the war in Gaza after the Trump administration's hostage affairs envoy engaged in direct talks with the Iranian-backed terror group.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
I'll have those details when we come back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash. Now, saving and investing, well, can feel impossible, but with Stash, it's not just possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals, or if you wanna just sit back and watch your money go to work, Well, you can opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks the stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings just sit around.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Make your money work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com slash pdb, that's get.stash.com slash pdb, to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and a few important disclosures. Again, that's get.stash.com slash pdb. paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients, and not a guarantee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. And remember, investing involves risk. Offer is subject to terms and conditions. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S., with thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers? Well, now you know. Here's the thing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
They have all the plants that your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and a whole lot more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. I love this company. Look, no more wandering around a nursery trying to figure out how you're going to schlep home a bunch of plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
And this spring, well, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. Now is the perfect time to plant and use code PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
to the afternoon bulletin. For the first time, Hamas has publicly floated the prospect of a long-term truce with Israel, proposing a five to 10 year ceasefire that would see the terror group disarm and cede political control over Gaza. And that's drawing cautious optimism from American officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
President Trump's hostage affairs envoy, Adam Bollard, who held direct talks with Hamas, called the proposal, quote, not a bad first offer in an interview with the Israeli public broadcaster Khan on Sunday. Under the proposed framework, the U.S. would be responsible for ensuring that Hamas does not rebuild its tunnel networks or resume terror activities in the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Bowler's initial mission was narrowly focused on securing the release of an American-Israeli hostage believed to be alive, as well as retrieving the bodies of four American-Israeli dual citizens. But the scope of his negotiations quickly broadened, expanding into discussions over a ceasefire agreement that could take shape in the coming weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. As European nations begin to question whether they can rely on the US for military protection from Russia, leaders in Germany and Poland are now looking to arm themselves with nuclear weapons. I don't see how this could go wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Bowler told CNN that, quote, I believe there is enough there to make a deal between what Hamas wants and what they've accepted and what Israel wants and it's accepted, end quote. In an effort to ease Israeli skepticism, Bowler has been in contact with Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. He's a top negotiator and Prime Minister Netanyahu's inner circle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
His objective, he said, was to, quote, jumpstart some negotiations that were in a very fragile place and press Hamas on whether this offer was a genuine step toward de-escalation. According to Israeli authorities, Hamas is still holding 24 living hostages and the remains of 35 Israeli captives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
A working-level Israeli delegation is expected to arrive in Qatar today, with Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff following on Tuesday. These talks, described by officials as the most serious round of Israel-Hamas talks since Trump took office, could determine whether the proposal has real traction or is dead on arrival.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Yet the viability of any ceasefire agreement may ultimately hinge on Israeli domestic politics. Netanyahu is racing against the clock to pass the national budget by the 31st of March, while his coalition remains bitterly divided over enlisting ultra-Orthodox men to the military, as well as some budget disagreements.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
Failure to pass a budget could collapse the government, forcing new elections and throwing negotiations with Hamas into limbo. An anonymous source familiar with the talks told NPR that Netanyahu may prioritize resolving his political crisis before committing to any ceasefire deal, especially one that could provoke backlash from his hardline allies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 10th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And in the event that you've somehow missed this bit of important news, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that. Simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz said Sunday that he would like to see his country engage in talks with France and Britain, the only European nations, of course, with nuclear weapons, about sharing their stockpile, though he stressed that they were not a substitute for U.S. nuclear protection on the continent, and that's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 10th, 2025: Germany Wants Nukes & Hamas Floats Five-To-Ten-Year Truce With Israel
For context, a number of international treaties bound Germany to only engage in non-nuclear defense due to their history during World War II. However, they do participate in NATO weapons-sharing arrangements.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
And that's been a longstanding source of concern among lawmakers. Überraschend ist, dass die chinesische Embassie in einem Statement zur New York Times gesagt hat, dass Beijing die Entscheidung nicht erkennt und beurteilt, dass Beijing, wenn ihre Interessen beeinflusst werden, internationalen Regeln reichlich reichlich countermeasures nehmen würde, wenn ihre Interessen beeinflusst würden.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Despite the legal victory, Missouri's ability to collect the 24 billion remains improbable. China is almost certain to ignore the ruling entirely. But Bailey's threats of farmland seizures actually could set the stage for a broader standoff, especially as tensions between Washington and Beijing remain high over trade disputes and espionage concerns and national security threats.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 10 March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And if you didn't have a chance over the weekend to catch our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report, well, don't fret.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
That's a decision that the state attorney's general calls a landmark victory. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. As we've been reporting here on the PDB, Syria has been a powder keg since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, and now, well, the fuse may have been lit.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
It and past episodes are waiting for you on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and also, of course, on podcast platforms where you get your podcast stuff. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
The interim government, led by former Al-Qaeda member Ahmed al-Sharah, was supposed to restore order, but instead, the country is now spiraling into its worst violence since Assad's fall. Rebel factions remain fractured, and efforts to unify them into a national army have failed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Krieg hat in den letzten Tagen über Syrien explodiert, mit schweren Konflikten zwischen Sicherheitskräften und Assad-Loyalisten in den östlichen Städten von Latakia und Tartus. Viel der Gewalt wird in Alawite-Strongholds konzentriert, Bereiche, die stark loyal zu Assad sind, der selbst aus der Alawite-Sektion kam. The death toll is alarming.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Hundreds of civilians have been killed since Thursday, along with at least 150 security personnel. Government forces say another 300 have been captured. Eyewitnesses describe execution-style killings and reports indicate hospitals have been attacked.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Syria's transitional government is scrambling to regain control, forming an emergency committee to investigate human rights violations and vowing to hold security forces accountable for excessive force. But so far, well, those promises aren't slowing the bloodshed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports at least 745 civilians that have been killed in 30 massacres targeting Alawites along the West Coast. And while the government insists it's cracking down, its own forces have been accused of carrying out some of the worst atrocities. Viele Alawite haben sich nach Asads Angriff involviert, aber nicht alle.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Diejenigen, die sich gearmt haben, sind nun in brutalen Konflikten mit Sicherheitskräften verbunden, um es unklar zu machen, wer eigentlich in Kontrolle ist. Der Chef der syrischen Intelligenz schuldet die ehemaligen Regime-Militär- und Sicherheitsbeamten für die Angriffe.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Währenddessen schlägt die Regierung hart zurück, die Operationen gegen Pro-Assad-Fighter in Assads Heimat und umgekehrter Bereiche an. Berichte zeigen, dass gesamte Gemeinschaften in Kriegszonen werden. Die Behörden in Tartus haben einen Flur gelegt, um Zivile in Konfliktzonen zu vermeiden.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Social-Media-Videos zeigen intensivere Feuerstürme, Städte in den Straßen und militärische Verwaltungen, die in die schwersten Bereiche einsteigen. Some footage even captures clashes near the Russian air base in Latakia, raising concerns of broader consequences beyond Syria's borders. Regional powers have offered comments on the renewed violence.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Saudi Arabia, which has come out in support of the new government, has condemned the bloodshed, blaming outlaw groups for the attacks. Meanwhile, Iran, one of Assad's key allies, of course, has expressed concern over the violence. Really? Really? The number one state sponsor of terrorism on the planet is expressing concern over violence.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
It's almost like the mullahs and the IRGC don't have a sense of irony. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman condemned the bloodshed. He also warned that the chaos could be exploited by outside forces, particularly Israel. Yep, no sense of irony. For his part, Interim President Ahmed al-Sharra is downplaying the chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Speaking from a mosque in Damascus on Sunday, he called the crisis one of the, quote, expected challenges that Syria would face. He added, we must preserve national unity and civil peace as much as possible and we will be able to live together in this country, end quote. But right now, the unity is, well, nowhere to be found.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
With Assad-Loyalists, rival factions and government forces battling for control, Syria's future looks increasingly unstable. Alright, coming up next. Europe backs a 53 billion dollar plan to rebuild Gaza despite US and Israeli pushback. And South Korea's impeached president is released ahead of his trial. I'll be right back. This podcast is brought to you in part by Stash.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Saving and investing can feel impossible, but with Stash, well, it's not only possible, it's easy. Stash isn't just an investing app. It's a registered investment advisor that combines automated investing with dependable financial strategies to help you reach your goals faster. They'll provide you with personalized advice on what to invest in based on your goals.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Or if you just want to sit back and watch your money go to work, You can opt into their award-winning, expert-managed portfolio that picks stocks for you. Stash has helped millions of Americans reach their financial goals and it starts at just $3 per month. Don't let your savings just sit around. Make that money work for you.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Go to get.stash.com.pdb to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and a few important disclosures. That's get.stash.com.pdb. Now this is a paid non-client endorsement, not representative of all clients and not a guarantee. Investment Advisory Service is offered by Stash Investments LLC. That's an SEC-registered investment advisor. And of course, investing involves risk.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Es ist Montag, der 10. März. Willkommen bei der Presse-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns berichten. Wir fangen mit dem Letzten aus Syrien an, wo das Land seit dem Fall des ehemaligen Präsidenten Bashar al-Assad die schlimmste Gewalt in der Welt.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
And as they say, the offer is subject to terms and conditions. Welcome back to the PDB. Despite the United States and Israel's rejection, the Arab-backed Gaza reconstruction plan is gaining momentum among key European allies, including France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. Unveiled last week at an Arab summit in Cairo,
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
The $53 billion proposal has been described by European foreign ministers as a, quote, realistic path to rebuilding Gaza, while reiterating, Hamas must neither govern the enclave nor pose a threat to Israel in the future.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
In a joint statement, the ministers emphasized that the Palestinian Authority, known as the PA, should play a, quote, central role in managing a post-war Gaza within a, quote, solid political and security framework, end quote. The Arab-backed plan envisions a six-month transitional period in which an independent committee of technocrats governs before handing power to a retrained PA.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Nun, es gibt noch keine echten Details, wer genau verantwortlich sein wird, um die palästinensische Autorität zurückzuentwickeln. Und unabhängig vom Dokument ist keine klare Strategie für das Neutralisieren von Hamas. Stattdessen suggerieren sie, dass Terrorgruppen durch einen breiteren politischen Prozess, der auf die Städtheit gelegt wird, behandelt werden sollen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Ja, das klingt sicherlich nützlich. Diese Ausgabe wurde von israelischen Offizieren beschlossen, die ihre stanche Opposition zu irgendeinem Framework reaffirmen, das Hamas aus dem Enklave nicht explizit auslösen kann. Die israelische Führung hat es klar gemacht, dass eine Zwei-State-Solution nicht auf dem Tisch ist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
The Egyptian-led initiative has been framed as a counterpoint to the vision put forth by President Trump, who last month floated the idea of resettling Palestinians outside Gaza, 2.3 million of them, and transforming the enclave into what he called the, quote, Riviera of the Middle East, under US ownership.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Diese Vorschläge, das ist eine Überraschung, wurden von Ägypten, Jordan und anderen regionalen Spielern aufgerufen, die die nationalen Sicherheitsrisiken beurteilt haben und die Verschuldung haben, verschlossene Ausflüge anzunehmen. Und wie wir in der Vergangenheit auf dem PDB diskutiert haben, haben Ägypten, Jordan und die anderen arabischen Staaten einen totalen Interesse auf die ca.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
2,3 Millionen Besitzer von Gaza. The US and Israel firmly rejected, though, the Arab-backed plan, and Israeli foreign ministry spokesmen dismissed it as outdated, saying it fails to reflect the realities of the war following the 7 October 2023 terror attacks orchestrated by the Iranian-backed Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
These spokesmen further condemned its reliance on what he characterized as corrupt and ineffective institutions such as the PA and the UN's refugee agency UNRWA, which he accused of complicity in terrorism. Meanwhile, American officials have cast doubt on the feasibility of any immediate reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Mit den gebrochenen Rebellfaktionen und den jetzt wieder kämpfenden Assad-Loyalisten, wächst der Chaos. Und wir haben das Letzte. Later in the show, a $53 billion Arab-backed plan to rebuild Gaza is now gaining European support, despite pushback from the US and Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes argued that given the sheer scale of destruction, the notion of rebuilding remains premature until Gaza is cleared of debris and unexploded ordnance. But not everyone in Trump's orbit is dismissing the Arab plan outright. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff called the proposal a, quote, good faith first step.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Still, he was quick to emphasize that it does not align with Trump's non-negotiable demand for a Hamas-free Gaza. With divisions widening between the US, Israel and European allies, the question remains, can a unified vision for post-war Gaza emerge? Or will competing agendas consign the enclave to indefinite limbo? Well, history would seem to indicate that limbo is the likely result.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Okay, shifting to South Korea's ongoing political crisis. A court on Friday ordered the release of impeached President Yun Suk-yeol from jail. The ruling raises the possibility that Yun could stand trial for rebellion without being physically detained.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
As our regular PDB listeners will recall, Yun was arrested and indicted in January, after declaring martial law on 3 December, in a move that briefly deployed troops and police to the National Assembly. Yun's decree sparked immediate backlash, with liberal opposition lawmakers forcing their way into the assembly hall, nullifying it unanimously within hours.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Days later, the opposition-controlled parliament moved to impeach him, suspending him from office. The Seoul Central District Court ruled Friday that Yoon's legal detention period had expired before his indictment, leading to his release.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
The court also raised concerns over the legality of the investigation, with Yoon's defense team arguing that the agency behind his arrest lacked the authority to probe charges of rebellion. That said, South Korean law allows prosecutors to temporarily hold a suspect while pursuing an appeal. And that's a step that the opposition Democratic Party is now pushing for.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court, which concluded impeachment hearings in late February, is expected to issue a ruling soon on whether to formally remove Yoon from office or reinstate him. Should the court uphold his impeachment, Yoon would be officially ousted, triggering a new presidential election within two months.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
If the court rejects the impeachment, but he remains entangled in legal proceedings, the question remains how, or even if, he could resume his presidential powers. Complicating matters further, as if they needed even more complication, a conviction on rebellion charges carries a sentence of life in prison or even the death penalty.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
While sitting presidents generally enjoy immunity from prosecution, South Korean law makes an exception for crimes like treason and rebellion, opening the door for legal action. Yoon's defense team welcomed the expired detention period ruling, calling for his immediate release, while his presidential office expressed hope that he could return to work soon.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
But the decision has only deepened the country's already bitter political divide. Supporters argue that Yun's martial law decree was necessary to counteract legislative paralysis, while critics see it as an authoritarian overreach reminiscent of past military rule in the country.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Plus, a South Korean court has ordered the release of impeached President Yun Suk-yol, setting the stage for his trial on rebellion charges. We'll have those details. Und in heute's Back of the Brief, this is an interesting story, a federal judge has ruled in favor of the U.S. state of Missouri in its 24 billion, that's billion with a B, lawsuit against China's Communist Party over COVID-19.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Further fueling tensions, top military and police officials recently testified that Yun ordered security forces to obstruct a parliamentary vote and even detain opposition lawmakers. Yun, for his part, insists that his deployment of troops was not meant to suppress democratic processes, but rather to expose what he calls obstructionist tactics by the Democratic Party.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
As large-scale rallies by opponents and supporters of Yun erupt across the country, the constitutional court's impending decision carries enormous stakes. Alright, coming up in the back of the brief. The US state of Missouri wins a major lawsuit against China over COVID-19. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
In today's back of the brief, Missouri has won a major legal battle against China, with a federal judge ruling in favor of the state's massive $24 billion lawsuit against the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP. Now you just have to collect those funds from the CCP. Ah, there's the rub. The case accuses Beijing of hoarding protective medical supplies during the pandemic.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Das Gesetz, das am Freitag verabschiedet wurde, ist das größte Verurteilung in Missouris Geschichte.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Das Gesetz, das im Jahr 2020 verabschiedet wurde, wurde von dem damaligen Gerichtsvorsitzenden Eric Schmidt verabschiedet, dass China die Produktion, Verkauf und Ausbau von medizinischen Nahrungsmitteln, insbesondere persönlicher Schutzgeräte, verhindert, dass unbekanntes Verletzungen und ökonomische Verlust entstehen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
Initially dismissed by a lower court, the case was revived in January after an appeals court allowed Missouri to move forward with claims related to supply hoarding. Judge Stephen Limbaugh ruled that Missouri provided enough evidence to establish liability.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
delivering the massive $24 billion judgment against multiple Chinese entities, including the People's Republic of China, the National Health Commission, the Ministry of Emergency Management, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey celebrated the ruling, stating, "...this is a landmark victory for Missouri and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 10th, 2025: Syria Erupts In Bloodshed & Gaza Reconstruction Plan Divides the West
in the fight to hold China accountable for unleashing COVID-19 on the world." On social media, Baileys rhetoric took a more taunting tone, posting, quote, Hey China, you owe Missouri 24 billion dollars. Pay up or we start seizing assets and farmland. His comments were a pointed reference to the more than 42,000 acres of Missouri farmland owned by Chinese entities as of August 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
It's almost like a terrorist organization, a creature of the Iranian regime, wants to dictate the terms of a ceasefire after starting this war with the slaughter of over a thousand Israeli citizens. But perhaps that makes me sound churlish. The next release was set to take place this Saturday, February 15th.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
It's Monday, 10 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, Hamas has announced that it's delaying the release of Israeli hostages until further notice, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Three Israeli hostages, taken during Hamas's October 7 attacks, were supposed to be freed in exchange for a number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. This would have been the sixth swap since the ceasefire began last month. So far, 16 Israeli hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners have been exchanged.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
In total, 17 Israeli hostages were still due to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire, eight of whom Israel says are dead. But now, Hamas is suspending the process indefinitely. A cynic, of course, would say that it's because they don't have any more living hostages or they don't know where they are. Predictably, Israel has responded forcefully to the announcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Defense Minister Israel Katz called Hamas' decision a, quote, complete violation of the ceasefire deal and said he has ordered the Israeli military to maintain the highest level of alert for any possible scenario in Gaza. Katz warned, quote, we will not allow a return to the reality of October 7th.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Meanwhile, an Israeli delegation is currently in Qatar negotiating the second phase of the hostage deal, which could see more captives released. However, it's unclear how today's developments will impact those talks or if the ceasefire itself will hold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
For now, tension is, of course, rising, and the next move from either side could determine whether negotiations continue or if the conflict escalates once again. As we reported this morning on the BDB, the most recent hostage exchange over the weekend sparked outrage due to the condition of the released Israeli hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Doctors have confirmed that the three men, all abducted during Hamas's October 7 attacks, returned severely malnourished and suffering from multiple health complications, including heart disorders and infections. Their condition has only heightened concerns about the welfare of those still in captivity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Coming up next, President Trump says he's already been on the phone with Vladimir Putin about ending the war in Ukraine. I'll have those details after the break. to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
President Trump claims he privately spoke with Russian President Putin about ending the war in Ukraine, hinting that Russian negotiators are eager to meet with their American counterparts, yet details remain scarce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
In an interview with the New York Post aboard Air Force One on Friday, Trump declined to specify how many times he's spoken with Putin, offering only a cryptic, quote, I better not say. Trump insisted he has a plan to end the war, but kept specifics under wraps, adding, quote, I hope it's fast. Every day people are dying and I want to end this damn thing, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
The president suggested that economic pressure through tariffs and oil price cuts could force Russia to the negotiating table, though the Kremlin has dismissed such claims in the past. More strikingly, he floated the idea of Washington engaging with Moscow without Kiev's direct involvement, stating, quote, Let's get these meetings going. They want to meet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Every day people are dying, young men like my sons on both sides, end quote. But despite Trump's confidence, well, Moscow remains tight-lipped. Kremlin mouthpiece Dmitry Peskov stated that, quote, communications between Moscow and Washington occur through different channels. Well, that's pretty cryptic. The Kremlin on Sunday refused to confirm any talks between the leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Israel calls it a complete breach of the deal and is now preparing for, quote, any possible scenario in Gaza. Later in the show, President Trump reveals he's already spoken with Vladimir Putin about ending the war in Ukraine, saying his Russian counterpart, quote, wants to see people stop dying. Well, then I guess he probably shouldn't have started the war in the first place.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
However, analysts argue that Putin has little incentive to negotiate. Nearly three years into the war, can you believe that? Three years into the war, Russia is closer than ever to securing its core military objectives in Ukraine, making a diplomatic resolution unlikely, and that's according to assessments from both Western and Russian analysts interviewed by the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who joined Trump's interview, declined to verify whether Trump had spoken with Putin, but acknowledged that, quote, "...there are certainly a lot of sensitive conversations going on. Everybody's talking cryptically." He added that U.S. diplomats would be in Europe this week to discuss potential pathways to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
According to Waltz, leaders, including India's prime minister and China's president, as well as figures across the Middle East, signaled willingness to assist Trump in brokering a peace deal. But what that actually looks like, well, that remains unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Waltz suggested that Trump's strategy would lean heavily on economic leverage, stating, "...the President is prepared to put all of those issues on the table this week, including the future of U.S. aid to Ukraine."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
He also indicated that Trump would push for Europe to take the lead on Ukraine's long-term security, stating, "...President Trump is going to end it, and then, in terms of security guarantees, that's squarely going to be with the Europeans." On the campaign trail, Trump repeatedly vowed to end the war, emphasizing the staggering loss of life.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Trump told the Post on Friday, quote, all those dead people, they're like your kids, two million of them, and for no reason. Adding that Putin also, quote, wants to see people stop dying, end quote. But Ukrainian President Zelensky made clear that he's deeply skeptical of Trump's approach. warning that it could sideline Kyiv entirely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Zelensky told the AP, quote, Putin wants to deal directly with Trump cutting out Kyiv. Well, he's not wrong. That would be a stark departure from the Biden administration's nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine policy, which insists that Ukraine must be a central player in peace negotiations. Well, there's some logic to that, given that they're the invaded country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Zelensky warned that allowing Russia to dictate the terms of peace would embolden authoritarian regimes in China, North Korea, and Iran, setting a dangerous precedent for global security. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 10 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
And, as you may have already learned from the gossip columns, To listen to the show ad-free, it's very simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. We begin with breaking news. Hamas has announced that it's halting the scheduled release of Israeli hostages, claiming that Israel has failed to uphold its end of the ceasefire agreement. In a statement from its armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigade,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB afternoon Bulletin | February 10th, 2025: Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchanges Indefinitely & Trump Talks To Putin
Hamas accused Israel of blocking displaced Palestinians from returning to northern Gaza, targeting civilians with shelling and restricting the flow of humanitarian aid. They claimed Hamas had fully complied with the ceasefire, oh, and they stated that hostage releases would remain on hold until Israel met with what the terror group is calling past week's obligations. Huh.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Palestinian authorities reported that Israeli troops opened fire near the area, killing three Palestinians and injuring several others. The IDF stated that its forces had fired warning shots at, quote, suspects approaching the border fence, confirming that, quote, several hits were identified, but without directly acknowledging any civilian casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
In a blunt warning following the incident, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a statement declaring, quote, their blood is on their own head. Zero tolerance for anyone who threatens IDF forces or the fence area and communities. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to shore up the ceasefire are ongoing.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu dispatched a delegation to Doha, Qatar, to discuss further terms of the agreement. A senior Israeli official described the team as, quote, mid-level, emphasizing the discussions would focus on the, quote, technical details rather than broader political discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Agency for International Development, and the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to reform or, in some cases, completely overhaul the agency. If you want to understand what the U.S. government prioritizes, the best way to do it is to follow the money. And if you follow the money at USAID, you might find yourself asking some uncomfortable questions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
But even as those talks unfold, Israeli military operations have ramped up in the northern West Bank, The United Nations reports IDF raids in the cities of Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas, and they're severely restricting access to essential services while inflicting widespread destruction.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
The IDF, operating in the Nur Shams refugee camp, claimed in a telegram post that it was targeting, quote, terrorists and had arrested, quote, additional wanted individuals. All right, coming up in the back of the brief. As Ukraine renews its offensive in Kursk, North Korean troops appear to have returned to the front lines. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
In today's Back of the Brief, I want to provide you with an update on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian President Zelensky announced Friday that Russia redeployed North Korean soldiers to fight alongside its troops in the western Kursk region.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
As we reported last week on the PDB, North Korean frontline forces had all but disappeared from the battlefield over the past three weeks, sparking speculation that Pyongyang quietly withdrew its soldiers following heavy casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Now it appears they've resurfaced, suggesting either a strategic redeployment or that Moscow has convinced its reclusive ally to double down on its military commitment. Zelensky, in a post on X, stated, quote, I received a report from the commander-in-chief on the situation in the Donetsk and Kursk regions. In the areas of the Kursk operation, new assaults have taken place.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Russia has once again deployed North Korean soldiers alongside its own troops. According to South Korea's National Intelligence Service estimates Pyongyang sent approximately 11,000 troops to reinforce Russia's war effort in Ukraine The agency believes around 300 of these soldiers have been killed with another 2,700 wounded
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
figures that, if accurate, underscore just how poorly trained and equipped these troops are for modern warfare. That assessment tracks with first-hand accounts from the battlefield.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
In January, a Ukrainian commander with the 6th Special Operations Forces Regiment observed that North Korean troops appeared wholly unprepared for 21st century combat, stating, "...they are prepared for the realities of war in 1980 at best." Military analysts warn that if the casualty rate continues at its current pace, Pyongyang's contribution to the war may become unsustainable.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
It's Monday, 10 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Coming to you today from somewhere in Europe. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with the Trump administration's push to overhaul USAID. That's an agency that hands out billions in foreign aid, frankly, with little oversight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Yet despite mounting evidence, including Ukraine's reported capture of two North Korean soldiers inside Russian territory in Kursk, well, yeah, that would be evidence, both Moscow and Pyongyang continue to deny any troop deployments or military collaboration. We don't know anything about it. Sorry. Move on.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
As we've tracked here on the PDB, North Korean-made ballistic missiles have been fired at Kiev via Moscow, with defense analysts suspecting that Pyongyang has enhanced their navigation systems, possibly incorporating Russian guidance technology. For now, the Kremlin and Pyongyang are sticking to their denials.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
But as intelligence assessments pile up and more North Korean soldiers are killed or captured, well, it's becoming increasingly difficult to dismiss the obvious. North Korea is, of course, playing a direct role in Russia's war effort. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 10 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
USAID, in a sense, is the face of American foreign policy. While the State Department handles diplomacy, USAID is on the ground, engaging directly with civilian populations around the world. The agency, frankly, is massive. In fiscal year 2023 alone, they handed out nearly $43.8 billion in funding worldwide, more than two-thirds of the entire State Department's $60 billion budget. And yet...
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Now, I hope you had a chance over the weekend to check out our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. That's our expanded weekend show. Guests included author Gerald Posner and former Ohio Congressman Jim Renacci. Talking about the release of files on the JFK, RFK, and MLK assassinations. And we took a deep dive with a former congressman into the world of U.S. government spending.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
And of course, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Despite being largely bankrolled by the State Department, USAID operates as an independent agency, separate from the control of the State Department. It was originally established by the JFK administration in 1961, specifically as an independent autonomous organization. That independence is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it gives the agency the flexibility to respond quickly to crises.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
But on the other, it makes oversight a bit of a nightmare. With missions in over 100 countries, many of them unstable, keeping track of where the money actually goes is like herding cats. Add in the fact that USAID funding flows not just through the State Department, but also through the defense and treasury departments, and you have a recipe for inefficiency, waste, and fraud.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Not to mention the lack of consistent audit functions to ensure money is being spent effectively and in line with U.S. interests. And here's the reality. USAID doesn't even carry out most of its work directly. Instead, it offloads the heavy lifting to third-party organizations, contractors, NGOs, and international groups.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
That extra layer of bureaucracy, of course, makes accountability even harder. By the time any audit finally catches up to the spending, well, the money is long gone. Now, let's be clear. Some USAID-funded programs are genuinely important and worthwhile. Feeding the hungry, providing disaster relief, these are all clearly important.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
But even the most well-intentioned programs can be undermined by waste and mismanagement. And then there are other projects that make you wonder if anyone in Washington has their priorities straight. I had the incredible staff at the President's Daily Brief do a little digging, and we found some fairly egregious examples of where USAID money has gone in the recent past.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Let's start with one of the agency's more infamous blunders, the Tarakil Power Plant in Afghanistan. USAID spent $335 million, that's a lot of jack, building this diesel-fueled power plant just outside Kabul. But there was one slight problem. Diesel fuel is absurdly expensive to import into Afghanistan. As a result, the plant ran at just 2% of its capacity.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
That's hundreds of millions of dollars of taxpayer money down the drain. A small amount of due diligence and oversight could have identified the weaknesses in this plan and saved all those taxpayer dollars. But in recent years, USAID's priorities have taken a noticeable shift.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
It seems less focused on delivering aid and more concerned with advancing a social agenda, one that has little to do with American national interests. Take, for example, a pro-LGBTQ group in Serbia called Grupa Izadji, which translates to Group Comes Out. USAID funneled $1.5 million to this group to, quote, advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in Serbia's workplaces and business communities.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
According to the grant documents, this initiative aimed to, quote, increase employment potential for LGBTQI+, how many letters do we have, persons, expand opportunities for LGBTQI+, entrepreneurs, and reduce workplace discrimination, end quote. Now, whatever your personal views on that mission, one has to ask, why are American taxpayers funding it? It gets worse.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
So you ask yourself, is there a chance that a thorough, efficient audit of USAID spending just might perhaps identify government waste and abuse? There's a possibility. Later in the show, the world reacted with shock as Hamas released three emaciated hostages over the weekend as part of the ongoing ceasefire deal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
USAID spent $2 million in Guatemala funding Asociación Lambda, an LGBTQI+, I'm getting better at this, activist organization to promote, quote, gender-affirming health care. In plain English, well, U.S. taxpayer dollars were being used to pay for sex change procedures in Guatemala. Then there's the $3.3 million that USAID dumped into the Caribbean to promote LGBTQ acceptance.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Or the $425,600 that was spent helping Indonesian coffee companies become, quote, more climate and gender friendly. That's what I look for in my coffee. Still not convinced that USAID might be in need of some grown-up supervision? Well, how about the $70,000 grant for a DEI-themed musical in Ireland? Just what they were looking for. Yes, you heard that right. A musical. Frankly, okay, fine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Who doesn't love a musical? The money was earmarked to, quote, deliver a live musical event to promote the U.S. and Irish shared values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, end quote. Or how about the $20,600 that USAID spent in Ecuador to fund three workshops, 12 drag theater performances, and a short documentary? All in the name, of course, of diversity and inclusion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
And in Peru, USAID spent $32,000 creating a comic book featuring an LGBTQI plus hero. Yeah, because obviously that's a pressing foreign policy aid priority. Now, let me ask you this.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
If you live in North Carolina and a hurricane rips through your town, leaving you without power or food or clean water, would you feel reassured knowing that your tax dollars went toward drag performances and LGBTQI comic books instead of rebuilding your community? Yeah, I didn't think so. The Trump administration is actually moving to cut the fat out of USAID.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Look, of course, there's nothing wrong with foreign aid, right? Some of it is critically important. Just like, of course, there's nothing wrong with accountability. Americans have every right to demand that their money be spent wisely and in their interests.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
If the best justification for a $70,000 DEI musical in Ireland is that it allows some bureaucrats to wallow in the glow of self-righteousness, well, then maybe it's time to rethink what we're actually trying to accomplish with USAID in the first place. All right. If you want to dive deeper into the lack of transparency and oversight at USAID, check out this past weekend's Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
I spoke with former Ohio Congressman Jim Renacci about exactly that. You can also watch it, of course, on our YouTube channel, and you can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. All right, coming up after the break, widespread shock over the horrific conditions of the three hostages freed from Gaza. And Israel takes another key step in the ongoing ceasefire deal. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Plus, as both sides exchange hostages and prisoners, Israel follows through on another key part of the agreement and pulling out troops from a critical corridor in Gaza. and in the back of the brief. After a short respite, it appears that North Korean troops may have returned to the front lines as Russian military forces attempt to blunt the renewed Ukrainian offensive in Kursk.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
The fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas stretched into its fifth round of exchanges, as three Israeli hostages and more than 180 Palestinian prisoners were swapped on Saturday. However, the emaciated state of the now-freed Israelis ignited public fury, raising new concerns over Hamas's treatment of abductees.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Okay, did anyone imagine that the hostages were being treated humanely by Hamas? The three men, Ohad Ben-Ami, Eli Shirabi, and Or Levi, were among those taken hostage during Hamas's brutal 7 October 2023 terror attacks. The three men spent 491 days in captivity before being handed over to the Red Cross in central Gaza in what appeared to be an orderly transfer.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
That's a stark departure from the chaos of previous hostage releases. But the first images of the three men, gaunt, malnourished and visibly weak, shocked Israelis. Their photos were immediately projected onto large screens in Tel Aviv's Hostage Square, where their families and supporters stood in stunned silence. The hostages in Missing Families Forum called the images, quote, disturbing.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Well, that's putting it mildly. While the Neroz Kibbutz, one of the community's hardest hit in the 7 October terror attacks, condemned their conditions as, quote, an internal testimony to the failure of those delaying further hostage negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Hamas, as they've done in previous hostage releases, paraded the men before cameras ahead of their freedom, forcing them to speak Hebrew while flanked by terrorists. After the Red Cross took custody of the Israeli captives, they were transported to IDF for immediate medical evaluation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Levy's mother said seeing her son so pale and skeletal was devastating, but she remained hopeful about his recovery. Hamas also released a propaganda video showing the three men inside a tunnel, further inflaming Israeli anger and reinforcing concerns, of course, about the conditions under which the remaining hostages are being held.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Meanwhile, the parents of American hostage Yitai Chen urged President Donald Trump to ramp up efforts to secure the release of six American citizens still held by Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking from Washington, over the weekend reiterated Israel's unwavering commitment to bringing every hostage home, declaring Israel will, quote, "...do everything to bring all our hostages back."
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Israel's ambassador to the UN wasted no time in calling on Secretary General Antonio Guterres to denounce Hamas publicly for its treatment of hostages. As part of the exchange, Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners, including 18 who were serving life sentences for deadly attacks on Israelis.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Some of the released prisoners were Hamas operatives involved in suicide bombings and other terror operations. Seven of those convicted of the most serious crimes were transferred to Egypt, where they will either remain there or be deported under the ceasefire terms. Footage from Ramallah showed Palestinian detainees arriving from Ofer prison in the occupied West Bank.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Among those freed was Abu Shakdam, serving 18 life sentences for his role in terror attacks that killed dozens of Israelis during the second intifada. Another, al-Tawil, a senior Hamas political figure, has been in and out of Israeli prisons for two decades on accusations of helping finance terror attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
The agreement is set to expire on 1 March, leaving uncertainty over the next stage of negotiations. Hamas has so far released 16 Israeli hostages out of the 33 promised in their first phase of the deal. Eight of the remaining captives are confirmed dead. In total, Hamas and its terror affiliates are still holding 73 people from the 7 October attacks, down from the original 251.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Well, that makes sense. I mean, if the Ukrainian military engages in an offensive, Putin's going to need some cannon fodder. And I think he's already discovered that the North Korean troops make for fine fodder. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Today we're beginning with a closer look at USAID, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Netanyahu reportedly remains cautious about the second phase of the deal which would require a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza in exchange for further hostage releases.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
His coalition shows additional cracks as his finance minister has threatened to resign if the ceasefire continues, following the lead of National Security Minister Edomar Ben-Gvir, who quit Netanyahu's government over the ceasefire's implementation. With political tensions rising and the hostage crisis far from resolved, Israel and the hostages face a precarious road ahead.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
All right, sticking with our coverage of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, Israel pulled its forces from the Netzerim Corridor. That's a militarized zone that splits Gaza in two. The withdrawal, a core stipulation of the ceasefire, allowed hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to return north for the first time in months.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Hamas held the Israeli withdrawal Sunday as a victory, declaring it proof of, quote, the will of our people. While Israel has not officially acknowledged the pullout, CNN reported no visible Israeli military presence at the crossing on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
The corridor, a near four-mile strip of land stretching from the Israel-Gaza border to the Mediterranean, was established as a strategic chokepoint during Israel's 15-month military campaign against Hamas. Its closure effectively severed northern Gaza, restricting both civilian movement and humanitarian aid.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
Despite the retreat, a checkpoint does remain in place, manned by the supervision of Egyptian and Qatari mediators, who have been key components, of course, to managing talks between Israel and Hamas during the ceasefire process.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
In the first 72 hours after the corridor reopened, Gaza's government media office estimates roughly 500,000 displaced Palestinians moved north on foot, others in makeshift vehicles, or on donkeys traversing a battered landscape marked by months of heavy fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
February 10th, 2025: The Very Worst Of USAID Spending & Hamas Releases Emaciated Hostages
But despite withdrawing from Netzerim, Israel still controls Gaza's borders with Egypt and Israel maintaining broader restrictions in place. Meanwhile, the ceasefire's fragile footing was tested over the weekend by fresh violence near an Israeli kibbutz close to the Gaza border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Start your day off right with a delicious taste of Blackout Coffee. Now, Blackout Coffee is a terrific family-owned American business, and they're all about premium coffee. That's what they do. Fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Go think about that, huh? The beans are in the roaster. The next thing you know, they land on your porch.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Central Command CENTCOM announced the strikes on Sunday, saying they were intended to, quote, disrupt, degrade and defeat ISIS and ensure that they cannot take advantage of Assad's fall to bolster their regional power. That's according to a report from Fox News. The U.S. military used a mix of B-52s, F-15s and A-10s during the operation to hit more than 75 terrorist targets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
While a damage assessment is still being conducted, officials said there was no indication that any civilians were harmed during the operation. The commander of CENTCOM issued a stern warning to extremist elements currently operating in Syria, saying, quote, There should be no doubt we will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
All organizations in Syria should know that we will hold them accountable if they partner with or support ISIS in any way, end quote. As we discussed on this morning's PDB, the Biden administration has expressed a cautious optimism about the sudden regime change in Syria, which saw a coalition of Islamist rebels take control of the capital city of Damascus just on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
UN Secretary of State Antony Blinken declared that Syrians, quote, finally have reason for hope. He said the U.S. will support a, quote, inclusive transition of power to an, quote, accountable government. Blinken added that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
You put them in your mug, and Bob's your uncle. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB, for 20% off your first-time purchase. It's Monday, 9 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. This week in the Middle East, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
will also support international efforts to hold Assad accountable for, quote, atrocities and abuses committed against the Syrian people during the civil war, including the use of chemical weapons. As we noted earlier, Assad and his family fled to Moscow over the weekend after being granted asylum by Putin's Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Speaking of the Assad regime's chemical weapons stores, Israel has also intensified their activity inside Syria since Sunday, striking chemical weapons facilities and other missile and air defense systems on Monday. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, What guides us is the security of the state of Israel and its citizens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Therefore, we attacked strategic weapons, the residual chemical weapons capabilities, long-range missiles and rockets, so they won't fall into the hands of radicals. A day earlier, Israel also sent troops into a demilitarized buffer zone in the Golan Heights after Syrian troops abandoned their posts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that armed men had subsequently breached the buffer zone and attacked UN peacekeeping forces. Israeli officials said they only planned to hold the zone temporarily to send a message to Syrian militants not to get too close to the Israeli border. Meanwhile, Turkey, pursuing a competing agenda to the U.S. and Israel, also began a limited airstrike campaign.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Is anybody not conducting airstrike campaigns in Syria at the present time? On Sunday, targeting U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in northern Syria, which reportedly killed 22 members of the Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF, and wounded 40 others. Officials in Turkey drew a red line, saying they would not allow the Kurdish PKK or Islamic State to benefit from the post-Assad chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Now, for some background, Turkey, while counted as a US and NATO ally, has long fought Kurdish separatists along their border who seek to establish an independent country. The Kurds, who have proven instrumental in helping the U.S. fight ISIS, control much of Syria's northeast under an autonomous civil administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The Pentagon has since been in contact with their counterparts in the Turkish Defense Ministry to coordinate their military activity and to, quote, prevent further escalation of an already volatile situation as well as to avoid any risk to U.S. forces and partners, end quote. Yes, that's not a bad idea, considering the last thing that one needs in Syria at the present time is another goat rope.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
All right, next, an update on the violence in Haiti, where 184 people were killed in a brutal massacre over the weekend by a gang leader acting on the advice of a voodoo priest. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Haiti's security crisis took a turn for the worse this weekend, just when you thought it, well, couldn't get any worse.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
At least 184 people lost their lives in a brutal gang-led massacre in one of Port-au-Prince's poorest neighborhoods, marking another grim chapter in the country's ongoing struggles. The massacre unfolded in the Cité Soleil neighborhood, one of the capital's most densely populated areas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The attack was orchestrated by a local gang leader who allegedly acted on accusations from a voodoo priest claiming elderly residents used witchcraft to sicken his child who died on Saturday. According to Reuters, the National Human Rights Defense Network reports the gang carried out the killings with machetes and knives, targeting individuals over 60 years old.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
First, Israel and the US have unleashed airstrikes across Syria in the wake of the fall of the Assad regime on Sunday, targeting terrorist organizations and critical weapons infrastructure at risk of falling into rebel hands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The United Nations human rights chief revealed on Monday that this surge in violence has pushed the death toll in Haiti to at least 5000 this year alone. The neighborhood has long been a flashpoint for violence, with the gang behind this attack controlling the area and even restricting mobile phone use to limit communication and maintain dominance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The United Nations in October estimated that the gang has around 300 members, illustrating the scale of their stranglehold on the community. This violence is part of a broader humanitarian disaster gripping Haiti.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The International Organization for Migration reports that over 41,000 people have fled their homes in the past two weeks alone, pushing the total number of displaced Haitians to over 700,000. Many live in overcrowded conditions with limited access to essentials like food, water, and medical care.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Haiti's political instability has only compounded this crisis, of course, with heavily armed gangs exploiting the absence of effective governance to expand their control. As we've previously reported on the PDB, international interventions, including the deployment of hundreds of Kenyan police officers, have failed to restore order.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
The killings have drawn renewed attention to Haiti's spiraling security and humanitarian crises. With widespread displacement, unchecked gang violence, and political instability, the international community faces mounting pressure to address the disaster threatening millions of Haitians. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 9 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please, here's what I'd like you to do. Reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And as I'm sure you've probably heard by now, to listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by simply visiting pdbpremium.com. I guarantee you, it is simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
Then an update on the violence in Haiti, where 184 people were killed in a brutal massacre over the weekend by a gang leader, get this, acting on the advice of a voodoo priest. But first, our afternoon spotlight. We'll begin with the fallout in Syria, where Israel and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 9th, 2024: US, Israel Launch Airstrikes in Syria & Haitian Gangs Slaughter Civilians In Brutal Massacre
are leveraging the current chaos to target extremist elements and dangerous assets at risk of falling into the hands of the Islamist rebels. Now, the U.S. military wasted little time following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime on Sunday, unleashing dozens of airstrikes in central Syria against known ISIS camps and operatives. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Here's a recipe for starting your day off right. Well, step one, get yourself an empty coffee mug. Step two, fill it with Blackout Coffee. That's it. Morning sorted. Blackout Coffee is a terrific, family-owned American business, and they're all about producing premium coffee, fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
While police have made progress, the shooter remains at large, leaving law enforcement racing to piece together a trail spanning multiple states. According to ABC News sources, investigators made a key discovery on Friday, recovering a backpack in Central Park believed to belong to the suspect. Inside were just two items, a Tommy Hilfiger jacket and, oddly, Monopoly money.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Authorities also deployed divers to a nearby pond in search of the distinctive 9mm pistol used in the shooting, though as of now it's unclear if anything was recovered. On Saturday, the NYPD released new surveillance images showing the suspect in a cab, but his face is obscured by a medical mask.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
While investigators believe they've obtained DNA from the crime scene, results from the NYC chief medical examiner could take several days. Now, the suspect's movements are gradually coming into focus. Investigators tracked the suspect's movements to the Port Authority bus terminal, where he arrived on 24 November via a Greyhound bus from Atlanta.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
It remains unclear if the suspect boarded there or in a city along the route to New York. Surveillance footage suggests he spent 10 days in New York City before the shooting, staying at a Manhattan hostel under a fake ID and paying in cash to avoid detection. During this stint, security cameras captured a brief moment where the suspect lowered his mask, offering investigators a look at his face.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
However, the NYPD has yet to identify him using facial recognition technology. After the shooting, the suspect fled into Central Park and then took a cab to the George Washington Bridge bus station. From there, he boarded a bus that offers commuter service to New Jersey and Greyhound routes to Philadelphia, Boston and Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
His decades-long grip on power is over, bringing an end to the authoritarian dynasty his father began half a century ago and that was responsible for the death and torture over the decades of hundreds of thousands of Syrians. The collapse unfolded rapidly.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
NYPD officers have since traveled to Atlanta to follow leads with the assistance of local police and FBI agents, while hundreds of detectives in New York continue to pour over surveillance footage, vet public tips and interview the suspect's former hostile roommates. While the nationwide manhunt continues, law enforcement has yet to identify the suspect by name.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The NYPD remains focused on piecing together clues from the evidence collected, aiming to close in on the individual behind the targeted attack of Thompson, CEO of the country's largest healthcare insurer. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 9 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
And I hope that you had a chance to tune into our extended weekend show this weekend. That's the PDB Situation Report. Our guests included Brian Carter with the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute and Eric O'Neill, former FBI counterterrorism operative. Now, we covered a lot of ground, the situation in Syria, Iranian cyber attacks, and more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
You can catch the Situation Report every Friday night at 10 p.m. on The First TV, as well as on our YouTube channel. Check that out. It's at President's Daily Brief. And, of course, wherever you get your podcast stuff, including Spotify and Apple. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
On Saturday evening, reports emerged that rebel forces had entered the suburbs of Damascus with claims that President Assad was even reaching out to them in hopes of negotiating an end to the conflict. Yeah, good luck with that. By Sunday morning, it was all over. Rebel forces had seized control and publicly declared victory.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The news was first broadcast on Syrian state television yesterday morning, with the nation's most prominent news anchor reading a news bulletin provided by the rebel leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
It read in part, quote, To those who bet on us and to those who didn't, to those who thought one day that we were broken, we announced to you from the Syrian news channel the victory of the great Syrian revolution after 13 years of patience and sacrifice. Now, the leader of the main rebel group, Abu Muhammad al-Jilani, has also made his first statements since arriving in Damascus.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
In a speech delivered inside a mosque in the capital, he called the victory a new chapter in the history of the region. He added that Syria would no longer be a, quote, playground for Iranian ambitions, spreading sectarianism, and stirring corruption, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Syria's foreign ministry has also released a statement which read, quote, a new page in Syrian history is being written, consecrating a national oath and covenant that will bring all Syrians together, end quote. The people who wrote that statement will likely find themselves out of a job very soon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code BDB, for 20% off your first-time purchase. It's Monday, 9 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And coming to you this week from, where are we? Oh, the Middle East. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
And depending on how things go over the next days and weeks, well, that could be the best scenario that they could hope for. The collapse of Assad's regime was years in the making. After clinging to power through a brutal civil war that began in 2011, in large part due to the backing of Iran and Russia, Assad faced growing dissent at home.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Rebel groups fragmented for much of the conflict recently coordinated a sweeping offensive, capturing key cities such as Aleppo and Homa before storming Damascus. Crucially, Assad's international allies, particularly Russia, seemed to pull back their support in recent months, leaving his regime increasingly isolated.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
As opposed to 2015, when Russia and Iran provided significant military resources, personnel, and support in the last major beatdown of the rebels, this time around, both Russia and Iran are in much different situations. Russia, of course, has been focused on its Ukraine invasion and could ill afford to shift military assets to Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Iran now finds its primary proxy, Hezbollah, severely degraded and in no position to provide fighters and resources to Syria as they have in the past. In the hours since the fall of Damascus, videos have emerged of Syrians across the country toppling statues of regime figures, including those of Hafez al-Assad. That's the previous president and father of Bashar al-Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Meanwhile, Bashar al-Assad's whereabouts were initially unclear, with early speculation that his plane had crashed within Syria. However, Russian state news agencies later revealed that the ousted dictator is currently in Moscow. There's a surprise with his family, where he's been granted asylum.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Now, granting asylum to a brutal dictator responsible for so much death and suffering over the years is entirely on brand for Putin's regime. Reportedly, Moscow explained that they granted Assad asylum for quote humanitarian reasons. Well, that joke writes itself.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
As we've been reporting on the PDB, this marks a major embarrassment for Syria's two primary sponsors, Iran and Russia, both of which appear to have reluctantly accepted the fate and fall of their client. In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry reaffirmed its commitment to respecting Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Well, that would be a first, insisting that the Syrian people alone must determine their country's future. free from what it described as, quote, destructive interference or external imposition, end quote. Clearly, whoever wrote this in the Iranian foreign ministry is a frustrated comedy writer.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The statement also emphasized that the Islamic Republic would, quote, spare no effort in supporting efforts to establish security and stability in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has been notably quiet, issuing a brief statement claiming that Assad had left office and departed Syria after issuing orders for a peaceful transfer of power, no doubt setting the stage for its own withdrawal from the country. Reportedly, the Russians have been in discussions with the rebels over the protection of their military bases and embassy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The rebels and population of Damascus took to the streets over the weekend and quickly ransacked Assad's residences along with the Iranian embassy. Reportedly, the rebels have called on the people to leave government buildings and institutions alone. So what's next for Syria? Well, only one thing is certain here. The country will be operating under a new flag across Syria and at embassies abroad.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The green, white and black stripes of the rebels have already begun replacing the red, white and black of the Assad regime. Now, as we know from recent history in places such as Iraq and Libya, Replacing a despotic dictator can create its own problems. The main rebel group, HTS, has its origins years ago with ISIS.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The rebel leader, al-Jalani, started with ISIS, later moving to Syria to start up al-Qaeda's branch there. Since roughly 2017, he and his group have reportedly denounced al-Qaeda and have been essentially running their own government in the northern Syrian province of Idlib.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Al Jalani claims that they are now a nationalist movement, but whether that's simply a facade or legitimate, well, we'll know that in relatively short order. There are numerous other rebel factions with their own interests, all looking to stake out their own territory that have been cobbled together during this offensive to take over.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Whether HTS, the main group, is able to stitch the various groups into a cohesive, stable organization capable of providing leadership, well, that's anyone's guess at the moment. And then, of course, there's the clown car stuffed with foreign players. Iran, Russia, Turkey, and the US all have interests. All have been providing support to the mixed bag of players over the years.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
And all are equally unsure what to expect next.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
and not to be an alarmist but uh well there is the question of assad's chemical weapons program and inventory and not to mention where there's chaos there tends to be extremists looking to fill the void and take advantage iraq is a case study in how not to handle the aftermath of the toppling of a despot in that case the immediate aftermath much like the first days in damascus
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
A historic day in the Middle East, as the region comes to terms with the fall of one of the world's longest-running family dictatorships. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been toppled by rebel forces. He fled the country shortly before the rebels took over Damascus.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
were filled with hope and euphoria, which gave way within months, unfortunately, sadly, to chaos and sectarian violence. Now, a major contributor was the dissolution of the Iraqi army, police, and government institutions by the US and allies, somehow believing that the removal of existing structure that had operated under Saddam Hussein would be replaced by something better.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Instead, well, they created a void that was filled by years of despair. With Syria keeping existing institutions intact while working on reforms to ensure a society that protects and respects all the groups and minorities and persons that make up the Syrian tapestry, well, that will be critical to future success. Oh, look at me, sounding all hopeful.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Coming up next, reactions from around the world to the fall of Assad's regime. Plus, Ukraine's military death toll and the latest U.S. billion-dollar aid package. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. I want to turn now to the international response to the fall of the Assad regime, which can be described as a mix of hope and relief and apprehension. We'll start in the Middle East, where Saudi Arabia expressed, quote, satisfaction with the positive steps in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
The kingdom called for, quote, concerted efforts to preserve the unity of Syria and the cohesion of its people. Over in Turkey, which had a large hand in supporting the rebels, the foreign minister said, quote, Today there is hope for the Syrian people.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Later in the show, governments around the world react to the fall of the Assad regime with a mix of, well, let's call it hope and apprehension. We'll break down the response so far. Plus, Ukrainian President Zelensky reveals the military death toll for Ukraine's forces in the Russian invasion as the U.S. prepares another billion-dollar aid package.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
He went on to speak about the importance of stability, unity, and sovereignty in Syria, as well as the well-being of the Syrian people, noting that that would allow millions of Syrians to return home. And no doubt, the return of Syrian refugees will be one of Turkey's top priorities in the coming days, considering that it hosts more than 3 million of them.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Meanwhile, Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu called it, quote, an historic day for the Middle East, describing Assad's collapse as both an opportunity and a source of potential danger. On the ground, practical moves were already underway. Netanyahu ordered the Israeli Defense Forces to take control of the buffer zone between Israel and Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
That's a territory long demilitarized under a 1974 agreement. The IDF confirmed the deployment on Sunday, highlighting Israel's proactive stance as the regional landscape shifts. In Europe, cities like Paris, London, Stockholm, and Athens witnessed celebrations by Syrian expatriates, many of whom fled the brutal civil war over the past decade.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Governments across the continent cautiously welcomed Assad's fall. The European Union's foreign policy chief declared, "...the end of Assad's dictatorship is a long-awaited development. Our focus now is ensuring regional stability and security." Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the news as, quote, good, emphasizing the urgent need for law and order in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
France's foreign ministry echoed similar sentiments, saying the Syrian people have suffered too much. And in Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stressed the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring aid reaches the most vulnerable. In Washington, D.C., Daniel Shapiro, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, said, quote, no one should shed any tears over the end of the Assad regime. He said the United States would maintain a presence in eastern Syria, quote, to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS, and said they will take all necessary measures to defend its forces in the area. Meanwhile, President-elect Trump commented on the matter on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
In an early morning post to Truth Social, Trump wrote in part, quote, Assad is gone. He has fled his country. His protector, Russia, Russia, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was not interested in protecting him any longer. Now, I'm not sure why he had to say Russia three different times, but there you go. Trump added there was no reason for Russia to be there in the first place.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
They lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine, end quote. And speaking of Ukraine, President Zelenskyy revealed on Sunday that 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed while 370,000 have been wounded since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The announcement marks Kiev's first public disclosure of casualty figures in the nearly three-year conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Zelensky shared the figures in a telegram post countering a claim from President-elect Donald Trump, who wrote on Truth Social that Ukraine had, quote, ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers since the war's inception. Now, this shift toward transparency, if Zelensky's numbers are accurate, follows nearly three years of withholding such data, citing concerns about providing intelligence to Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Back in February, Zelensky reported 31,000 troops killed without addressing the number of injuries. The Ukrainian president clarified that the 370,000 wounded included minor and repeated injuries, noting that about 50% of injured soldiers have returned to active duty, and also added the release of nearly 3,800 soldiers from Russian captivity.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Now, these numbers stand in stark contrast to Ukrainian claims of Russian losses, which Zelenskyy states exceed 750,000, including 198,000 dead and over 550,000 wounded. He added that since September, Russia has been losing five to six troops for every Ukrainian soldier killed, despite making gains in Ukraine's east. Now, Zelensky's disclosure comes as the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
And in today's Back of the Brief, we'll bring you the latest updates on the hunt for the man who killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO in New York City this past week. But first, today's BDB Spotlight. Five decades of Assad family rule came to a crashing halt over the weekend as rebel forces ousted Bashar al-Assad's regime and forced the despot to flee.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
announced a new $1 billion security aid package for Ukraine, representing nearly half of the remaining funds in the Pentagon's Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. It's important to note that unlike previous aid packages sourced from U.S. military stocks, this funding will purchase new equipment, including munitions, drones, and tools for weapons repair.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the aid at the Reagan National Defense Forum over the weekend, calling the U.S. and its allies the, quote, arsenal of Ukrainian democracy. Meanwhile, President-elect Trump on Sunday doubled down on his push for an immediate ceasefire, urging Russian President Putin to end the bloodshed and start negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Trump's comments followed a weekend meeting in Paris with French President Emmanuel Macron and Zelensky, which Trump described as, quote, constructive. While Trump has previously advocated for a ceasefire, Sunday's proposal appeared more urgent, and both Kiev and Moscow responded swiftly.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia's openness to talks, but pointed to a 2022 decree from Zelensky ruling out negotiations if Putin remains in power. Zelensky, for his part, acknowledged Trump's proposal in a telegram post, but reiterated the need for effective guarantees to prevent Russia from reigniting the conflict, stating, quote, Ukrainians want peace more than anyone else.
The President's Daily Brief
December 9th, 2024: Assad’s Regime Toppled & Global Reactions Begin
Russia brought war to our land, end quote. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, the latest on the manhunt for the gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, the NYPD and federal authorities are intensifying their search for the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO, Brian Thompson.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
We're finally learning the details of exactly how Atlantic Magazine Editor Jeffrey Goldberg wound up in a Signal Group Chat, where senior Trump administration officials were discussing upcoming military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. Und die Antwort ist, es war ein Kontakt-Liste-Mix-Up auf einem iPhone. Ja, natürlich war es das. Es ist ein sehr 2020er Fehler.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Sprechend mit The Guardian in den USA, drei Gründer, die sich mit der internen Investition der White House kennengelernt haben, sagten, dass die Tafel für den Unfall im Oktober war, während der Präsidenten-Kampagne. Goldberg hatte die Trump-Kampagne e-mailt, über eine kritische Geschichte, die er geschrieben hatte, eine, die Trumps Ansprüche auf schmerzhafte Serviceleute beantwortete.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
In response, the campaign brought in Congressman Mike Waltz, a national security surrogate, to push back. Now, here's where it gets, let's call it unusual. Goldberg's email, which included his signature block and phone number, you know how emails do sometimes, was forwarded to Waltz by Trump-Campaign-Spokesman Brian Hughes, who just copied and pasted the whole thing into a text.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Okay, Waltz never called Goldberg, but somehow, likely due to his iPhone's contact suggestion algorithm, Goldberg's number was saved under Hughes' contact card. It's always the algorithm, isn't it? Fast forward to March. Waltz, now Trump's national security advisor, goes to create a signal group chat called...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Houthi PC Small Group, to coordinate with top officials about US military action in Yemen. And a crazy coincidence, I also have a chat group called Houthi PC Small Group. You think, what are the odds? So Waltz meant to add Hughes, but thanks to the contact card mix-up months earlier, well, he added Jeffrey Goldberg instead. Und wie sie sagen, der Rest ist Geschichte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Der Editor von The Atlantic wurde plötzlich auf hohen Niveau an sensiblen Gesprächen über zukünftige US-Militärestrecken auf einer unbeklagten Messungsapp eingeladen. Laut Berichten war Trump furchtbar, als die Geschichte brach, aber nicht nur wegen der Sicherheitsbedürfnisse. What really ticked him off?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Well, apparently it was that Goldberg, editor of a magazine that Trump openly loathes, was in Waltz's phone at all.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Trump reportedly considered firing Waltz, but ultimately decided against it, partly to avoid the optics of a media-driven firing just weeks into his second term, and partly because the White House's internal review showed that it really was just an accident, an embarrassing bureaucratic digital age blunder. Das selbe Review hat einen Forensik-Audit von der IT-Familie durchgeführt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Sie haben bemerkt, dass das iPhone Goldbergs Nummer automatisch in den falschen Kontakt gemeldet hat. Ein Quote-Kontakt-Suggestion-Update ist falsch gegangen. Für seinen Teil hat Waltz Fox News erzählt, dass Goldbergs Nummer in sein Telefon gesuckert wurde. Seine Worte. Er hat bemerkt, dass er nie mit Goldberg kommuniziert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
But when the Guardian reached out, Goldberg said something slightly different, quote, I'm not going to comment on my relationship with Mike Waltz beyond saying I do know him and have spoken to him, end quote. Despite the fallout, Trump has stood by Waltz.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Just days ago, the president boarded Marine One with Waltz by his side, along with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Personnel Chief Sergio Gore, a clear show of support.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
And while this whole situation raised alarms about security and oversight, officials say that the White House had approved the use of Signal in the first place, simply because there wasn't a better real-time alternative for interagency communication. Ich meine, außer wenn du die sicheren Telefone zählst, die sie benutzen sollen. Aber außer dem, nein.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Lass uns das eine Lektion für uns alle sein, ehrlich gesagt. Die nächste Zeit, wenn du eine Chatgruppe startest, um über Bomben und iranische Proxy-Gruppen zu diskutieren, Well, select your group members wisely. Coming up next, a potential significant development in Iraq.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Several powerful Iranian-backed militias say that they're ready to disarm, marking a potential turning point as they look to avoid a direct clash with the Trump administration. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Na, schau dir die Wirtschaft an. Was siehst du? Na, ich zeige dir, was wir sehen. Wir sehen einige Tarifkriege. Wir haben sicherlich diese.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Wir sehen aufwändige Rezessionstäusche und wir sehen einige stürmische, steckige Inflation. Also ist es kein Wunder, dass Gold regelmäßig Alltagshöhe erreicht hat. Und schau, in Volatilitätsmärkten, wie dem, den wir gerade haben, sitzt man nicht nur auf der Seite mit seinem Kopf in den Sand und hofft, dass alles besser wird. Habe Kontrolle und behalte deine Steuern.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
It's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Birchgold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating, with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder that so many Americans count on Birch Gold to help protect their savings. And you can too. Just text BDB to 989-898 today. Mike Baker hier. Nun, es ist Frühstück. Schau dir das an.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
It's Monday, the 7th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with new revelations about that warplans chat group on Signal. Remember that? It was a bizarre story that captured the headlines for a few days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Wir haben es geschafft. Und wenn es Frühstück ist, bedeutet das, dass es Grillzeit ist. Bin ich richtig? Und hier ist ein Pro-Tipp, wie man das beste Fleisch auf den Grill geben kann. Schau dir nicht weiter als Tri-Tails-Beef an. Schau, Tri-Tails ist das echte Deal. Es ist ein fünfter Generation Texas Ranch, wo Pferde mit Pestizide, Gras fertiggestellt und auf dem richtigen Weg gegrillt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Sie handeln das Fleisch auf dem Ort und schicken es direkt zu deiner Tür. Es gibt keinen Mittelpunkt. Kein Mysterium. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. It's small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment that it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now they've got a special offer. Just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In a surprise move, several powerful Iranian-backed militias in Iraq have signaled a willingness to disarm in a move aimed at sidestepping potential American airstrikes under the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
The move follows months of stern warnings from the White House, which has quietly pressured Baghdad to bring the Iran-aligned militias to heal or face the consequences. Seit Präsident Trumps Rückkehr ins Büro, haben die US-Affizienten immer wieder klargestellt, dass die Ära der Toleranz vor iranischen Proxy-Attacken vorbei ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Laut sechs Kommandanten, die vier große Milizisten repräsentieren, insbesondere Kata'ib Hezbollah, die vermutlichste der iranischen Shiite-Faktionen, sind die Negotiierungen mit dem iranischen Bundespräsidenten Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, wie Reuters berichtet, sehr vorgesehen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
There is a growing consensus among militia leaders that continued defiance risks drawing overwhelming US military retaliation. These militias fall under the umbrella of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iranian-sponsored network overseen by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Since the eruption of the war in Gaza, these factions have launched dozens of drone and missile attacks on American and Israeli targets, purportedly in solidarity with Hamas. Two senior Iraqi security officials told Reuters that militias command an estimated 50,000 fighters and stockpile weapons that include long-range rockets and anti-air systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
A Qatai-Hassanullah commander admitted, quote, We know Trump is ready to take the war to worse levels. We want to avoid such a bad scenario, end quote. While formal disarmament agreements remain on the table, proposals under discussion include transitioning the militias into political entities or integrating them into Iraq's national armed forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
And then, much like everything else that happens in Washington, D.C., it disappeared from view. We're now learning how the Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg ended up in the chat about U.S. strikes in Yemen. It all traces back to a contact mix-up, an old campaign email, and one very unhelpful iPhone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
It's a strategy that mirrors past efforts at neutralizing paramilitary threats. Prime Minister Soudani, seeking to consolidate control, has made it clear that all arms must fall under state authority. His foreign affairs advisor told Reuters the government is pursuing, quote, constructive dialogue with various national actors to achieve that end.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Some factions have already begun repositioning, quietly withdrawing from urban flashpoints, moving command centers and ramping up personnel security protocols. Several commanders now reportedly rotate phones, cars and safehouses on a near-daily basis to avoid being targeted by American airpower. Vielleicht am wichtigsten ist, dass die IRGC scheint, ihren Griff zu lösen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Für das erste Mal in letzter Erinnerung ermöglicht Tehran, seine irakischen Proxys mit einem Gewinn der Autonomie zu beachten, die Überwachung über ideologische Konsistenz zu priorisieren, so wie regionale Schwierigkeiten zählen. Dieser Schiff kommt in einen volatilen Moment für die so genannte Achse der Resistenz von Iran, die natürlich starke Schwierigkeiten in der Region verursacht hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Hamas und Hezbollah haben israelische Bombardierungen und signifikante Verluste ihrer Führungsschüsse verursacht. Die Houthis verursachen aufwändige US-Fahrerabschlüsse, und der Montagsschlaf des syrischen Präsidenten Assad, ein Grundstück der regionalen Strategie von Iran, hat die Influence des iranischen Regimes weiter untergebrochen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hat Washington's Red Lines in einem Anruf am 16. März mit den Sudanern geäußert, kurz nach den US-Angriffen auf Houthi-Positionen in Jemen. Hegseth beurteilt, dass zukünftige militärische Verabschiedungen auf US-Personal oder israelische Aspekte eine entscheidende amerikanische Reaktion erzeugen würden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
For Iraq, a nation long caught between Washington and Tehran, the latest developments suggest that its balancing act may be tilting under renewed American pressure and the militia's instinct for survival. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, the 7th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Of course, to listen to the show ad-free, it's very easy. Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, have you heard about the Maha-Movement? I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again Movement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority. That's why I'm excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team at Jacked Up Fitness. Look, their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro has everything you need for a full-body workout at home. Seriously, look, this is an amazing setup.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Das Kabel-Crossover-System mit integriertem 200-Kilogramm-Wichtstack und der Smith-Maschine erlauben dir, Hunderten von Exercisen zu machen, also alles, was du im Gym tun kannst. Wenn du neu an Krafttraining bist, gibt es ihr Get-Jacked-Up-Programm, das komplette Video-Workouts bietet. Nur drückst du auf Play und folgst mit. Es ist so einfach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
Later in the show, several powerful Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq are reportedly prepared to disarm for the first time to avert the threat of an escalating conflict with the US Trump administration. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
My Power Rack Pro just arrived at the house and our three teenage boys and I are ready to hit it hard. Getting into a consistent home fitness routine is easy with Jacked Up Fitness. At the end of the day, look, there is nothing more important than your health. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 7th, 2025: Revealed: How A Reporter Was Added To Yemen War Chat On Signal & Iran-Backed Militias Back Down
When you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code BAKER. Come on, no more excuses. Go to getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The drone is central to US surveillance and strike operations across the region. Since October of 2023, when the Houthis began attacking Israeli and commercial vessels in the Red Sea in the aftermath of Hamas' 7 October terror attacks in Israel, they claimed to have downed at least 13 rapers. Now, an American defense official told Fox News that the true tally may be closer to 17.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The country's highest court has officially removed President Yun Suk-yeol from office, just four months after he declared martial law. And in today's back of the brief, Yemen's Houthi rebels continue to show resilience, reportedly shooting down a third US Reaper drone just since the beginning of March. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Hmm, that's an embarrassing attrition rate for one of the Pentagon's most prized assets. Now, if that number is accurate, and at $30 million apiece, Well, I'm not that good at mathin', but I believe that would tally up to somewhere in the region of half a billion dollars. Washington, for its part, has turned to financial warfare in addition to the ongoing airstrikes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Last week, the State Department imposed sanctions on a series of individuals and entities linked to a shadowy global finance network accused of funneling money and weapons to the Houthis. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, speaking last month on CBS' Face the Nation, compared the Houthis to, quote, Al-Qaida or ISIS with advanced cruise missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
He warned that Iran continues to provide the group with increasingly sophisticated weaponry. Securing the Red Sea Trade Corridor, Walsh says, is a fundamental aspect of U.S. national security. As Houthi rebels continue to demonstrate resilience in the face of regular U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
airstrikes, and with a top official from the Iran-backed proxy declaring just last month that they are at war with America, well, U.S. assets, like the Reaper drone, have obviously become prime targets. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 7th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
And I hope you had a chance to listen to this past weekend's episode of our PDB Situation Report. If not, you can find it and, of course, past episodes online. on our highly acclaimed but not yet award-winning YouTube channel, which you can find at Presidents Daily Brief. And as always, you can find the PDB on all the podcast platforms, wherever you get your podcast stuff.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Nationen weltweit reagieren immer noch auf die steigenden Tarife, die Präsident Trump letzte Woche erklärte. Und nicht überraschend ist, dass einer der größten Vertreter der USA, China, das wäre China, es nicht leichter nimmt. Stattdessen hat Beijing entschieden, sich zurückzuhalten.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Dieses Wochenende haben chinesische Offiziere erklärt, dass sie einen 34%-Tarif auf US-Güter schlagen, der den exacten Rate, den Trump auf chinesische Importe vorgelegt hat. Endquote. Yes, that's the Communist Party saying that. Because as we know, the Chinese Communist Party always acts in the common interest of the international community. In fact, it's the CCP's signature move.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Before taking any action, the Chinese regime always asks, is this going to help the international community? Nun, schau, ich bin kein Wirtschaftler, aber hier ist was klar. Diese Tarife könnten ein ernsthaftes Problem für China sein. Seit Jahrzehnten hat Chinas Wirtschaft von günstigen Produkten gefördert, alles von T-Shirts zu Tabletten, zu amerikanischen Konsumern.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Nun, dieser steile Geldfluss hat ihre Wirtschaft gehalten. But with a 34% tariff slapped on Chinese goods, it throws a wrench in the system. Products from China suddenly get way more expensive here in the US. That leaves Chinese manufacturers with two not particularly good choices.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Either eat the costs themselves, which of course slashes their profits, or raise prices, which risks American buyers walking away. Now, my good friend Gordon Cheng, one of the most knowledgeable China analysts out there, well, he thinks it's even worse. He says this terror fight exposes just how fragile the Chinese economy is.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
According to Gordon, they've been gaming the system for decades, stealing intellectual property, manipulating currency and keeping prices low through a variety of tactics. And there's evidence that tariffs work. When the Trump administration, the first Trump administration, hit China with tariffs, Chinese companies ended up eating 75 to 81 percent of the costs just to stay competitive in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
market. Now with these new tariffs in force, China is once again scrambling. They're going to be forced to devalue their currency and double down on propping up key industries in order to keep the exports flowing. But to be fair, the pain does go both ways. China's 34% tariff on US goods will hurt American farmers and manufacturers that depend on access to Chinese buyers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
There is also one other element, which is that Beijing is also pumping stimulus money into their economy to soften the blow. But that might not be enough. China is already dealing with a mountain of internal problems, massive debt, a demographic crisis and a slowing economy. Some analysts, including Gordon Chang, think these tariffs could be the tipping point.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
It's Monday, the 7th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. Wir fangen heute mit einer starken Eskalation in der Weltkriegswahl an. China schlägt jetzt zurück nach Präsident Trumps neuen Tarifen, mit einem 34%-Tarif von sich selbst auf alle amerikanischen Geräte. Aber hier ist der Witz.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Now, I can't say whether they're right or wrong on that, but it does look like China is in a tougher spot than they're letting on. While China lashes out, other US trade partners, well, they're taking a very different approach. They're trying to de-escalate the situation. In Europe, the British government is reportedly ready to make major concessions to avoid long-term economic damage.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Officials are optimistic that they can strike a deal with Washington to reduce or eliminate the 10% tariffs within weeks, and that's according to a report in the Washington Post. France and the UK are coordinating their strategy, with President Macron speaking to British Prime Minister Starmer over the weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Macron said both countries would closely coordinate their approach to upcoming negotiations with the US. And in Italy, the economic minister says his country is working hard to lower the temperature with Washington. Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister says he plans to speak directly with President Trump in the coming days. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Coming up after the break, a Russian spy threat to Britain's nuclear subs and political chaos continues in South Korea as its president is removed from office. I'll be right back. Hey, it's Mike Baker here. Now, you know what it is right now? I'll tell you what it is. It's the start of grilling season, right? And I'm about to tell you where you can get the finest beef for your grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. Now, of course, I'm talking about TriTales Beef. This isn't some corporate meat factory. It's not some mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished and raised the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. Small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Welcome back to the PDB. Echos of the Cold War are surfacing in British waters, where Russian spy sensors have been discovered tracking the United Kingdom's nuclear submarines in what military officials deem a serious national security threat. In a report from the Sunday Times, Royal Navy operatives recovered Kremlin-linked sensors from the seabed surrounding the British Isles.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The devices are believed to be part of an increasingly aggressive Russian campaign to surveil and potentially sabotage critical UK undersea infrastructure. Among the assets reportedly targeted was the UK's fleet of Vanguard nuclear-class submarines, each armed with nuclear missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The discovery prompted a swift response from military officials who kept the findings hidden from the public, but now warn of heightened Kremlin activity. One senior military source told the outlet, "...there should be no doubt there is a war raging in the Atlantic. The military is seeing phenomenal amounts of Russian activity."
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The UK Ministry of Defense suspects that these censors are part of Russian President Putin's broader, quote, grey zone warfare tactics. That term is used to characterize low visibility, plausibly deniable acts of aggression on vulnerable assets that fall just short of open conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
British Defense Analysts say several of the 60 Internet cables connecting the UK to the global web, including a number that are deemed classified, are now under elevated threat. The pattern echoes suspected Russian sabotage operations elsewhere in Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
As our PDB listeners know, in the past 15 months, at least 11 undersea cables in the Baltic Sea have been damaged under suspicious circumstances, most often linked to Russian sabotage operations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Compounding those concerns are reports that the devices found off British coasts bear similarities to components linked with Russian unmanned vehicles and other gear that have washed up on European shores in recent months. There is also rising suspicion that Russia's network of oligarch-owned yachts has served as a mobile staging platform for espionage missions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
While no official accusations have been made, defense officials are investigating links between vessel routes and known cable sabotage sites. The UK's Vanguard-class submarines, meanwhile, remain unaffected. In a statement, the Ministry of Defense confirmed that its submarines, quote, continue to patrol the world's oceans undetected, as they have done for 56 years.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
However, concern regarding Moscow's current threat level is mounting behind the scenes. In response, the Navy has expedited efforts to harden its undersea infrastructure. A project, codenamed Cabot, aims to coordinate with energy and technology companies to protect core seabed infrastructure. Some in the Royal Navy argue that deterrence must go further.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Navy sources told the Sunday Times that the government should deploy sea mines, a Cold War-era measure not used in decades, to defend the UK's subsea territory. But for now, along with Project Cabot, the Ministry of Defense is prioritizing coordination with NATO and joint expeditionary force allies.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The goal, of course, is to boost the security of critical offshore infrastructure by improving the ability to detect incursions by Russian vessels and aircraft near Europe's shores. All right. Turning to South Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The Constitutional Court formally ousted President Yun Suk-yol from office, capping a months-long political crisis that began with his shocking declaration of martial law back in December.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Experten sagen, dass der echte Schaden auf der Seite von China sein könnte. Ich erkläre, warum diese Tarife auf die relativ fragile Wirtschaft von Beijing zurückfallen könnten. Das war's für heute. Bis zum nächsten Mal. Plus, political chaos continues in South Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
In a unanimous ruling on Friday, the court's eight justices described Yun's actions, including sending armed troops to surround parliament and ordering them to drag out lawmakers, as both unconstitutional and a, quote, grave betrayal of the people's trust.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the court's decision followed a night of chaos on the 3rd of December that stunned both the nation and the international community. In a surprise late-night address, Yoon declared martial law, claiming the country faced threats from, quote, anti-state forces aligned with North Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Within hours, soldiers encircled the National Assembly as lawmakers scrambled to convene an emergency midnight session, forcing their way past military lines to annul the decree before dawn. The court's acting head judge emphasized that there was no national emergency that night to warrant such a decree.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
While Yun later insisted the declaration was intended merely as a symbolic warning, not an actual coup attempt, lawmakers swiftly impeached him. Yunes' removal takes effect immediately, triggering a snap presidential election that must be held within 60 days, marking a dramatic fall for the former prosecutor turned president, who had once built his career on prosecuting former leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Elected nearly three years ago, Yoon now becomes the second president in South Korean history to be ousted by the Constitutional Court and the shortest-serving elected leader of the country's democratic era. His downfall comes at a time of heightened political tensions, with rising military posturing from China and North Korea placing new stress on Seoul's leadership.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Acting President Han Deok-soo pledged to maintain national stability and oversee the coming election in accordance with the Constitution. And legal troubles for Yoon may only be beginning.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The now former president also faces ongoing criminal charges of insurrection, and that's a serious charge that, under South Korean law, carries a potential sentence of life imprisonment or even the death penalty, although South Korea has not carried out executions since the 1990s.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
In a brief post-ruling statement, Nguyen offered a muted apology for failing to meet expectations and thanked his supporters, calling it an honor to have served. But reactions in the Capitol were, well, putting it diplomatically, polarized. Outside the courthouse, critics celebrated with chants and songs and banners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Meanwhile, a small crowd of conservative loyalists gathered near the presidential residence, many in stunned silence. Die Aufmerksamkeit führt nun zu der Frage, wer Jun hinbekommen könnte. Einer der Frontrunner ist Opposition-Führer Lee Jae-myung, der die 2022-Elektion zu Jun schlussendlich verloren hat und sich während seiner Präsidentschaft als prominenter Kritiker gehalten hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief. Yemen's Houthi rebels have reportedly shot down another US Reaper drone. That would be the third in just the past two months, showing that the terror group may have more staying power than anticipated. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, let's take a peek around the world and see what we got. Oh, look at that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
We've got tariff wars, we've got some recession fears, and of course we've got some stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. And in volatile markets like the one we've got right now, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand, hoping that things will get better. Take control and safeguard your savings.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
Das ist, weshalb so viele Amerikaner heute die Birchgold-Gruppe wechseln. Sie haben Tausende von Tausenden geholfen, eine existente IRA oder 401k in eine IRA in physischem Gold zu verwandeln. Und so, frag dir dich diese Frage. Ist es Zeit, dich gegen Inflation und ökonomische Unstabilität mit Gold zu hegen?
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Now again, that number is 989-898. Just text PDB to 989-898. Couldn't be simpler.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, it's no wonder so many Americans count on Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold. And you can too. Just text BDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
In today's Back of the Brief, Yemen's Houthi Rebels shot down yet another American MQ-9 Reaper drone, marking the third such incident in just two months, underscoring the terror group's resilience in the face of US airstrikes. Now, despite near daily strikes over the past three weeks, the Trump administration has offered little in the way of clarity or commentary on its broader strategy in Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 7th, 2025: Why The New Tariffs Are A Gut Punch To China & Russian Spy Gear Targets British Nuclear Subs
The Pentagon has not held a formal press briefing in weeks. The result? Well, concerns regarding transparency, direction or clear endgame. For some background, the MQ-9 Reaper drone is an advanced unmanned aircraft valued at roughly 30 million dollars, give or take a couple of bucks, capable of deploying up to eight Hellfire missiles, and it's become a preferred target for the Iran-backed Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
On Sunday, the FBI released a compilation of video recordings made by Jabbar, as well as footage captured on security cameras of Jabbar walking through the French Quarter just hours before the attack. The video released by the FBI provides the first rough timeline of the events of that tragic day. Investigators said that after renting the Ford F-150 truck used in the attack,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
It's Monday, 6th January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, an update on the ISIS-inspired New Orleans terror attack, as the FBI releases video recordings from the killer that show him surveying the site of the attack some two months before his murderous rampage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Jabbar left his home in a Muslim immigrant neighborhood north of Houston on the morning of December 31st, telling a neighbor that he was moving to New Orleans for a new job. He arrived in Louisiana at around 2.30 p.m. on the 31st of December and later unloaded his truck at an Airbnb rental property in New Orleans at roughly 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Fifteen minutes after midnight, Jabbar set fire to the rental home and left in the truck. Authorities said this was likely done as a diversion and to hide evidence of his crimes, but the fire failed to engulf the home and was later put out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Jabbar then headed into the heart of the city, planting two improvised explosive devices in coolers in the Bourbon Street area, which were rigged for remote detonation. Officials said one of the coolers, left at the corner of Bourbon and St. Peter Street at roughly 1.53 a.m., was moved at some point roughly a block away by unwitting bystanders. The second bomb was planted at roughly 2.20 a.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Less than an hour later, at 3.15 a.m., Jabbar would carry out his attack. Authorities were able to neutralize both of the improvised explosive devices planted in the city, along with a third homemade bomb found in his vehicle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Officials with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, ATF, said Sunday that Jabbar might have been successful in setting off the explosives if not for the prompt and heroic response of local police, who engaged in a shootout with Jabbar after he crashed a truck, ultimately killing him. Two officers were injured in that firefight but are recovering from their wounds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
In addition to Jabbar's two previous scouting trips to New Orleans, authorities are also probing trips he took to both Egypt and Canada. Jabbar traveled to Cairo from June 22 to July 3, 2023, and then visited Ontario, Canada from July 10 to July 13, 2023.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
While the FBI maintains that Jabbar acted alone and has no domestic accomplices, they're still tracking down the details of those foreign trips to determine whether or not they are tied in any way to the attack. As a reminder, Jabbar, a convert to Islam, posted five videos to social media in the hours before the attack in which he, quote, pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
In the videos, apparently addressed to his family and recorded while he was driving, he claimed to have officially joined the Islamic State sometime before last summer. Coming up, in North Korea, just conducted their first weapons test of the new year, firing off an intermediate-range ballistic missile with suspected hypersonic capabilities. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Then we'll turn to North Korea, where Kim Jong-un is kicking off the new year with a bang, testing an intermediate-range ballistic missile with suspected hypersonic capabilities. But first, our afternoon spotlight. I want to return to our coverage of the ISIS-inspired New Year's Day terror attack in New Orleans, where a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. It took Little Rocket Man less than a week into the new year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
In its first weapons test of 2025, North Korea fired what is suspected to be a mid-range ballistic missile, even as Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with South Korea's acting president in Seoul during that country's ongoing political uncertainty.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, the missile was fired from an area near Pyongyang in North Korea early Monday, reaching an altitude of over 60 miles and traveling some 690 miles before splashing into the East Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
While the missile's exact classification remains under analysis, officials suspect that it may be similar to the hypersonic missiles tested by North Korea this past year, which are designed to evade interception through mid-flight maneuverability. Japan's defense ministry confirmed the missile's splashdown outside its exclusive economic zone with no damage to vessels. However,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Its landing in Russia's economic waters, well, raises fresh concerns about deepening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. This high-profile launch comes after a spate of short-range missile tests in November of this past year, strategically timed just before the U.S. presidential election.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Now, as President-elect Trump prepares to take office and Washington reinforces its trilateral security alliance with Seoul and Tokyo, Pyongyang's calculated timing sends a clear signal of its strategic intent. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan, of course, denounced the launch in coordinated responses. South Korea's military elevated its surveillance and maintained a heightened readiness posture.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Secretary Blinken, speaking at a press conference in Seoul, condemned the missile test as another violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions, characterizing North Korea's actions as provocations that undermine regional stability. And as we all well know at this point, if there's one thing that Kim Jong-un really hates, it's violating UN Security Council resolutions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Blinken added that the Biden administration has attempted to sit down with Pyongyang without preconditions. However, Blinken stated, quote, the only response effectively we've gotten has been more and more provocative actions, including missile launches, end quote. Well, it's still a response, I suppose.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Army veteran drove a pickup truck through a crowd of revelers, killing 14 and injuring 35 others. We're now learning that the terrorist, identified as 42-year-old Shamsuddin Jabbar, made at least two visits to New Orleans before the New Year's Day attack, which he documented on video.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
Japan's prime minister echoed Blinken's sentiments, warning of the implications of Pyongyang's technological advances, stating, "...the frequency of these launches and the evident improvement in technology demand that we redouble our efforts to strengthen deterrence." That's underscoring, of course, the urgency of regional security cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
The test coincides with past reports suggesting that North Korea is trading its troops to assist Russia's war with Ukraine in exchange for advanced satellite technology and other weapons technology. This ongoing romance between Putin and Kim Jong-un of course complicates an already volatile geopolitical landscape. State-run media in North Korea has yet to comment on the test.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
The regime there usually announces results about 24 hours after any launch, but the act is widely interpreted as a continuation of the regime's nuclear ambitions and a justification for its military buildup against what it perceives as U.S.-led encirclement. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 6 January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget what your mother told you. If you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. It really is that simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
At a press conference on Sunday, FBI officials said Jabbar first visited the site of his attack on the 30th of October, staying at a rental home in the city for several days. That's according to a report from CNN. During his stay, Jabbar recorded video as he bicycled through the French Quarter around Bourbon Street.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 6th, 2025: FBI Releases NOLA Killer's Recordings & North Korea Fires Suspected Hypersonic Ballistic Missile
He reportedly used a pair of Meta smart glasses to film the street and plan out his attack. Jabbar returned to New Orleans again on the 10th of November, though investigators said they're still attempting to piece together the details of that second trip.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
In today's Back of the Brief, China is grappling with a surge in human methamovirus or HMPV cases, with hospitals overwhelmed and public anxiety mounting over a potential epidemic. The outbreak has disproportionately affected children under 14 years old in northern China, aligning with the winter season when respiratory illnesses tend to peak.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Cold temperatures and increased indoor activity provide ideal conditions for viruses like HMPV to spread. Now first identified back in 2001, HMPV causes upper and lower respiratory infections with symptoms resembling the flu or common cold, including cough, fever, and congestion.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
While typically mild, the virus does pose a severe risk to certain groups, including young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, sometimes resulting in pneumonia. HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, prompting swift measures from Chinese authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Social distancing, mask mandates, widespread disinfection, and case monitoring have been implemented to curb its spread. During a press conference on Friday, a spokeswoman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs downplayed fears. Well, there's no surprise stating that the uptick in cases reflects a typical seasonal rise in infections, which appear less severe compared to previous years.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
It's important to note that hospitals in affected areas are focusing on supportive treatments, such as hydration and oxygen therapy, given the absence of a vaccine or specific antiviral treatments. Regional countries, including Taiwan, Hong Kong and Cambodia, remain vigilant despite not reporting significant outbreaks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Moscow time on Sunday, which is 1 a.m. on the east coast of the United States. The Russian Defense Ministry acknowledged the attack, stating, "...the operation to destroy the Ukrainian army formations continues." Russian military bloggers, often quick to share frontline developments, confirmed the scale of the offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Health experts share the Chinese government's assessment, emphasizing that while HMPV adds to the seasonal burden of respiratory illnesses, it is unlikely to approach the scale of influenza or COVID-19 pandemics. For now, authorities are urging standard hygiene practices like frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the face, and keeping distance from sick individuals.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Despite the heightened public concern, neither the Chinese government nor the World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency. Instead, Beijing is framing this as a manageable seasonal challenge with health authorities working to maintain control and avoid undue alarm. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 6th January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
I hope you had a chance over the weekend, by the way, to catch the latest episode of our extended weekend show that, of course, would be the acclaimed PDB Situation Report. But if you haven't checked it out yet, well, not to worry. You can watch Situation Report episodes, including the most recent one, on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
And if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. We love hearing from everybody in the growing PDB community. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
It's Monday, 6th January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we start with reports of another surprise Ukrainian offensive in Russia's Kursk region. It's a bold move following months of pressure from Russian and North Korean forces. I'll bring you the details.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Popular blogger Rybar reported that Ukraine deployed several formations into Kursk, gathered from the neighboring Ukrainian region of Sumy. This indicates that Kyiv has been preparing for this operation for some time, despite facing challenges elsewhere. Ukrainian officials have celebrated the offensive.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The head of the Ukrainian presidential office shared a brief but pointed message on Telegram stating a Kursk region. Good news. Russia is getting what it deserves. Meanwhile, Andrei Kovalenko, the head of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation, described the operation as targeting Russian forces in multiple directions, causing what he called, quote, great distress in Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
However, Ukraine's General Staff of the Armed Forces, President Zelensky, and the Ministry of Defense have remained silent about this operation so far, leaving analysts to speculate about the broader strategy. At least one prominent Kremlin propagandist is mocking Ukraine's counteroffensive in the Kursk region. Well, that's what Kremlin propagandists do.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
They're calling it a PR stunt designed to impress Donald Trump. Sergei Markov, the former Kremlin speechwriter, said that Ukraine had only launched a counteroffensive in the Kursk region to show the incoming U.S. president that it could still take the fight to Russia. However, despite what their propagandists are saying, the Kremlin itself is clearly taking the offensive seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Reports suggest that Putin has dispatched one of his top generals, Yunus Yevgorov, to bolster defenses in the region. Yevgurov, a trusted figure who was promoted by Putin in late 2024, arrived in Kursk just hours after Ukrainian tanks began advancing. This swift response suggests that Moscow is seriously concerned about the threat posed by this operation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
North Korean troops have reportedly joined Russia's efforts to defend against the counterattack. Prior to the launch of this latest attack, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy revealed during his weekly address that hundreds of the estimated 10,000 North Korean troops deployed to the region have already been killed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
As we've reported here on the PDB, Ukraine launched its first incursion into the region in August of last year, seizing territory before being pushed back by Russian advances. Still, Russian forces have failed to eject Ukraine entirely, and now Kyiv is striking again. For now, Ukraine faces significant hurdles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Analysts widely agree that Ukrainian forces are on their back foot, grappling with manpower shortages and losing ground in eastern Ukraine. Whether this new offensive marks an inflection point in the conflict or is a, well, let's call it a desperate gamble by Kiev, that remains to be seen. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Coming up next, undersea sabotage strikes off Taiwan's coast, and international forces in the country of Haiti struggle to counter gang attacks on the nation's fragile health care system. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Later in the show, more undersea sabotage. I mean, this is becoming quite the thing. A telecommunications cable off Taiwan's coast was damaged just days after Russia faced accusations of similar sabotage in the Baltic Sea. Plus, an update from Haiti, where international forces are working to maintain order as gangs launch attacks on the nation's already struggling healthcare sector.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Turning to more undersea sabotage, Taiwan has appealed to South Korea for assistance in investigating a Chinese-owned cargo vessel suspected of deliberately severing a cable on Friday near its northern port of Keelung.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The severed cable is part of the Trans-Pacific Express cable system, which is owned by an international consortium comprising companies from the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and China. A Taiwanese telecom provider emphasized the cable's importance as a lifeline for global Internet communications and as a potential target in any future attempt by Beijing to annex Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Investigations by the Taiwan Coast Guard identified a Chinese-owned cargo vessel as the likely perpetrator, citing automatic identification system data that placed the ship at the site of the damage. Four of the cable's cores were mangled, most likely from the vessel dragging its anchor on the seabed. Disrupting global internet traffic before data rerouting mitigated the impact.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
It's important to note that the vessel, which operates under Cameroon's flag but is owned by a Hong Kong-based entity, is now en route to South Korea. According to the Financial Times, the Taiwanese Coast Guard conducted an external survey of the vessel and briefly established radio contact with the captain, but an onboard inspection was hampered by rough seas.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Additionally, Taiwanese authorities could not order a seizure of the Chinese-owned cargo vessel, as international maritime law prevented such action due to the time elapsed since the incident.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
A Taiwan Coast Guard official stated, quote, Since it was not possible for us to question the captain, we have asked the South Korean authorities to help with the investigation at the ship's next port of destination, end quote. The sabotage has raised alarms about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in contested waters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
A Taiwanese national security official likened Friday's undersea cable sabotage to vessels in Russia's, quote, shadow fleet. That's a network of aging tankers used to evade sanctions and linked to clandestine activities. As we've previously reported here on the PDB, Friday's incident echoes last month's acts of maritime sabotage in the Baltic Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
where undersea cables were cut in suspected attacks involving Russian vessels dragging their anchor on the seabed for dozens of miles. Notably, a Chinese vessel was also seen in the area at the time of that incident. A senior Taiwanese security official stated that Friday's incident is, quote, "...another case of a very worrying global trend of sabotage against subsea cables," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Tracking data revealed the cargo ship on Friday had been crisscrossing Taiwan's northern waters since early December. That's a pattern suggesting the damage was intentional rather than accidental.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Taipei has urged international cooperation to secure critical infrastructure, warning that the sabotage of undersea cables could serve as a prelude to larger geopolitical confrontations, such as Beijing's repeated rhetoric over Taiwan and its threats to seize the island by force if necessary.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
And in today's back of the brief. All right. First of all, no need to panic. But hospitals in China are overwhelmed with patients suffering from a respiratory illness, sparking fears of another potential epidemic. And if the Chinese regime treats this problem the way that they did covid.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
OK, shifting to an update from Haiti, a new arrival of international forces underscores a pivotal moment in the nation's desperate fight against violent gangs that have crippled infrastructure, terrorized its citizens and driven its health care system to the brink of collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
According to the Associated Press, roughly 150 military police officers from Central America, primarily from Guatemala, arrived in the capital Port-au-Prince on Saturday. The officers arrived aboard a U.S. Air Force aircraft and were welcomed by a Kenyan commander who leads the U.N.-backed mission tasked with dismantling the gang's stranglehold on the capital.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Their deployment comes as a bolstering effort to the approximately 400 Kenyan security personnel already on the ground. As we've reported here on the PDB, additional personnel from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, and Chad have been pledged, though arrival dates remain unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The Kenyan commander struck a defiant tone at the welcoming ceremony, stating, quote, the gangs have only two choices, surrender, lay down their weapons and face justice, or face us in the field. The commander added, quote, with the addition of the Guatemalan and El Salvador forces, the gangs will have nowhere to hide. We will root them out of their enclave, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Haiti's plight has grown increasingly dire since the assassination of its president back in 2021, an event that left a political vacuum and allowed gang violence to flourish unchecked. Gangs now control a staggering 85% of Port-au-Prince, launching brazen attacks on critical infrastructure, including prisons, police stations, and even the capital's main international airport.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The crisis escalated further on Christmas Eve when gang members opened fire on a crowd gathered to celebrate the reopening of Port-au-Prince's General Hospital. That's the island's largest medical facility. The attack, which claimed the lives of two reporters and a police officer, was a grim reminder of the gang's control over the capital.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The Haitian Association of Journalists decried the incident as a, quote, macabre scene comparable to terrorism, pure and simple, end quote. Now compounding the grip of gang violence, Johnson Andre, Haiti's most powerful gang leader, claimed responsibility for the attack on the hospital in a video, asserting that the hospital's reopening had not been sanctioned under his coalition.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
This act of violence is part of a calculated campaign by gangs to dismantle the nation's health care infrastructure. With only 37% of health facilities in the capital fully operational, access to medical care is becoming a rarity due to security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Gangs have looted and destroyed numerous clinics and hospitals, and their targeting of health care workers has driven many to flee, leaving a skeletal staff to contend with the surging demand.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
The UN-designated expert on human rights in Haiti, William O'Neill, condemned the targeted assaults, emphasizing the profound human toll, stating, "...the Haitian people, including hundreds of thousands of children living in very precarious conditions, are once again paying the high price of this violence with their right to health severely hindered."
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Well, they'll try to keep it under wraps, they'll downplay the problem, avoid transparency, of course, and blame the rest of the world. But I guess that just makes me cynical. But first, today's spotlight. Ukrainian forces have launched a surprise counteroffensive in Russia's Kursk region, catching Moscow off guard. The operation began at approximately 9 a.m.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
While the arrival of Central American forces does represent a positive step in Haiti's fight for some level of stability, the scale of the challenge still remains daunting. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief, a surge in respiratory illnesses is overcrowding hospitals in China. Sound familiar? Sparking concerns, of course, about a potential epidemic. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
January 6th, 2025: Ukraine Launches Massive Counterattack in Kursk & Undersea Sabotage Off Taiwan
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
She called the arrests, quote, two major operations that reflect some of the biggest counter-state threat and counterterrorism operations that we have seen in recent years, end quote. She confirmed that officials are approving whether any of the men were acting on behalf of the Iranian regime. Tehran has yet to respond.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The developments come as British intelligence grows increasingly concerned about the Iranian regime's escalatory behavior on UK soil. Last October, MI5 Director General Ken McCallum revealed that British agencies had disrupted 20 Iran-linked plots since 2022, with many targeting exiled dissidents and critics of the Islamic regime.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
At the time, McCallum warned that rising tensions in the Middle East could translate into, quote, an increase in or broadening of Iranian state aggression in the UK. Well, now that warning appears to be materializing. As of now, the UK's terror threat level remains, at quote, substantial. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, the 5th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And I hope you had a chance over the weekend to check out our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. As always, you can catch the latest and past episodes on our YouTube channel. You can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief, as well as all the podcast platforms in podcast land.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
According to new reporting from Bloomberg, China has already started allowing businesses to import U.S. goods from a list of 131 products without paying the steep tariffs. The estimated value of these exempted goods is roughly $40 billion. To put that in perspective, that's nearly a quarter of all Chinese imports from the U.S. this year. So, this is not a minor tweak to China's trade policies.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
It's Monday, the 5th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off today in Beijing, where new reporting reveals the true scale of China's quiet backtrack in the trade war with the US. Over $40 billion in American goods are now exempt from tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The exemptions cover a wide range of goods, from pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals to aircraft leasing and critical inputs for electronic manufacturing. Analysts now believe this move was a deliberate mirror of U.S. exemptions on certain Chinese products rather than a goodwill gesture. Beijing is deliberately keeping the move quiet, likely to avoid the appearance of backing down.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The list has not been published and Chinese officials still haven't publicly acknowledged the exemptions. Still, at least half a dozen companies have already taken advantage, importing U.S. goods tariff-free in recent days. Behind the scenes, Chinese officials reportedly began reaching out to foreign companies in early April, asking them to identify which U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
imports were essential and difficult to replace. That feedback helped shape the whitelist, which Bloomberg says will be continuously updated based on domestic needs and supply pressures. A notable example is ethane. It's a type of natural gas used to make plastic. The US is the world's top supplier, and China doesn't have an easy alternative.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Two major Chinese plastic manufacturers have already been granted exemptions so that they can keep buying ethane from the US. It's a clear reminder that as reliant as the US is on China for manufacturing, China still depends on the US for key materials, and its retaliatory tariffs are starting to do more harm than good at home. and the damage is piling up.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Factory activity in China has now slipped into its sharpest contraction since late 2023. Major global banks, including Goldman Sachs and UBS, have cut China's full-year growth forecast to around 4%, well below Beijing's official target.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
This all might be why, on Thursday of last week, the Chinese Commerce Ministry publicly stated it's now open to resuming trade talks with the U.S., following several recent outreach attempts from American officials. But Beijing also made clear that any negotiation would require the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
to first remove all unilateral tariffs, calling them a sign of bad faith that, quote, further compromise mutual trust, end quote. Bottom line, China is feeling the squeeze. Quiet exemptions, hidden lists, and economic back channels all point to a regime that wants to avoid a collapse in critical sectors, while, of course, trying not to lose face in a very public trade war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
All right, coming up after the break, a Houthi missile lands near Israel's main airport in one of the group's boldest strikes yet. And the Trump administration deepens its military support for Ukraine with a $310 million F-16 aid package. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Well, you know all about the tariffs probably by now and the trade wars, and I suspect you also know that all of that has thrown the global economy into some chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's weighing heavily on everybody. But I'm here to tell you that there's a silver and a gold lining that I think a lot of people have missed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
And by that, what I mean is President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. Now, while the new policies are certainly triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
So, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Mm-hmm, clear evidence that Beijing's, well, feeling the squeeze. Later in the show, a missile launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels lands near Israel's Ben-Gurion airport, the most sensitive target hit since the group began its campaign against the Jewish state.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Welcome back to the PDB. A missile fired by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels slammed into the grounds of Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on Sunday morning, wounding six and prompting immediate vows of retaliation from Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
According to Israeli authorities, the missile, launched from Houthi-controlled territory, landed just outside Terminal 3 of Israel's busiest airport at a stone's throw from downtown Tel Aviv. Four civilians were injured in the blast, while two others were hurt scrambling for shelter as air raid sirens wailed across central Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
In a televised address hours later, Houthi spokesman Yahya Sarri warned, "...the Israeli airport is no longer safe for air travel," and promised, "...more strikes to come." Netanyahu, in a video statement posted to social media, pledged immediate retaliation, declaring, quote, we attacked in the past, we will attack in the future.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Footage posted online, although still unverified, shows cars pulling over and drivers ducking for cover as a missile streaks across the sky, culminating in a plume of black smoke. For several tense hours, all flights were grounded. Lufthansa, Delta, and other major carriers canceled operations for the day. Service eventually resumed, but the symbolism of the strike, well, it was hard to miss.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
It marked the first successful Houthi hit on major Israeli civilian infrastructure since the terror group began launching missiles in what it describes as support for Hamas amid the war in Gaza. While dozens of previous projectiles were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome, this one got through. It's a glaring lapse in what's considered one of the world's most sophisticated air defense systems.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The Israeli Air Force said it's investigating how that happened. Defense officials have acknowledged that the breach was both rare and deeply concerning. On the ground, a senior police commander surveyed the blast site, pointing reporters to a crater, quote, tens of meters wide and deep in a parking area near the terminal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
He said, quote, there was no significant damage, though the psychological impact was unmistakable. Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a blunt warning later that day, stating, quote, anyone who hits us, we will hit them seven times stronger. Netanyahu convened its defense cabinet and top military leaders Sunday afternoon to discuss potential retaliatory options.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Plus, in the latest sign of growing cooperation between the Trump administration and Kyiv, the US has now approved a $310 million package to support Ukraine's F-16 program. And in today's back of the brief, British authorities arrest five Iranian nationals in a counter-terror operation, accusing them of plotting a terror attack on UK soil. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The timing of the attack is no coincidence. The strike comes as the U.S. continues hammering Houthi positions in Yemen, part of a broader effort to dismantle the Iran-backed group's missile and drone capabilities, following a months-long campaign of harassment targeting Red Sea shipping. As we've been reporting here on the PDB, British forces joined those operations just last week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Now, with the Houthis hitting an airport just outside Tel Aviv, Israel appears poised to ramp up its own operations. All right, switching to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. The Trump administration is doubling down on military aid to Ukraine, greenlighting up to $310 million in F-16 training and support services.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency confirmed the proposed sale over the weekend, outlining a package that includes aircraft upgrades, spare parts, and extensive instruction for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance crews. Congressional approval is still required before the deal is finalized.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The move follows the March delivery of F-16s to Ukraine, with another shipment slated for later this spring. It's part of a broader, multinational effort to modernize Ukraine's air force. Belgium, Denmark, and Norway are among the NATO allies contributing jets and training.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The New York Times also reports that a Patriot air defense system, currently stationed in Israel, will be transferred to Ukraine after refurbishment. Additional Patriot systems from Germany and Greece are under discussion.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Zelensky, meanwhile, told CBS News that Ukraine is prepared to purchase 10 Patriot systems for a total of approximately $15 billion, saying, quote, we will find the money and pay for everything. Trump initially dismissed Zelensky's plea, accusing him of, quote, always looking to purchase missiles and warning that new shipments would only prolong the war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
But after a face-to-face meeting with Zelensky at Pope Francis' funeral, Trump's tone shifted in the days that followed. Moscow, meanwhile, is escalating its rhetoric. In a new state-produced film marking his 25 years in power, has it only been 25 years? Seems like just yesterday. Putin said the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine, get this, quote, has not been necessary but left the option open.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
He cited Russia's updated 2024 nuclear doctrine, which allows for nuclear retaliation in response to conventional attacks by nuclear-backed states. Did you get that? Mm-hmm. He added that Russia retains the means to bring the war to a, quote, logical conclusion. Well, Zelensky isn't convinced.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
At a joint press conference with the Czech president, he said Ukraine had offered a 30-day ceasefire, but Moscow continues to ignore the U.S.-backed proposal that's been on the table for over 50 days. He also rejected Russia's offer of a 72-hour truce tied to Russia's Victory Day commemorations, calling it a PR stunt and accusing the Kremlin of launching hundreds of attacks while talking peace.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Overnight, Russian forces launched an aerial onslaught of 165 drones and two ballistic missiles. Ukraine's air defenses said they shot down 69 of those drones and jammed another 80. A drone strike on Kyiv wounded 11. Two more civilians were killed by guided bombs in Ukraine's northern and southern regions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Now, whether Moscow's interest in a logical conclusion is genuine or just posturing remains to be seen. Here's a hint, it's just posturing. But Washington's F-16 training and support services, well, that could help shape not just the battlefield, but the terms of whatever comes next.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, UK counterterrorism police arrest five Iranian nationals suspected of plotting an attack, raising new concerns about Tehran-linked activity on British soil. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, eating smart, eating right, eating healthy, it means staying ahead of what's happening in the food world.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
And if you're still buying your beef from a big box store, well, you're already behind. We've seen food shortages, inflation, and now the world of mass food production is pushing lab-grown meat and fake protein. If you don't take control of your food supply, someone else will. Start with where you get your beef. Tri-Tales Beef is a real Texas ranch. It's run by real ranchers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Last week, we reported that the communist regime in Beijing had created a secret whitelist of U.S.-made products, exempting them from China's 125% tariffs, retaliatory tariffs, might I add, and quietly notifying companies of this shift in policy. Now, we're getting more clarity on the scale of those exemptions and what they reveal about the mounting strain on China's economy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
No corporate nonsense. No middlemen. Just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef. It's all good. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Hey, Mike Baker here, former CIA dude, businessman, podcast host, and fashion icon. Now, when it comes to fashion, well, let's be honest. Most guys don't want to spend hours figuring out what to wear. You know what I mean. And that's where True Classic comes in. Their mission, well, make guys look sharp and feel even better. It's simple, and they've nailed it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
From tees to hoodies to jeans and activewear, True Classic has your entire wardrobe dialed in without emptying your wallet. But it's not just the clothes. Look, the folks at True Classic are deliberate about everything they do. From top-shelf customer service to giving back to communities they care about. It's a brand with a purpose, not just a logo. Fit-wise, well, it's right where you want it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Snug in the shoulders and chest, relaxed through the waist. No weird tight spots, no sloppy lines. Just clean, solid gear that works in real life. So skip the overpriced designer drip. Don't waste money on throwaway basics. True Classic delivers premium essentials that punch above their weight. You can find them at Target, Costco, or head to trueclassic.com slash pdb to check them out today.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
In today's Back of the Brief, British counterterrorism officers arrested five men, four of them Iranian nationals, in one of the UK's most sweeping security operations in recent memory over an alleged Islamic regime-linked plot to carry out an attack on UK soil. The suspects were detained Saturday under the Terrorism Act on suspicion of preparing an attack.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
Authorities say the plot targeted a single undisclosed location in the UK. Now, the site has not been named, quote, for operational reasons, but officials confirmed it is now under heightened protection and receiving, quote, advice and support from authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
The raids, coordinated across London, Swindon in Western England, and Greater Manchester, unfolded with the deployment of heavily armed units and were followed by sweeping property searches.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
None of the five men have been charged yet, but all remain in custody as questioning continues The nationality of the fifth man is still being determined At one home in Greater Manchester, forensic teams were seen scouring the property after one suspect was taken into custody
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
A neighbor told Sky News that he, quote, heard a massive bang before 20 or 30 police with guns stormed the house to later drag a man out. Commander Dominique Murphy of the Metropolitan Police's Counterterrorism Command said the investigation remains active and that authorities are still assessing, quote, whether there may be any further risk to the public. But that wasn't the end of it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 5th, 2025: China’s Silent Retreat: Beijing Backpedals On U.S. Tariffs & U.S. Approves Ukraine F-16 Deal
In a separate operation, described as unrelated but equally urgent, three more Iranian nationals were arrested in London for suspected breaches of the UK's national security laws. They also remain in custody. British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper didn't mince words.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Starmer hat am Sonntag einen Ursprungssummit der europäischen Leiter in London gegründet, wo die Kontinente um Zelenskyy gefeiert hat und gesagt hat, dass die Gruppe eine Versammlungsplanung mit den USA anbieten würde, und das laut einem Bericht von Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Frankreich nimmt die Führung auf die Bemühungen, einen einen Monat langen Ausbruch und initialen Krieg vorzunehmen, den sie hoffen, als Grundlage für zukünftige Friedensverträge mit Russland zu sein. Französischer Präsident Emmanuel Macron sagte, dass, wenn ein initialer Ausbruch zwischen Kiew und Moskau gehalten wird,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Well, a second phase would see the deployment of a European coalition of ground troops to Ukraine to serve as a deterrence against future Russian aggression. Now, it's worth noting that the Putin regime has repeatedly stated that they will not agree to any form of a EU peacekeeping mission being deployed inside Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
At this time, only France and Britain have committed to sending troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, though they want the support of the US to serve as what they call a backstop against Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
After the meeting on Sunday, the French foreign minister said, "...such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce." He added, "...and that's when real peace negotiations could start."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Despite the lofty goal, there have been no public endorsements of Macron's initial proposal from other European allies. Zelensky, for his part, said Sunday that he was aware of the French proposal and reiterated that any ceasefire must come with explicit security guarantees from the West to ensure that the Putin regime does not try to attack Ukraine again at some point in the future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Starmer hat nicht auf andere mögliche Wege vorwärts überwiesen, aber hat den Berichtern am Sonntag gesagt, dass es klar einige Optionen auf der Tafel gibt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Wie wir vorhin auf dem PDB erwähnt haben, waren europäische Leiter, naja, überrascht, überrascht und tiefst überrascht, nach dem Oval Office-Gespräch zwischen Trump und Zelensky, welches viele privat gesagt haben, eine Verletzung von der Ukraine von der Trump-Administration betrug.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
One anonymous senior official told Reuters that Trump must decide whether he wants to, quote, call himself a leader of the free world or leader of an extortion gang, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Friedrich Mertz, der konservative Führer, der zu Deutschland nächstes Kanzler geworden ist, nannte die Ausrufung des Oberbürgermeisters eine, Quote, manufakturierte Eskalation, bestätigte, dass die Trump-Administration eine Schmerze für den ukrainischen Führer setzte. Jetzt haben die White-House-Affiziere negiert, dass das Oberbürgermeister-Geschehen vorgeplant oder ein Angriff war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Mertz sagte, es sei jetzt in Europa, um zu beweisen, Quote, dass wir in einer Position sind, unabhängig zu arbeiten. The diplomatic incident seems to have provoked European leaders into action, and many on the continent are still working, though, to keep the U.S. on side.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Peter Mandelson, Britain's ambassador to the U.S., called for a reset in U.S.-Ukrainian relations, conceding that Trump's peace initiative with Russia remains, quote, the only show in town. Although at this stage there are no details regarding the specifics of a peace plan and thus far no indications that Putin has any intention of compromising on his hardline approach to Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
It's Monday, 3 March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First up, European leaders are scrambling to put together their own peace plans to end Russia's war in Ukraine, following the well-publicized explosive meeting at the White House last Friday between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
The European Union will hold an emergency summit on Thursday to discuss collectively boosting spending on defense in order to show the Trump administration that the continent is up to the task of protecting itself. So, how is the US reacting to these developments?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Well, while Trump has not directly commented on the flurry of activity from European leaders over the weekend, White House National Security Advisor Mike Walz said they were glad to see Europe stepping up to take the lead on the continent's security. He noted, however, that they must also aggressively increase their defensive spending so that they have the capabilities to follow through.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
As for a reset in relations with Ukraine, Waltz said, "...what we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he has regret for what happened, he's ready to sign this minerals deal, and that he's ready to engage in peace talks." Waltz continued, "...I don't think that's too much to ask. We're certainly looking to move forward in a positive way."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Well, I suppose if you squint and you look at that comment sideways in the right light, you could interpret it as an indication that the White House hasn't completely shut the door on Ukraine. Up next, Germany suffers another car-ramming attack, which left two dead and several others with serious injuries. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine. But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information. And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hacker von privaten Informationen zu akzeptieren, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet schaffen. Denk daran. Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für Instant Protection. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Look, for US customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Willkommen zurück im Nachhinein-Bulletin. Deutschland hat sich wieder einmal durch einen schrecklichen Fahrrad-Ramm-Inzidenz gerockt, nachdem ein Fahrer in Mannheim, Deutschland, am Montag eine Gruppe in Mannheim verbreitet hat, die mindestens zwei Menschen getötet hat und mehrere andere ernsthaft verletzt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Die Polizei hat den Anwalt schnell verabschiedet, aber sie haben noch nicht die Motivation des Anwaltes formuliert. Der Fahrer, identifiziert als ein 40-jähriger Deutscher aus dem nahen Staat von Rhineland-Palatinate, bleibt in Gefängnis, so ein deutscher Innenminister.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
The deadly incident took place in the heart of Mannheim's downtown square, that's a bustling pedestrian zone, packed with people around midday, many of whom were on their lunch breaks. According to CNN, a witness reported seeing a car speed into a crowd, followed almost immediately by screams.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
The square was particularly crowded due to the ongoing Rose Monday Carnival celebrations, that's a festival that precedes the beginning of Lent. Other witnesses told Reuters that they saw multiple victims lying on the ground as emergency responders worked frantically to resuscitate at least two people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
A nearby hospital confirmed that it was treating three victims, including a child, though it remains unclear if other medical facilities have taken in additional patients. Die Behörden haben nicht offiziell den Angriff als eine Art von Terror bezeichnet, aber die deutsche Regierung hat schnell das, was sie als eine extreme Gefährdungswarnung für die Stadt bezeichnet haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Es ist ein Signal einer erhöhten Sicherheitswahrnehmung. In Stunden wurden Bilder von einem stark beschädigten schwarzen Auto, das innerhalb des Polizeipyramids sitzt, veröffentlicht. Für den Moment behauptet die Gefährtin, dass der Verbrecher alleine gearbeitet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Aber die Natur des Verbrechens hat eine sofortige Alarmung erzeugt, nachdem Deutschland in letzter Zeit mit Fahrzeugabbrüchen verbreitet wurde. Just last month, as we covered here on the PDB, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker rammed his car into a labor union demonstration in Munich, killing a two-year-old girl and her mother.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Authorities later revealed that the driver had an Islamic extremist motive. Dieser Terrorangriff hat nur Tage vor dem Vize-Präsidenten J.D. Vance an der Münchner Sicherheitskonferenz stattgefunden, eine frische Spur auf die Handlung von radikalen Threaten in Deutschland. Und das war nicht der einzige aktuelle Angriff.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Im Dezember schlug ein Fahrer durch einen Weihnachtsmarkt in Ostdeutschland, tötete sechs und verletzte mehr als 200. That terror attack reignited fears about vehicle-ramming tactics, which have been repeatedly used in acts of terror and mass violence across Europe in recent years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Später in der Show stellt Deutschland eine extreme Gefahrwarnung vor, nachdem ein weiterer fähiger Angriff mindestens zwei Menschen tot ist und mehrere andere mit ernsthaften Verletzungen. Aber zuerst heutes Abend-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Now, as investigators work to determine whether Monday's tragedy was intentional, ideologically driven, or the result of another factor, officials in Mannheim are urging the public to remain vigilant. And that, my friends... Ich bin Mike Baker und ich werde morgen wieder da sein. Bis dann, bleibt informiert, bleibt sicher, bleibt cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Nach der letzten Woche des Oval Offices-Vertrags zwischen US-Präsident Trump und ukrainischer Präsident Zelenskyj sind europäische Leiter nun am Arbeiten, ihre eigenen Vorschläge für Frieden zu erstellen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 3rd, 2025: UK And France Propose Russia-Ukraine Truce & Another Ramming Attack In Germany
Am Montag sagte britischer Bundespräsident Keir Starmer, dass es mehrere mögliche Vorschläge gibt, um eine Ausstattung in der Ukraine mit NATO-Alliierten zu diskutieren, obwohl Offiziere beurteilen, dass sie die Unterstützung der Trump-Administration weiterhin benötigen würden, um letztendlich effektiv zu sein.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Pointing to its existing ban on fuel sales to Russian forces imposed after President Putin's invasion of Ukraine. The company's abrupt decision comes as part of a broader wave of European fallout following the contentious Oval Office meeting, which left many across the Atlantic questioning the future of US support for Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The Norwegian firm blasted Fridays Exchange, boldly branding the exchange as, quote, the biggest shitshow ever presented live on TV. And frankly, I had no idea that there was a word for shitshow in the Norwegian language. See, you learn something new every day on the PDB. Despite the company's defiant stance, Norway's government quickly moved to distance itself from the controversy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
In a statement Sunday, Norway's defense minister made clear that official policy remains unchanged. He stated, quote, We've seen reports raising concerns about support for U.S. Navy vessels in Norway. This is not in line with the Norwegians' government policy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The Minister reaffirmed to Reuters that American forces would continue to receive the necessary logistical support to maintain Norway's defense commitments as a NATO ally. However, the move by the petroleum firm, well, raises larger questions about Europe's growing discontent with US policy on Ukraine, particularly... as Trump's handling of the war comes under increasing scrutiny from EU leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
It's unclear if other European countries will follow suit with similar bans. Alright, coming up in the back of the brief. As anti-Semitic protests erupt at Columbia and Barnard, pro-Israel activists push the Trump administration to strip federal funding from the university. I'll be right back. Und in today's Back of the Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Well, like the swallows to Capistrano, the anti-Semite students and their professional activist organizers have once again roosted in New York City. Pro-Humas protests are back on the campus of Columbia University.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Last week, dozens of anti-Israel protesters donning Hamas-style keffiyeh headscarves to hide their identities, that's brave, took over a building at Columbia's Barnard College for several hours, assaulting a school employee in the process, who was subsequently hospitalized. And that's according to a report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The Masked Group, led by members of Columbia's Chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine – oh, we know all about them, you should do your due diligence – said they were protesting the expulsion of two students who stormed into classrooms in January and threw around flyers loaded with anti-Semitic rhetoric.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
In a video posted to social media by the group, whose bio reads Long live the student Intifada, protesters can be seen occupying Milbank Hall, the oldest building on campus, while beating drums and chanting hateful slurs through a megaphone. Well, the drums are always a nice touch.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
As anti-Semitic protests once again erupt on the campus of Columbia University and Barnard College in New York City, well, pro-Israel activists are demanding that the Trump administration step in to remove the university's federal funding. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. The fallout from Friday's Oval Office meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky, President Trump and Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The group later issued a long list of extreme demands, including a reversal of the expulsions, blanket amnesty for any students punished during last year's anti-Israel campus protests, the abolition of Barnards disciplinary process, what else are they asking for? Oh, look at that, a pony for every protester, and a formal review of all past disciplinary actions related to last year's protests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
In other words, there should be no consequences for Bethlehem. Ja, das klingt genau richtig. Instead, the protesters graffitied messages on the walls of Milbank Hall, which read, Free Palestine and F-U-C-K Barnard. How imaginative and creative. While the protesters vowed to stay until the demands were met, they subsequently left Milbank Hall just before 11 p.m. Wednesday night.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Well, I need to get something to eat. But on Thursday, the protests reignited, with roughly 100 anti-Israel demonstrators gathering outside Barnard, chanting, quote, one solution, Intifada revolution. Almost rhymes.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
In response to the hateful demonstrations, pro-Israel activists demanded the Trump administration strip federal funding from Columbia University and Barnard College, arguing that the school's administrators have failed to protect Jewish students from the rampant anti-Semitism. according to a report from Israel National News.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
A pro-Israel advocacy group called Stop Antisemitism also sent a letter to the Justice Department requesting they launch an investigation into the radical students for justice in Palestine and revoke visas and deport foreign students involved in the violent protests.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
A spokesman for the group said, The university administration has completely failed to protect Jewish and Israeli students, faculty and staff, allowing a hostile and dangerous environment to fester unchecked.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
As a reminder, while these protests are far from organic, as we covered during the pro-Palestinian protests that spread across dozens of college campuses last spring, the group in question, Students for Justice in Palestine, receives more than $3 million a year from a litany of charities, including at least at one time a charity with links to Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Their national umbrella organization also praised the 7 October attacks on Israel. Well, that should be a clue. Additionally, Students for Justice in Palestine receives indirect funding from charities linked to liberal financer George Soros, as well as the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The group was said to be one of the main coordinators of the protests last spring, and they're once again driving the renewed unrest at Columbia. While the Biden administration took a hands-off approach to the chaos on college campuses, many expect the pro-Israel Trump administration to wield federal funding against universities that fail to crack down on anti-Semitism.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 3 March. Now, I hope you had a chance to catch our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report over the weekend. If not, it and past episodes are available for your viewing pleasure, frankly, on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, as well as all the podcast platforms out there in podcast land.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
And as a public service announcement, to listen to this show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Vance was immediate. European leaders jumped onto social media, firing off a wave of tweets and messages, reassuring Kyiv of their unwavering support. Zelenskyy hat wenig Zeit verwendet, Washington zu verlassen und zurück auf freundliche Schuhe zu gehen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Sein erster Stopp war das Vereinigte Königreich, wo Premierminister Keir Starmer ihn mit offenen Armen auf 10 Downing Street begrüßte, er habe ihm, Quote, die volle Unterstützung aus dem Vereinigten Königreich. Zelenskyy antwortete, dass er froh war, dass die Ukraine, Quote, so gute Freunde hatte.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The two leaders then signed a 2.26 billion pound loan for military supplies, with repayment, as with the previous agreement, coming from profits tied to frozen Russian assets. From there, Zelenskyy joined Starmer and other European leaders at a summit to discuss the future of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
During that series of discussions, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen sounded the alarm on the continent's urgent need to rearm. After a long time of underinvestment, it is now of utmost importance to step up the defense investment for a prolonged period of time, she said, adding that Europe also needed to show the US that it was ready to defend democracy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Meanwhile, back in the US, well, a different conversation is starting to take shape. And it's a conversation that Putin himself has been eager to promote. Is Zelensky still the man for the job? When asked on CNN, if Trump wants Zelensky to resign, White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, well, didn't exactly deny it.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Instead, he said, quote, We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end the war, end quote. And he went further, adding, quote, if it becomes apparent that President Zelensky's either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed that sentiment, suggesting that maybe a different leader is needed. In an interview with NBC, he put it bluntly, either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that, end quote. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
So while Zelensky is receiving standing ovations in European capitals, now the conversation in Washington is shifting, even among some of his strongest supporters. Senator Lindsey Graham, who's been one of Ukraine's most vocal advocates, is now suggesting that it may be time for Zelensky to step aside.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Das ist ein wichtiger Schritt und es unterschätzt einen wachsenden Sinn der Frustration in Washington, sowie eine klare Beweise, dass die Republikaner in D.C. nicht zufrieden sind mit Präsident Trump. As mentioned, Wladimir Putin has been pushing the idea of Zelensky as a dictator and the need for elections in Ukraine for some time.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
He clearly believes that if he can get Zelensky to step aside, Russia can work to get a pro-Russian ally in Kiev along the lines of Viktor Orban in Hungary. And now, following the dust up in the Oval Office on Friday, senior Trump administration officials are beating that same drum. So the question for Ukraine is obviously what now?
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
It does seem unlikely in the short term that Zelensky can salvage the relationship with the Trump White House. Putin is undoubtedly emboldened by what he watched on television with a bag of popcorn in his hand. And the EU and NATO, while pledging ongoing support, well, they need to determine what that exactly means.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
EU nations are vowing to increase their spending and support for Kyiv, but there is little chance that they can fill the gap left if the US ends their support. Interessant, in einer Beweise auf die Zukunft, spät am Wochenende, sagte Zelensky, während er im UK war, dass er und seine Regierung bereit sind, den Mineralentwurf zu signen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Offensichtlich wird das eine Antwort von der US-Gewerkschaft benötigen. Now, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the predicament in an interesting way. Speaking from the tarmac to reporters before flying to the Ukraine emergency summit in London, Tusk noted, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
It's Monday, 3 March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start with the fallout from Friday's explosive, extremely well publicized, Oval Office argument between Ukrainian President Zelensky, President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. As Zelensky receives a warm welcome in the UK as a follow-up,
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
He added, "...Europe, if there is something we lack today, it is not economic or demographic power, but the belief that we are truly a global force." Now, of course, Tusk didn't mention that those 140 million Russians currently control the world's largest nuclear arsenal. And that has factored into the equation ever since Putin launched his invasion back in February of 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
It's a top-line reason why the West for the past three years has provided Ukraine with just enough support and hardware to maintain what is essentially a stalemate. Das ist der Furcht, Putin und seine 5.500 Kriegsleute zu antagonisieren. Für was es wert ist, ist Frieden offensichtlich das Ziel, ein Ende der Todes- und Zerstörung.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
But after Friday's debacle in the Oval Office, battle lines have now hardened, particularly in the US, over how to get there.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
One side wants peace now, just settle, just reach a deal, which implies, of course, that Putin gets what he wants, all the territory he currently holds, a guarantee that Ukraine never enters NATO, a guarantee that Ukraine shrinks its military, new elections in Kiev, and an easing of sanctions on Russia. That deal, of course, could allow for peace, at least in the short term.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
And that's fine, as long as folks are honest and admit that they're okay with Putin coming out on top, that he's the winner. The other side wants to continue supporting Ukraine in an effort to allow Kyiv to gain the upper hand for a future negotiation, or at least a stronger hand. Alright, coming up next. The Gaza ceasefire's first phase has ended with Hamas rejecting an extension.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
And a Norwegian fuel supplier company is refusing to refuel US Navy ships. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Look, going online without ExpressVPN is, well, it's like leaving your laptop unattended at the coffee shop while you just dash over to the bathroom, right? Frankly, you wouldn't do that, right? But I mean, maybe most of the time you think to yourself, okay, I'll be fine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
But what if one day you come out of the bathroom and look at that, your laptop is gone. Look, every time a device connects to an unencrypted network, whether it's at a cafe or a hotel or an airport, personal data is exposed, right? Hackers on the same network can steal your passwords, your banking details and a lot of other sensitive information.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
And it doesn't take much skill, just some inexpensive tools and a little know-how. And that stolen data, well, that can sell for up to $1,000 per person on the dark web, even more. ExpressVPN verhindert Hackern, private Informationen zu übernehmen, indem sie einen sicheren, enkrypteren Tunnel zwischen den Geräten und dem Internet eröffnen. Denkt daran.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Seine Enkryption ist so stark, dass sogar ein Supercomputer über 1 Billion Jahre dauern würde, um es zu zerstören. Und wer hat so viel Zeit? Die Setup ist sehnsüchtig. Öffne einfach die App und drücke einen Knopf für Instant Protection. It works on phones, laptops, tablets and more, keeping your data secure wherever the Internet is used. Look, for U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
customers, ExpressVPN includes Identity Defender, which removes personal data from broker sites, monitors for leaks on the dark web and ensures against identity theft up to $1 million. Secure your online data today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four months extra for free. expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
European leaders are vowing continued support to Ukraine. But what exactly does that mean for Ukraine's ability to fend off Putin and possibly secure a peace deal that doesn't equal appeasement? Later in the show, the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire has officially ended. Now, while a proposal is on the table to extend it, Hamas has shown no interest in agreeing. We'll have the latest.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Welcome back to the BDB. Israel has thrown its weight behind a US-backed plan to extend the fragile ceasefire with Hamas through Ramadan and Passover, setting the stage for a potential release of all remaining hostages. That is, if Hamas agrees. The endorsement came within minutes of the initial ceasefire phase expiring.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The decision on Saturday followed a high-level four-hour meeting led by Prime Minister Netanyahu and attended by Defense Minister Israel Katz, senior defense officials and Israel's negotiating team.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
According to Netanyahu's office, the plan, floated by Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, would extend the ceasefire through the religious holidays, with half of the 59 remaining Israeli hostages both living and dead, released on the first day and the remainder freed by the end of the period.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
However, the proposal is contingent on a permanent ceasefire, and the Israeli Defense Forces have already confirmed that at least 35 of the hostages are already dead. And for background, Ramadan runs until 29 March, while Passover ends on 19 April.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
So far, Hamas has yet to accept the proposal, but Netanyahu's office made it clear that Israel is prepared to move forward, stating that, quote, if Hamas changes its position, Israel will immediately enter negotiations on all the details of the Witkow plan, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
While the government stopped short of explicitly threatening to resume hostilities, it pointedly reminded the Iran-backed terror group that under the original agreement, Israel is permitted to restart military operations after 1 March, meaning an Israeli offensive could resume at any moment.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
The proposal comes amid renewed accusations from Netanyahu's government that Hamas has repeatedly violated the ceasefire. Under the original deal, negotiations on a second phase should have begun by day 16, yet that process never materialized.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
At the same time, Israel has refused to withdraw the IDF from the Philadelphia corridor, that's the narrow strip of land on the Gaza-Egypt border, despite that step being required under the ceasefire terms. Meanwhile, Israel has announced an immediate halt to all shipments of aid into Gaza, citing Hamas' refusal to accept the Witkow proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Netanyahu's government claims this move has the full backing of Trump's White House, further adding weight to Israel's hardened stance. Netanyahu justifizierte die Entscheidung, by accusing Hamas of diverting humanitarian aid for its own use.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar was even more blunt, declaring that Israel would not negotiate a ceasefire without additional hostage releases and calling the aid freeze the official end of what he described as the, quote, free meals policy. Hamas, unvergesslich, verurteilt den Weg.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Der Terrorgruppe hat Israel's Aktionen als, Quote, cheap extortion, a war crime and a blatant attack on the agreement, while urging ceasefire mediators to pressure Israel into reversing its decision. Inside the Israeli war cabinet, the IDF is gearing up for a possible return to full-scale conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
If Hamas does not accept the U.S.-backed proposal, Netanyahu's government has made it abundantly clear. Israel will not remain in diplomatic limbo indefinitely. Now Wyckoff is expected to visit Israel in the coming days to discuss the next steps. Whether those discussions will be about fine-tuning the ceasefire or preparing for renewed military action, well, that now appears to rest with Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
All right, turning now to Norway, and that's a sentence that I haven't said very often. A private oil firm has enacted an immediate and sweeping ban on fuel sales to U.S. forces docked in the country, citing outrage over President Trump's White House exchange with Ukrainian President Zelensky on Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
In a now deleted social media post, the company made its stance unambiguously clear, declaring, quote, no fuel to Americans, Slava Ukraina, end quote. The Petroleum Giant, which supplied roughly 800,000 gallons of fuel to the US military in 2024 alone, said it would sever all fuel deliveries to American forces and prohibit any American military vessels from refueling at its Norwegian ports.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Plus a Norwegian fuel supplier, a private company, is refusing to refuel U.S. Navy ships, citing President Trump's heated exchange with the Ukrainian president. Now, the Norwegian government, however, obviously a member of NATO, says they'll continue to honor NATO agreements and support to the U.S. military. Und in heute's Back of the Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 3rd, 2025: Oval Office Fallout: Europe’s Hollow Embrace of Zelensky? & Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Extension
Company owner Gunnar Gran, speaking to a Norwegian Maritime News outlet, didn't mince words, stating, quote, not a liter of fuel will be supplied, vowing that the ban would remain in place, quote, until Trump is finished, referring to, of course, the remainder of his presidential term. Grant emphasized that as a private business, his firm is free to choose its customers. Well, that's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
President Trump announced Monday that he's pausing the 25% tariff on Mexico for one month after Sheinbaum agreed to immediately deploy 10,000 Mexican soldiers to the US border to stem the flow of fentanyl and illegal migrants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
It's Monday, 3 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Trump said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others in his administration would spearhead further negotiations with Mexico during the tariff pause, adding, "...I look forward to participating in those negotiations as we attempt to achieve a deal between our two countries." Now, Canadian leaders, on the other hand, well, they're digging in their heels.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Over the weekend, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the move and announced he would impose 25% retaliatory tariffs on more than $100 billion in U.S. goods. It's important to note, however, that Trump briefly spoke with Trudeau on Monday morning and said he has another call scheduled for Monday afternoon, although he didn't elaborate on the nature of the discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Turning further south, Trump's return to the Oval Office has also come with threats of territorial expansion, with much of his attention focused on combating China's expanding influence over the Panama Canal. The canal handles roughly 40% of U.S. container traffic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Secretary of State Rubio traveled to Panama over the weekend on his first foreign trip as America's top diplomat and secured major concessions from Panamanian President José Raúl Molina. As we've discussed here on the PDB, Trump continues to threaten to reclaim the Panama Canal, which was turned over to Panama as part of a 1977 treaty.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
First up, President Trump's unconventional foreign policy strategy appears to be starting to yield results, as Mexico appears to somewhat capitulate to Trump's tariff threats, and Panama makes a significant concession aimed at curbing China's influence over the vital Panama Canal. Then, we'll discuss this weekend's drama over at the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Days before Rubio's visit, Molino said that discussions about the canal were off the table. But, apparently, canal discussions did make it back onto the table. While Molino said Panama's claim over the canal was still not up for debate, he was willing to address Trump's concerns over Beijing's growing influence on the critical waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
As a reminder, Panama established diplomatic relations with China in place of Taiwan back in 2017, and Beijing has since undertaken significant infrastructure developments near the waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
But Molino said Sunday that his country would not renew their agreements with Beijing under China's Belt and Road Initiative, which will make them the first Latin American country to leave China's vaunted global infrastructure development project. He said the agreement is due for renewal in, quote, a year or two, but said that his government would study whether it can be finished earlier or not.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Instead, Panama will seek to work with the U.S. on new investments for infrastructure projects, dealing a significant blow to Beijing's strategic interests in the region. Molinos said, quote, I think this visit opens the door to build new relations and try to increase as much as possible U.S. investments in Panama.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Meanwhile, Rubio hailed the development as quote, a great step forward for U.S.-Panama relations, a free Panama Canal, and another example of President Trump's leadership to protect our national security and deliver prosperity for the American people, end quote. Coming up, over the weekend, well, chaos ensued at the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Agency for International Development, or USAID, after Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency seized control of USAID's headquarters and locked out their employees, vowing to dismantle what administration officials say is an agency beyond reform. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. It appears that some major changes are coming to USAID.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Agency for International Development, or USAID, after Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency seized control of USAID's headquarters and locked out their employees, vowing to dismantle what administration officials say is an agency beyond reform. But first, our afternoon spotlight. It appears that President Trump's approach to foreign policy, well, may be paying dividends.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
That's the agency responsible for distributing civilian foreign aid, humanitarian aid, and development assistance worldwide. The agency has long been considered an important instrument of projecting American soft power. According to reports, the once-independent agency will now be merged into the U.S. State Department and will see major cuts in its workforce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
The agency went into crisis mode this weekend as the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, seized control of the agency's headquarters, locking out over 600 employees and placing dozens of senior officials on administrative leave. USAID saw its operations grind to a halt as DOGE assumed control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
By Sunday, the agency's signage had been stripped from the Ronald Reagan building in Washington. How about that? And an internal email sent to remaining staff stated, quote, At the direction of agency leadership, the headquarters would be closed to personnel on 3 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Doge's head, of course, the billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk, placed more than 50 senior staff members on administrative leave under a gag order, according to senior congressional sources who spoke to Fox News. The takeover has ignited national security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
The Associated Press reported that the Trump administration placed two top security chiefs at USAID on leave after refusing to grant Doge personnel access to classified intelligence, citing their lack of proper security clearances. Initially blocked, Doge operatives ultimately gained access to intelligence reports and other restricted materials by Saturday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Musk has aggressively defended the overhaul, arguing that USAID is beyond reform. In an X Spaces conversation, he claimed that President Trump shared his view that the agency should be dismantled entirely. Musk described the agency as, quote, a bowl of worms, insisting that it was too corrupt to be salvaged.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
In a string of posts on X, Musk went even further, branding USAID a, quote, criminal organization and a viper's nest of radical left Marxists who hate America, end quote. Trump echoed those sentiments, stating that USAID has been run by a, quote, bunch of radical lunatics and his administration was, quote, getting them out, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Now, speaking from Joint Base Andrews, Trump praised Musk's leadership and his cost-cutting measures, stating, quote, I do think Elon is doing a good job. He's a big cost cutter. He's a smart guy, very smart. And he's very much into cutting the budget of our federal government, end quote. The upheaval at USAID follows Secretary of State Marco Rubio's move last month to pause all U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
foreign aid under Trump's executive order. The 90-day suspension has forced aid organizations to lay off hundreds of employees who can no longer meet payroll, stalling humanitarian aid, development, and security programs worldwide. The restructuring, of course, has drawn fierce backlash from Democrats, which should surprise a total of zero people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
New Jersey Senator Cory Booker condemned the move, accusing Trump and Musk of, quote, recklessly and illegally dismantling USAID. Booker warned that the shutdown would exasperate global public health and migration crises worldwide. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 3 February. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
And as all the hepcats know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
As PDB listeners know, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada on Saturday, largely over concerns about illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking, as well as current imbalances in the North American Free Trade Pact. But the tariffs immediately stoked fears that Trump's approach could ignite a trade war with two of America's top economic partners.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 3rd, 2025: Mexico & Panama Capitulate To US Demands & Trump Moves To Gut Major US Aid Agency
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had recently promised to retaliate with tariffs of her own if Trump moved forward, but on Monday morning, well, she appeared to take a different approach.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Still, neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has officially acknowledged the deployment or now the disappearance of North Korean troops from the front lines. But their involvement, of course, underscores the growing military alliance between North Korea and Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Last year, Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a landmark defense pact, pledging immediate military assistance if either country were attacked. The agreement, widely seen as a revival of their Cold War-era 1961 mutual defense treaty, positioned Pyongyang as one of Moscow's most unconventional battlefield partners.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Monday, 3 February. I hope you had a chance to catch our latest episode of the PDB Situation Report this weekend. Our guests included Benem Ben-Taliblu from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and author and military analyst Brandon Weikert. We covered a lot of turf from Iran all the way to deep space.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Others were left wondering if their names are next on the chopping block. This came after a directive from the Department of Justice, the DOJ, ordering the termination of at least eight FBI employees and demanding an internal review of all agents who played a role in investigations tied to January 6th or Hamas-related cases.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Now, you can watch this past weekend's show and previous episodes on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
It's Monday, 3 February. Well, look at that, a brand new month, just in case you were wondering. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off today with reports that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
The memo was signed by Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove and was sent to the acting FBI director, making it clear certain officials were out and others were under review. One of the biggest names on the list was David Sundberg. Sundberg ran the D.C. field office, and that's one of the most important FBI outposts in the country.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
He was appointed in 2022 under former FBI Director Christopher Wray and oversaw multiple high-profile investigations, including cases involving President Trump. As you might imagine, that makes him a controversial figure in some circles, seen by critics as part of the so-called deep state within the FBI. But Sundberg wasn't the only one who was given his walking papers on Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Reports say this was more than just firing a few top officials. The heads of roughly 20 FBI field offices were removed, along with rank and file agents involved in Trump-related cases. So, you ask yourself, what's really happening here? Well, I suppose that all depends on who you ask.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Trump and his allies see this as a long overdue correction, a way to clean house and remove officials that they argue have weaponized federal law enforcement against conservatives. They point to the years of investigations into Trump, his campaigns, and his presidency as proof of a biased agency.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
On the other hand, critics say this is a dangerous political crackdown, a move that could weaken federal law enforcement at a time when threats both foreign and domestic remain high. And some see it as the behavior of a banana republic, where every time someone new comes into power, they clean out existing intelligence or law enforcement and replace them with their own supporters.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Look, the primary concern should be operational, not political. It's about national security. So when you gut an agency like the FBI, it doesn't just affect political cases. It affects organized crime investigations, counterterrorism, and frankly, everything in between. FBI officials weren't the only ones getting pink slips this weekend.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
The Justice Department also fired dozens of federal prosecutors involved in January 6th cases. The prosecutors were informed of their dismissal in a letter from interim D.C. U.S. Attorney Ed Martin. Martin told approximately 30 fired federal prosecutors that they were being removed as a direct result of their role in the prosecution of some of the more than 1,500 individuals who stormed the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Department of Justice, the DOJ, has ordered a sweeping purge of FBI officials targeting agents involved in Trump-related investigations and high-profile national security cases. And honestly, I did not have sweeping purge on my bingo card for the beginning of 2025. Later in the show, Canada and Mexico are hitting back in response to President Trump's new trade restrictions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Capitol back on January 6th of 2021. Martin's letter also cited President Trump's day one executive order pardoning January 6th defendants, which referred to the prosecutions as, quote, a grave national injustice that has been perpetrated upon the American people over the last four years, end quote. Okay, so what happens next?
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Well, this is most likely just the beginning, and you can safely bet that more firings are on the way. The DOJ has informed the FBI that it was initiating a review process to determine if thousands of agents that worked on Capitol riot investigations should also be terminated.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
If agents assigned to January 6th are under scrutiny, that could also mean additional leadership shakeups in the coming weeks. All right. Coming up after the break, Canada fires back with retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports and the U.S. military launches its first airstrikes against ISIS of Trump's second term. I'll be right back. Unless, of course, I'm caught up in a sweeping purge.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Canada and Mexico hit back against President Trump's tariffs just hours after his administration imposed them on Saturday in a move that could upend North American supply chains. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Saturday that his government would impose tariffs on $107 billion worth of U.S. imports.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Warning that Trump's measures would have tangible consequences for American businesses and consumers, Trudeau framed the response as a necessary countermeasure against economic aggression. The Canadian countermeasures against its longtime ally will be implemented in two stages. The first, covering $21 billion in U.S. goods, will take effect immediately on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
That's the same day that Trump's tariffs go live. The remaining $86 billion will be subject to duties in three weeks. Trudeau's decision comes in direct response to Trump's imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, as well as a separate 10% duty on Chinese goods.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Now, this is a step that economists warn could ignite a full-scale trade war, disrupt critical supply chains, and stoke inflation. Washington also announced a 10% tariff on all energy imports from Canada, prompting Ottawa to target a wide range of American products in return. Beer, wine, bourbon. Seriously, bourbon? Isn't anything sacred anymore?
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Clothing, sports equipment, household appliances, and more. Canada's trade ties with the U.S., of course, run deep. The two countries exchange more than $2.5 billion in goods and services daily, with Canada exporting nearly $378 billion to the U.S. in 2023, and that's over three-quarters of the country's total exports.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Trudeau directly appealed to Americans during a press conference in Ottawa in an urge to make his stance clear. The Prime Minister threatened, quote, tariffs against Canada will put your jobs at risk, potentially shutting down American auto assembly plants and other manufacturing facilities, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Beyond tariffs, Canada is exploring additional economic countermeasures, including potential restrictions on critical minerals, energy procurement, and other key partnerships. The timing of Trudeau's retaliation is politically fraught. Facing record low approval ratings, he announced in early January his resignation after nine years in office.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, warning that the move will have real economic consequences for Americans. Plus, the U.S. military is back in action against ISIS, launching airstrikes in Somalia. That's the first such operation of President Trump's second term.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
With a leadership race now underway in his Liberal Party and polls suggesting a conservative landslide in the next election, Trudeau is urging Canadians to rally behind domestic businesses. Meanwhile, south of the U.S. border, Mexico is also moving to hit back. President Claudia Scheinbaum, responding to Trump's 25% tariffs on all Mexican imports, ordered reciprocal duties of her own.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Taking to X, she stated that while her administration prefers dialogue over confrontation, Mexico has no choice but to defend its economic interests. She did not specify which American products would be affected, but sources indicate that Mexico is preparing tariffs ranging from 5% to 20% on U.S. pork, cheese, fresh produce, and manufactured steel and aluminum.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
The auto industry, for now, remains exempt. The stakes are high for Mexico. The U.S. is its most important trade partner, and in 2023, Mexico surpassed China as the top destination for U.S. exports. In 2024, U.S. exports to Mexico totaled more than $322 billion, while imports from Mexico surpassed $475 billion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Notably, nearly a third of Mexico's GDP is directly tied to trade with the U.S., and economists caution that if Trump's 25% tariff remains in place for the full year, Mexico's GDP could shrink by 4% in 2025.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Scheinbaum, for her part, pushed back against Trump's rationale for the tariffs, dismissing his administration's claim that the Mexican government collaborates with drug cartels as, quote, slander. Trump, meanwhile, defended his move, pointing to Mexico's failure to curb fentanyl trafficking and what he describes as unchecked migration surges into the U.S.,
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
With two of its largest trading partners retaliating now, Washington faces the prospect of a prolonged trade war, one that could send shockwaves through North American supply chains and force businesses and consumers on all sides to pay the price. Okay, turning to Somalia. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
military carried out airstrikes Saturday, targeting Islamic State operatives in the first such operation in the African country under President Trump's second term. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed U.S. Africa Command carried out the strikes at Trump's direction in coordination with the Somali government.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
An initial Pentagon assessment reported the operation killed, quote, "...multiple ISIS operatives with no reported civilian casualties." Trump later took to Truth Social to claim the strikes targeting the senior Islamic State attack planner had destroyed the terror group's cave hideouts.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Trump's post stated, quote, Our military has targeted this ISIS attack planner for years, but Biden and his cronies wouldn't act quickly enough to get the job done. I did, end quote. The president added, quote, the message to the Islamic State and all others who would attack Americans is that we will find you and we will kill you, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
However, Trump stopped short of confirming whether the attack plan or the primary target had been eliminated. The Somali government quickly praised the operation, with the president's office calling it a testament to the strong security partnership between the two nations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
And in today's Back of the Brief, an update on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where North Korean forces appear to have been pulled back from the front lines after suffering heavy losses. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Late Friday night, a number of FBI officials were fired, forced into early retirement, or just flat out told to quit. Some were reportedly escorted out of the building.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Officials in Mogadishu echoed that sentiment on X, reaffirming their commitment to working alongside allies to combat terrorism and stabilize the region. The strikes come at a critical time for U.S. counterterrorism efforts in Africa.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
In 2024, under then-President Biden, American forces suffered a major setback when they were expelled from Chad and Niger, key operational hubs for counterterrorism in the Sahel region. The loss of these bases significantly hampered U.S. military operations against jihadist groups, leaving a vacuum that terrorist factions are increasingly exploiting. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
military officials warn that Islamic State cells in Somalia are gaining strength with direct support from the group's core leadership now reportedly operating out of northern Somalia. Intelligence assessments suggest Islamic State operatives in the country have been instructed on kidnapping Westerners for ransom, countering drone surveillance, and even constructing weaponized drones.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
And those are tactics mirroring the group's strategies in Iraq and Syria at its height. The Islamic State Somalia affiliate first emerged in 2015 as a splinter faction from al-Shabaab. That was an al-Qaeda-linked insurgency that has long dominated Somalia's jihadist landscape.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Unlike al-Shabaab, which primarily wages war against the Somali government, the Islamic State Somalia focused on building a foothold in the Galgala Mountains where it established training camps and safe houses.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Despite being a smaller force than al-Shabaab, Islamic State Somalia managed to carve out influence beyond its strongholds, launching attacks in central and southern regions and funding its operations through extortion, smuggling, and illicit taxation. The terror group is believed to have several hundred fighters, and U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
intelligence reports indicate that it sought to expand control over local businesses along Somalia's coastline, potentially positioning itself as a growing economic player in the region's black markets. While sustained pressure from Somali government forces, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
airstrikes, and rival jihadist factions have kept Islamic State Somalia from emerging as a dominant force, the terror group does remain a persistent threat in the region. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, North Korean forces are reportedly having a rough go of it in Russia and have been pulled back from the front lines after suffering heavy casualties. I'll be back with the details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
In today's back of the brief, North Korean troops stationed along Russia's Kursk front lines vanished and have not been seen there in three weeks, fueling speculation that Pyongyang quietly pulled them from the battlefield after suffering heavy casualties. Ukrainian officials estimate that of the 12,000 North Korean soldiers deployed, roughly 4,000 have been either killed or wounded.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Speaking in Switzerland last week, Ukrainian President Zelensky noted about a third of the North Korean forces had been eliminated. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, these troops first appeared in Kursk in November, reinforcing Russian positions against Ukraine's cross-border incursion.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Despite Russia's efforts to shore up its defenses, Ukrainian forces maintained relentless pressure in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
A Ukrainian commander with the 6th Special Operations Forces Regiment described the North Korean soldiers as, quote, young, trained, and hardy fighters, but added they were entirely unprepared for modern drone warfare, stating, quote, they're prepared for the realities of war in 1980 at best, end quote. Yet their battlefield effectiveness wasn't entirely dismissed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 3rd, 2025: Trump Launches Purge Of The FBI & US Forces Strike ISIS
Another Ukrainian serviceman noted that North Korean troops displayed remarkable marksmanship, reportedly able to shoot down drones from distances of up to a football field. Despite this, Russia primarily deployed them as expendable foot soldiers as cannon fodder, throwing them into mass wave assaults that led to catastrophic casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets. Take the time to speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold. Now, they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And that's quite frankly, a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Monday, 2 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
We should also note that the move reverses numerous past promises from President Biden that he would respect the legal decisions regarding his son and not use his executive authority for the benefit of his family. Now, that's fine when a president is talking about, well, just an unrelated individual. I mean, you can make that sort of unemotional, disconnected decision.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
But the dynamic, the decision, was always going to be a pardon. Because you're talking about a father dealing with his son. Now, you can seriously disagree with the decision, for sure. But anybody with a kid would be hard-pressed to honestly say that they would have not pardoned their own child if given the ability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
When announcing the pardon on Sunday, Biden spoke of Hunter's past struggles with drug addiction and argued that the trials against his son were the result of a political witch hunt designed to, quote, break him and his family.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
President Biden said, quote, No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter's cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son, and that is wrong. In trying to break Hunter, they've tried to break me, and there's no reason to believe it will stop here. Enough is enough, end quote. Now, Hunter, well, he did break the law.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Frankly, any ordinary citizen who committed similar acts as Hunter would have been tried and convicted long ago. So he wasn't simply singled out, as President Biden said, because his last name is Biden. In truth, he managed to avoid earlier legal consequences for his actions because his name is Biden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
But also, on the other side of that fence, it's a truism that presidential pardons are, well, commonplace in Washington politics. Look, Trump himself previously pardoned his son-in-law, Jared Kushner's father, for tax evasion, and he's just nominated him as the new ambassador to France. My point being, well, it's Washington, D.C., and both sides play the same game.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
As a reminder, in June of this year, a Delaware jury convicted Hunter Biden of three felonies for lying about past drug use on a form when purchasing a gun in 2018. He was due in court on December 12th to face sentencing on the charges, which many expected would land him a stint in jail.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Separately, he pled guilty to a misdemeanor and several felony charges in September for unpaid taxes totaling at least $1.4 million. Sentencing for the federal tax evasion charges was scheduled to take place on December 16th. Taken together, the 12 counts Hunter was either convicted of or pled guilty to carried a maximum possible prison sentence of 42 years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
On Sunday evening, with the stroke of a pen, albeit a presidential one, his father Joe Biden wiped the slate clean. In a statement, President Biden said, quote, I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
And once I made this decision this weekend, there was no sense in delaying it further. I hope Americans will understand why a father and a president would come to this decision, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Now, according to our report from Politico, it's the most sweeping presidential pardon seen in generations, drawing comparisons to the blanket pardon given by President Gerald Ford in 1974 to, of course, Richard Nixon. Legal analysts say the pardon was likely written to be deliberately vague to cover any potential new accusations or charges leveled by the incoming Republican-led Congress.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Many Republican congressional leaders have threatened to launch new investigations into the business dealings of the Biden family come the new year. Margaret Love, a former U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
pardon attorney with the Justice Department, told Politico, "...I have never seen language like this in a pardon document that purports to pardon offenses that have not apparently even been charged, with the exception of the Nixon pardon. Even the broadest Trump pardons were specific as to what was being pardoned."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, in a move that, frankly, should surprise no one, President Biden has granted his son Hunter Biden a full and unconditional presidential pardon, insulating him from facing justice for crimes dating back a decade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Now, the pardon cannot be undone by President-elect Trump when he takes office in January and will prevent his Justice Department from reopening criminal probes into Hunter Biden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Still, the Trump transition team reacted swiftly to the news, blasting the Biden administration for, quote, "...weaponizing the justice system against Trump without mentioning Hunter directly and vowing substantial reforms." Trump himself took to Truth Social, where he hinted at mass pardons for defendants of the January 6th Capitol riot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Trump said, quote, Does the pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the January 6th hostages who have now been imprisoned for years? Such an abuse and miscarriage of justice, end quote. For those wanting to question President Biden over the pardon, well, they'll have to wait.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
In the wake of Sunday evening's announcement, Biden flew off to Africa for a long-delayed trip to the nation of Angola, likely his last foreign trip as president before leaving office. Coming up, an update on the intensifying violence in Syria, where Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have crossed into the country to join a counteroffensive on behalf of the Assad regime. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Iranian-backed Iraqi militias are mobilizing in Syria to bolster President Bashar al-Assad's forces in a critical counteroffensive following a surprise insurgent advance that captured Aleppo, the country's second-largest city, just this past week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
The escalation marks one of the most significant challenges to Assad's regime in years and raises the specter of renewed violence in a region obviously already strained by multiple conflicts.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
As we've been tracking, the insurgent offensive, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or a group known as HTS, has pushed deep into Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama provinces, threatening to reopen a violent front in Syria's long-running civil war. On Monday, Assad's forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, reported killing 400 insurgents in the last 24 hours, as government troops raced to encircle rebel strongholds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Tehran has taken a leading role in the counter-offensive to shore up Assad's regime. Iran's President, Mossad Bezeshkin, pledged full support during a call with Assad on Monday, while Iranian militias have sent reinforcements. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 200 fighters crossed the border overnight into Syria to join the fight for Aleppo.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Then, an update on the intensifying fight in Syria, where Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have crossed into Syria to aid forces of the Assad regime as they attempt to mount a counteroffensive against rebel groups who seized control of Aleppo last week. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
The Iranian foreign minister said that the Iranian regime stands ready to provide all necessary assistance to Assad as Iran seeks to prevent the insurgency from undermining its decade-long investment in propping up Syria's regime. And Russia, a key ally of Assad, has echoed Iran's position, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirming Moscow's commitment to stabilizing Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
The renewed violence is a sharp embarrassment for Assad, whose forces and allies, including Iran and Russia, are stretched thin by overlapping conflicts. Assad's failure to anticipate and repel the insurgent attack underscores the fragility of his regime even after years of foreign support.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Neighboring Iraq has responded by increasing security along its border with Syria, wary of potential spillover from the fighting. Iraq's Interior Ministry spokesman confirmed heightened deployments along the border with Syria. The escalating conflict also risks drawing in other key players.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Turkey, which backs certain rebel factions, has been silent so far but remains a pivotal actor in the region. The broader stakes extend, of course, beyond Syria, as the insurgency unfolds against the backdrop of heightened tensions involving U.S.-backed Israel and Iranian-aligned groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Whether the counteroffensive succeeds or the insurgents hold their ground, the violence has, of course, fueled fears of deeper regional instability, not something that we need, drawing yet another front into a web of conflicts that already threatens to overwhelm the Middle East. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Monday, 2 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And finally, as you've likely read in all the major dailies, to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Told you it was simple. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
After a long legal odyssey, President Biden has decided to issue a sweeping presidential pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, ahead of the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the Oval Office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 2nd, 2024: Biden's Sweeping Pardon For Hunter & Iranian-Backed Iraqi Militias Join The Fight In Syria
The legal breadth of the pardon is, well, rather extraordinary, not only protecting Hunter from his upcoming sentencing related to federal felony gun and tax convictions, but also retroactively covering any offenses committed between January 1st, 2014 and December 1st, 2024.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Trump also criticized the hundreds of billions in subsidies that the US gives Canada and Mexico each year, arguing that the tariffs are needed to address the, quote, very big deficits that the US has with both nations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
The president first threatened the tariffs following his election victory in November, though many had assumed it was simply a negotiating tactic to secure trade concessions and assurances from Canada and Mexico that they would crack down on border security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
It's Friday, 31 January. Well, look at that. We made it to the end of the month. Welcome to the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, President Trump said he plans to make good on his threats against Mexico and Canada and will enact a 25% tariff on their imports.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
But Trump argued Thursday that both countries continue to treat the U.S., quote, very unfairly on trade, and that now was the time to turn up the pressure. In his remarks, Trump said, quote, look, Canada and Mexico, they have never been good to us on trade, and we will be able to make that up very quickly because we don't need the products that they have, end quote. He said the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
has some of the largest supplies of oil and lumber globally and that he'll work to free those sectors from his predecessor's environmental regulations in order to boost production.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Trump added, however, that he has not yet made a decision on whether oil imports would be included in the policy, saying it depends on if Canada and Mexico treat us well, meaning the U.S., and, quote, if the oil is properly priced.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Trump also said he was considering imposing new tariffs on China, criticizing them for using Mexico as a pathway to traffic fentanyl into the U.S., though he did not elaborate on details regarding his plans for targeting the Chinese Communist Party. So, how are U.S. neighbors responding to the economic threats? Well, I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said at a press conference last week that if the U.S. imposes tariffs, Mexico will respond in kind with their own. On Friday, however, well, her response was somewhat more muted. She told reporters she would, quote, "'wait with a cool head' before making a decision on how to respond."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Friday that Canada would respond immediately and forcefully with their own tariffs if Trump moves ahead with his plans. Trudeau said, quote, We're ready with a response. It's not what we want, but if he moves forward, we will also act, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Now, the tariffs could have a devastating effect on the Canadian economy as roughly 75% of Canadian exports go directly to the U.S. Addressing the Canadian people, Trudeau warned, quote, I won't sugarcoat it. Our nation could be facing difficult times in the coming days and weeks, end quote. It's worth noting that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
is the largest importer of foreign goods, with Mexico, Canada, and China making up America's top three global suppliers. Economists are concerned that if implemented, the tariffs could significantly raise the price of consumer goods at a time when Americans are still grappling with inflation and high interest rates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
An economist with the analysis firm High Frequency Economics told CNBC, quote, it will be a plus for bringing down the deficit, that's the good news here, but it's going to come out of people's pockets, end quote. Coming up, multiple fighter jets were scrambled from Alaska and Canada this week after several Russian warplanes were spotted in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
It's just the latest incident that's causing tensions to heat up between Moscow and the West over the Arctic region. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Russia is making their presence felt in the Arctic as the battle over strategic influence in the region intensifies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
We'll discuss the implications and how both countries may respond. Then, in a sign of the escalating tensions between Moscow and the West over the Arctic, Multiple Russian warplanes were spotted in the region this week, forcing NORAD to hastily scramble American and Canadian fighter jets. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
North American Aerospace Defense Command said Thursday that multiple Russian warplanes were spotted in the Arctic earlier this week, forcing NORAD to scramble a combat air patrol of American and Canadian fighter jets in order to monitor the activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
While the Russian aircraft stayed in international airspace, they did come close to the Alaskan and Canadian air defense identification zones, that's according to a report from CBS News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Two Canadian CF-18 fighter jets and one refueling aircraft were dispatched from the Canadian NORAD region, and two USF-35 fighter jets and two refueling aircraft tankers were launched from the Alaskan NORAD region due to the Russian activity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Several hours later, NORAD also scrambled two F-16 fighter jets from Alaska to Greenland in order to quote forward posture NORAD presence in the Arctic, though they stressed that they did not view the Russian warplanes as a current threat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Now, it's just the latest military incident to unfold in a region that has recently turned into a geopolitical focal point, with the U.S., Russia, and China all vying for strategic dominance. In December, for example, NORAD was forced to dispatch fighter jets to shadow Russian warplanes after they flew near Alaska.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Over the course of 2024, Russian military planes made multiple incursions into the Arctic region, including one incident last July where Russian and Chinese warplanes were intercepted in Alaska's Air Defense Identification Zone. Russia has also recently reopened dozens of Soviet-era military bases in the Arctic region as tensions with the West deteriorate due to Putin's war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Additionally, the Putin regime has deployed two nuclear submarines to the Arctic and engaged in tests of their hypersonic missiles, reportedly capable of evading American defenses. Russia's expansionist behavior, of course, is a major concern for the U.S. and a big driver behind President Trump's recent push to bring Greenland under U.S. control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Now, Greenland sits on vast deposits of rare earth minerals, oil, and gas, and is positioned near crucial global trade and military arteries. The U.S. has a decades-old treaty granting the U.S. access to an Arctic base in southern Greenland, which now hosts an airfield and advanced radar and missile detection systems. But between both Russia and China, Trump argues that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
needs to fully control Greenland in order to deter potential threats and ensure America's top adversaries do not end up dominating the strategically important Arctic waters, which of course include vital shipping routes. Earlier this month, Trump said, quote, I'm talking about protecting the free world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
You look outside, you have Chinese ships all over the place, you have Russian ships all over the place, and we're not letting that happen, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 31 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Now, if you'll take a moment just to look at your calendar, well, you'll notice that today is Friday. And if today is Friday, and which it is, then that can only mean one thing. A brand new episode of our much-loved weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, hits the airwaves tonight at 10 p.m. on the First TV.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
President Trump declared his intent Thursday to follow through on his economic threats against Canada and Mexico, teeing up a potential trade war with U.S. regional allies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Our excellent guests this weekend include Benem Ben-Taliblu from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the author and all-around smart fella, Brandon Weikert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Now, we examine just how shaky the Iranian regime is and what the Trump administration may do regarding Iran's nuclear program, as well as US efforts to build a space-based missile defense system and the Chinese regime's ability to knock out critical US satellites. It's not only, well, a humdinger of a show, it's frankly a barn burner.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
And it's also available on our YouTube channel, you can find that, at President's Daily Brief, as well as all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Speaking from the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump said he planned to put in place 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, with the border taxes set to go into effect on Saturday, though unconfirmed reports suggested that they may not be imposed until the 1st of March.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 31st, 2025: Trump Readies Crippling Tariffs Against Canada And Mexico & Tensions Escalate With Russia Over The Arctic
Trump argues that both countries are taking advantage of current imbalances in the North American Free Trade Pact and are not doing enough to curb illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking into the U.S., according to a report from the New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
In today's back of the brief, former New Jersey Democrat Senator Bob Menendez was sentenced to 11 years in prison Wednesday for orchestrating a long running bribery and foreign influence scheme, marking the harshest sentence ever handed down to a U.S. senator. Congratulations, Gold Bar Bob. You're a winner.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
The sentencing came after a nine-week corruption trial that ended last July in which prosecutors convicted Menendez of putting his high office up for sale to the governments of Egypt and Qatar to advance foreign interests in Washington. In exchange, Menendez received over $100,000 in gold bars and other payouts.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
The disgraced senator and chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, widely mocked as Gold Bar Bob, broke down in tears, that's not a good look, in a New York City courtroom, pleading for leniency before a U.S. district judge. Menendez stated, quote, I've lost everything, adding, quote, every day I wake is punishment.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
The judge, however, made clear that Menendez's fall from grace was of his own making. Well, he's not wrong. While acknowledging the senator's past accomplishments, the judge condemned Menendez's betrayal of public trust, stating, quote, You were successful, powerful, stood at the apex of our political system. Somewhere along the way, you lost your way. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Prosecutors pushed for a 15-year sentence, calling Menendez's conduct, quote, exceptionally grave abuses of power at the highest levels. The defense countered with a request for no more than eight years, arguing that Menendez's decades of public service warranted leniency. Really? Did it? I don't think so.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
But in the end, the judge landed in the middle, handing down an 11-year term, making Menendez the first U.S. senator in history convicted of working as a foreign agent. Two of Menendez's co-defendants, Egyptian businessman Wael Hanna and New Jersey real estate developer Fred Dibas, were also sentenced, receiving seven and eight years, respectively.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
A third businessman, who pleaded guilty and testified against Menendez, helped prosecutors stitch together the damning case. Hanna, maintaining his innocence, told the court, quote, I never bribed Senator Menendez or asked his office for influence. But the judge dismissed the claim outright, calling the jury's verdict, quote, very, very substantial.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Menendez's wife, Nadine, remains entangled in the scandal and is set to stand trial on 18 March. She's accused of accepting bribes, including a luxury Mercedes convertible and cashing paychecks from a no-show job allegedly arranged as part of the scheme. In their sentencing memo, prosecutors exoriated Menendez's actions, writing, quote, Menendez, who swore an oath to represent the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
It's Friday, 31 January. Look at that. We've made it to the end of the month. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with an update on the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, where three more Israeli hostages and five Thai hostages were released on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
and the state of New Jersey, instead put his high office up for sale in exchange for this horde of bribes, end quote. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 31 January. Now, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
The disturbing scenes Thursday mirrored previous hostage handovers, reinforcing an unsettling pattern that has tested the ceasefire's durability. For Hamas, the exchanges serve as a display of their control over Gaza, as limited as it may be at this point, an attempt to project authority, even as Israeli forces systematically dismantle its leadership and military infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
In response, Israel briefly halted its scheduled release of Palestinian prisoners, demanding immediate assurances from mediators in Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. that future exchanges would be conducted safely. Prime Minister Netanyahu wasted no time condemning the events, calling the chaotic scenes, quote, shocking and further evidence of Hamas's, quote, inconceivable brutality.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Well, he's not wrong. Netanyahu warned that any harm to Israeli hostages would come at a severe cost. only after securing firm guarantees from mediators that future releases would proceed without obstruction, although you have to ask yourself, how would the mediators be able to guarantee that? Did Israel resume its side of the exchange?
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Among those freed Thursday were Agam Berger, a 20-year-old Israeli soldier, along with civilian hostages Arbel Yehud and 80-year-old Gadi Moses. Berger, the last female soldier held in Gaza, was escorted by masked terrorists from a bombed-out building in Jabalia in northern Gaza before being transferred to the Red Cross.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Hours later, Yehud and Moses emerged from the ruins of Qan Yunis, once home to Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader and architect of the 7 October brutal terror attack who was killed by Israeli forces last fall. The two captives were swallowed by a sea of thousands of Palestinians as they made their way to Red Cross transfer vehicles.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
It's important to note that Thursday's exchange was previously unscheduled, as Yochud's release had been a sticking point in negotiations earlier in the week.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
As we've tracked on the PDB, she was initially slated for release in the hostage prisoner exchange last Saturday, but Hamas delayed her handover, prompting Israel to retaliate by temporarily blocking displaced Palestinians from returning to northern Gaza. Her captors, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a Hamas ally, later released a proof-of-life video buying time for further negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
On Thursday, the terrorists waved their faction's flag as they escorted Yehud to the Red Cross transfer vehicles, maintaining the fragile ceasefire. Alongside the three Israeli captives, Hamas also released five Thai agricultural workers taken hostage on 7 October. Not included, however, was American-Israeli hostage Keith Siegel, who was expected to be freed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
In exchange for Thursday's hostage release, Israel freed approximately 110 Palestinian prisoners. As with prior exchanges, the list includes individuals convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis. Among them was Sami Jaradat, convicted for orchestrating one of the deadliest attacks of the Second Intifada, a 2003 suicide bombing in Haifa that killed 21 people.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Yeah, that sounds like a reasonable person to let go. Most of those serving life sentences are now expected to be deported to other countries in the region. In a development that coincided with the hostage prisoner exchange, Hamas announced that several of its senior leaders had been killed, including Mohamed Diouf, a key planner of the 7 October attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
You may remember that Israel claimed to have killed Dieff in a July 2024 airstrike, but Hamas had never confirmed his death until now. Now, last July, Israel's then Prime Minister, Yoav Golent, called Dieff, quote, the Osama bin Laden of Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Looking ahead, Hamas is set to name three more Israeli hostages for release on Saturday as the deal reverts back to its weekly hostage exchange schedule, with additional Palestinian prisoners also expected to walk free.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Now, the latest exchange revealed just how fragile this truce is, as Hamas tried to turn the hostage handover into a public spectacle, prompting condemnations from leaders in Jerusalem. Later in the show, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is gearing up for his first trip to Latin America with an eye on stemming migration and countering Chinese influence in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
While mediators push for peace to achieve a lasting ceasefire, as if we're going to get lasting ceasefire with Hamas, the disorder surrounding Thursday's hostage exchange underscores the fragile nature of the agreement. Well, that's an understatement. And how easily it could collapse. Sorry for sounding so cynical. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Coming up after the break, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is preparing for his first foreign trip as America's top diplomat. And congressional Republicans scramble to convince President Trump to reinstate the security details for several former aides over ongoing threats from the Iranian regime. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Welcome back to the BDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Marco Rubio is gearing up for his first foreign trip as Donald Trump's secretary of state, which will see him bring the president's shock and awe approach to diplomacy in Latin America. Countries across Latin America are already reeling from President Trump's return to the Oval Office, which has come with threats of tariffs and territorial expansion.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
The president, for example, recently doubled down on his intention to reclaim the Panama Canal and briefly imposed harsh sanctions and tariffs on Colombia after they refused to accept deported migrants, forcing the Colombian government to cave on the issue. The message from the Trump administration has been clear. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
is not messing around when it comes to immigration and countering foreign influence in the region. And failure to engage with the U.S. on these issues will have swift consequences. With that in mind, Rubio's tour will begin in Panama this weekend before he heads to El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Rubio has said that a top priority for the State Department will be helping President Trump deliver on his campaign promise to significantly curb mass migration and illicit drug trafficking.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
According to our report from Reuters, his diplomacy in the region will focus on negotiating the repatriation of illegal immigrants, boosting deportation flights, and encouraging Latin American countries to stop illegal and destabilizing migration from within their borders.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
While Rubio has not tipped his hand on the specific policy initiatives that he plans to pursue on his first foreign trip, many expect he will use it to push for what are called third country agreements, which involve nations accepting citizens of other countries deported by the U.S. Cuba and Venezuela, for example, have severely strained relations with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
and have already limited the number of deportees they are willing to accept. The Trump administration will instead have to persuade other countries to take them, no small task. Rubio also has an eye on curbing China's already extensive influence in the region, which brings us, of course, to Panama.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
A major agenda item during Rubio's visit will likely be the Panama Canal, despite a statement from the country's president on Thursday ruling out discussions on the issue. Trump has threatened to seize the vital canal, potentially through military force, claiming it is being covertly controlled by China, an accusation that the Panamanian government strongly denies.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Plus, Republicans in Congress are scrambling to convince President Trump to reverse course and reinstate the security details for several former aides who remain on Iran's hit list. And in today's back of the brief, oh look, it's Gold Bar Bob.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
For some context, the American-built canal has been solely controlled by Panama for 25 years, after the U.S. ended the joint partnership in controlling the strategic waterway back in 1999. Its economic importance to America is hard to overstate, as roughly 40% of U.S. container traffic relies on the vital waterway.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
In 2021, roughly 73% of all vessels traversing the canal were traveling to or from American ports. That's almost 75%. But Trump feels the U.S. gave away the canal to Panama for nothing, and that China has now moved in and essentially captured the strategic trade route. Despite the denials from Panama, China's expanding influence at the canal is a legitimate concern.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Panama established diplomatic relations with China in place of Taiwan back in 2017, and Beijing has since undertaken significant infrastructure developments near the waterway. Officials with U.S. Southern Command have expressed concern over China's growing activity in the region, particularly their stake in two ports on either side of the canal that could enable it to influence canal operations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
There are also fears that China will introduce surveillance technology into the canal's infrastructure to monitor U.S. naval and commercial movements. Given the stakes for the Trump administration's ambitious foreign policy agenda, Rubio will certainly have his work cut out for him.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
All right, shifting to the U.S., congressional Republicans are reportedly scrambling to convince President Trump to reinstate security details for several former national security aides who remain in the crosshairs of the Iranian regime. As you'll recall, last week, President Trump revoked the federally funded security details for four officials who served during his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Former National Security Advisor John Bolton, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, former Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo, and Brian Hook, who served as Trump's envoy for Iran. Now, all four men had involvement in Trump's maximum pressure campaign against Iran during his first stint in the Oval Office and landed in Iran's sights after the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
assassinated Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani in a 2020 airstrike in Baghdad. Trump himself was also the subject of a foiled assassination attempt by the Iranian regime over the summer.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
A major update on disgraced former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, who was sentenced this week to 11 years in prison over his long-running bribery and foreign influence scheme. Well, there's a surprise. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
According to anonymous sources who spoke exclusively with Politico, the issue came up this week during a Senate GOP policy lunch following briefings that revealed Iran's assassination threats against the men continue unabated. multiple GOP senators reportedly agreed that Trump's decision was a mistake and would hurt U.S. national security interests in the long term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
They're particularly concerned that it could have a chilling effect on current national security officials, potentially spooking them from taking hardline stances against foreign adversaries. The problem, however, is coming up with a way to broach the subject with Trump and change his mind.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
They fear that if confronted directly, Trump may dig in his heels, particularly since he has longstanding public feuds with both Bolton and Milley. A Senate aide told Politico, quote, if a Republican gave a press conference right now and came out guns blazing on the president, that's not going to work. Obviously, you have to do this delicately to get it done, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Given Trump's distaste for Millian Bolton, Republicans will reportedly focus their arguments on Pompeo and Hook, two men they say have always been loyal to President Trump. Even that strategy, however, may run into problems.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Trump has increasingly distanced himself from Pompeo, at least publicly, and dismissed Hook last week from his position as a trustee of the Smithsonian's Wilson Center for Scholars, a role that Trump appointed him to at the end of his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
So far, the only senators to publicly call for the reinstatement of personal protective details are Tom Cotton and Lindsey Graham, who appeared on Fox News last weekend to make their case, though they avoided any direct criticism of Trump. When asked about his decision last week, Trump argued that former officials cannot expect to get government-backed security details for the rest of their life.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Well, of course, unless you're president. He added, quote, they all made a lot of money. They can hire their own security, too. Regarding continued threats from Iran, a spokesman for the National Security Council implied that the weakened regime would not dare attack an American while Trump is in office, warning they would face, quote, devastating consequences. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Coming up in the back of the brief. Oh, look, it's a story about Gold Bar Bob. It's a major update on disgraced former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, who was sentenced this week to 11 years in prison over his long running bribery and foreign influence scheme. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
We'll begin in Gaza, where the latest hostage release unraveled into a chaotic spectacle as Palestinian crowds swarmed Israeli captives, forcing a process that should have taken minutes to drag on for over an hour. I'm sorry, but what did anybody else expect? The incident prompted outrage in Jerusalem, and Israel temporarily suspended its scheduled release of Palestinian prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 31st, 2025: Chaos Erupts During Gaza Hostage Exchange & Rubio Prepares For First Foreign Test As America's Top Diplomat
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
For the first time since 2012, the U.S. has raised the American flag at the ambassador's residence in Damascus, Syria. It's a symbolic move that marks the latest sign of thawing relations between Washington and Syria's new government. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We begin today with a story that sounds like it's ripped straight from the pages of a Tom Clancy novel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Barak confirmed that the Trump administration is preparing to delist Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism, asserting that the designation became obsolete with the fall of the Assad regime. He added that Congress has a six-month window to repeal the sweeping sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The Syrian envoy stated, quote, America's intent and the president's vision is that we have to give this young government a chance by not interfering, not demanding, not giving conditions, not imposing our culture on its culture. As we've long tracked here on the PDB, Syria's foreign policy posture is undergoing a dramatic reorientation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
After decades aligned with Iran and Russia under the Assad family, Sharaa has moved swiftly to distance the country from those alliances and to re-engage with regional adversaries. One of the most significant shifts is Syria's quiet outreach to Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
As we reported earlier this week, Israeli and Syrian officials have already held multiple rounds of direct contact aimed at easing tensions along the Golan Heights territory that Israel seized in 1967 and expanded after Assad's fall, citing concerns over jihadists' influence in Shiraz's government. The symbolic return of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
in Damascus not only revives a physical diplomatic footprint, but underscores a broader recalibration of American policy in the Middle East, one that hinges on transactional diplomacy and a willingness to engage unconventional partners, even those with jihadist and terrorist backgrounds, in pursuit of regional stability.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 30th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that, and it's very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And remember, tonight, as with every Friday evening at 10 p.m., we launch a brand new episode of our much-loved, you could even call it beloved, extended weekend show. That's the PDB Situation Report. You can catch it, as always, on the First TV and on our very spiffy YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and, of course, all podcast platforms everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
A senior Russian military official is claiming that Ukrainian forces attempted to assassinate President Putin earlier this month during his visit to the Kursk region. It's a territory that Moscow recently recaptured from Ukrainian control.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
According to air defense commander Yuri Dashkin, Putin's helicopter was flying through what he described as a massive drone attack launched by Ukraine on the 20th of May. Dashkin told Russian state media that 45 drones were shot down that day alone and that one of them was on a direct path toward Putin's aircraft before being neutralized by Russian air defenses.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Over the course of three days, Dashkin says Russian forces intercepted over 1,100 drones, calling the scale of the assault, quote, unprecedented. He emphasized that the intensity of the drone attacks spiked during the exact time frame of the president's flight, framing it as a deliberate and coordinated assassination attempt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Dashkin said in an interview broadcast by the Rossiya24 TV channel, quote, we were simultaneously engaged in an air battle and ensured the safety of the president's helicopter in the airspace. The helicopter was effectively at the epicenter of the response to the massive drone attack, end quote. Well, how wordy is Dashkin?
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The story has gained considerable traction in Russian media as well as on social media. However, to date, Russia has provided zero evidence to support this dramatic claim. No drone wreckage, no satellite imagery, no video, no injuries or damage to the helicopter were reported, and Putin's schedule proceeded without interruption.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
All we have is the testimony of one Russian commander amplified by state-run media. And as they say, if it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, then it's probably a Russian disinformation-spreading duck. And from the other side, well, silence. Ukrainian officials haven't confirmed it, haven't denied it, and haven't gloated about it either.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
But while we can't say definitively whether this was a genuine attempt or a carefully orchestrated Russian PR or disinformation campaign, we do know one thing. Putin, well, has been targeted before.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Just last year, Ukraine's intelligence chief Kirill Budenov admitted publicly that there have been assassination attempts on Putin's life since the start of the war, though he added the obvious disclaimer. They have been unsuccessful so far. Well, thanks for clearing that up. And it's not as though this kind of tactic would be unprecedented.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
President Zelensky on the Ukrainian side has reportedly survived more than a dozen assassination attempts since Russia's full scale invasion began back in February of 2022. Those plots, often linked to Russian operatives or mercenaries from the Wagner Group, included sniper teams and infiltration units. Each attempt was reportedly foiled with help from Western intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Those failed operations have only strengthened Zelensky's image, portraying him as a defiant wartime leader who repeatedly has stared down death and lived to rally his country. And now with this alleged drone attack in Kursk, well, maybe Putin is looking to level up his own aura, a near-miss narrative to cast himself as a commander-in-chief under fire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
All right, coming up next, Hamas pushes back on a new U.S.-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal. And Fresh Intel out of Austria says Iran's nuclear weapons program is not only active, but accelerating. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased to report that it is officially grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
So you now have the authorization to go ahead and fire up that grill if you haven't already. Now, look, if your grill could talk, just imagine that. But if it could talk, it would probably say something like, hey. How about you stop throwing that supermarket mystery meat on me and give me something better, right? That's what your grill would say. It would say, how about some better beef?
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And that's why I get my beef from Tritail's, right? Tritail's Beef is a fifth-generation, family-run ranch in Texas. It's not some big-box meat factory. They deliver pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef right to your front door. And right now, in honor of Memorial Day, they're taking $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And when you head over to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll toss in two free flat iron steaks. Look, there's no strings, there's no middlemen, just delicious cuts of beef delivered right to your door. So stock the freezer, get ready to grill like you mean it, and treat your grill and your taste buds with a little respect. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The latest US-backed ceasefire and hostage deal proposal has been rejected by Hamas. The terror group is accusing President Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, of pushing a framework heavily tilted toward Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
According to sources who spoke with the Jerusalem Post and the Israeli news site Vala, Hamas leaders on Thursday believe they were, quote, screwed over by a deal that accepts nearly all of Israel's demands while stripping the terror group of meaningful leverage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
If for background, the new proposal delivered by Witkoff calls for the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the return of 18 deceased in two stages, all within a week. Hamas claims that the tight timeline effectively burns through its remaining leverage, meaning their hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
On paper, the framework also calls for a 60-day truce, extendable only by mutual consent, and proposes a limited IDF withdrawal from parts of Gaza, allowing the UN to oversee humanitarian aid distribution. What's missing, and what Hamas has zeroed in on, is any binding American commitment that temporary peace will evolve into permanent calm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
That omission is a non-starter for the terror group, which still views the March ceasefire breakdown over advancing into phase two of that deal as a cautionary tale that reignited hostilities. A Hamas-linked source told Vala that the proposal was tainted by Witkopf's willingness to incorporate demands from Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer during talks this week.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The source said, quote, "...this version of the deal is more biased in favor of Israel than previous proposals," adding that it closely resembled the conditions that unraveled earlier U.S.-mediated efforts. In Jerusalem, Prime Minister Netanyahu struck a more optimistic tone, telling families of the hostages that Israel had accepted Witkoff's proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
It's Friday, the 30th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with a dramatic claim out of Moscow. A top Russian military official says that President Putin was nearly assassinated by a Ukrainian drone strike during a recent visit to the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
But, well, not everyone in the Israeli government is on the same page. A senior official told Axios that some media reports mischaracterized the plan, stressing, quote, Contrary to reports, the Witkoff agreement proposed in recent days did not determine the new deployment line of the IDF nor the manner in which aid would be distributed within the framework of a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Meanwhile, at the White House, the tone was cautiously upbeat. A senior U.S. official told Axios, quote, if each side moves just a bit, we could have a deal within days, suggesting the administration believes the gap remains bridgeable, if only barely.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Still, that optimism is a stretch, particularly after a Palestinian official falsely claimed that Hamas had declared it accepted a ceasefire proposal from Witkoff earlier this week. That phantom deal, which supposedly included a 70-day truce and phased hostage releases, well, never actually existed. As we discussed here on the PDB, what briefly looked like a breakthrough turned out to be a mirage.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And while the principles of the new official deal are now largely understood, any final agreement will still require consensus on the names of hostages, the scope of Israeli military withdrawal, and enforcement mechanisms to extend the ceasefire beyond the initial 60-day period. Okay, turning to a new report from Austria's top intelligence agency, one that directly contradicts longstanding U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
intelligence and sounds the alarm on Tehran's active nuclear weapons ambitions. The 211-page report, released by Austria's Directorate of State Protection and Intelligence Service – let's see, the country's equivalent to the FBI –
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
a search that Iran is actively pursuing, quote, comprehensive rearmament, including nuclear weapons, to solidify its dominance in the Middle East and shield the regime from foreign attack.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The Austrian intelligence community warns that Iran's nuclear weapons development program is, quote, well advanced and supported by a, quote, growing arsenal of ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads over long distances. The assessment marks a sharp departure from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Office of the Director of National Intelligence since the ODNI, because, of course, there's an acronym, which maintains that Iran suspended its nuclear weapons program back in 2003 and has not resumed it. It was quite the rosy picture.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
At a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing in March, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testified that, quote, the American intelligence community continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has not authorized the nuclear weapons program that he suspended in 2003, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
But David Albright, president of the Institute for Science and International Security and a former U.N. weapons inspector, sharply criticized the ODNI's position, telling Fox News, quote, The ODNI report is stuck in the past. It's a remnant of the fallacious, unclassified 2007 national intelligence estimate.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
He added that Austria's conclusions echo warnings long voiced by European allies, stating, quote, both the German and British governments made clear to the U.S. intelligence community in 2007 that they believed the U.S. was wrong about the program ending, end quote. Austria's findings are part of a larger pattern.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
European intelligence agencies have documented persistent Iranian efforts to secure weapons-related technology both before and after the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. A 2023 report cited by Fox News revealed that Iran had worked to bypass U.S. and EU sanctions to acquire components with the intent to eventually test a nuclear device.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Later in the show, a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza is on the table from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Israel says yes, but Hamas is demanding changes. Plus, a new intelligence report out of Austria is challenging U.S. assessments on Iran. The findings claim that the Iranian regime's nuclear weapons program is not only alive but advancing rapidly. and in today's Back of the Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Beyond nuclear development, the Austrian report brands the Islamic regime as a systemic threat to democracy. It references Tehran as a state sponsor of terrorism 99 times and highlights its embassy in Vienna, one of Iran's largest in Europe, as a major hub for intelligence operations conducted under diplomatic cover.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The report also accuses Iranian intelligence of, quote, implementing circumvention strategies for the procurement of military equipment, proliferation-sensitive technologies, and materials for weapons of mass destruction, end quote. Now, these include not only nuclear components, but also chemical and biological materials in violation of international protocols.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The report also flags growing cooperation between Iran and Russia. According to the findings, Iran's sanctions evasion network has begun benefiting Moscow, creating the prospect of a geopolitical axis stretching from Tehran to the Kremlin. A troubling development, obviously, particularly as both countries face mounting pressure from the West. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Coming up next in the back of the brief, the U.S. raises its flag in Damascus for the first time since 2012, signaling a new chapter in relations with Syria's government. More on that when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, this July, there's going to be a very important summit. It's a global summit of the BRICS nations, and it's being held in Rio de Janeiro because, well, why not?
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The bloc of emerging superpowers, including China and Russia, India and Iran, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. That's right. And they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease. And, of course, that would bring down the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
And while the transition won't happen overnight, of course, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, might I suggest you check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. To claim your free information kit on gold, it's simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Just text PDB to 989-898 today. In today's Back of the Brief, America's top diplomat in Syria raised the stars and stripes over the U.S. ambassador's residence in Damascus for the first time in more than a decade as President Trump moves to normalize relations with Syria's new Islamist-led government.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
newly appointed envoy to Syria, Thomas Barak, presided over the reopening of diplomatic facilities shuttered since 2012 on Thursday, marking the return of an official U.S. presence in the Syrian capital for the first time since the Assad regime's brutal crackdown on dissent.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
The reopening of facilities follows Trump's high-stakes meeting with interim Syrian president and former al-Qaeda commander Ahmed al-Sharra, that was in Riyadh earlier this month, where the president urged Syria's new leadership to pursue normalization with Israel. According to sources familiar with the talks, Trump pledged U.S. backing if the negotiations show momentum.
The President's Daily Brief
May 30th, 2025: Did Ukraine Try to Assassinate Putin? & New Nuclear Warnings About Iran
Speaking to reporters in the Syrian capital, Barak said peace between Syria and Israel is now within reach, emphasizing a step-by-step approach rather than sweeping demands. He stated, quote, Syria and Israel is a solvable problem. But it starts with a dialogue, he said, adding, quote, I'd say we need to start with just a non-aggression agreement, talk about boundaries and borders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Investigators also discovered an unlit Molotov cocktail inside one of the vehicles. That's a detail that suggests the situation could have been even worse. Police say Kim tried to cover his tracks, but, well, clearly, it didn't work.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
His DNA matched samples collected at the scene, and the search of his apartment and two vehicles turned up a small arsenal, multiple firearms, including rifles, a shotgun, a handgun, and a stockpile of ammunition and gun parts. According to investigators, Kim's social media accounts included posts supporting communist causes and expressing solidarity with pro-Palestinian movements.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
It's Friday, the 28th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll start things off with an arrest in a Molotov cocktail attack on a Tesla dealership. Now, federal authorities say it was no random act of vandalism. They've won today's PDB Statement of the Obvious Award.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
That political context has led some to argue that these attacks amount to acts of terrorism. Some? Can we please meet the gormless morons who don't think that this would be considered domestic terrorism? Kim is facing a long list of state charges, including arson, property destruction, and possession of a fire device. But that may just be the beginning.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
FBI officials say that federal charges are also coming. At a press conference, FBI Special Agent in Charge Spencer Evans had strong words for those inspired to commit violence in the name of political causes. He said, quote, There's nothing courageous or noble about firebombing private property and terrorizing your local community.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
The self-righteous mob that's cheering you on today will leave you high and dry at the end of the day, and you alone will be held responsible, end quote. Hmm. Well, that's a good try as far as statements go, but I don't think that the self-righteous mob cares. They're too busy being self-righteous.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Look, feeling like you're better, like you're smarter and more morally superior is an all-consuming pastime for folks who cheer on this type of terroristic crime. As we reported earlier this week, the FBI has formed a new joint task force with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms to investigate violent attacks like this one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
It's part of a growing federal effort to crack down on ideologically driven crimes across the country. Since January, Tesla has become a repeated target of politically motivated arson and vandalism. From Oregon to South Carolina, at least nine incidents involving Molotov cocktails, gunfire, and incendiary devices have struck Tesla dealerships, vehicles, and charging stations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Graffiti messages like resist and F Trump have accompanied many of the attacks, raising concerns that Tesla, and by extension, of course, Elon Musk, have become lightning rods for ideologues lashing out against perceived political or corporate enemies.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Coming up next, Iran replies to President Trump's call for nuclear talks, offering a vague response that stops short of a yes, but doesn't close the door either. I'll be right back. Hi, Mike Baker here. Look around, well, what do you see? Tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation. No wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Look, in volatile markets, well, like the one right now, don't sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand. Take charge, take control, and safeguard your savings. That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group. They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
So ask yourself, is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, just text PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation information kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
With an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birch Gold to help me protect my savings with gold, and you can too. Simply text PDB to 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Later in the show, Iran has responded to President Trump's outreach, but while they didn't slam the door on negotiations, they're not ready to sit down at the table either. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. A politically charged firebombing attack on a Tesla dealership in Las Vegas has led to a federal investigation and now an arrest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. It appears the mullahs of Iran want to keep their diplomatic options open with the Trump administration in the hopes of avoiding a direct military confrontation over their reportedly rapidly advancing covert nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Leaders in Tehran said Thursday that they've delivered a formal written response to President Trump regarding his letter proposing direct negotiations for a new nuclear deal, which also threatens severe military consequences if the Iranians refuse.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
While details of their response are not yet known, Iran is reportedly attempting to stake out a middle ground, rejecting face-to-face talks but not ruling out negotiations entirely, and that's according to a New York Times report. The regime reportedly delivered their reply through Omani mediators who briefed the U.S. on the message.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Officials said the letter would be delivered by Oman to the White House in the coming days. The White House has not yet commented on the details, but Kamal Karazi, a senior foreign policy advisor to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly told local media, "...the Islamic Republic has not closed all the doors and is willing to begin indirect negotiations with the U.S."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
The remarks echoed an earlier statement from Iran's foreign minister, who told state media on Thursday that Iran had sent the White House their comprehensive views on the concerns raised by President Trump and what the mullahs would like to see from the U.S. if nuclear talks are to be revived.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
The foreign minister said, quote, Our policy is to not negotiate directly while there's maximum pressure policies from the U.S. and threats of military strikes. But indirect negotiations can take place as they have in the past, end quote. It's a subtle but notable shift in rhetoric from the Islamic regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
As a reminder, President Trump sent a personal letter to the Ayatollah just three weeks ago, offering him a choice between engaging in good-faith negotiations for a nuclear deal or facing the wrath of the American military. In an interview with Fox Business after sending the letter, Trump said, "...there are two ways that Iran can be handled, militarily, or you make a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
I would prefer, he said, to make a deal." Still, Trump threatened what he described as, quote, terrible consequences for the regime should they refuse to back down on the nuclear issue. While he stressed that his letter was not meant as an ultimatum, Trump reportedly gave the regime a two-month deadline to reach an agreement, which kind of sounds like an ultimatum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Iran's response to the diplomatic overtures was initially icy. According to state media, in the days that followed, the Ayatollah was quoted as saying that the regime would not be bullied into negotiations. And that's a sentiment shared by Iranian President Massoud Pesachian, who, in public remarks, bluntly told Trump to, quote, "...do whatever the hell you want."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
But he has since distanced himself from those statements. According to the report from the New York Times, he recently told Parliament that he favors negotiations but would ultimately defer to the Supreme Leader. Iran's softening tone follows reports earlier this week that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Authorities say that 36-year-old Paul Hyun Kim has been taken into custody, accused of carrying out a Molotov cocktail attack that torched multiple Teslas at a local collision center last week. According to Las Vegas police, Kim arrived at the Tesla site late at night on March 18 in a black Hyundai Elantra. dressed in all black and wearing gloves. There's a clue in there somewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
has recently been moving a significant number of military assets, including at least five B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, to the Diego Garcia Air Base in the Indian Ocean. The base has long served as a staging ground for long-range strike missions in the Middle East. The activity ignited speculation that strikes on Iran's nuclear sites could be next on the Trump administration's agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Analysts said that at the very least, it appeared the White House was sending a message to the regime that they are prepared to follow through on their threats of military force. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Tehran has vastly increased their stockpile of highly enriched uranium over just the past few months and now has enough material, reportedly, to produce at least six nuclear weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
Given the threat that a nuclear Iran would pose to Israel and to other regional players and interests, Trump has made halting their progress a top priority in his second term. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 28 March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
And finally, well, we've made it to the end of the week. Friday, well done. Don't forget to spice up your weekend with the latest episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. Every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV, we let loose with another episode of The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
This week's guests include the always insightful and entertaining retired Colonel John Mills and the always excellent Alireza Jafrazadeh. We're talking the Signal chat group, you may have heard about that, secure comms, war plans, the Iranian regime, and the Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
This week's episode and past episodes are always available on our YouTube channel, which you can find at President's Daily Brief, as well as the podcast platforms that you know and love. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 28th, 2025: Self-Proclaimed Communist Arrested For Tesla Bombing & Iran’s Cryptic Response to Trump
He allegedly approached the building, damaged security cameras with a rifle, another clue I think, and then proceeded to set at least five vehicles on fire. Yeah, the evidence does appear to be mounting. The word resist was spray-painted across the front doors of the facility. This guy is basically a walking evidence trail.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Zelenskyy sagte, er werde bald sterben, und das ist ein Fakt, und alles wird vorbei sein. The Ukrainian president didn't expand on why he thinks the 72-year-old Russian leader will soon expire, but it does follow years-long rumors about his alleged health woes, including reports of multiple strokes, bouts of cancer and a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Die neuesten Spekulationen kamen im Oktober, nachdem Putin mit dem, was auf seinen Händen aussehbar war, von einem I.V. bemerkt wurde, dass er sich gegen Krebs behandeln soll. Aber trotz der störenden Gerüchte gibt es keine konkreten Beweise, diese Beweise zu beurteilen. The Kremlin, of course, has from time to time issued vociferous denials of these reports, decrying them as Western propaganda.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy raises eyebrows with a sensational prediction, claiming that Vladimir Putins health is ailing and the Russian strongman will soon die. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
In his interview, Zelensky also asked that the US, quote, stay strong and resist Russia's current diplomatic efforts at rapprochement. Hmm, how fancy am I? I gave it that French spin, rapprochement. Which many analysts say is a play to get the Trump administration to lift sanctions and re-engage with Moscow economically.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Zelensky maintains that Putin, who he said will remain in power until his death, is still seeking a, quote, "...direct confrontation with the West." Zelenskyy sagte, dass es sehr wichtig ist, dass Amerika nicht Putin hilft, aus dieser globalen Isolation zu kommen. Ich glaube, dass das gefährlich ist.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Er hat gesagt, dass Amerika die ökonomische Druck behalten muss, indem sie Putin drücken, wird er die Stabilisierung in seiner Gesellschaft befinden und er wird es feiern.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Die Aufmerksamkeit kommt, als die Trump-Administration versucht hat, einen Friedensvertrag zwischen Russland und der Ukraine zu negieren, um den blöden Konflikt zu beenden, der sich natürlich ausgelöst hat, als Putin die Ukraine im Februar 2022 invadiert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Am Dienstag gab es einen kleinen Ausbruch, nachdem Russland und die Ukraine sich, naja, so etwas, zu einem unabhängigen US-Broker-Zweckfeuer verabschiedeten, die Angriffen auf Energieanlagen und die Sicherheit der Schiffen im Black Sea zu versichern. Russia made its cooperation contingent on the lifting of certain financial sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday the 28th of March. Now, of course, it is Friday, and Fridays mean new episodes of our weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. So tune in this evening at 10 p.m. on the first TV for the latest episode. We're featuring retired Colonel and cyber expert John Mills and Ali Reza Jafarzadeh from the Iranian Resistance Council.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
We're digging into the Signal Group chat brouhaha, which is a technical term for goat rope, as well as the weakening of the Iranian regime and the possible collapse of the mullahs' hold on power. Tune in and learn stuff. Alright, I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Wir beginnen in den USA, wo die Behörden einen der Top-US-basierten Führer der violenten Salvadoran-MS-13-Gang verabschiedet haben, als Teil einer steigenden Migrationsoperation, die fast 400 Kriminelle im letzten Monat geholfen hat. Der Verbrecher, 24-jähriger Henry Villatoro Santos, wurde am frühen Dienstagmorgen in Prinz-Williams-Kontinent in Nord-Virginia verhaftet.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Das ist ein Hotspot, glaube ich, für die MS-13-Aktivität. in der Lage zu sein, in diesem Land illegal zu sein. Er wurde von US-Abgeordneter General Pam Bondi beschrieben als einer der, quote, der Schlimmsten der Schlimmsten und war beruflich der Chef der Notorious Gangs Ostküste-Operationen. Das ist laut einem Bericht aus dem New York Post.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Bewerber glauben auch, er sei einer der Top-3-Führer von MS-13 weltweit, als Teil dessen, was die Gruppe La Mesa nennt, der Top-US-Hierarchie, die direkt zurück zu den Führern in El Salvador berichtet. He was reportedly initiated into the gang at a young age and quickly rose through its ranks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Officials said they'll seek to deport Villatoro Santos directly back to El Salvador to be housed in the country's notorious mega prison. Bondi declared at a press conference Thursday, "...America is safer today because one of the top domestic terrorists in MS-13 is off the streets."
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
FBI Director Kash Patel added that the arrest marks a critical victory for law enforcement against the gang, which President Trump has designated as a foreign terrorist organization and sends a, quote, strong message to violent gangs, your days of terrorizing our communities are numbered, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Details of the bust are being withheld at this time to protect ongoing criminal investigations, but officials said the operation that led to his arrest began in earnest at the beginning of March and has already led to the arrest of 340 other criminal suspects across the state of Virginia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Die MS-13 ist eine transnationale Gang, die von Salvadoran-Immigranten in Los Angeles gegründet wurde, damals in den 80ern. In den Jahren, die folgten, nachdem viele der Gang-Mitglieder von den USA verabschiedet wurden, wuchs die Gruppe schnell über Südamerika und erhielt eine Reputation für ihre überwältigend violenten Taktiken. Die Gang hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten in den USA geflüchtet.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
und ist mit hochprofilen Tötungen, Zerstörungen und druckrelevanten Verbrechen auf der ganzen Welt verbunden, z.B. in Kalifornien, Long Island, New York und der größeren Washington D.C.-Bereich, auch Virginia. Es ist schwer, die gewaltige Natur dieses Gruppes zu überschätzen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Fünf Mitglieder wurden im Jahr 2022 in Gefängnis verurteilt, weil sie zwei Teenager mit Knöpfen, Macheten und einem Pickaxe brutal verurteilt haben, nachdem sie in die Wälder in Nordvirginia gefangen wurden. The members reportedly filmed the murders in hopes of securing promotions within the gang. Other members were convicted in 2024 of going on a random killing spree in Northern Virginia in 2019.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
President Trump has made targeting transnational gangs a top priority of his administration, blaming the increase in violent migrant crime in recent years on the Biden administration's lax border policies.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
On his first day in office, President Trump declared a national emergency at the US southern border and deployed thousands of troops to assist border agents in curbing the flow of migrants and drugs. Migrant encounters have since dropped to a record low.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
The administration has also turned up the heat directly against transnational gangs and drug cartels, using spy planes and drones equipped with advanced radar and infrared sensors in partnership with the Mexican government to track their operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
On Thursday, we learned that the administration has now directed two intelligence agencies to train their surveillance satellites on the US-Mexico border in order to help supplement these efforts. And that's according to an exclusive report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
The National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, known as NGA, and the National Reconnaissance Office, or NRO, because of course it has to have an acronym,
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
As we covered earlier this week, the Trump administration also recently deployed two Navy-guided missile destroyers to the region to support interdiction efforts aimed at curbing illegal migration and drug smuggling, as smugglers increasingly turn to sea-based routes. By militarizing the border, the White House hopes to send a powerful message to transnational gangs and cartels that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
is significantly stepping up security and interdiction efforts. Alright, coming up next. New reports are emerging regarding the recent slaughter of members of the Alawite community in Syria. And North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un unveils his latest fixation. Newly developed AI-powered suicide drones. I'll be right back. Hi, Mike Baker here. Well, take a look around. What do you see?
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
It's Friday, the 28th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First up, one of the top three US leaders of the violent Salvadoran MS-13 gang has been arrested in a major federal immigration operation in Virginia.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Tariff wars, recession fears, stubborn inflation. So it's no wonder that gold has been routinely hitting all-time highs. Look, in volatile markets like what we have right now, well, don't just sit on the sidelines with your head in the sand, right? Take action, take control and safeguard your savings. That's why so many Americans today are turning to Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
They've helped tens of thousands convert an existing IRA or 401k into an IRA in physical gold. So ask yourself this. Is it time for you to hedge against inflation and economic instability with gold? To learn how to own physical gold in a tax-sheltered account, it's simple. Just text PDB to 989-898. Birch Gold will send you a free, no-obligation kit. Again, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and countless five-star reviews, I trust Birchgold to help me protect my savings with gold, and you can too. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB. The situation inside Syria has taken a grim turn, as the targeted killing of Alawite civilians has extended now into Damascus.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
That's the latest flashpoint in spiraling sectarian bloodshed. This feels, frankly, very reminiscent of Iraq shortly after the fall of Saddam Hussein.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
New reports from the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights suggest the civilian death toll, consisting mostly of members of the Alawite sect, has now climbed over 1,600 individuals in a wave of the worst retaliatory violence since Bashar al-Assads ousting. The death toll surged amid reports of field executions, forced displacement and homes being set ablaze.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Earlier this month on the PDB, we noted that most of the bloodshed had been confined to Alawite enclaves along the coast that was once considered Assad's stronghold. But that's no longer the case. The recent killings in the Al-Qaddam district of Damascus suggest something, well, far more dangerous.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
The violence is now encroaching on the heart of the capital, raising concerns that the interim government may be losing control of its most vital territory. Anwesende, die zu den Reuters gesprochen haben, sagen, dass die Gewalt am 6. März begann. Maskierte Männer stürmten in Al-Qaddam, abduktierten mindestens zwei Tausend Männer. Die meisten wurden später bemerkt tot.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Es war, wie bei allen Ausstellungen, eine sektarische Verbrechung. Nun, das war nicht der erste solcher Angriff. Die Überlebenden von früheren Angriffen in Latakia und Tartus hatten bemerkt, dass das kommen würde.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
But the bloodshed spread into Damascus has shocked many, especially as interim president and former Al-Qaeda member Ahmed al-Sharah continues to struggle with fragmented command structures and growing unrest. Sharah's forces had recently been dispatched to the coast to suppress a pro-Assad uprising.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
That operation left hundreds dead, and according to multiple reports, some units acted without defense ministry orders, a sign of just how fractured the chain of command is becoming. Nun, die Aufmerksamkeit ist zurückgekehrt zu der Kapitale. Beobachter sagen, dass die Al-Qaddam-Attacken sich als Mitglieder des General-Security-Service, der GSS, identifizierten.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Das ist eine neu genutztes paramilitärisches Feuerwerk, das von ehemaligen Rebellen hergestellt wurde. Ein Sprecher für die Innenministerie, der die GSS übernimmt, hat keine Kampagne negiert, die Alawiten anzufechtet, beobachtete, dass die Operation auf die Behandlung von illegalen Waffen konzentriert war. But, frankly, that explanation hasn't held up. Locals say the targeting was deliberate.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
The news comes as the Trump administration orders the Pentagon to train their spy satellites on the US-Mexico border to help crack down on cartel operations. Later in the show, new reports are emerging regarding the recent slaughter of members of the Alawite community in Syria, as the country grapples with the worst sectarian violence since the fall of Bashar al-Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
One resident, speaking to Reuters, said of a missing relative, quote, they took him purely because he's Alawite. Zumindest vier der Verbrecher kamen aus einer einzigen Familie. Andere wurden in Ortsräumen außerhalb des Nachbarlandes gefunden. Sie wurden exekutiv gefangen, obwohl die Reuters diese Details unabhängig beurteilen konnten. Viele der Verbrechenden bleiben unverantwortlich.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Wie wir in der Vergangenheit hier auf der PDB erwähnt haben, hat Shiraz' islamistische Administration eine Faktenfinding-Kommission gegründet, um die östlichen Massaker zu beurteilen. Aber so weit hat es nicht sein Mandat gestärkt, die Tötungen in Damaskus zu beurteilen.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
When pressed by local media, a committee spokesman said, quote, There may be deliberations within the committee at a later time to expand our work. Well, that sounds like a committee statement, if ever there was one, meaning an investigation isn't on the agenda as of now.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
The UN Refugee Agency had already expressed concern over the violence earlier this month, but on Tuesday noted that more than 21,000 Syrians have now fled to Lebanon in recent weeks. Die meisten sind auf dem Fuß geflogen, mit Flüssen und informellen Checkpunkten, fliehend durch das Blutgebiet. Für die Familien der von Al-Qaddam genommenen, gibt es keinen wirklich klaren Weg zur Gerechtigkeit.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Und für Syriens Interim-Gewerbe, naja, der Kloppe kann sich auf ihre bestätigte Intention aufbauen, für alle Syriens Einheit und Sicherheit zu erstellen. Okay, turning to the Korean peninsula. Pyongyang's unveiling of AI-powered suicide drones marks a new chilling milestone in dictator Kim Jong-un's expanding arsenal and his deepening relationship with Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
North Korean state media on Thursday published images of Kim inspecting what it called upgraded reconnaissance and kamikaze drones, including one Das scheint eine nahekarbonierte Kopie des amerikanischen RQ-4 Global Hawk zu sein. Und das ist ein hohes Höhenverwaltungsflugzeug, das von der Air Force verwendet wird.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
In einem dramatischen Display wurde ein festgelegter Drohne in eine Tank-formelte Anlage geschlagen, bevor er in Flammen eruierte. Das muss Kim erfreut haben. Ein weiteres unmanned Flugzeug trackte beruflich mehrere Anlagen über Land und See. Das ist eine Demonstration, die AnalystInnen sagen, suggeriert einen signifikanten Lauf in der Battlefield-Intelligenz und Anlageerzeugung.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
While the specifics of the AI enhancements remain unclear, Kim claimed, quote, artificial intelligence should be top prioritized and would play a central role in their future operations. Also visible in the newly released imagery was a large four-engine aircraft fitted with a massive radar dome, believed to be a modified Russian cargo plane.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
London's Institute for Strategic Studies says the aircraft is likely being adapted for airborne early warning operations to mitigate the limitations of the regime's ground-based radar network, which struggles to provide comprehensive coverage across the peninsula's mountainous terrain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Dieses letzte Tech-Showcase kommt gegen den Hintergrund der intensivierenden militärischen Kooperation zwischen Pyongyang und Moskau.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
In den letzten Monaten, wie wir hier auf dem PDB berichtet haben, sagen die US- und Südkorea-Fraktionen, dass Nordkorea große Mengen von short-range-ballistischen Missilien, Artillerie-Systemen und Multiple-Roket-Löscher zu Russland gefunkelt hat, die ihren langwierigen Kriegsaufwand in der Ukraine unterstützt hat. It's not doing it, out of the goodness of its heart.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
In return, analysts believe, Kim is getting access to cutting-edge Russian military technology, with drone development topping his wish list.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Währenddessen, auf den Frontlinien in der Ukraine, sagte Südkoreas Joint Chiefs of Staff am Dienstag, dass rund 3.000 zusätzliche koreanische Truppen im Januar und Februar in die Region geflüchtet wurden, auf der Höhe von den festgelegten 11.000, die letztes Jahr angekommen sind. Etwa 4.000 der Truppen des Kim-Regimes wurden beruflich getötet oder verletzt.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Plus, North Korean Dictator Kim Jong-un is back to his usual shenanigans on the Korean Peninsula, recently overseeing the testing of newly developed AI-powered suicide drones. And no, I'm not sure if there's a word for shenanigans in the Korean language.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Now, South Korean intelligence agencies attribute this staggering casualty count to a variety of factors, including North Korean troops' lack of experience with modern battlefield technologies like drones. But Ukrainian officials have warned that this is changing, and quickly.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Die Nordkoreaner, sagen sie, bekommen eine wertvolle Real-Time-Kommunikationserfahrung, die eines Tages zurück nach der koreanischen Peninsula exportiert werden könnte. Kims Beziehungen zu Moskau wurden letzte Woche weiter geändert, als er der russischen Sicherheitskanzlerin Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang veranstaltete.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Die beiden erneuerten ihre Mutual Defense Pact aus dem Jahr 2024, mit dem russischen Verteidigungsvorsitzenden, der bestätigte, dass Diskussionen für eine zukünftige Besuchung von Kim im russischen Kapitol vorhanden sind, obwohl keine Date spezifiziert wurde. Okay, coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
Ukrainian President Zelensky raises eyebrows after claiming that Russian President Vladimir Putin's health is deteriorating and he'll die soon. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
In today's back of the brief, well, it looks like a death watch for Russian President Vladimir Putin has begun in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed on Wednesday that Putin's health is ailing and that the Russian strongman is not long for this world. Zelensky made the prediction during a wide-ranging interview on Wednesday, where he also urged the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 28th, 2025: Top MS-13 Leader Arrested As Trump Moves To Militarize US Border & Zelensky Claims 'Ailing' Putin Will 'Die Soon'
not to help Russia escape its current political and economic isolation. That's according to a report from the New York Post. Zelenskyy sagte, es wäre besser, zu warten auf die unerwartete Verabschiedung von Putin, die er sagte, die Ukraine und die restlichen Europas von der Bedrohung der russischen Erweiterung befreien würde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
A clearly irritated President Trump accused Zelensky of, quote, gambling with World War III and being very disrespectful to the United States. Things got even more heated when Vance pointed out that Ukraine was dealing with manpower and military recruitment problems. Zelensky responded by saying that war means everybody has problems, even you. And he said that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
It's Friday, 28 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with, well, a once-in-a-lifetime explosive confrontation between President Trump and President Zelensky that played out in front of the world today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
would eventually feel the war's effects in the future. Well, Trump wasn't having that. He fired back saying, quote, don't tell us what we're going to feel. We're trying to solve a problem. Don't tell us what we're going to feel, end quote. In true Trump fashion, the whole episode concluded with the president declaring, quote, this is going to be great television. Well, he wasn't wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Seriously, I cannot do justice to just how big of a goat rope this meeting was. I mean, really, there hasn't been anything comparable in modern times. Shortly after the fireworks ended, the minerals deal that had been on the table was pulled off. Trump reportedly asked Zelensky to leave the White House, ending the meeting rather abruptly.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Later, Trump took to Truth Social to share his thoughts, saying, quote, I've determined that President Zelensky is not ready for peace if America is involved because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don't want advantage. I want peace. He disrespected the United States of America.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
In its cherished Oval Office, he can come back when he's ready for peace, end quote. Zelensky, for his part, took to X after leaving the White House, thanking the U.S. for its support. He wrote, quote, Thank you, America. Thank you for your support. Thank you for this visit. Thank you, POTUS, Congress, and the American people.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that, end quote. Now, let's be clear. Zelensky definitely dropped the ball here. He completely misread the room and what was required on his part. This wasn't a meeting with former President Biden where the US president had made it clear he's a strong supporter of Ukraine and its fight against Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
This was Donald Trump, someone who's been vocal about his skepticism toward continued US funding for Ukraine. Trump has already made it known that he's not exactly keen on the billions of dollars being sent overseas for Ukraine's defense, especially considering his domestic agenda is focused on cutting spending. Zelensky, of all people, should have recognized this dynamic.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Instead of pushing back in any way, he should have been diplomatic, appreciative, especially knowing Trump's stance on foreign aid and U.S. involvement. He and his advisors, meaning Zelensky and his advisors, should have arrived on scene with a very tightly scripted plan. Be humble, appreciative of the past support, and focus on finding common ground with Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Instead, his comments and demeanor only added fuel to the fire, alienating an ally that he clearly needs. Now, in order to salvage this, Zelensky and his team need to sit back down with Trump's team, whether it be Secretary of State Rubio or National Security Advisor Mike Walz, and do whatever is necessary to get that minerals deal signed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Look, it's not perfect, but it's an important visible and clear step that shows continued alliance with the U.S. and strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Finally, the White House staff, those responsible for orchestrating this meeting that devolved into an unfortunate spectacle, well, they should have also had a very tightly scripted game plan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
This should never have played out in front of the cameras. Airing the laundry out in the open in front of Putin, allowing him to enjoy the moment, well, that's a net negative.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
The fallout from this televised event will be reverberating for some time, and it will be very important to see how all the various players process what happened, whether it's NATO, the EU, Putin, the Ukrainian population, and whether Zelensky can walk this dog back and figure out a way to both salvage a mineral steel that could be an important step in an eventual peace negotiation,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
What started as a meeting for an important deal signing quickly turned into a heated exchange, and frankly, well, it didn't end well for anyone. Well, okay, perhaps except for Vladimir Putin and his minions who undoubtedly watched the televised argument with delight. Later in the show, as Mexico extradites nearly 30 high-level cartel leaders and members to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
but also to salvage his relationship with the US administration. Coming up next, Mexico extradites dozens of top cartel members to the US as new details emerge about a covert CIA drone program targeting major drug kingpins. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. With the threat of new tariffs looming large, Mexico is stepping up its crackdown on violent drug cartel leaders in a historic fashion. On Thursday, Mexico extradited 29 alleged drug cartel members to the United States, including the former leader of the Guadalajara cartel involved in the kidnapping and murder of a DEA agent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
The unusual handle, said to be one of the biggest extraditions in Mexico's history, marks a major step forward in bilateral security relations between the U.S. and its southern neighbor and comes as the Trump administration increases pressure on Mexico City to curb the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs into the U.S. That's according to a report from the BBC.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Among those extradited were the founders of the brutal Los Zetas criminal syndicate, known as one of Mexico's most dangerous drug cartels, as well as the former boss of the Juarez cartel and a Canadian citizen accused of participating in a massive US and Canadian drug smuggling ring.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
According to the US Justice Department, at least six of the 29 detainees could be subject to the federal death penalty for their many crimes, marking a significant departure for the Mexican government, which has historically resisted extradition requests if the suspects might face capital punishment. In a statement, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Attorney General Pam Bondi said, "...as President Trump has made clear, cartels are terrorist groups. We'll prosecute these criminals to the fullest extent of the law in honor of the brave law enforcement agents who have dedicated their careers and in some cases given their lives to protect innocent people from the scourge of violent cartels."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Perhaps the most high profile in the group of extradited criminals is notorious drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who has been wanted by U.S. authorities for decades over his involvement in the kidnapping, torture, and murder of DEA agent Enrique Kiki Camarena. in 1985, all the way back in 1985.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Quintero was a founding member of Mexico's Guadalajara cartel and helped shape the modern drug trafficking enterprise in Mexico. He had spent 28 years in prison, but was released on a technicality in 2013, much to the frustration of American authorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Quintero returned to drug trafficking as a senior leader of the Sinaloa cartel, and he was arrested again in July of 2022 during a raid by the Mexican Navy that resulted in the deaths of 14 Mexican Marines in a helicopter crash, according to a report from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
DEA Acting Administrator Derek Maltz said Thursday, quote, Caro Quintero, a cartel kingpin who unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the United States and Mexico, has spent four decades atop DEA's most wanted fugitive list, and today we can proudly say he's arrived in the U.S. where justice will be served, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
under threats of new tariffs from the Trump administration, we're learning of a covert CIA drone program being used in Mexico to help hunt down major drug kingpins. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
He added that Quintero's extradition represented an extremely personal victory for the men and women of the DEA as well as the Camarena family. The extraditions come as Trump threatened earlier on Thursday to impose a 25% tariff on Mexican imports starting next week over what he said was their continued failure to combat drug trafficking along the U.S. southern border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
The extraditions were announced following a meeting in Washington on Thursday between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Mexico's foreign minister. Now, in the wake of these extraditions, we're also starting to learn how some of these drug lords were captured.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
According to an exclusive report from the Wall Street Journal, the CIA has been operating a covert drone program in Mexico in partnership with Mexican authorities to spy on drug cartels and hunt down their leadership. The drones, many of them MQ-9 Reapers, operate out of Mexican airfields, employing surveillance technology that can capture a license plate from 20,000 feet above the ground.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
While only just coming to light publicly, the program has been operational for more than two decades, helping authorities map out cartel smuggling operations and clandestine drug labs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
The drones were reportedly instrumental in the arrest of Sinaloa King Binwakino Chapo Guzman back in 2013 and again in 2016, as well as his son Ovidio Guzman in 2023, who he had taken over cartel operations from his father.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Just last week, the drones helped Mexican authorities track down another one of El Chapo's sons, Iván Guzmán, who has been fighting a turf war with factions within the Sinaloa cartel. If Thursday's extraditions are any indication, it appears pressure from the Trump administration has helped incentivize the Mexican government to bring their fight to the violent drug cartels with renewed vigor.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 28 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, don't forget to check out this weekend's episode of our PDB Situation Report. As usual, the new episode launches tonight at 10 p.m. on The First TV and is also available on our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
What was supposed to be a productive meeting between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelensky quickly turned into an explosive confrontation, and the whole world got to watch. The meeting was set to finalize a minerals deal, an important minerals deal, but things started going downhill almost immediately once the press was invited into the Oval Office.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
And you can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and wherever you get your podcast stuff. We have great guests this weekend, Robert Greenway, former senior advisor to President Trump, and Daniel Turner of the energy-focused organization, Power of the Future. We're talking Gaza, the fragile ceasefire, Ukraine, energy independence in the US, and more. Check it out, please.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
So that would be please check. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the BDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 28th, 2025: Trump Explodes At Zelensky During Heated Meeting & A Secret CIA Drone Program Is Hunting Down Cartel Bosses
Trump and Vance began accusing Zelensky of not showing enough gratitude for the U.S. support over the years after Zelensky interrupted Vance at one point to ask what type of diplomacy Vance thought might work with Putin. And they made it clear also that they felt Zelensky was in a bad position at the negotiating table.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
He also called out China for being the main supplier of fentanyl entering the U.S. and said he would be imposing an additional 10% tariff next week on Chinese imports, on top of the 10% he already imposed earlier this month.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
As you'll recall, Trump first threatened Mexico and Canada with 25% tariffs in early February in order to stem the flow of migrants and drugs, as well as to address what he argued were imbalances in the North American Free Trade Pact.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
But Trump paused the tariffs before they could take effect after both countries made promises to beef up border security and increase enforcement against drug traffickers. A White House official said Thursday that while President Trump is pleased with their efforts to reduce migration, he's still deeply concerned over the high levels of fentanyl being trafficked into the country.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Now, Canadian and Mexican officials are meeting with their counterparts in the Trump administration Friday in an attempt to, again, stall the tariffs, which could deal a significant economic blow to both countries. Canada is particularly vulnerable to their effects as roughly 75% of Canadian exports go directly to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
But economists are also concerned that if implemented, the tariffs could significantly raise the price of consumer goods stateside at a time when Americans are still grappling with inflation and high interest rates. The U.S. is the largest importer of foreign goods, with Mexico, Canada and China making up the U.S. top three global suppliers.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 28 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And don't forget, synchronize your watches because the latest episode of our extended weekend show, The PDB Situation Report, airs this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
You can also catch it, as well as past episodes, on our YouTube channel. And you can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. And as you might suspect, we're on every podcast platform everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
We'll start things off today with the latest threats from Russian strongman slash despot slash president for life, Vladimir Putin, who is warning European leaders against sabotaging potential rapprochement between Moscow and Washington. How about that? You didn't know that I spoke French, did you? Rapprochement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
We're talking the possibility of a second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, the lack of any alternative governing authority for Gaza, the possible resurgence of Hamas, Trump's meeting with Zelensky, and U.S. energy independence. Give it a listen. It's packed with information, still zero calories. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
It's Friday, 28 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, Vladimir Putin is warning European leaders not to undermine attempts to restore diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington. His remarks come as Russian and U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Speaking on Thursday to Russia's FSB security service, the successor to the Soviet-era KGB, which he once led, Putin said attempts to reboot long-frozen ties with the U.S. are going well and inspiring, quote, hope across Russia. but accused European leaders of working to undermine their progress. That's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, diplomatic talks began last week in Riyadh between U.S. and Russian delegations, much to the alarm, of course, of leaders in Kiev and NATO, who were not invited and who fear they're being left in the dark about the Trump administration's strategy to end the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Putin's remarks were carefully calibrated, heaping praise on President Trump for what he called his pragmatic approach to diplomacy, while blaming former President Biden for causing what he described as a crisis in the, quote, entire system of international relations, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The comments are seen by many as part of a deliberate strategy to use flattery to draw the Trump administration closer to Russia and further away from Europe and Ukraine. Turning his attention to Europe, Putin said it was clear that many on the continent were not keen to see the two nuclear powers establish warmer ties, and issued a not-so-thinly-veiled threat, warning against any interference.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Yeah, it's not really veiled in any way, is it? He claimed that, quote, some Western elites are still determined to maintain instability in the world, and these forces will try to disrupt or compromise the dialogue that has begun, end quote. Putin said Russia would, quote, use all possibilities when it comes to diplomacy and our intelligence services to disrupt such attempts.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
though he didn't elaborate on what that might look like. But he went further in his criticism of Europe, saying, "...they have begun to destroy Western society itself from within, evidenced by the problems in the economies of many Western countries and in their domestic policies and politics." End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Now, the irony of the statement is hard to ignore, given the economic crisis facing the Putin regime due to his single minded focus on funding Russia's war machine. But who knows? Perhaps Putin just lacks a sense of irony or or self-awareness. The comments came as Russian and US teams held their second round of discussions on Thursday, this time in Istanbul, Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The talks lasted for six hours and reportedly focused on restoring staffing at their respective embassies in Washington and Moscow in order to build a foundation for further negotiations, though neither the Kremlin nor the White House disclosed details of the meeting. Prior to the discussions, however, a spokesman for the US State Department stressed that Ukraine was not on the agenda.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Following the meeting, a spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry said the latest talks would be among many aimed at rebuilding trust between Moscow and Washington before more substantive negotiations regarding ending the war in Ukraine would begin. That statement echoed remarks made by Putin on Monday that suggest a deal to secure an end to the war may still be very far off.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
In the meantime, Trump has been holding talks with European leaders this week at the White House. He held a friendly meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, who pressed Trump to take a more deliberate approach towards ending the war. On Thursday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited the White House to deliver a similar message.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
diplomats held their second round of direct talks in Istanbul on Thursday, and as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with President Trump at the White House regarding the war in Ukraine. Well, Putin... Frankly, is acting like he's got the upper hand.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The meeting laid bare the lingering divisions, though, between Trump and his counterparts in Europe. While Trump struck an optimistic tone on reaching a ceasefire deal in Ukraine, saying his diplomatic outreach to Russia was, quote, moving along pretty rapidly, Starmer advocated for a more cautious approach, saying, quote, we have to get it right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
It can't be peace that rewards the aggressor, end quote. Now, for what it's worth, I'm reminded of what Churchill said during World War II about Hitler and the notion of appeasement. You can't negotiate with a tiger when your head is in its mouth. Sturmer pushed for direct U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
military support in Ukraine in the event that a ceasefire deal is reached to serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression. But Trump brushed the request aside, saying the mineral rights deal that he struck this week with Ukraine would serve as an effective security guarantee for Kyiv. Trump said, quote, We are a backstop because we'll be over there. We'll be working.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
We're going to have a lot of people over there. End quote. Now, as we've been tracking here on the PDB, after weeks of tense negotiations, the Trump administration and Kyiv struck a tentative deal to grant the U.S. preferential access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals, though the deal still reportedly lacks explicit security assurances for Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
All eyes in Europe, of course, will be on the White House Friday when Ukrainian President Zelensky meets face to face with President Trump to formally sign the agreement. All right, coming up after the break, the jailed leader of the militant Kurdistan Workers' Party calls on his forces to disarm and disband, signaling a potential end to their bloody 40-year conflict with Turkey's leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Plus, the Israeli military releases the findings of a major investigation into the 7 October attacks by Hamas, admitting that they gravely underestimated the Iran-backed terror group. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
We will pay peanuts for it and we can make billions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Welcome back to the BDB. The imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party, or known as the PKK, Abdullah Öcalan, issued a stunning call for his terror group to disband and lay down its arms on Thursday, potentially ending Turkey's four decade long war with the Kurdish separatists.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Later in the show, we'll turn to Turkey, where the jailed leader of the militant Kurdistan Workers' Party, that's referred to as the PKK, has called on his forces to disarm and disband. This is very big news, potentially signaling an end to its bloody 40-year conflict with Ankara.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Speaking from his prison cell on an island off of Istanbul, Öcalan called on PKK leadership to convene a congress and formally dissolve the terror group. His message was read by pro-Kurdish politicians who visited him earlier in the day, signaling the latest and perhaps most significant attempt at brokering peace between Ankara and the long-established organization, the PKK.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The timing is no coincidence. Turkish President Erdogan is deep in political maneuvering to amend the country's constitution, a process that hinges on support from the pro-Kurdish People's Equality and Democracy Party, known as DEM.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Under current laws, Erdogan, who's been in power since 2003, that's correct, he's been in power since 2003, as both prime minister and president, cannot seek another term unless early elections are called. And such a move, well, that would require Kurdish political backing. Ah, we're starting to see a connection here.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
And that support may now be within reach, thanks to a proposal floated in October by Devlet Baceli, leader of the nationalist movement, party, and a key Erdogan ally. Baceli suggested Öcalan could be granted parole if the PKK formally renounced violence and disbanded.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The offer is widely seen as an attempt to secure Kurdish votes for Erdogan's constitutional reforms, adding a sharp political dimension to Öcalan's call for disarmament. Despite more than two decades and near total isolation, Öcalan remains the PKK's ideological lodestar.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
But whether the group's leadership, which is primarily operating out of northern Iraq, will comply, well, that's another matter. Some factions, particularly those aligned with Kurdish groups in Syria, may see continued arms trouble as non-negotiable in their pursuit of autonomy. The Turkish government has not disclosed what, if any, concessions it has offered in exchange for disarmament.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The DEM party welcomed Öcalan's statement, but has stopped short of endorsing Erdoğan's constitutional amendments outright. In Kurdish-majority cities across southeastern Turkey, however, crowds gathered in public spaces dancing and celebrating in anticipation of what many see as a historic moment.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Öcalan's message underscored the grievances that fueled the PKK's terror campaign, citing decades of state policies that sought to erase Kurdish identity and deny political rights. But he insisted that armed struggle was no longer necessary, stating, quote, There is no alternative to democracy in the pursuit and realization of a political system.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Democratic consensus is the fundamental way, end quote. A senior official from Erdogan's ruling party echoed that sentiment, urging the PKK to heed the call, saying, quote, if the terrorist organization gathers to dissolve itself, Turkey will be freed from its shackles.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Now, skepticism does remain high, given the failure of previous peace efforts, including a similar initiative back in 2015 that collapsed into renewed violence. Okay, shifting to Israel. The IDF has admitted its failure to prevent the barbaric 7 October 2023 Hamas terror attacks, calling it, quote, one of the greatest failures in its military history.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Plus, the Israeli military releases the findings of a major investigation into Hamas's 7 October attacks, acknowledging that the IDF, the Israeli Defense Forces, underestimated the terror group and failed to properly protect their border.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
An internal investigation revealed Thursday details of how years of miscalculated intelligence left the IDF unprepared.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The report compiled by the IDF Southern Command after tens of thousands of hours of analysis paints a damning picture of Israel's security posture in the lead-up to the attack At the time, Israeli military leaders were primarily focused on countering threats from Iran and Hezbollah, relegating Hamas to a secondary concern The investigation determined that this miscalculation left the country open to the deadliest single-day attack in modern Israeli history
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
As tensions escalated elsewhere, the IDF had scaled back its presence along the Gaza perimeter, diverting resources to Lebanon and the West Bank. Meanwhile, Hamas systematically identified and exploited vulnerabilities in Israel's high-tech border security system.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
What was designed to be an impenetrable barrier turned out to be, well, no match for a well-coordinated terror operation that was years in the making. At 6.30 a.m. on 7 October 2023, Hamas launched its terror attack in three waves, firing nearly 4,700 rockets and mortars from Gaza, while approximately 5,600 terrorists breached Israeli territory.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The initial assault proved catastrophic, as most of the kidnappings and murders occurred in the first few hours, catching Israeli forces entirely off guard. By 5 p.m., hundreds of Hamas terrorists were inside Israel with evidence suggesting their objective was to push deeper into the country and seize key military installations. The IDF's response was paralyzed by critical communication failures.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
With standard military channels down, commanders were forced to rely on Google Maps and mobile phones to coordinate. Early warning systems, assumed to provide ample time for a counterattack, proved insufficient against the scale and speed of Hamas' assault. Compounding the failings were years of misjudged intelligence, and this can't be understated.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Israeli officials long dismissed the notion that Hamas possessed the capability for full-scale war. believing that economic incentives to Hamas would serve as a deterrent. Surveillance efforts failed to recognize Hamas's military buildup, misinterpreting movements as routine training exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Well, you may well agree with me that, you know, we didn't actually need a year and a half and a major investigation to tell us that they failed to protect their border.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
The report underscores that blatant warning signs were overlooked, such as Hamas's terror operatives activating Israeli SIM cards inside Gaza. A situational assessment had been scheduled for 7 October, but of course, by the time Israeli officials were set to convene, Hamas had already executed its plan. The attack, however, was not a product of spontaneous escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
According to intelligence obtained from captured Hamas documents and sources inside Gaza, the operation had been years in the making. Former Hamas leader Yahya Sinmar is believed to have first conceived the plan all the way back in November of 2016, with formal approval granted by Hamas leadership in July 2019.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Over the years, Hamas successfully deceived Israeli officials into believing that it prioritized economic stability over military confrontation. It was a disinformation, PSYOP campaign. A brief war in 2021 further reinforced Israel's false confidence that Hamas's capabilities had been diminished when, in reality, the terror group was just quietly preparing for 7 October.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
In the wake of the report's findings, calls for a national inquiry have intensified. Prime Minister Netanyahu, however, has stated that any formal inquiry must wait until the ongoing war concludes. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump vows to move forward with crippling sanctions on Canada and Mexico next week. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
And in today's back of the brief, President Trump vows to move forward with crippling sanctions on Canada and Mexico next week, claiming that America's northern and southern neighbors are not doing enough to stem the flow of drugs into the US. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
In today's Back of the Brief, President Donald Trump is turning his sights back on Mexico and Canada, once again sparking fears that a trade war could be imminent. On Thursday, Trump said his proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, which he paused from implementing earlier this month, would go into effect this Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
He claimed the tariffs are needed to force changes in Mexico and Canada's respective border policies, accusing America's northern and southern neighbors of not doing enough to stem the flow of drugs into the U.S. And that's according to a report from The New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
February 28th, 2025: Putin Warns Europe Against Sabotaging Talks With Trump & Jailed Kurdish Militant Leader Calls For End To 40-Year Conflict With Turkey
Taking to Truth Social, Trump said the deadly opioid fentanyl was still pouring across both borders at, quote, very high and unacceptable levels. He added, quote, we cannot allow this scourge to continue to harm the U.S. and therefore until it stops or is seriously limited, the proposed tariffs will indeed go into effect as scheduled, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
In response to the Houthis' escalating attacks on the Jewish state over the past week, Israel unleashed their fourth and largest strike yet against the group on Thursday, targeting critical military infrastructure sites used by the militants to conduct attacks and smuggle weapons from Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
In today's back of the brief, we turn to North Korea, where Kim Jong-un is reportedly preparing to double down on military support for his friend Vladimir Putin, despite the staggering losses that his forces have already incurred in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Now, South Korea's National Intelligence Service estimates that some 1,100 North Korean special forces have already been killed or injured on the battlefields of Ukraine since teaming up with Kremlin forces in October. Earlier this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky put that figure even higher, estimating that at least 3,000 North Korean troops have been killed or injured so far.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
accounting for roughly a quarter of the estimated 12,000 North Korean special forces sent to Russia. That's according to our report from Radio Free Europe. But Kim appears unfazed by the rapid losses suffered by his military personnel. Of course he does.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Officials in the South Korean military warned on Tuesday that the Kim regime is gearing up for a fresh deployment of troops, along with new shipments of military equipment for their friends in Moscow. In exchange, North Korea will reportedly receive additional shipments of critical supplies of oil, cash and military technology from the Kremlin.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Zelenskyy said he received a similar intelligence assessment from the head of the Ukrainian army earlier this week, who told him that the risk of North Korea sending additional troops into Ukraine was significant. Zelenskyy criticized Western leaders for doing, quote, almost nothing to counter Russia's growing military cooperation with Kim Jong-un's hermit kingdom.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Last week, the Biden administration and the U.S. hit North Korean banks, senior military officials, and Russian oil shipping companies with new sanctions over their military trade, but Zelensky has warned that it's not nearly enough.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
He said the growing cooperation between the two belligerent powers not only jeopardizes Ukraine's future, but also increases the, quote, risk of destabilization around the Korean peninsula and in neighboring regions and waters.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The news comes at a critical juncture in the nearly three-year-old conflict, as Putin's forces gain ground in Ukraine's eastern provinces at their fastest pace since the start of the war. A new wave of North Korean troops could help the Kremlin further sustain this offensive push.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Notably, we learned this week that despite Russia's longstanding manpower shortage, it was reportedly not Putin who requested that North Korea send troops to Ukraine. According to the New York Times, it was Kim who offered up his troops unprompted, an offer that Putin gladly accepted.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
As a reminder, the two belligerent powers signed a landmark mutual defense pact back in June, which formalized the role of North Korea as a crucial supply base for Russian military needs. All right. friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 27 December. I do hope you're having a terrific holiday season.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The IDF operation included strikes on the airport in the Houthi-held capital city of Sana'a for the first time, along with two power stations, and that's according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. The strikes at the Sana'a International Airport hit the main runway, the control tower, and idle aircraft, some of which subsequently caught fire.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, as your mother always told you, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, simply become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. And if it's Friday, and my sources tell me that it is indeed Friday...
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
It's Friday, 27 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Coming to you this week from, well, looks like East Asia. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Well, that means that the entire PDB production team, including our crack unit of somewhat compensated interns, are busy preparing the latest episode of the critically acclaimed PDB Situation Report. Every Friday at 10 p.m. on the First TV, we launch a brand spanking new episode of the Situation Report. featuring excellent guests, news, insight, and analysis.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
And of course, you can always catch the Situation Report on our juggernaut of a YouTube channel. Check that out. You can find it at President's Daily Brief. And of course, all the podcast platforms. Tune in and learn stuff. Okay, I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, well, you know the drill. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
At least three people were killed in the operation, and dozens were left injured. including a crew member of a United Nations plane carrying the Director General of the World Health Organization, the WHO.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Casualty figures were not immediately available regarding other sites hit by the IDF, which included the aforementioned power stations and several Houthi-controlled ports along Yemen's western coast. All told, there were at least 10 separate strikes carried out by dozens of IDF aircraft, which traveled more than 1,000 miles to drop the payloads.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The strikes came just days after Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to bring destruction to the doorstep of the Houthis. As a reminder, over the past week, the Houthis have escalated their attacks on Israel, firing ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv and the surrounding region on four separate occasions, some of which did slip through Israel's missile defenses.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Last Thursday, a Houthi missile hit a school in Tel Aviv, causing part of the building to collapse. While no one was injured, Israel responded with a series of deadly strikes on Houthi strongholds in Yemen that killed nine and temporarily crippled operations at their ports.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
But the Houthis fired another barrage on Saturday, with one missile hitting a park in Jaffa near Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu subsequently vowed to end the Houthis' aggression, warning they would soon face the same fate as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Assad regime in Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Netanyahu is making good on that threat, vowing on Thursday to eradicate the last remnants of what he called the Iranian axis of evil. But there appears to be some disagreement inside Israel's government on how best to address the Houthi threat. David Barnea, the chief of Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, has reportedly been pushing Israeli leaders to concentrate on attacking Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Of course, the Houthis financial and military backers. Barnea argues that Israel's previous three air campaigns against the Houthis have done little to deter their attacks. And he's not wrong. And he feels it's time to bring the fight directly to Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
First, with Iran's axis of resistance in tatters across the Middle East, Israel is intensifying their focus on the Houthi militants of Yemen, unleashing their largest strikes against the terror group in more than a year of fighting on Thursday. Later in the show, following Vladimir Putin's brutal Christmas Day attacks across Ukraine, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
But Netanyahu and Israel Katz prefer to intensify their direct strikes against the Houthis, with Netanyahu reportedly telling Barnea that Iran is a, quote, different issue, which will be dealt with at the appropriate time. For now, the Times of Israel reports that the majority of Jerusalem's security establishment agrees with Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to their sources, Jerusalem plans to escalate strikes against the Houthis in the days and weeks ahead. As a reminder, the Houthis began attacking Israel in the wake of last year's 7 October attacks by Hamas. And to date, they've launched more than 200 missiles and 170 drones at the Jewish state.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The militants have also targeted more than 80 merchant vessels with hundreds of missile attacks in the Red Sea, significantly disrupting international trade as well as attacking also U.S. and allied naval vessels.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to at least one source, Netanyahu may be waiting for President-elect Donald Trump to take office in January before unleashing the full power of the Israeli military against the Houthis, feeling that perhaps a Trump White House will be more supportive of their actions than and could even deliver their own response. An unnamed source said, quote, Coming up next...
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
President Biden pledges to accelerate his surge of weapons deliveries to Ukraine after Russia launched a massive Christmas Day attack. And Syria's new leaders confront the first direct challenge to their authority from loyalists of the deposed Assad regime. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The war in Ukraine took another grim turn Wednesday as Moscow unleashed a large scale Christmas Day assault on Kiev's critical energy infrastructure, a move that President Biden swiftly condemned as he vowed to ramp up weapons deliveries before the new year.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to local officials, the attack, which Ukrainian President Zelensky denounced on X as, quote, inhumane, left at least one person dead and six others injured. The strikes claimed by Russia's defense ministry to involve, quote, long range precision weapons and strike drones were touted by the Kremlin as fulfilling the aims of Vladimir Putin's war effort.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
President Biden is pledging to use his final days in office to accelerate the delivery of critical weapons systems to the war-torn nation. Plus, an update out of Syria, where rebel leaders just launched a major security crackdown after loyalists of the deposed Assad regime killed 14 Interior Ministry troops in an ambush on Tuesday.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
But the timing on a day of celebration, of course, only underscored the Kremlin's willingness to target Ukraine's civilian population. In a statement from the White House, Biden described the attacks as a calculated effort to destabilize the nation's energy grid and strip Ukrainians of heat and electricity amid frigid winter temperatures.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Biden reiterated his administration's commitment to supporting Ukraine with hundreds of air defense missiles that have been provided in recent months, stating, quote, more are on their way. He directed the Department of Defense to sustain its weapons search through the remainder of December, emphasizing the need to bolster Ukraine's position ahead of what could be a significant shift in U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
policy. This urgency comes as President-elect Trump, prepares to assume the presidency next month, of course, backed by a Republican-controlled Congress that seems poised to curtail military aid to Ukraine. As we've been tracking on the PDB, on the campaign trail, Trump voiced sharp criticism of persistent weapons shipments, a viewpoint shared among many GOP members.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
For those keeping score, the U.S. has provided more than $61 billion in security aid since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. But exactly how much military assistance has the Biden administration provided to Kyiv since Trump's November election win? Well, I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
On 2 December, Biden announced a $725 million package from what's called the Presidential Drawdown Authority, which includes munitions, surface-to-air missile systems, and small arms.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Just five days later, the White House committed an additional $990 million under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, and that was including drones and munitions for the HIMARS, the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
pivotal to ukraine's counter-offensives on 12 december secretary of state anthony blinken authorized another 500 million dollar package from the presidential drawdown authority that was comprising high mars ammunition drones and armored vehicles Now, despite these efforts, time and resources are finite.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The Presidential Drawdown Authority retains an estimated $4 to $5 billion in available funding, while the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative holds roughly $2 billion. National Security Spokesman John Kirby stated that the administration will continue providing aid, quote, right up to the end of this administration, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Now, of course, what lies beyond for Ukraine, that part remains uncertain. All right, shifting to Syria. The new Sunni Islamist-led government launched a sweeping security crackdown in a western region following an ambush on Tuesday that left 14 interior ministry troops dead and 10 injured, marking the first major test of authority to the government that ousted President Assad earlier this month.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The crackdown, announced Thursday by state media, targets what officials describe as, quote, remnants of Assad's militias in Tartus, which served as a stronghold for the ousted leader's Alawite sect. That's an offshoot of Shiite Islam that long dominated the country's security forces during the 13 year long civil war.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Analysts said the operation underscores the new government's intent to assert control of regions historically loyal to Assad, but its aggressive tactics risk exasperating sectarian tensions. The new government, led by Ahmad al-Sharah, formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, and his Islamist rebel group known as HTS, vowed to, quote, restore security, stability and civil peace in Tartus.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
According to the Syrian Arab News Agency, security forces neutralized several pro Assad fighters and are continuing to pursue others. The ambush that triggered the operation reportedly occurred during an attempt to detain a former officer associated with a prison notorious for systemic human rights abuses under Assad's rule.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
And in today's back of the brief, despite suffering massive personnel losses on the battlefields of Ukraine, North Korean despot Kim Jong-un is reportedly preparing to double down on his military support of the Putin regime. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. After decimating Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, Israel is now focused on the Iranian-backed Houthi militants of Yemen.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Shira publicly condemned sectarian violence, pledging to safeguard all Syrians, regardless of their religious affiliation. However, reports from Damascus and Tartus paint a more complex picture. All Alawite residents accuse HTS fighters of abuses, including beatings at checkpoints and vandalism of homes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
An HTS fighter acknowledged incidents but denied organizational involvement, suggesting that rogue elements may be at play. Further complicating matters, a protest in the city of Holmes erupted on Wednesday over a video allegedly showing an attack on an Alawite shrine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Authorities dismissed the footage as outdated, but tensions did boil over, leaving one demonstrator dead and prompting an overnight curfew into Thursday. As we recently reported here on the PDB, HTS has pledged to protect minority groups, including Alawites and Christians. but many remain wary of potential retribution.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The Alawite community, historically associated with Assad's regime, now, of course, grapples with accusations of complicity in war crimes. Calls for a general amnesty from Alawite religious leaders have been largely ignored, with Syrians demanding accountability for atrocities committed during Assad's regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Analysts warn that the government's push to arrest Assad loyalists could destabilize already fragile regions, particularly as former officers refuse to disarm. Meanwhile, Iran, a longtime ally, of course, of Assad, voiced criticism, oh really, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. on Sunday condemning the instability and labeling Syria, quote, unsafe.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
The Iranian regime condemning instability. That's rich. It remains to be seen whether Shiraz's government can unify a fractured nation and address demands for accountability, while also preventing deepening sectarian divisions. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief, North Korean despot Kim Jong-un. Remember him?
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Well, he's doubling down on his support of Russia, despite his forces suffering massive losses on the battlefields of Ukraine. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
December 27th, 2024: Israel Unleashes On Houthis, Putin's Christmas Day Attack, & Kim Jong Un Doubles Down In Ukraine
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
According to the American Chamber of Commerce in China, the Communist regime has granted some American imports exemptions from its 125% tariffs and is considering lifting other levies on items critical to certain Chinese industries. That's according to a report from the Financial Times.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Starte deinen Test noch heute für 1 Euro pro Monat auf shopify.de slash radio.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Michael Hart, Präsident der amerikanischen Kommission für Verbraucherschutz in China, hat am Freitag gesagt, dass bestimmte Geschäftssektoren, z.B. Flugzeug und industrielle Gemüse, bereits von den Ausgaben bemerkt wurden und dass die Kommission für Verbraucherschutz in China weitere Sektoren überprüft, die von ihren Tarifen beeinflusst werden, z.B. Healthcare-Importe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Eine bestimmte Interesse an Beijing liegt im Import des industriellen Gemüses Ethyl. Die USA sind ein großer Anbieter von Ethyl für den kommunistischen Regime, der es für ihre offensichtlich große Plastikindustrie benötigt. Es gibt wenige alternative Anbieter von Ethyl außerhalb der USA, also hat die Zerbrechung der Tarife bereits ihren domestischen Plastiksektor stark beeinflusst.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Die Entwicklungen sind das klarste Signal noch, dass Beijing sich interessiert, den Kriegskrieg zu deeskalieren, als ihre Exportordnungen trocknen und die Fabriken geschlossen werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
As we've been tracking this week on the PDB, the move by Beijing follows remarks from President Trump and members of his administration that the current US tariff war is unsustainable and that they're in contact with Chinese officials about lowering rates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
The American Chamber of Commerce in China said the US Commerce Department was also in the process of reviewing the impact of certain duties to find areas where they can ease the financial burden. Hart told the Financial Times, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
While it's not entirely clear where all the reported exemptions apply, a number of aviation companies said that they had been informed Thursday evening that China had granted waivers on a certain number of aerospace equipment parts, including engines and landing gears.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Hart said some pharmaceutical companies also reported this week that they'd been able to import drugs to China without tariffs, though those exemptions appear to be drug-specific rather than industry-wide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Zudem haben Repräsentanten eines Memory-Chip-Design-Firmen gesagt, dass die China Semiconductor Industry Association sie gestern diese Woche informiert hat, dass Tarif-Wähler für acht Typen von Microchips zugelassen wurden. Der Einfluss der Tarife auf diesen Sektor war bemerkenswert stärker als Beijing erwartet hatte, um die Änderung zu fördern.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Das ist laut Forschern, die mit Reuters gesprochen haben. According to a separate source that spoke with Reuters, China's Ministry of Commerce has now set up a task force to collect a list of items for possible exemptions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
A list of 131 product categories said to be under consideration was circulating among trade groups and on Chinese social media platforms on Friday, though it's yet to be verified. A senior analyst with the conference board's China Center think tank told Reuters, "...as a quid pro quo move, it could provide a potential way to de-escalate tensions."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
But added, "...it's clear that neither the US nor China want to be the first in reaching out for a deal." Notably, Beijing is staying quiet about the developments, making no official statement about any adjustments to their tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
It's Friday, the 25th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
When asked about the reports, a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry said that they were not aware of any exemptions and reiterated their claim that there have been no official talks with the Trump administration about mutually lowering rates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Im Gegensatz, oder im Gegensatz, sagte Präsident Trump am Freitag in einer Interview mit Time Magazine, dass die USA und China tatsächlich informelle Gespräche über den Handel halten und dass der chinesische Präsident Xi Jinping ihn angerufen hat, obwohl er nicht darüber nachgedacht hat, wann der Anruf stattgefunden hat oder was darüber diskutiert wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Trump hat von seiner hartgelegten Stille gegen den kommunistischen Regime vorletzt, diese Woche. Er hat die Selbstvertrauen ausgesprochen, dass die USA und China bald einen, Quote, fairen Deal erreichen. Er hat gesagt, dass die USA, Quote, sehr nett mit China werden und dass die letzten Tarife nicht so hoch sein werden, wie die aktuelle 145 %-Rate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Die News von Ausgaben kommt, als die chinesischen Warehäuser mit ungeleiteten Produkten und Cargo-Volumen durch das Port von Los Angeles geflogen sind. While there is likely still a long road ahead before a lasting trade deal is potentially made, well, it appears economic relief could be in sight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Coming up next, Indian and Pakistani soldiers briefly exchange fire across what's known as the Line of Control in disputed Kashmir. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, let's talk fitness, shall we? Look, at the end of the day, the most important things in life are good health, family and, of course, time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Getting into shape and staying in shape, encouraging physical fitness and good health with your family, and, of course, being consistent and having enough time during your busy day to actually work out. And that's why I'm excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and his team over at Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Now, look, Don's an amazing entrepreneur, and he and his team have built an amazing home fitness business. Als Beispiel gibt es das kommerzielle Power Rack Pro System. Es hat alles, was man braucht, um einen vollen Körper-Workout zu haben. Ich habe gerade das Power Rack Pro installiert in meinem Haus und ich kann nicht genug gute Dinge darüber sagen. Die Konstruktion, die Qualität, unglaublich.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Das Kabel-Crossover-System, die integrierten 200-Pound-Weight-Stacks und die Smith-Maschine ermöglichen es, Hunderten von Übungen zu machen. Im Grunde alles und alles, was man im Gym machen kann, kann man auf dem Power Rack Pro zu Hause machen. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers full body video workouts. You just press play and you follow along.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Their equipment is super solid and stands up to the toughest workouts. So go to getjackedup.com and sign up for free access to the program. And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, we'll save 10% with my promo code BAKER. Look, no more excuses. Make fitness a priority in your home. Go to getjackedup.com. Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Well, temperatures are warming up and you've got the grill cover off the grill and I'm about to tell you, this is your lucky day, I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef that you can put on that grill. Right? And that's what it's all about. I'm talking about a classic American business. It's generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
So, what am I talking about? I'm talking about Tritails Beef. You knew that. This isn't some corporate meat factory. Tritails is not some faceless corporation. Es ist eine fünfte Generation, fünfte Generation Texas Ranch, wo die Zwiebeln in der Pflanzenschale aufgetaucht werden, die Zwiebeln fertig gemacht und auf den richtigen Weg aufgetaucht werden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Sie handeln das Fleisch auf dem Ort und schicken es direkt zu Ihrer Tür. Es gibt keine Mittleren oder Mysterien. All ihr Fleisch wird gesourcet, um die Genetik und Gesundheit, die sie auf ihrem Herd gebaut haben, zu vergleichen. Sie versichern einen konsistenten Marbling, Leckerheit und reichen Geschmack in jeder Zunahme. Kleiner Batch, großer Geschmack.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
First, with their economy bucking under the weight of steep US tariffs, it appears that China might be making a move towards de-escalation, reportedly granting exemptions for certain critical goods, though officials in Beijing are staying quiet about the development.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Du kannst den Unterschied spüren, je nachdem, wann es auf den Grill kommt. Now whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime & Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now is the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Fears continue to mount that nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan are moving closer to war, as tensions rise following a terror attack earlier this week on the Indian side of the disputed Kashmir region that left 26 tourists dead and wounded more than a dozen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
India immediately blamed Pakistan for aiding and abetting the group that claimed responsibility. Am Freitag escalierte die fragilere Situation weiter, als Truppen aus Indien und Pakistan über das so genannte Kontrolle-Linie in der beschlossenen Kaschmir verabredet wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Lokalpolitische Berichte sagen, dass pakistanische Soldaten zuerst an einem indianischen Positionen nahe eines Bordepostes in der Region von Lepa verabredet wurden, um indianische Soldaten in Ordnung zu machen, so die New York Times. Ein indianischer Offizier sagte, dass der Verhandlung nur leichte Arme betreffend war und breit sagte, dass keine Verletzungen auf jeder Seite aufgenommen wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Later in the show, Indian and Pakistani soldiers briefly exchanged fire across the line of control in disputed Kashmir on Friday, as fears mount that the two nuclear-armed neighbors are moving towards a larger conflict. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. It looks like China may have just blinked in the trade war with the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Der Angriff hat internationale Observern aufgeräumt, denn die historische Kämpfe in Kaschmir, die Szenen von wiederholten Verbrechen zwischen Indien und Pakistan, haben seit einem erneuten Ausstiegsfeuer-Verein im Jahr 2021 relativ festgehalten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Aber so wie wir es diese Woche ständig besprochen haben, nach dem tödlichen Terrorangriff am Dienstag, der von der pakistanischen Terrorgruppe The Resistance Front bezeichnet wurde, haben die Beziehungen zwischen Indien und Pakistan nur zerstört.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Indien und Pakistan haben seitdem ihre jeweiligen Grenzen geschlossen und die Ausbeutung der anderen Bürger in einer Reihe von Titt-für-Tatt-diplomaten-Retaliationen geordnet. Indien hat später einen kritischen Wassertausch-Treaty zwischen den beiden Nationen verabschiedet. Das ist eine Bewegung, die Pakistans Landwirtschaftssektor ernsthaft beschädigen könnte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Das ergibt ungefähr 25 Prozent ihrer Wirtschaft. Pakistan nannte diese Bewegung eine Art von Krieg und bedrohte die Verteidigung mit einer vollen Kraft auf einem kompletten Spektrum der nationalen Macht. Seitdem haben sie ihren Luftraum mit indischen Flugzeugen verschlüsselt und alle bilateralen Verhandlungen mit ihrem Nachbarn beendet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Indian Security Forces meanwhile have launched a massive manhunt in the mountains near the attack site in southern Kashmir. On Friday, Indian troops demolished the houses of two suspected militants and issued wanted posters with sketches of three suspected gunmen to locals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Leaders in New Delhi have accused the Pakistani government of having links to the militant group suspected of being behind the attack, though India has not yet provided specific evidence of Islamabad's alleged involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Officials in Islamabad have called any attempts to link Pakistan to the killings as quote frivolous, accusing India of engaging in a campaign to quote malign the Pakistan government. As tensions intensified, a spokesman for the UN urged both countries to refrain from further escalation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
The UN spokesman said, "...we very much appeal to both the governments to exercise maximum restraint and to ensure that the situation and the developments we've seen do not deteriorate any further. Any issues between Pakistan and India we believe can be and should be resolved peacefully through meaningful mutual engagement." Well, that is a classic UN statement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 25th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And don't forget to set your watches for 10 p.m. this evening. Yes, it's Friday. And of course, every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on the First TV, a new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
hits the airwaves. It's also available, of course, on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and podcast platforms everywhere. Now, this week's excellent guests include Christopher Balding. He's a leading expert on the Chinese economy, as well as intelligence analyst Sid Kishore. He'll be providing insight into the current conflict between India and Pakistan. Now, here's a hint.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
It's never a good thing when two nuclear-armed nations start shooting each other. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, ich weiß, dass du dir davon bewusst bist, aber ich sage es noch einmal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Despite Beijing's hardline rhetoric and vows not to back down to US economic pressure, signs emerged Friday that relief may be coming for companies hit hard by the tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
Zuhause eines Handguns oder irgendeiner Waffe für Selbstverdienung gibt es eine ernsthafte Verantwortung. Du musst es sowohl sicher, als auch verfügbar sein, wenn es am meisten zählt. Das ist es, was Stopbox USA mit ihrem Stopbox Pro umgesetzt hat. It's a lockbox that gives you instant access to your firearm. No electronics, keys or codes required. The five-button locking system.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
It responds to your unique input. It's built for muscle memory and that's important. So you're not thinking, you're reacting. I have a Stopbox Pro at home. It's an excellent piece of kit. It's very well made. It's secure and it's easy to use. And that's important. With the Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed. Your firearm stays secure and always within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 25th, 2025: China Blinks Again: Beijing Lifts Tariffs On Some US Goods & India, Pakistan Exchange Gunfire As Tensions Soar
For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use the code PDB at StopboxUSA.com, but they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. You heard me correct. 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use the code PDB at StopboxUSA.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
I'm talking about a classic American business, generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, you know, I'm talking about Tri-Tales Beef. Look, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory. It's not a mass-produced operation by a faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is classic.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
It's a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middleman, no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Hey, Mike Baker here. Look, I know you know this, but I'm about to repeat myself. Owning a handgun or any weapon for self-defense comes with serious responsibility.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
You need it to be both secure and accessible when it matters most. And that's what Stopbox USA set out to solve with their Stopbox Pro. It's a lockbox that gives you instant access to your firearm. There's no electronics. There's no keys or codes required. The five-button locking system responds to your unique input. It's built for muscle memory, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
So you're not thinking, you're reacting. I have a Stopbox Pro at home, and it is an excellent piece of kit. It's extremely well-made, it's secure, and it's easy to use, and that's important. With a Stopbox Pro, you don't have to trade safety for speed. Your firearm stays secure and always within reach.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
For a limited time only, not only do you get 10% off your entire order when you use code PDB at StopboxUSA.com, But they're also giving you buy one, get one free for their Stopbox Pro. That's right, you heard me correct. 10% off and a free Stopbox Pro when you use code PDB at stopboxusa.com. Discover a better way to balance security and readiness with Stopbox.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
They also directly contradicted remarks made by President Trump on Wednesday that the world's two largest economies were holding direct talks in recent days to negotiate a resolution. That's according to a report from Reuters. On Thursday, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry bluntly called Trump's claims about discussions, quote, saying, quote, China and the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
In today's Back of the Brief, the head of the UN's nuclear watchdog just issued a stark warning over North Korea's, quote, exponentially expanding nuclear program, calling for presidential-level diplomacy to resume with the Hermit Kingdom.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
It's Friday, the 25th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. And look at that. I'm back off the road and at the compound studio, at least for the weekend. And then I'll be back out on the road next week. It's where's Waldo on a constant basis. All right, let's get brief, shall we?
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
During a Council on Foreign Relations event this week in Washington, Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA, said North Korea's nuclear arsenal has gone, quote, completely off the charts, as the regime of Kim Jong-un continues to engage in an extensive military buildup," according to a report from the Japan Times.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Critically, he said Pyongyang's nuclear program is no longer contained to their main nuclear complex in the country's northwest. It reportedly now includes the Kangsan Uranium Enrichment Plant, and intelligence suggests two more enrichment facilities are currently being built. Grossi said diplomatic engagement was urgently needed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
The alternative, he warned, would be to let North Korea continue to build up its nuclear stockpile unchecked. Grossi stated, quote, you cannot have a country like this, which is completely off the charts with its nuclear arsenal, with all these facilities, without us having any clue of any safety or security measures which are being applied to it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
He added the, quote, presidential diplomacy is important. We need engagement from the top. He called on the international community, including President Trump, to make inroads with the Kim regime, which has historically proved no easy feat. As you may recall, Trump made engagement with North Korea a top priority during his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
He became the first sitting president to hold a summit with North Korea in 2018, and later became the first to set foot on North Korean soil. Nuclear talks began in earnest at the 2019 Hanoi Summit in Vietnam, but quickly broke down due to North Korea's demand that the U.S. lift all sanctions on the isolated country.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Since then, relations between Washington and Pyongyang have significantly worsened, with North Korea ramping up missile tests and the U.S., South Korea, and Japan intensifying joint military exercises that Pyongyang denounces as invasion rehearsals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
In September, Kim vowed to expand the country's nuclear weapons program to produce, quote, exponentially more warheads and delivery platforms, including ones that could target the U.S. mainland.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Regarding North Korea's arsenal, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute has previously estimated that North Korea, get this, likely has around 50, that's five zero, nuclear weapons of various size and enough enriched uranium to build another 90.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Despite Grossi's hopes for a resumption in diplomacy, North Korea's increasingly cozy relationship with Russia and their close ties with China would significantly complicate any attempts at outreach. Given ongoing efforts to end the war in Ukraine and Trump's current push for a new nuclear deal with Iran, issues regarding North Korea may well continue to take a back seat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
have not conducted consultations or negotiations on tariffs, let alone reached an agreement, end quote. Now, the comments come just two days after President Trump relented from his hardline stance against the communist regime, saying he is considering substantially slashing his crippling tariffs on China to cool diplomatic temperatures.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 25th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. To listen to the show ad-free, well, it's very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
And of course, waking up this morning, I'm sure you realized and probably your first thought was, oh, it's Friday. And I suspect your next thought was, oh, that's excellent. Fridays mean new episodes of the PDB Situation Report. Well, you'd be right. Our crack production team is busy getting ready to launch the latest episode this evening at 10 p.m. on the first TV.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
And as always, you can catch it and past episodes on our juggernaut of a YouTube channel. Go check that out. You can find it at President's Daily Brief. Also, the show's available on all the podcast platforms where you get your podcast stuff. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
On Wednesday, the president even expressed confidence that the U.S. and China would soon reach a, quote, fair deal. But Chinese officials don't appear to share his opinion or optimism and are holding fast to their own demands. The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a statement Thursday reiterating their intent to, quote, fight to the end and said, quote, If the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
really wants to resolve the problem, it should cancel all the unilateral measures on China. That, of course, is not an option as far as the White House is concerned, and given that Trump is probably not one to kindly respond to ultimatums, the remarks threaten to sour the president's recent conciliatory overtures.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
As PDB listeners are well aware, the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party, and Washington are locked in a bitter trade dispute, triggered by Trump's imposition of a 145% tariff on most of China's exports, with some Chinese products now subject to rates as high as 245%. China retaliated by placing a 125% tax on all U.S. goods. The impact on China has been swift and severe.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Chinese warehouses are now reportedly filled with unsent goods, mostly intended for U.S. buyers, Factory floors in China's top exporting provinces have ground to a standstill, and operations at two of China's most critical ports for foreign trade have slowed to a crawl. But despite the financial fallout, China's economic retaliation has continued.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Last week, they suspended all exports of essential rare earth minerals, of which they hold a relative monopoly, and halted all jet orders from American aerospace titan Boeing. China dug in their heels further on Monday, warning other countries against striking new trade deals with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
that could undermine Beijing's interests, promising economic retaliation against any nation that does not heed their warning. The intensifying trade war has triggered widespread sell-offs in global stock markets, rattling investors and sparking predictions about a looming global recession.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Earlier this week, the International Monetary Fund slashed growth forecasts for the U.S., China, and most other countries. but hope that the economic standoff could soon come to an end. Well, was briefly floated on Wednesday after the Trump administration said they were discussing reducing the tariff rates with Treasury Secretary Scott Besant calling the trade war, quote, unsustainable.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Trump himself said the U.S. is, quote, going to be very nice with China and that final tariffs, quote, will not be anywhere near as high as the current 145 percent rate. White House officials told The Wall Street Journal that several options are on the table, including drastically dropping the levies to somewhere between 50 and 65 percent.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
But the White House later cautioned that Trump was not softening his approach and that they would need to see some movement from China first to lower tariffs on U.S. goods before de-escalating. Now, the mixed messaging from the White House dampened investors' hopes for a resolution, and China's latest comments have further, of course, inflamed the situation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
We'll start things off today with an update on the U.S.-China trade war, as officials in Beijing demand all U.S. tariffs be canceled and contradict President Trump's claims that his team has been engaging in direct trade talks with the communist regime. Seems like someone's getting a bit testy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Trump responded Thursday by lashing out at the CCP over their suspension of business with Boeing. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "...Boeing should default China for not taking the beautifully finished planes that China committed to purchase. This is just a small example of what China has done to the U.S. for years." For now, it appears China is attempting to wait out Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Taking his remarks earlier this week is a sign that he'll eventually cave once the economic fallout of the tariff war hits American consumers. Basically, it's a question of who blinks first. All right. Coming up next, India and Pakistan inch closer to war in the wake of the deadly terror attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
And President Trump's purge of the White House National Security Council expands. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, let's talk Maha. Have you heard about that? I mean, make America healthy again. Look, at the end of the day, the most important things are good health, family, and of course, time.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Getting into shape and staying in shape, encouraging physical fitness and good health with your family, and of course, being consistent, having enough time during your busy day to actually work out. That's why I'm so excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and his team at a great company. It's called Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Now, Don's an amazing entrepreneur, and he and his team have built a terrific home fitness business. Their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro, for example, it has everything you need for a full-body workout at home. I've just had the Power Rack Pro installed at my house, and I can't say enough good things about it. The construction and the quality are incredible.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
The cable crossover system's integrated 200-pound weight stacks in the Smith machine allow you to do hundreds of exercises, basically everything and anything that you can do at the gym. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers full-body video workouts. You just press play and follow along. Their equipment is super solid and stands up to the toughest workouts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for free access to the program. And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code Baker. That's B-A-K-E-R. Look, no more excuses. Make fitness a priority in your home. Go to GetJackedUp.com. Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
It's a great company, helping you spruce up your outdoors or your indoors with a huge range of plants and without the time and trouble of visits to crowded nurseries. And this spring, they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Later in the show, India and Pakistan inch closer to war as New Delhi suspends a landmark water sharing treaty in the wake of the deadly terror attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Plus, President Trump's purge of the White House National Security Council expands, leaving key posts in America's intelligence apparatus understaffed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And of course, with spring arriving, now's the perfect time to plant. The offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan are veering dangerously close to a war footing after a terror attack earlier this week in the disputed Himalayan region of Kashmir triggered an escalating series of retaliatory moves across the subcontinent.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
As we've been discussing this week here on the PDB, the terror attack, which left 26 tourists dead and another 17 wounded in the scenic town of Bahalgam, was claimed by the Resistance Front, or TRF. That's an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Now, the TRF claimed the tourists were attempting to, quote, illegally settle in the Muslim-majority region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
India wasted no time responding. Within hours, the Cabinet Committee on Security suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals with immediate effect, and the foreign ministry revoked all existing visas. And in a dramatic escalation, India shut its mainland border with Pakistan entirely. But the most provocative move, well, that came next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
At the center of fraying ties, New Delhi suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. Now, that's a World Bank-brokered agreement seen as a rare pillar of stability between the two nations. The treaty had previously survived two wars and withstood many diplomatic twists before Wednesday's move.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
With the treaty on hold, India is preparing to reduce the flow of water crucial to Pakistan's agriculture sector. India's foreign minister declared the move would remain in place until Islamabad, "...credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism."
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
For Pakistan, where agriculture makes up roughly 25% of the economy and where irrigation systems rely heavily on rivers governed by the treaty, the implications are very serious, and the language out of Islamabad reflected just that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Pakistan's foreign ministry issued a formal announcement labeling the treaty suspension a, quote, act of war and warning that Pakistan would retaliate with, quote, full force across the complete spectrum of national power.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
In the hours that followed, Pakistan shuttered its airspace to Indian aircraft, halted bilateral trade, and canceled all existing visas granted to Indian nationals under a long-standing exemption scheme. It also ordered the reduction of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to just 30 personnel. Indian military advisors have been ordered to leave by the end of the month.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Islamabad also ripped up the 1972 SIMLA agreement, which has served as the foundational document meant to govern bilateral relations, including respect for a ceasefire line in Kashmir since their third war. India, meanwhile, doubled down.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
The defense ministry released sketches of three TRF operatives suspected of carrying out the attack, including two Pakistani nationals, and offered a $23,000 reward for information leading to each arrest. The ministry also maintains that military action is on standby. New Delhi is adamant that Islamabad's fingerprints are all over the operation, with accusations of backing the TRF.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
And in today's back of the brief, the head of the UN's nuclear watchdog just issued a major warning regarding North Korea's ever-expanding nuclear program, calling on President Trump to engage in direct diplomacy with little rocket man Kim Jong-un. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
But so far, no public evidence has been produced directly linking Pakistan to the killings. And in familiar fashion, Pakistani officials are denying involvement altogether, accusing India of, quote, fomenting terrorism inside its borders and pursuing a response that's, quote, unilateral, politically motivated, and devoid of legal merit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
But as diplomatic channels collapse and hardline rhetoric boils over on both sides, analysts warn that the two nuclear-armed countries may be closer to another armed conflict than at any point in years. All right, turning to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
President Trump's shakeup of the National Security Council has extended and expanded far beyond earlier reports, with at least 20 staffers now dismissed amid a sweeping loyalty-first restructuring that's left multiple directorates understaffed. According to two anonymous sources with direct knowledge of the matter, roughly 15 dismissals were carried out in the first week of April alone.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
That timing is noteworthy. As regular listeners of the PDB will recall, that was the same week that hardline conservative activist Laura Loomer met with Trump at the White House and reportedly handed him a list of NSC officials she alleged were obstructing his Make America Great Again agenda. Since then, well, the firings have continued.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Entire policy teams overseeing Latin America, South Asia, international organizations, biosecurity, and legislative affairs have either been hollowed out or left severely undermanned. One source noted that the Directorate for International Organizations, which helps coordinate American engagement with the UN and NATO, was completely cleared out earlier this month.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Other critical teams, such as the Directorate for African Affairs, still lack a senior director, while South Asia and Western Hemisphere Affairs have also been hollowed out. This wave of firings, the sources say, marks a deeper strategic effort by Trump's inner circle to remake the NSC in his second term into a more ideologically aligned instrument of presidential will.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
While every administration tweaks its NSC roster, that's nothing new. Trump officials have made no secret of their plans to go further, with loyalty becoming the dominant metric. Crucially, not all of those let go were Biden-era holdovers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Several staffers had served during Trump's first term, amplifying confusion and unease inside the NSC over opaque criteria for termination, aside from mere loyalty to the administration.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
NSC spokesman Brian Hughes declined to address the dismissals, but told Reuters that, quote, all employees of the National Security Council work at the pleasure of the president, adding that the team remains committed to advancing the president's America first agenda. Some of the cuts appear to signal more than just a personnel shuffle. They reflect deeper policy shifts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
The administration's longstanding skepticism of international institutions appears to be driving the dismantling of the international organizations team, while the vacancies across regional desks suggest a deprioritization of traditional diplomatic engagement in favor of transactional leader-to-leader dealings. Compounding the crisis is the difficulty in backfilling critical positions.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Despite emerging signs that the Trump administration may be willing to de-escalate the trade war with China in order to strike a deal, leaders in Beijing appear unwilling to yield. On Thursday, Chinese officials demanded that the Trump administration immediately cancel all unilateral U.S. tariffs if they truly want to settle current trade issues.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
Victor Servino, a Hill aide who had reportedly been tapped to oversee the Latin America portfolio, ultimately turned down the offer, though sources remain unsure why. Multiple other critical appointments remain unfilled. Still, the firings linked to Loomer's White House meeting reportedly shook morale across the NSC, while one official said the mood is slightly stabilized in recent days.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
A CBS report last week claimed that many high level posts remain vacant, with entire teams struggling to keep pace with day to day responsibilities. As of now, the National Security Council, the nerve center of U.S. foreign and security policy, faces mounting pressure to advance Trump's realigned priorities with a skeleton staff and apparent internal uncertainty.
The President's Daily Brief
April 25th, 2025: China Rebukes Trump, Demands US Cancel All Tariffs & India And Pakistan Inch Closer To War
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, the U.N. 's nuclear watchdog issues a major warning regarding North Korea's expanding nuclear program. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, it's grilling season. You know that, right? It's getting warmer, you got the cover off the grill, and I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to put on that grill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
It's Friday, 24 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, tensions are once again flaring with Hezbollah as Israeli leaders say they will not withdraw their troops from Lebanon by Sunday's ceasefire deadline, throwing the future of the peace deal into question.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Netanyahu's office released a statement Friday saying, "...the IDF withdrawal is conditional upon the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon. Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by Lebanon, the gradual withdrawal process will continue." As a reminder, Israel reached a limited truce with Hezbollah on November 27th to stop hostilities for at least 60 days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
The deal requires the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and for Hezbollah to retreat north beyond the Latani River in southern Lebanon. In theory, by this Sunday, January 26th, the only groups allowed to be present south of the Latani River are the Lebanese military and UN peacekeeping forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
But Israel and Hezbollah have repeatedly accused each other of violating the terms of the agreement and have engaged in a number of tit-for-tat strikes since the ceasefire was implemented.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Netanyahu argued on Friday that a continued Israeli troop presence and slower withdrawal does not constitute a violation of the ceasefire, noting that the deal's text was worded with the understanding that the withdrawal process could be extended. Following a request from the Israeli Security Cabinet, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
and French officials met Thursday to discuss an official 30-day extension of the ceasefire deal. But sources told the Times of Israel that President Trump is not keen on granting the request and would like to see Israel complete their withdrawal by Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Just last week, officials with Trump's team reportedly warned Israel not to let their truce with Hezbollah fail, fearing that it could throw the entire region, of course, back into chaos. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has said if Israeli troops remain by Sunday, it would be, quote, considered a brazen breach of the agreement, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Now, given their warning, the Israeli military is now reportedly preparing for the possibility of renewed hostilities with Hezbollah. Just hours after Netanyahu's statement, the Israeli military revealed they had carried out targeted strikes in southern Lebanon to, quote, remove threats. They also conducted limited ground operations earlier this week to demolish Hezbollah weapons depots.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
The Israeli military issued a statement saying, quote, the IDF remains deployed in southern Lebanon, continues to monitor Hezbollah's attempts to return to southern Lebanon, and will operate against any threat posed to IDF troops and the state of Israel, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Coming up, Israel has signaled that they intend to maintain their troop presence in a demilitarized buffer zone separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria, prompting condemnations and threats of action from Syria's new leadership. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker. That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Then, turning to Israel's northeast, leaders in Jerusalem are signaling that they intend to maintain their troop presence in a demilitarized buffer zone separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria, sparking concerns about a potential confrontation. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. All right, sticking with Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Since the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, tensions have been mounting between leaders in Jerusalem and the new Islamist-led government in Damascus, sparking concerns about a potential confrontation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
New satellite imagery released Thursday showed Israel Defense Forces, IDF, are now engaged in construction efforts within the demilitarized buffer zone that separates the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria. The construction appears to have begun at the beginning of January, with the images showing trucks, excavators, and bulldozers helping to erect new buildings and guard posts for the IDF.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
That's according to an exclusive report from the BBC. The construction in the buffer zone and limited advancements by the Israeli military beyond the zone into Syrian territory suggest Israel plans on maintaining their presence in the region for the foreseeable future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Officials with the Israeli military confirmed the activity to the BBC, saying, quote, Our forces are operating in southern Syria, within the buffer zone and at strategic points to protect the residents of northern Israel, end quote. But their ongoing operations, as you might imagine, are not sitting well with HTS, that's the rebel group now leading Syria.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Syria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Shara, condemned Israel's advances on their territory in a statement on Thursday, calling it unacceptable and suggesting that his government will take action if it continues. He said, quote, We do not want war with Israel or any country. We told Israel to stop, and if it continues, we will apply pressure. There is no excuse for occupation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
As we've previously covered here on the PDB, in the immediate aftermath of Assad's downfall, Israel moved to seize the demilitarized zone and capture several strategic positions on the Syrian side of the border, including the Syrian peak of Mount Hermon. Israel said this was done as a precaution to guard against attacks by radical groups.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
The moves sparked immediate international condemnation and controversy, with HTS and the UN accusing Israel of violating a 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria that established the demilitarized zone following the Yom Kippur War.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
While Israel and Hamas have begun implementing the terms of their historic ceasefire in Gaza, it appears that Jerusalem's fragile truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon is at risk of collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
But Israeli leaders have countered that they consider the agreement void until order is fully restored in Syria and discussions are held with HTS to come to a new understanding. Until that happens, Israel feels that their northern border with Syria remains vulnerable to potential terrorist attacks and they'll do what they must to address any security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
And that, my friends, is the BDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 24 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, remember to set your alarms for 10 p.m. this evening. A new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, hits the airwaves on The First TV.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
This week, our guests include Mark Krikorian from the Center for Immigration Studies and the Heritage Foundation's Steve Yates. We look at the first few days of the new Trump administration and developments in immigration policies, foreign policy, and national security. Now, as news and information shows go, well, this one's a real barn burner.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Also available on our YouTube channel, you can find that at President's Daily Brief, and of course, all podcast platforms in podcast land. Tune in and learn stuff. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with a PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said Friday that the Israeli military would not complete its full withdrawal from southern Lebanon by the 60-day deadline set under their ceasefire with leaders in Beirut, citing a failure by Hezbollah and the Lebanese military to adhere to the terms of the agreement. That's according to a report from the Times of Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Specifically, Israel says the Lebanese army has deployed too slowly to a buffer zone along their border with Israel, and that Hezbollah is still operating in areas covered by the truce.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 24th, 2025: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Major Test & Syria's Islamist Rulers Issue Warning To Jerusalem
Officials with the Israeli military have said they are still finding large caches of Hezbollah weapons in southern Lebanon, and that in some locations, the Lebanese military has even been seen aiding the Iranian-backed terror group. Well, that's shocking.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
British Defense Secretary John Healey addressed the situation with Parliament on Wednesday, calling Russia, quote, the most pressing and immediate threat to Britain, end quote. Healey revealed that Royal Navy ships tracked a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, off the coast of the U.K. for two days before it departed for Dutch waters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
This fire, scorching 45 acres, is now reportedly at 60% containment. Despite the relentless fire activity, some weather relief lies ahead. Southern California, which has gone nine months without significant rainfall, could see precipitation through the weekend and into Monday. However, the shift in the weather carries its own risks.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass cautioned the rain could trigger mudslides in areas stripped of vegetation by those fires. Bass says the city is taking, quote, aggressive action with crews installing barriers, clearing debris, and managing stormwater. President Trump is set to visit the fire-ravaged areas on Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
In a Fox News interview on Wednesday, Trump took aim at California's wildfire management, lambasting Mayor Bass, who was in Africa when the Palisades and Eaton fires erupted, and Governor Gavin Newsom.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The president criticized Newsom's handling of forest management and accused him of refusing to release stormwater from the north to Southern California, which Trump claims contributed to fire hydrants running dry.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The president warned that he might cut federal funding unless the state revises its water policies, stating, quote, I don't think we should give California anything until they let water flow, end quote. As new blazes challenge firefighting efforts, Southern California will hopefully, hopefully, get some much-needed rainfall this weekend to aid containment efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
And that, my friends, is the president's daily brief for Friday, 24 January. And of course, well, it is Friday, which can only mean that a brand spanking new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, is ready for launch this evening at 10 p.m. on the First TV. The Situation Report is also, of course, available on our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
That's much loved and critically acclaimed. And you can find that at President's Daily Brief and all podcast platforms where you happen to get your podcast stuff.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Our great guests this weekend include Mark Krikorian of the Center for Immigration Studies to discuss the Trump administration's border policies, and the Heritage Foundation's Steve Yates to discuss all things foreign policy and national security related. It is, frankly, a humdinger of a show. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
It's Friday, 24 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll kick things off in Europe, where threats to the continent's critical undersea cables are intensifying, as Britain warns that a Russian spy ship recently passed by the English coast for the second time in three months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
His remarks, directly aimed at Russian President Putin, were clear, stating, quote, We see you, we know what you are doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country, end quote. The defense secretary also announced updates to Britain's naval rules of engagement, allowing for more aggressive monitoring of Russian vessels.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The Yantar, developed by Russia's main directorate for alleged deep-sea research, is equipped with submersibles capable of targeting critical undersea cables. That's a vulnerability that Western intelligence has repeatedly warned that Moscow could exploit.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
According to the private intelligence firm Sibylline, which has been tracking the ship's movements for a decade, its primary mission is locating and mapping infrastructure for potential sabotage or intelligence gathering. The timing of this activity coincides with NATO's intensified focus on undersea security following a series of recent incidents of suspected sabotage in European waters.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
As we previously reported on the PDB, NATO deployed warships, patrol aircraft, and drones in the Baltic Sea after several undersea cables were severed late last year. Finnish investigators are nearing completion of their probe into the Russian tanker Eagle S, accused of dragging its anchor for over 60 miles and damaging multiple undersea cables back in December.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The tanker, part of the Shadow Fleet used by Moscow to circumvent Western sanctions, was seized and its crew detained for customs violations. While intent has not been conclusively proven, investigators view this as part of a broader pattern of maritime disruptions linked to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Germany, meanwhile, continues to investigate a Chinese-flagged ship implicated in slicing two data cables late last year. Though no evidence directly links Beijing or Moscow to deliberate action, the incident underscores the growing risks to maritime global communications infrastructure. Russia's interest in undersea cables is, frankly, longstanding.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
These cables, which transmit some 99% of worldwide data, and that's a lot of the worldwide data, including $10 trillion in daily financial transactions, well, they're vital to the global economy. Back in November, the Yontar was spotted near Irish waters. That's a major hub for transatlantic data arteries connecting Europe and North America.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The ship's activities prompted Irish authorities to send an escort vessel to shadow its movements. Similarly, in 2022, mobile services in Scotland's Shetland Islands were disrupted after an undersea cable was damaged, an act widely attributed to Moscow. As one of Ukraine's most steadfast allies, Britain's tensions with Russia have remained high since the Kremlin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
The tensions reached a fever pitch in 2024 when Ukraine fired British-made Storm Shadow missiles into Russia's Kursk region. While the Russian embassy in London has dismissed allegations of targeting undersea communications as, quote, untenable, the Kremlin's track record of exploiting vulnerabilities in Europe's critical infrastructure, well, leaves little room for doubt.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Moscow's interest in undersea cables underscores its willingness to weaponize Europe's reliance on this invisible yet vital infrastructure. As Healy warned Parliament, the stakes are too high to ignore, and Britain and NATO remain prepared to take decisive action against Moscow. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Coming up next, Trump taps Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to lead diplomatic efforts to rein in Tehran's expanding nuclear program. Plus, in a concerning development out of Syria, the rebel-led government is reportedly incorporating Islamic law into their new administration. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Later in the show, President Trump sets his sights on Iran, tapping Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to lead efforts to rein in the Iranian regime's expanding nuclear program, while suggesting that he's open to brokering a new nuclear deal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
It appears that President Trump is going to try to give diplomacy a try with the mullahs of Iran before turning to military options.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
According to White House sources who spoke exclusively with the Financial Times on Thursday, Trump is tapping his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, to spearhead efforts to address Iran's expanding nuclear program as part of a broader effort to, quote, stop the wars in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Witkoff is a close confidant to Trump who just helped secure the historic ceasefire deal in Gaza, leaving him well situated to make inroads. The news came as Trump signaled that he would prefer to broker a new nuclear deal with Iran rather than engage in a direct military confrontation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Iran has vastly accelerated their enrichment of near-weapons-grade uranium since Trump's re-election in November, boosting production capacity sevenfold in December. Iran now has a stockpile of at least 440 pounds of 60% enriched uranium, and that's enough to produce at least five nuclear weapons, if further enriched, to 90%.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Their activity has alarmed the international community, of course, and prompted Israeli officials to consider mounting their own preemptive strikes on Iran's nuclear sites. Trump was asked by reporters on Thursday whether he would support preemptive strikes by Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
And while he refused to roll out the possibility, Trump said, quote, it would be really nice if the Iranian nuclear crisis can be solved without military force. Well, yes, that would be nice. Trump added, "...hopefully that can be worked out. Iran will hopefully make a deal, and if they don't make a deal, that's okay, too."
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Plus, Syria's new rebel-led government is reportedly incorporating Islamic law into their new administration, raising concerns about their commitment to protecting Syria's many ethnic and religious minorities. And in today's Back of the Brief, an update on the devastating wildfires still burning in Los Angeles as strong winds and dry conditions fuel new blazes that are spreading rapidly.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
As a reminder, in 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or nuclear deal, was reached between Iran, the U.S., and five other world powers. The deal restricted Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief and extensive U.N. oversight, though Iran was quickly accused of flouting the terms of the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Trump withdrew from the agreement in 2018, reimposing sanctions as part of a maximum pressure strategy that left the Iranian economy in tatters. In an effort to force meaningful concessions from the Iranian regime on their nuclear program, Trump is preparing a return to that maximum pressure campaign seen during his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Senior national security advisors are reportedly crafting a new sanctions package targeting the regime's oil interests that could be unveiled by early February. Wyckoff, for his part, has also publicly expressed hopes that diplomacy can win the day, but has also warned that the Trump administration is prepared to employ military options should the mullahs balk at good-faith negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
In a recent interview with Fox News, Witkoff said, quote, the president will not allow a bomb to be gotten by the Iranians. Not going to happen. He added, quote, the president is all about solving it diplomatically, if that's possible, and if people are going to adhere to their agreements. But if not, then the alternative is not necessarily a good one, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
All right, next up, Syria's rebel-led government is reportedly incorporating Islamic law into their new administration, raising concerns in the West that the country could once again be consumed by sectarian violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Syrian authorities, led by the Sunni Muslim Islamist group HTS, are working to build a new national police force to replace deposed dictator Bashar al-Assad's notoriously corrupt and brutal security forces.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
But they're apparently using Islamic teachings as a foundation of their training program, asking recruits questions about their religious beliefs and Islamic Sharia law, according to sources who spoke exclusively with Reuters. As we've discussed on the PDB, HTS is historically associated with radical Islam, long serving as an arm of al-Qaeda during the bloody Syrian civil war.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
But the group has attempted to rebrand itself in recent years as a moderate liberation force rooted in the values of pluralism and tolerance. HTS has pledged to shift away from militia-style governance and to create a new system that features broad representation and protections for Syria's many ethnic and religious factions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
But the decision to put religion at the center of policing, well, has left many doubting whether HTS can be trusted.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
A Syrian expert at the Middle East think tank Century International told Reuters, quote, There are many Syrians who will find this concerning, not just minorities, the Christians, Alawites, and Druze, but also quite a lot of Sunni Muslims in places like Damascus and Aleppo, where you have a fairly large secular cosmopolitan population that's not interested in religious law, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Now, it's too early to tell whether or not this heralds a return to radicalism, but the latest development has left Western governments wary about how big a role Islamic law will end up playing in Syria's constitution, which HTS has reportedly been working to revise. An unnamed diplomat told Reuters, quote, it's not a good sign, but it also depends on how strictly it will be implemented, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Syria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharah, formerly known as Abu Muhammad al-Jalani, has renounced his former ties to al-Qaeda and tried to reassure Western governments that his group is truly committed to modernizing Syria and ruling with moderation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
But he has also said that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years, meaning anything resembling democratic elections are not on the horizon. Many in the West remain skeptical about HTS's commitment to de-radicalizing, noting that HTS is currently seeking to have the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
and Western allies lift the group's longstanding terrorist designation, which would free them from the crippling sanctions that come with it.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Russian provocations in the waters surrounding Britain are escalating tensions between Moscow and London, as a Russian spy ship equipped to potentially sabotage undersea cables was observed in nearby waters earlier this week for the second time in three months.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
While Syria's Interior Ministry has not commented on the inclusion of Sharia law in their police training, anonymous officials attempted to downplay its significance, with one official telling Reuters it's not about imposing Islam on the general population, but rather teaching recruits ethical behavior.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
For now, Western governments are keeping a close eye on the developments in Syria to see whether HTS's promises of inclusivity will translate into action. All right, coming up in the back of the brief, we'll have an update on the devastating wildfires still burning in Los Angeles, as strong winds and dry conditions fuel new blazes that are spreading rapidly. I'll be back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
In today's Back of the Brief, wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles County as the Hughes Fire surged past 10,000 acres since igniting Wednesday morning, forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee their homes. The new inferno, raging 50 miles northwest of Los Angeles, is fueled by relentless Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching 65 miles per hour.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
and critically low humidity, creating a formidable challenge, of course, for the 4,000 firefighters present on the scene. As of Thursday afternoon, the Hughes Fire is only 24% contained. Despite the high winds, aircraft have been deployed to combat the wildfire, with helicopters scooping water from nearby lakes and airplanes dropping fire retardant to slow the blaze's rapid spread.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
Eyewitnesses have captured dramatic video of orange skies and flames racing to the edges of nearby water sources. On Los Angeles' western and eastern flanks, the Palisades and Eaton fires have devastated communities over the past two weeks. Together, they've claimed 28 lives, damaged or destroyed nearly 16,000 structures, and turned 37,500 acres into ash.
The President's Daily Brief
January 24th, 2025: Russian Spy Ship Taunts Britain & Trump Floats New Iranian Nuclear Deal
According to Cal Fire, containment efforts are progressing, with the Eaton Fire now contained at 95%, and the Palisades Fire contained at 72%. Adding to the strain, a smaller blaze, dubbed the Sepulveda Fire, ignited along the 405 freeway near the Getty Museum on Wednesday, prompting a temporary closure of one of the city's busiest highways.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
We're talking about a possible Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear infrastructure. the ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran, the recently announced Golden Dome missile defense shield for the U.S., hypersonic weapons, and, of course, laser beams. As always, new episodes hit the airwaves at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
every Friday on The First TV and can easily be found on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. as well as podcast platforms everywhere. By the way, the Situation Report just celebrated its one-year anniversary. It is crazy how time flies. As Ferris Bueller said, life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Hopefully, you're not missing the Situation Report. Stop and check it out. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, for those of you in the U.S., well, yes, Memorial Day is here. Now, as you know, Memorial Day isn't just a long holiday weekend, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
First and foremost, it is an opportunity to thank all those who have sacrificed and served. But yes, you're right, it is also a long holiday weekend, and it is the kickoff, traditionally, to grilling season. Now, let me tell you something. If your grill could talk, it would definitely be asking for something better than grocery store beef. That's why I want to tell you about Tritail's Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
That's where I get my beef from. Look, Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch. It's run by family. It's not some faceless meat corporation. Tritail's ships pasture-raised, gray-finished, black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. It's that simple. No gimmicks, no middlemen, no mystery. Just real premium beef delivering great taste in every cut.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
And right now, for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their ribeye and New York strip specials. If you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free flat iron steaks with your order. So stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The fifth round of negotiations played out earlier today in Rome, led by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. They spoke indirectly through Omani mediators. The talks ended without any major breakthroughs, but Oman's foreign minister said progress was made towards at least establishing a framework for a potential future deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
That's diplomatic speak for we didn't really get a lot done. Instead, he hopes to, quote, clarify the remaining issues in the coming days. While the White House remains hopeful that they can find a diplomatic off-ramp to the Islamic regime's nuclear ambitions, two Iranian sources exclusively told CNN on Friday that the mullahs may decide to walk away from negotiations entirely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The impasse is reportedly over whether or not Iran will be allowed to continue their domestic enrichment of uranium at a lower level for what they dubiously claim are civilian purposes. Now, President Trump has repeatedly insisted that any deal must include Iran's full abandonment of enrichment activities. That's an outcome that Iran's leadership continues to reject.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Witkoff reiterated that message in a recent interview with ABC News, stating, quote, we cannot allow even 1% of an enrichment capability, calling that red line non-negotiable. As we've previously discussed, Iran has been rapidly expanding their nuclear program in recent years with the enrichment of uranium to 60% purity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Now, that's far above civilian energy needs and dangerously close, frankly, to the 90% weapons-grade levels. They now have enough material, reportedly, to produce six nuclear weapons and reportedly hold nearly all the components needed to assemble a bomb. In a joint message, the Iranian sources told CNN, "...that media statements and negotiating behavior of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
has widely disappointed policymaking circles in Tehran when the U.S. knows that accepting zero enrichment in Iran is impossible and yet insists on it. It is a sign that the U.S. is fundamentally not seeking an agreement and is using the negotiations as a tool to intensify pressure."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Iran claims that they are willing to commit to never developing a nuclear weapon, getting rid of their stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, and allowing international inspectors to supervise the process in exchange for the U.S. lifting all sanctions on the regime and allowing low-level domestic enrichment to continue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The Iranian sources told CNN that their participation in the Rome talks was not aimed at pursuing a potential diplomatic breakthrough, but solely to gauge whether there is any wiggle room with the Trump administration on the question of enrichment.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The Iranian foreign minister made his demands plain in a statement ahead of Friday's talks, saying, "...figuring out the path to a deal is not rocket science. Zero nuclear weapons equals we do have a deal. Zero enrichment equals we do not have a deal." Time to decide, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
But it goes without saying that assurances from Iran that they'll not flout the terms of any potential agreement, well, they're not really worth much. The 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, because as you know, everybody loves a good acronym. In theory, it limited Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
That's far below the 90% levels that are considered weapons-grade. But Iran was quickly accused of covertly violating the terms of the deal to continue their pursuit of nuclear weapons, which is in part what prompted President Trump to pull out of the deal in 2018 during his first term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Still, the White House projected their usual optimism ahead of Friday's talks, with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt telling reporters that Trump believes the negotiations are, quote, "...moving in the right direction." We should mention that looming over the ongoing discussions are reports from earlier this week that Israel is making preparations to potentially strike Iranian nuclear facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
It remains unclear, however, if Israeli leaders have made a final decision on whether or not to attack. The Iranian foreign minister warned the Trump administration, ooh, now they're issuing warnings, not just demands, but warnings, they will hold the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
personally responsible for any military action taken by Israel and will adopt, quote, special measures to protect its nuclear sites and material if such threats continue. A separate statement from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, threatened a, quote, devastating and decisive response should Israel strike.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
A spokesman for the IRGC said, quote, they're trying to frighten us with war, but are miscalculating as they are unaware of the powerful popular and military support the Islamic Republic can muster in war conditions, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Well, for now, talks will continue, but it does appear that between Iran's hardline stance towards enrichment and Israel's concerns over the Islamic regime's true endgame, the Trump administration may have a difficult time finding a viable diplomatic solution. And by that I mean, well, they will have a difficult time finding any viable diplomatic solution.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
All right, coming up next, Russia and Ukraine are carrying out the largest prisoner swap of the more than three-year-old war, which will see some 2,000 soldiers freed. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, and maybe you've heard about this, but there's going to be an important global summit of BRICS nations, and it'll be held in Rio de Janeiro.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Now, the block of emerging superpowers, it includes Russia and China and Iran and India, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling that little effort... The Rio Reset is quite the catchy name. As the BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
And of course, that would bring down the value of the dollar. While the transition won't happen overnight, of course, the Rio Reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
And I would suggest one thing you could do is check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group. Now, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to the number 989-898. It's that simple.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
It's Friday, the 23rd of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to tell you about a great home fitness company. I'm talking about Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Jacked Up Fitness makes amazing gym equipment for home use. Making it easier than ever, of course, to be consistent with your strength training workouts and consistency is really important. And of course, strength training is key to your overall fitness. Now, as an example, their all-new X-Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a Power Rack Pro at my place, and it is fantastic. It features a completely upgraded cable crossover system with articulated pulley arms, giving you unlimited width combinations to hit every muscle group. And if you're new to strength training, well, don't worry.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
They offer a free Get Jacked Up program that has full-body video workouts. Simply press play and follow along. It's that simple. Take control of your fitness. Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for their free training program. And when you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, just use my promo code BAKER, B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. Again, that's getjackedup.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
First up, another round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran took place today in Rome, but the Iranian regime is signaling that they may walk away from the negotiating table over the Trump administration's demands to end all uranium enrichment. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
While diplomatic efforts to end Russia's war on Ukraine appear to be deadlocked, Moscow and Kyiv are moving forward with the largest prisoner exchange of the more than three-year-old conflict. Russia and Ukraine both confirmed that they had completed the first phase of the prisoner swap on Friday, with each side returning 390 soldiers and civilians.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The exchanges will continue through Saturday and Sunday, with a total of 2,000 prisoners of war expected to be freed by the end of the weekend, that's according to a report from Reuters. The agreement for each side to release 1,000 prisoners was reached during negotiations in Istanbul last week as the first direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv since the early months of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
It was, however, the only significant outcome of the otherwise ineffective bilateral peace talks. Ukrainian President Zelensky celebrated the moment in a statement on Friday, saying, quote, We are bringing our people home. The first part of the agreement to exchange 1,000 for 1,000 has been implemented. He added, quote, We will definitely return everyone, every one of our citizens, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Officials in both countries said the first phase included the release of 270 soldiers and 120 civilians who were transferred at the Ukraine-Belarus border. The Russian Defense Ministry said their soldiers and civilians were now in Belarus, where they're being provided with psychological and medical assistance before being brought back to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Later in the show, despite the diplomatic deadlock over the war in Ukraine, leaders in Kiev and Moscow are conducting the largest prisoner swap of the more than three-year-old conflict. Some 2,000 soldiers are involved in this exchange. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
The Ukrainian prisoners were brought to a hospital in northern Ukraine near the Belarus border for examination, after which they'll return to their families. Most appeared thin and pale with shaven heads, though pictures released by Zelensky showed them smiling and draped in Ukrainian flags.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
President Trump took to Truth Social to congratulate both sides on the negotiated swap and suggested that this, quote, could lead to something big. It appears both Russian and Ukrainian officials may agree in a rare sign of potential progress towards a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday that once the full swap is completed on Sunday, the Kremlin will hand Ukraine a draft, quote, outlining the conditions for achieving a sustainable long-term comprehensive settlement agreement. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustam Umarov, meanwhile, called the exchange the first stage of a potential ceasefire with Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
He said, quote, We achieved 1,000 for 1,000. After this, if it will be successful, as I said, first is exchanges, second is the ceasefire, end quote. Still, as we discussed on this morning's PDB, the road to a potential peace looks like it will still be a long one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
While Ukraine has already agreed to a proposal from President Trump for an immediate 30-day ceasefire in order to allow time for more substantive negotiations to begin, Putin, on his part, continues to resist these efforts. Instead of a ceasefire, Putin said earlier this week that Russia is, quote, ready to work with the Ukrainian side on a memorandum on a possible future peace accord.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Well, that sounds like he's kicking the can down the road, which would define the principles of settlement and the timing of a possible peace agreement. He added that, quote, the main thing for us is to eliminate the root causes of this crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Now, the mention of root causes is telling, as it is a phrase commonly used by the Kremlin to place blame on Kiev for the war, despite the inconvenient truth for Putin that this is Putin's war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Putin is sticking to his long-held demands, calling for Ukraine to end their pursuit of NATO membership, officially cede Crimea and four occupied regions in eastern Ukraine to Russia, and withdraw their military from the front lines. Moscow also continues to demand a halt to all Western military aid to Kyiv as a condition for a ceasefire. And Putin reportedly wants a pony.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
We begin today with the latest on the US-Iran nuclear talks, as leaders in Tehran reportedly grow skeptical that they'll be able to reach a new deal with the Trump administration. Well, actually, to be honest, maybe if they quit pursuing nuclear weapons and also stopped funding and training and otherwise supporting their various terrorist proxies, they could probably reach a new deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
These terms, of course, remain non-starters for Ukraine, except for perhaps the pony. Russia, of course, knows that, which you could argue suggests that Putin is not serious about ending the war at this time. I know that's shocking. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 23rd of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, you can do that, and it's very simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. Now, if you glance at the calendar, you'll notice that, once again, it's Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 23rd, 2025: Will Iran Walk Away From Nuclear Negotiations? & Russia, Ukraine To Swap 2,000 Prisoners In Largest Exchange Of The War
And your reward for making it through another week is a brand new episode of our ever-popular extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. This week's guests include Benham Ben-Taliblu from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, along with author of the terrific book, Winning Space and All-Around Smart Guy, Brandon Weikert.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
As we reported on the PDB on Tuesday, the White House slammed a Washington Post article alleging Trump threatened to, quote, abandon Israel unless it ends the war, calling the claim, quote, absurd. Netanyahu echoed that denial, telling reporters he spoke to Trump just over a week ago. He quoted the president as saying, "...I want you to know I have absolute commitment to you.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
I have absolute commitment to the state of Israel." Vice President J.D. Vance reportedly struck the same tone. Netanyahu said Vance told him, "...don't pay attention to all this fake news about the rupture between us. It's all spin." Still, Trumps Golf Tour, noticeably omitting Israel, did fuel speculation of a growing chill.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Netanyahu, for his part, shrugged it off, praising the president's stops in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, saying they could help expand the Abraham Accords. He added, quote, I have no objection to the U.S. deepening its ties in the Arab world. That's absolutely fine, end quote. Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief. Failure to launch.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un suffered a major embarrassment after his newest warship was severely damaged during, oh here's that phrase again, a botched launch ceremony on Wednesday. I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker hier. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to tell you about a terrific home fitness company. Of course, I'm talking about Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Now, Jacked Up Fitness, what they do is they make amazing gym equipment for home use. And of course, that makes it easier than ever to be consistent with your strength training workouts. And of course, strength training is key to your overall fitness. Now, as an example, their all-new X-Series elevates home fitness to a whole new level.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Their Power Rack Pro X Functional Trainer lets you do hundreds of exercises from the comfort of your own home. I've got a Power Rack Pro at the house, and I've got to tell you something, it is terrific. My boys and I love it. We use it every day. It's outstanding.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
In today's Back of the Brief, North Korean Dictator Kim Jong-Un suffered a major embarrassment after his newest warship was severely damaged during a botched launch ceremony. And when was the last time you heard anybody say the words botched launch ceremony? It's not easy, try it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Es bietet ein komplett verbessertes Kabel-Krossover-System mit artikulierenden Pull-Armen, die dir unabhängige Wurzelkombinationen geben, um jedes Muskelgruppe zu schießen. Und wenn du neu an Krafttraining bist, dann keine Sorge. Sie bieten ein kostenloses Get-Jacked-Up-Programm mit vollen Körper-Video-Workouts. All you gotta do is press play, you follow along. It's easy as that. Bob's your uncle.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Take control of your fitness. Go to getjackedup.com and sign up for their free training program. And when you're ready to purchase your own Power Rack Pro X, use my promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, for those of you in the US, well, take a look at the calendar and you'll see Memorial Day is right around the corner.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
And as you know, look, Memorial Day isn't just a long holiday weekend. I mean, of course, first and foremost, it's a chance to remember all of those who served and sacrificed. But then, yes, okay, you're right, it is a long holiday weekend and it's also the kickoff to grilling season.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
And let me tell you, if your grill could talk, it would definitely be asking for something better than grocery store beef. That's why I order from Tritails Beef. Look, let me tell you about Tritails. It's a fifth generation Texas ranch run by family. It's not some faceless meat corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Tritails ships pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef straight from their family ranch to your front door. There's no gimmicks, there's no middlemen. Just real premium beef with great taste in every cut. Right now for Memorial Day, you can get $20 off their Ribeye and New York Strip Specials.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
And if you go to trybeef.com slash pdb, they'll throw in two free Flatiron Steaks with your order. Stock up now. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Your grill and your taste buds will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
In today's Back of the Brief, we turn to North Korea, where Kim Jong-un just suffered a major military embarrassment that has reportedly left the despot steaming. And you really don't want a steaming despot.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Kim and other senior officials of the Hermit Kingdom had gathered Wednesday for a major launch ceremony of the country's newest warship, a destroyer, hailed by state media as a, quote, new generation vessel. das die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit des Krieges stärken würde, mit den gesteigerten Täuschungen mit Südkorea und den USA.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
On Wednesday, leaving little Rocket Man in a fury, which means there will be some job vacancies in Kim's Navy very soon. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Aber die Zeremonie wurde schnell zu einem unbegrenzten Desaster für das Kim-Regime. Ein, Quote, ernsthafter Unfall wurde bemerkt, während Nordkorea versucht hatte, den Schiff zu starten, um den 5.000-Tonnen-Destroyer in die Wasser zu schlagen, schmutzig und in Teile der Hülle zu zerstören, und den Bauch des Schiffs auf dem Startrahmen zu lassen. Hm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Eine nachfolgende Analyse des koreanischen Militärs, besucht von CNN, fand heraus, dass das Schiff auf der Seite im Wasser neben dem Launch Dock liegend war und beurteilt hatte, dass es wahrscheinlich katastrophale Schäden getroffen hätte. Ein Satellitenbild wurde später vom teils kapselten Schiff geliefert, welches nordkoreanische Offiziere mit einem riesigen blauen Tarp festgehalten hatten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Woher bekommen sie einen riesigen blauen Tarp? Ja, trotzdem, nichts zu sehen hier, Leute. A furious Kim, who personally witnessed the botched launch, told state media that it was, quote, a criminal act caused by absolute carelessness and irresponsibility, and that the debacle, quote, lowered the dignity and self-respect of North Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
He added that the failure would not be tolerated, no, there's a message to those responsible, and that those responsible would be dealt with at a meeting of the country's Workers' Party next month. Kim beantragte, dass das Schiff durch das Juni-Gesetz wiederhergestellt wird, bezeichnend es als ein politisches Thema, das direkt mit dem Prästige des Staates verbunden ist.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Aber Experten sagen, dass es wahrscheinlich viel länger dauern wird, um das Schaden zu lösen, und dass bestimmte Versuche, den Prozess zu rütteln, wahrscheinlich nur mehr Probleme und Verletzungen für das Regime von Kim führen würden. Südkoreaische Offiziere sagten, dass Kims besagte Versuch, den Schuss des Schiffs zu rütteln, wahrscheinlich das war, was die Katastrophe in erster Linie ledigte.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Wir beginnen heute mit den Berichten, dass Präsident Trump nach seinem zweihöchigen Anruf am Montag mit Wladimir Putin den europäischen Führern sagte, dass der russische Sturmbau nicht bereit ist, den Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden, weil er fühlt, dass seine Kräfte gewinnen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Es ist ein großer Wettbewerb für das Hermit-Kreuz, das in den letzten Jahren seine größten Militär-Modernisierungs-Effekte in Jahrzehnten gegründet hat, um seine deteriorierende Sowjet-Era-Fleet zu verbessern. Das verletzte Wettbewerb war nur der zweite neue Zerstörer, der sich entdeckt hat, mit dem ersten, der von den Staatsmedien im April dieses Jahres beobachtet wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 23rd of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. Now, in case you somehow missed the news, if you want to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Just become a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Nun, die Bemerkungen wurden am Donnerstag von den Wall Street Journalen erst erklärt, die vier jungen europäischen Offiziere, die sich mit der Konversation kennengelernt haben.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
As we discussed earlier this week, following his Monday morning call with Putin, Trump got on a group call with leaders of the European Union, including France, Italy, Germany and Finland, to debrief them on where Putin stands regarding prospects for a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
While Trump publicly put a positive spin on his conversation with Putin, saying Putin had agreed to, quote, immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire, the Journal report claims his private appraisal was, well, far more pessimistic.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
The officials described the call with Trump as somewhat contradictory, saying the president began by stating, quote, I think Vladimir does not want peace, end quote, at least for now. He allegedly went on to say that he believes Putin ultimately desires peace, really, but only on Russia's terms. Okay. And that he did not believe a peace deal or a temporary ceasefire was probable in the near term.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Trump concluded that Putin feels he's winning the war and will, quote, therefore keep fighting. The European officials said they were left with the impression that President Trump, quote, simply doesn't want to take sides. And that he's unlikely to impose fresh sanctions on the Putin regime to pressure Moscow to the negotiating table. As Ukraine and European leaders have urged him to do.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Now, we should note that the White House immediately disputed the Journal's reporting. Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said that while Trump, quote, did say he believes Putin is winning the war, the President, quote, never said Putin isn't ready to end the war. He believes Putin wants peace and wants the war to be over, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Regardless, European officials said the call clarified Trump's position regarding the conflict. Does it feel like it was clarified?
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
While they don't think Trump will move to cut off US weapons exports as long as Europe and Ukraine keep paying for them, they were left to conclude that it will largely fall to European countries to continue supporting Ukraine and shouldering the bulk of the financial burden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Indeed, Trump told reporters on Monday, after his call with Putin, quote, this isn't my war, we got ourselves entangled in something we shouldn't have been involved in, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Mit diesem in der Hand, hat die EU und Britannien sich mit ihren eigenen neuen Sanktionen gegen Russland am Dienstag vorgelegt, die Moskau's Schattenflut von Öl-Tankern und finanziellen Firmen, die dem Putin-Regime geholfen haben, die schlimmsten Auswirkungen der Sanktionen, die seit der Kriege begonnen wurden, übernommen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Europäische Kommission-Präsident Ursula von der Leyen hat später gesagt, dass eine größere Package von heftigeren Sanktionen vorbereitet wird, obwohl sie nicht auf die Details erläutert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
According to a report from Reuters on Thursday, Kyiv will petition the EU next week to consider taking bigger steps to isolate the Kremlin internationally, including by accelerating the seizure of Russian assets held in Europe and placing sanctions on buyers of Russian oil, such as India and China. That would be a major step that Europe has so far been reluctant to take.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Ukraine also wants to see the EU take steps to make its sanctions apply more forcefully beyond its own borders, including by targeting foreign companies supplying tech components to Russia that have military applications. But it's not clear, yet anyway, if the EU will be able to muster the resolve to implement Kyiv's requests.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Trump, meanwhile, feels that it's not the right time to use his economic leverage over Putin, preferring to give time for more talks to take place. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained, "...the President believes that right now you start threatening sanctions, the Russians will stop talking, and there's value in us being able to talk and drive them to get to the table."
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
The administration appears to be hanging their hopes on Putin's pledge from Monday to revive direct peace talks between officials from Moscow and Kyiv, albeit without implementing the 30-day ceasefire that Trump had previously advocated. According to the Wall Street Journal report, plans are underway to hold talks at the Vatican sometime in mid-June.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Oh, but on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the Journal's report, saying Moscow had not yet agreed to hold peace talks with Ukraine at the Vatican. Peskov said, quote, there are no concrete agreements on future meetings. This still needs to be worked out, end quote. It would seem that what we have here is a failure to communicate. All right, coming up after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Es ist Freitag, der 23. Mai. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker, eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns berichten. Erstens.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Venezuela releases an imprisoned US Air Force veteran to American officials in a bid to improve bilateral ties and keep Western oil companies operating inside the country. Plus, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu sets the implementation of President Trump's proposed plan to relocate Gaza's civilians as a condition for ending the war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Because, well, relocating 2.3 million Palestinians to other countries... Seems entirely feasible. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, this July, there's going to be quite the event. It's a global summit of BRICS-Nations being held in Rio de Janeiro. That sounds posh. The bloc of emerging superpowers includes China and Russia, India and Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
And they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as a global currency. And they're calling this effort... The Rio Reset, that's a catchy name. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for US dollars could decrease, bringing down, of course, the value of the dollar. That's why this summit is important to pay attention to.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
While this transition won't happen overnight, well, the Rio Reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So you ask yourself, what is it that you could do? possibly to help protect your dollar savings. Well, one thing I would suggest is to check in with the professionals over at Birch Gold Group.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned dollar savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold simply by texting PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers. Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Präsident Trump hat beruflich europäische Leiter in einem letzten Anruf gesagt, dass russischer Präsident Putin nicht bereit ist, den Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden, damit die Hoffnungen für einen nahelänglichen Kriegsabschluss, obwohl die White House diese Berichte jetzt diskutiert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Ja. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business, and this spring they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Venezuela has released a detained US Air Force veteran in what officials describe as a diplomatic gesture that Caracas hopes will lead to a potential oil for migrants deal that could reshape relations with the Trump administration. Joseph St.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Clair, ein dekorierter Wettbewerbsveteran aus Washington State, wurde am Donnerstag in Antigua an den US-Envoy Rick Grinnell angeboten, nach Monaten langer Backchannel-Gespräche. St. Clair wurde später nach den USA zurückgeflogen, laut Menschen, die sich damit beschäftigen. Für Hintergrund, der 36-Jährige hat vier Reisen in Afghanistan geleistet, bevor er mit PTSD kämpfte.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Nach seinem verehrten Ausstieg im Jahr 2019 fuhr er nach Lateinamerika, um alternative Therapien zu suchen. Er wurde im Oktober nahe der venezuelischen Grenze verhaftet und verurteilt. Warte, du meinst, Venezuela hat eine sichere Grenze? Von dort an wurde St.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Clair in eine berühmt-weilige Gefängnis-Prison in Caracas transportiert, die bekannt war für Gang-Kontrolle, Verbrechung und Angelegenheiten von Tötung. Der US-Staat-Departement hat ihn im März als falsch beurteilt. His release comes just days before key US oil licenses were set to expire.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Back in February, Trump rescinded a Biden-era license that had allowed Chevron to produce and export crude from Venezuela. According to multiple sources, the Trump administration now plans to extend Chevron's Venezuela license by 60 days, a move widely interpreted as a gesture toward restarting broader negotiations with the dictator Nicolas Maduro.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Später im Show veröffentlichte Venezuela einen US-Führungskanzler für US-Führungskräfte, um bilaterale Beziehungen zu verbessern und westliche Ölverbraucher im Land zu halten. Die Bewegung kommt aus Berichten, dass die Trump-Administration mit einem Maduro-Regime in hochwertigen Gesprächen engagiert ist, um die Rückkehr von Tausenden von venezuelischen Migranten zu akzeptieren.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Am Kern dieser Gespräche ist ein potenzieller Deal, den US-Sanktionsreliven und den Zugang zu Venezuelas Energie-Sektor für Kooperation im Bereich der Immigration, zu handeln. Unter den aktuellen Terminen, die diskutiert werden, würde Maduro ausreichende Öl- und Miningkonzessionen an fremde Firmen anbieten, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Chevron, die in dem Land wichtige Aspekte behalten, aber von US-Sanktionen beschränkt sind. In return, Maduro would formally commit to accepting the return of potentially hundreds of thousands of Venezuelan nationals currently residing in the US without permanent legal status.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
That follows a recent Supreme Court ruling allowing the Trump administration to rescind temporary protected status for Venezuelans. While Caracas has already taken back around 5,000 deportees from the US and other countries, American officials say a broader commitment is needed. One U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
official familiar with the talks told the Miami Herald, "...returning those migrants is central to Trump's immigration agenda, and oil leverage may be the key to making it happen." But Maduro, well, he wants more than oil.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
According to sources in Caracas and Washington, he's also demanding, oh, he's demanding, to be removed from US Treasury sanctions lists and, this is interesting, wants federal drug trafficking indictments against himself and his interior minister dropped.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Both men have been charged in American courts with running the Los Soles Cartel, that's a drug smuggling ring embedded in Venezuela's military apparatus. While legal experts note that the White House cannot directly dismiss Justice Department prosecutions, Maduro's push appears modeled on Trump's recent foreign policy shift in Syria, where longstanding U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
sanctions will be lifted in exchange for regional cooperation. As we covered on last week's PDB, Trump, at the start of his Gulf State tour, announced that the U.S. would lift decades-old sanctions on Syria, which could now serve as a precedent for the Venezuela talks. Momentum for a deal is reportedly building, with oil executives and diplomats meeting quietly in Washington and Caracas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Bloomberg and Reuters report that Grinnell's talks included a further extension of Chevrons license, a clear sign of potentially thawing relations. Although Maduro has recently tried to downplay Chevron's possible exit, foreign oil firms produce nearly half of Venezuela's crude and their departure, well, would deliver a devastating blow to his regime's already crippled economy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Okay, wechseln wir zu Israel. In seiner ersten Pressekonferenz in fünf Monaten erklärte der israelische Bundespräsident Netanyahu zum ersten Mal, dass das Implementieren des Plans von Präsident Trump, die Zivilisationen in Gaza zu verlagern, jetzt eine Bedingung ist, den Krieg zu beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Netanyahu nannte die Initiative, quote, brilliant and revolutionary, to reporters in Jerusalem on Wednesday, asserting it could not only transform Gaza, but reshape the broader Middle East. He stated, quote, we want to ensure that Trump's plan comes to fruition, casting it as the linchpin of a safer regional future.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
As our listeners know, Trump first floated that idea of Palestinian relocation back in February, while hosting Netanyahu at the White House. A sweeping civilian relocation plan, it would seek to transform Gaza into a US-administered, quote, Reconstruction Zone, or so-called Riviera of the Middle East, and involve the removal of some 2 million Palestinians to neighboring states.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Fast forward to last week, at a business roundtable in Doha during his three-nation golf swing, Trump proposed a freedom zone with American oversight, job creation and long-term infrastructure projects within the enclave. Now it may well be the cornerstone of Israel's endgame. Netanyahu laid out three pillars for victory in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Plus, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu denies Reports of a rift with President Trump and sets the implementation of Trump's proposed plan to relocate Gaza's civilians as a condition for ending the war, which is a way of saying then that the war won't be ending.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
Defeat Hamas, recover the hostages and ensure the enclave can no longer threaten Israel. The current military operation, codenamed Operation Gideon's Chariots, will press on, he said, until Hamas is, quote, totally defeated and all of Gaza is under Israeli security control. Endquote. Endquote. In that future, he made clear, depends on several conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
May 23rd, 2025: Trump Tells Europe Putin Isn't Ready For Peace & Furious Kim Jong Un Humiliated By Botched Launch Of New Warship
The return of all hostages, Hamas' disarmament, its removal from power, the exile of its leaders, total demilitarization of the enclave, Israeli security control and the execution of Trump's relocation plan. Netanyahu also moved to squash talk of a diplomatic rupture with Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
The latest incident came Friday when the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that Kyiv's forces blew up a critical Russian gas transit station during their retreat from the Kursk region. That's according to a report from Reuters. Video emerged Friday of a massive blaze at the Sudza facility that's located inside Russia, just several hundred meters from the Ukrainian border.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
It's Friday, the 21st of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Russia's investigative committee said that they had opened a criminal investigation calling the gas transit facility's destruction a, quote, active terrorism. Well, now, that, of course, is a rather incredible statement since it's coming from the country that invaded and occupied another country.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, apparently in an attempt to show even less self-awareness than the Russian investigative committee, later accused Ukraine of violating the moratorium on energy infrastructure attacks, claiming it was proof that Kyiv couldn't be trusted to operate in good faith when it comes to peace talks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
But leaders in Kyiv quickly head back, accusing Russian forces of deliberately shelling the energy station in what they described as a false flag provocation. A statement from the Ukrainian Army General Staff said, quote, The Russians continue to produce numerous fakes and seek to mislead the international community.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
President Zelensky's chief of staff later added, quote, Russian attempts to deceive everyone and pretend that they are adhering to the ceasefire will not work, as the fake news about the strike on the gas station will not work, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
While details of the incident at the Sudza facility are still hard to verify, it comes after Russia launched a massive drone and missile bombardment early Wednesday morning that struck two Ukrainian hospitals and an energy substation in the eastern Donetsk region, and that was less than 24 hours after Putin claimed he'd given the orders to his military to cease attacks on Ukrainian energy sites.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
First up, the Trump administration's hopes for a limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine appear to be at risk as Moscow and Kyiv accuse each other of sabotaging a Russian gas facility and the Kremlin continues its attacks on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Ukrainian officials say the Russian strongman is talking out of both sides of his mouth and is trying to manipulate current diplomatic talks with the U.S. to gain an advantage on the battlefield. At an EU summit in Oslo on Thursday, Zelensky said that, quote, "...nothing has changed since President Trump's phone call with Putin on Tuesday."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
He told the conference, quote, Yesterday evening, another Russian strike hit our energy infrastructure. We in Ukraine face this every day and night, despite Putin's words about allegedly being ready to stop the attacks, end quote. Still, President Trump has maintained optimism regarding next week's peace talks in Riyadh, telling reporters Thursday, quote, I believe we'll get it done.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
We'll see what happens. But soon after his remarks, Russia launched a large-scale drone attack on the Ukrainian port city of Odessa, hitting multiple civilian targets, injuring three people and triggering multiple fires.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Following the attack, Zelensky reiterated his skepticism regarding Putin's motivations for engaging in diplomacy with the U.S., saying, quote, the relentless aerial attacks exposed to the world Russia's true attitude towards peace. Coming up next, the Trump administration secures the release of an American hostage held for more than two years in Afghanistan by the Taliban. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. In a bit of good news, and we could all use some good news, right? An American citizen who spent more than two years being held hostage in Afghanistan by the Taliban was released on Thursday and returned to the U.S. to be reunited with his family.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
65-year-old George Glesman, who worked as a Delta Airlines mechanic, was abducted while visiting Kabul as a tourist. yeah, tourism, on December 5th, 2022. That's roughly 16 months after the Taliban seized power in the country, and he languished in a Taliban detention facility for more than 800 days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Officials said he was held in a nine-foot-by-nine-foot cell and would often be placed in solitary confinement underground for months at a time. That's according to a report from Fox News. His release followed several weeks of negotiations led by Qatari mediators and U.S. hostage envoy Adam Bowler. Now, the U.S. does not have any diplomatic presence in Afghanistan, having closed the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
embassy in Kabul in August of 2021 after the Taliban's takeover. Instead, the U.S. relies on Qatar to serve as an intermediary. As mentioned, Qatari mediators have been holding discussions with Taliban officials for weeks to secure Glezman's release
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
But the breakthrough in negotiations reportedly only came after Austin's envoy, Bowler, met in person with the Taliban earlier on Thursday at Kabul International Airport. He traveled to the country alongside Qatari mediators and former U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad. It was the first known time that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Later in the show, following negotiations with the Trump administration and Qatari officials, the Taliban has released an American hostage after holding him for more than two years in Afghanistan. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
has directly engaged with Afghanistan's interim government since the group seized power. A spokesman to Qatar's prime minister told Fox News, quote, that was the first meeting of its kind and opened the door for a lot of dialogue on lots of issues, including the issues of detainees. Now, Glesman is the third U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
citizen to be freed from Afghanistan this year, following the release of Ryan Corbett and William McEntee in a prisoner exchange in early January during the final days of the Biden administration. But this release differed in its diplomatic significance, with former Ambassador Khalilzad saying, "...the Taliban government agreed to free him as a goodwill gesture to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
President and the American people." Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Qatari officials for their assistance, saying they have, quote, consistently proven to be a reliable partner and trusted mediator facilitating complex negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Upon landing at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland on Friday, Glesman embraced his wife and thanked the Trump administration for working to free him, saying, quote, I feel born again. Well, welcome home. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 21st of March. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
And don't forget to set your alarms for 10 p.m. tonight, it's Friday night, when the latest episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, hits the airwaves on the First TV. You can also catch it, of course, and previous episodes on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief, as well as podcast platforms everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Great guests this weekend include Art Arthur from the Center on Immigration Studies and Bill Roggio from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. We're talking U.S. deportation policies, attacks on Yemen's Houthi rebels, the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza, and more. It's chock full of insight and information and, frankly, witty repartee.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
Kiev and the Kremlin traded accusations on Friday of terrorism and deceit over the destruction of a Russian gas pumping station near Ukraine's border in the latest sign that even a limited ceasefire between the two will be difficult to maintain. regardless of the Trump administration's stated optimism about peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, both Russia and Ukraine tentatively agreed this week to adhere to a 30-day partial ceasefire halting attacks on energy infrastructure. But the details of the proposal still need to be ironed out next week in Saudi Arabia, where the U.S. will hold separate peace talks with Russian and Ukrainian officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 21st, 2025: Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire In Jeopardy & American Hostage Freed From Taliban's Clutches
While questions remain about how it could be formally implemented and enforced, both Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky said earlier this week that they had instructed their militaries to cease attacks on energy sites. But both countries have already accused each other of failing to uphold their word.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Department of State has issued a $15 million bounty for information regarding four Chinese nationals who stand accused of smuggling sensitive U.S. military technology to Iran. Now, I'm just speculating here, but it's likely those four Chinese nationals are already back in China, so there's no chance that $15 million is going to get paid out.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The State Department alleges that a woman named Emily Liu worked with three accomplices to use front companies in China to smuggle U.S. electronic components to members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. That scores the IRGC. The components could be used in the construction of weaponized drones, ballistic missile systems and other advanced military hardware.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
That's according to a report from CBS News. The scheme involved falsifying documents to make it look like the components were bound for China when they were really being exported directly to Iranian-linked companies, helping, of course, the Islamic regime avoid international sanctions related to their weapons programs. And the punchline?
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The Trump administration is facing some rare blowback from congressional Republicans as they mull plans for a shakeup of Pentagon operations that critics say risk undermining American deterrence around the globe. According to two defense officials and a Pentagon briefing document that was first obtained by NBC News, The White House is considering a massive restructuring of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Well, the suspects have reportedly been engaged in this scheme for nearly 20 years. Hmm. Alongside the State Department's announcement, the FBI issued federal arrest warrants for Liu and one of her associates and added them to their most wanted list.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
While their location is unknown, here's a clue, could be China, if apprehended, they face a litany of federal charges for conspiracy to unlawfully export and smuggle sensitive military technology. Officials said that as a result of their scheme, quote, a vast amount of dual use U.S. origin products with military capabilities ended up in the hands of the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The regime then used these technologies to develop and manufacture arms and weapons systems, including drones that were then sold to governments and groups in Russia, Sudan, Yemen and elsewhere.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The State Department added, quote, the IRGC has financed numerous terrorist attacks and activities globally, including via its external proxies such as Hamas and Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq. The IRGC funds its terrorist activities in part through sales of military equipment, including UAVs or drones, end quote. Now, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
first charged the conspirators in January of 2024 under the Biden administration. And now the Trump administration is intensifying those efforts to bring them to justice and disrupt the financial mechanisms used by Iran to procure cutting edge military technology. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 21st of March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
And just like that, look at that, we're sitting atop another Friday. Now, for many folks, well, Friday means the joy of a weekend. But for even more people, Friday means the joy of another new episode of the PDB Situation Report. And that's, of course, our highly acclaimed extended weekend show. As usual...
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
This weekend, we've got excellent guests, news updates on key stories around the globe, and of course, expert insight. As always, the latest episode hits the airwaves tonight at 10 p.m. on The First TV and can be found on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief, as well as podcast platforms throughout podcast land.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
It's Friday, the 21st of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, the Pentagon is considering a major shakeup in U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Tune in and amaze your friends around the water cooler on Monday with your keen grasp of geopolitics and international stuff. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
military's combatant commands and headquarters. The proposals are wide ranging, calling for potentially merging five of the military commands to streamline operations and reduce costs, and perhaps even relinquishing the U.S. role as NATO's supreme allied commander in Europe. That's according to a report from CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
For some background, the Defense Department maintains 11 combatant commands, which are comprised of units from two or more service branches, focusing on providing command and control of military forces in either a specific geographic region, such as Indo-Pacific Command, or for a specific function, such as US Cyber Command.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
While the White House has not confirmed the plans, insiders say the administration is considering consolidating several of the commands in order to shrink the size of the U.S. military.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The proposals are part of broader cost-cutting efforts spearheaded by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, also known as DOGE, of course, with the White House calling for the Pentagon to slash its budget by 8% annually over the next five years, every year slashing by 8%.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
According to CNN's review of the briefing documents, the proposals call for potentially merging European command and Africa command into a single command based in Stuttgart, Germany, as well as combining U.S. northern and southern commands into a single AmeriCom command.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
It also proposes eliminating a directorate that oversees development, training and education for the joint commands and halting the expansion of U.S. forces Japan While such cuts and consolidations could save the Pentagon billions of dollars over the next five years national security officials say the plans hold serious negative ramifications for global security and American military dominance
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
AFRICOM, for example, was created back in 2007 after defense officials determined that security issues on the African continent warranted its own command. Well, that's logical.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
NORTHCOM and SOUTHCOM, meanwhile, have always been distinct, given that one focuses on homeland security issues in partnership with Canada and Mexico, while the other oversees security issues in Central and South America, along with the Caribbean.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
military command structure, prompting the Republican chairman of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees to issue a rare joint statement warning the Trump administration that the move risks undermining American deterrence around the globe.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
National security experts say such mergers could create blind spots in America's security apparatus, as the regions are simply too large for one person to oversee under a single command. Now, as I mentioned, the most notable revelation is that the administration is considering abandoning the U.S. role as NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe. That's a position that's been held by a four-star U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
general for nearly 75 years. The reports, of course, triggered alarm among former military leaders and senior Republican lawmakers overseeing national security issues.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Retired Admiral James Stavridis, who served as NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe and head of European command from 2009 to 2013, told NBC News, quote, for the United States to give up the role of Supreme Allied Commander of NATO would be seen in Europe as a significant signal of walking away from the alliance, end quote. Well, he's not wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
He added that it would be a, quote, political mistake of epic proportion and warned that, quote, once we give it up, they are not going to give it back, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Trying to get ahead of any potential restructuring, the Republican chairman of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees issued a rare joint statement on Wednesday saying that they'll not accept any significant unilateral changes to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
warfighting structure, warning that, quote, such moves risk undermining American deterrence around the globe and detracting from our negotiating positions with America's adversaries, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The revelations come at a time when Europe is already on edge over President Trump's diplomatic rapprochement with Russia and his calls for Europe to shoulder more of the continent's defense responsibilities. Still, the sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that these are only preliminary discussions and the administration may ultimately determine that the proposals are not viable.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The sources stress that no major announcements are imminent at this time. All right. Coming up next, Ukraine launched a major strike against a critical Russian strategic bomber airfield, dealing a significant blow to the Kremlin's aerial capabilities. And massive protests erupt in Turkey after authorities arrested the top political rival of President Erdogan. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Later in the show, amid talks of a partial ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv, Ukraine launched a major strike against a critical Russian strategic bomber, Airfield, dealing a significant blow to the Kremlin's aerial capabilities. This, of course, followed Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure the previous evening.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Welcome back to the PDB. For the third time in 10 weeks, Ukraine has struck Russia's Engels Air Base, that's home to its nuclear-capable bombers, triggering a massive explosion and fire hundreds of miles from the front lines of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
A holdover from Soviet times, Engels houses Russia's fleet of Tupolev Tu-160 nuclear-capable bombers, unofficially known as the White Swans, as well as Tu-95 bombers that regularly carry out strikes on Ukrainian cities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Videos verified by Reuters on Thursday captured the extent of Kyiv's drone barrage damage, thick black smoke billowing over the airfield, nearby cottages reduced to rubble, and emergency crews scrambling to contain the blaze. Russian officials reported at least 10 injuries and ordered evacuations from the surrounding area.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Now, despite the Russian Defense Ministry's claim that its air defenses intercepted 132 Ukrainian drones across multiple regions, Engels was still hit. Ukraine's Center for Strategic Communication bluntly stated that the air base is now facing, quote, serious difficulties following the successful strike.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
This latest attack is part of an ongoing campaign targeting Engels and other key Russian military installations. In January, Ukrainian drones hit the base twice in less than a week, setting fire to a vast fuel depot containing up to 800,000 tons of fuel. That inferno raged for six days.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The January attack was part of Ukraine's largest long-range drone offensive since the war began, signaling its intent to erode Russia's ability to conduct airstrikes and missile barrages against Ukrainian cities. Kyiv's strategy is clear, systematically degrade Russia's capacity to wage war. Well, that's obvious.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Ukrainian security services argue that each successful strike, whether on ammunition depots or oil refineries or strategic bomber bases, chips away at Moscow's ability to sustain its offensive. Even as these strikes escalate, Ukraine and Russia appear to be inching toward a potential ceasefire, one focused on energy infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
After calls from President Trump this week, both Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian President Putin signaled openness to a deal that would temporarily halt attacks on power plants, refineries, and fuel storage facilities. Note, though, that hours after Putin claimed to be open to such a deal, his military launched another drone and missile attack on Ukrainian infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Even if such an agreement is reached, it won't necessarily halt either side's military operations. In fact, it's almost guaranteed not to halt them. Kiev, for its part, may simply shift its focus from energy infrastructure to Russia's military assets, including bomber bases like Engels, which have played a central role in Moscow's offensive capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
And Russia has shown no signs of halting its offensives, either in eastern Ukraine or its own Kursk region, where it's basically retaken all the territory once claimed by Ukraine following a surprise offensive in August of last year. Meanwhile, the war's human toll continues to mount.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
In a Thursday report, Britain's Ministry of Defense estimates that Russia has suffered up to 250,000 combat deaths since its full-scale invasion in 2022, with total casualties, and that's wounded included, approaching 900,000, making this the deadliest Russian military campaign since World War II. Ukraine, for its part, has also sustained devastating losses.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Plus, massive protests erupt in Turkey after authorities arrested the top political rival of President Erdogan, a move the opposition condemned as an undemocratic coup attempt. Well, to be fair, Erdogan is an undemocratic strongman, so at least he's being consistent. And in today's back of the brief, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
In December, Zelensky reported that around 43,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed, with an estimated 370,000 wounded. Now, it's worth pointing out that casualty estimates remain difficult to verify, as both sides, of course, have an incentive to downplay their own losses and inflate those of their adversary.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
As the fighting rages on, U.S.-brokered negotiations are set to resume next week in Saudi Arabia in an attempt to agree to the terms of a potential 30-day ceasefire. That's a stepping stone toward a broader peace deal. Each side has accused the other, of course, of violating previous informal arrangements.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
For now, Russia's attacks following Putin's call with Trump and Ukraine's long-range strikes on Russian soil make one thing clear. Even if an energy infrastructure ceasefire is brokered, neither side has any apparent intention of halting fighting in the short term. Shifting to Turkey.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Thousands of protesters defied a street gathering ban on Thursday after the arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Emomolu, on corruption and terrorism charges. Now, he's Turkish President Erdogan's top political rival, and his politically charged arrest has ignited widespread unrest and economic fallout.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Emomolu, a popular two-term mayor seen as the opposition's most formidable challenger, was taken into custody at his home on Wednesday morning. Hours before his arrest, he posted a video on social media denouncing the charges against him as an attempt to, quote, usurp the will of the people.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
His detainment was part of a broader operation that swept up over 100 others, including two district mayors and senior aides. Prosecutors allege that Imamoglu had led a criminal organization engaging in bribery and fraud and money laundering, while also coordinating with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party, otherwise known as the PKK, during last year's municipal elections.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
It's important to note the PKK has waged a decades-long insurgency in Turkey and has designated a terrorist organization by both Ankara and Washington. Though no formal indictment has been issued, Imamoglu could remain behind bars as investigations continue. The political fallout was immediate.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Turkey's main opposition party, the Republican People's Party, blasted the arrest as an undemocratic, quote, coup attempt. And despite the arrest, the party's leader vowed to proceed with the presidential primary vote scheduled for Sunday, where Imamoglu is widely expected to secure the nomination. Critics argue that the timing of the arrest is hardly a coincidence.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Erdogan is in the second of his constitutionally limited two terms, but a loophole could allow him to run again in 2028 if early elections are called. Political observers say that scenario is becoming increasingly likely among Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party. Emomolu, meanwhile, has long been in the government's crosshairs. In 2022, he was convicted of insulting election officials.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
State Department has issued a $15 million bounty for a Chinese national and three accomplices accused of smuggling drone weapons and other sensitive military technology to Iran for nearly 20 years. Yeah, that's nearly 20 years. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Oh, a charge that, if upheld, could temporarily bar him from holding office. And just days before his arrest, his alma mater annulled his diploma over procedural issues regarding a transfer from 1990, another move that supporters say is aimed at sidelining him. Notably, under Turkish law, a university degree is required to run for president. How convenient.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
The arrest triggered an international response. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called Imamoglu's arrest, quote, deeply concerning, while Germany's foreign minister warned that opposition political space in Turkey is, quote, shrinking. Meanwhile, Turkish authorities moved to stifle dissent. A four-day ban on demonstrations was imposed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Subway stations in Istanbul's Taksim Square, a historic protest hub, were shut down, and access to social media platforms was restricted, according to the internet monitoring group NetBlocks. Despite these measures, thousands of demonstrators gathered outside City Hall in Istanbul, as well as in Ankara and other major cities, facing off against police barricades and street closures.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Clashes erupted in some areas as officers attempted to break up the crowds. Financial markets reacted in real time. The Turkish lira hit a record low against the dollar, that's saying something, prompting the central bank to reportedly offload nearly $10 billion in foreign currency reserves in a bid to stabilize it. Turkey's stock market also plunged so sharply that trading was halted twice.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
Emomolu's arrest marks a new flashpoint in an already volatile political landscape. His detention all but guarantees that Turkey's next presidential contest will be its most contentious in years. All right. Coming up next in the back of the brief, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 21st, 2025: Pentagon Mulls Controversial Global Shakeup Of Military Command & Turkey In Turmoil Over Arrest Of Key Erdogan Rival
State Department issues a $15 million bounty for a Chinese national and three accomplices accused of smuggling drone weapons and other sensitive military technology to Iran. Oh, who could have thunk it? We'll have those details next. In today's back of the brief, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Illegal immigrants granted parole status are reclassified as, quote, qualified aliens, making them eligible for federal benefits after just five years. While the executive order signals a crackdown on taxpayer-funded benefits for illegal immigrants, It remains unclear whether it directly closes this loophole or merely reinforces existing laws restricting eligibility.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The Trump administration, well, didn't miss words in its criticism of former President Biden's policies, directly blaming his administration, meaning Biden's administration, for exasperating the immigration crisis and diverting public funds to support it.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
According to the executive order, Biden's open border agenda cost federal and state taxpayers over $16 billion in Medicaid-funded emergency services for illegal immigrants. That's based on estimates from the Congressional Budget Office.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Additionally, billions of taxpayer dollars reportedly flowed to left-wing organizations facilitating mass migration and providing legal aid to challenged deportation orders.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Trump cast the executive order as a decisive course correction, positioning himself to reverse Biden's border crisis The administration's message is clear Under this order, federal dollars will no longer fund policies that incentivize illegal immigration And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 21 February.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Now, to listen to the show ad-free, should you be so inclined, well, it's easy. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief simply by visiting pdbpremium.com. And it is very simple. And if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later on today with the PDP Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
And this wasn't just a random decision. The arrival of the Green Beret had the full backing of Mexico's Senate, which unanimously approved the move. Eleven Green Beret from the 7th Special Forces Group will be in Mexico from 17 February through the end of March, training the Mexican Navy's Marine infantry on combat tactics, both conventional and unconventional.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
It's Friday, 21 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start today's show with the deployment of U.S. Army Green Beret in Mexico, where they're training the country's Marines. Now, the Mexican Marines are probably the most trusted and respected element of the Mexican military and law enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
They've arrived fully armed, but their role, at least now, is strictly advisory. Now, this is nothing new for the 7th Special Forces Group. These Green Berets have a long history of operations in Latin America, having participated in missions in Panama, Peru, and Ecuador. While it's a training mission for now, it does reflect the increasing militarization of efforts by the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
to tackle the drug cartels. The U.S. Special Operations Command described the mission as part of, quote, normal routine preplanned military training, end quote, with the Mexican Marines as part of the longstanding defense cooperation between the two countries. Now, while the Special Ops Command is framing this as routine, the backdrop on which it's occurring is, frankly, anything but.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
While the Green Berets are only there to train, some voices inside the Mexican government are calling for more direct military involvement. Senator Lili Tellez from Mexico's Conservative National Action Party has argued that Mexico should go beyond welcoming U.S. advisers. She suggests that Mexico should invite U.S. military forces to assist in fighting organized crime on Mexican soil.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The push for deeper cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico comes at a time of heightened tension. Just as the Green Beret were arriving, Mexican officials confirmed that U.S. military reconnaissance planes were spotted flying around Mexico's Baja California Peninsula and off the coast of Sinaloa. That's a well-known stronghold, of course, of the Sinaloa cartel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The officials have not confirmed the nature of the flights, but it's clear that they were monitoring cartel activity. Mexico's defense secretary, Ricardo Tavira, noted that the planes remained in international airspace. Still, it raises some interesting questions about just how far the U.S. will go in its operations against the cartels.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
All of this, the Green Beret arrival, the reconnaissance flights, comes just as the U.S. State Department officially declared the Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. While this might seem like a symbolic move, it's much more than that.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
This new designation opens up a range of military options for the US government, including direct military operations, intelligence sharing, and even targeted strikes against cartel leadership. The US Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and other military assets may now begin to play a more active role in combating cartel operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
This could mean increased intelligence sharing, direct military support to Mexican forces, and even more aggressive military action like drone strikes or special operations targeting cartel infrastructure. Now, whether the U.S. actually takes those steps, well, that remains to be seen, of course.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
But what's clear is that Washington is now treating the cartels more like insurgent groups or terror organizations, meaning the strategies used to fight al-Qaeda or ISIS could soon be applied south of the U.S. border. All right. Coming up next, Russia demands NATO withdraw from Eastern Europe as part of peace talks. Oh, is that all they want? And U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth orders massive military budget cuts. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB. European allies are growing ever more anxious over President Trump's diplomatic engagement with Russia, which began in earnest on Tuesday with bilateral discussions in the Saudi capital of Riyadh that excluded Kyiv and NATO members.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Now, well, we're learning, thanks to an exclusive report from the Financial Times, that Moscow used the talks to demand the full withdrawal of NATO forces from the alliance's eastern flank, which includes Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. Have I left anyone out?
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The move shows a deepening security cooperation—at least, that's how it appears— between Washington and Mexico City. Later in the show, Russia is demanding, oh, they're demanding, that NATO pull back from Eastern Europe. That's one of its conditions for peace talks with the U.S. We'll tell you what's behind the latest threats.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The revelation about the Kremlin's escalating conditions for peace is stoking fears that the Trump administration could eventually acquiesce to the demands in order to secure a settlement to end Russia's war in Ukraine. Well, yeah, I mean, frankly, you could get a peace deal any day of the week if you just give Putin whatever he wants.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
For some background, Russian President Putin has long sought the withdrawal of NATO forces from former Soviet and communist bloc countries, which joined the alliance in the late 1990s following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
such an outcome would restore moscow's sphere of influence in eastern europe along the lines of the agreement reached by the us the uk and the soviet union at the yalta conference at the end of the second world war currently around 30 000 troops under nato commander stationed in countries along the alliance's eastern flank with another 10 000 u.s troops hosted in poland But if the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
were to withdraw its security guarantees, the entire region, well, theoretically could come under the threat of the Kremlin. Now, we should stress that at this time, the odds of the Trump administration attempting to force a NATO withdrawal appear to be slight. According to officials in Romania, the US delegation at Tuesday's Riyadh talks flatly rejected Moscow's demand. Well, that's a good thing.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
And leaders in Poland said they have no reason to believe that Trump will move to abandon Poland and their Baltic neighbors. But it is important to understand this from the context of what Putin is demanding.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The chief of staff to Romania's president told the Financial Times that significant doubts remain about how Trump may proceed, particularly given his scathing criticism of Ukrainian President Zelensky, who he described on Wednesday as a, quote, dictator without elections.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
He also pointed to public concessions to Russia that the White House had made even before the talks on Tuesday began, such as ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine and promising to normalize ties between Washington and Moscow. The Romanian official said, quote, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
To guard against what they describe as a, quote, worst case scenario, leaders from the UK and France, who are set to visit Washington next week, will reportedly press Trump to stand firm against Moscow's demand. Still, officials said they fear their pleas are not getting through to the White House. An anonymous senior official from the region said, quote, We have extensively briefed D.C.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
at various levels, but I'm not sure what is seeping through to Trump. So the risk and concern remains that Russia tricks D.C. into doing something via a push on Ukraine. End quote. Regardless, European leaders are preparing for the worst.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
On Wednesday, French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency meeting with the heads of NATO, the European Commission, and a coalition of 19 EU nations, along with the United Kingdom and Canada. to discuss how to respond to Trump's marginalization of Ukraine and NATO.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The Unofficial Coalition of Nations, described as a, quote, crisis response unit, is now focusing on what kind of security guarantees they could provide to Ukraine if the Trump administration moves to abandon their commitments. While no firm policy initiatives have emerged from the talks, Macron said Wednesday it was unacceptable that the U.S. was negotiating with Russia behind Europe's back.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
I mean, aside from Putin's hubris and the belief that he's negotiating with the U.S. apparently from a position of strength. Plus, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is ordering the Pentagon to cut billions from its budget over the next five years.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Macron stressed, quote, Now, if you think about it, It's a fascinating turn of events that European leaders, NATO allies, are seriously worried that the U.S. administration will appease Russian leadership in a desire to secure a peace deal. Putin definitely appears to believe that he has the advantage, that he's negotiating from a position of strength, which frankly should be a cautionary tale.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
As Churchill once said, you can't negotiate with the tiger when your head is in its mouth. Perhaps a more pragmatic approach, unless you're okay with appeasing Putin, is to understand his weaknesses, meaning Putin's weaknesses, and focus on them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Focus on maximizing the West's leverage, forcing the invading army's hand so that they have to sit at the negotiating table from a position of necessity and weakness. It's just a thought, just two cents, which in today's economy is probably worth maybe a quarter of a penny. Shifting stateside, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is preparing to significantly trim the Pentagon's budget as part of the Trump administration's broader efforts to fundamentally reshape military priorities and eliminate what they view as wasteful spending.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The Defense Secretary issued a memo on Tuesday ordering senior military and Defense Department officials to draw up plans to cut 8% of the budget over each of the next five years, which amounts to some $50 billion each year. Officials have until Monday to deliver their cost-cutting proposals, though we should note that Hegseth listed 17 exceptions to the spending overhaul.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
That's according to a report from the New York Times. The carve-outs include spending related to military operations at the U.S.-Mexico border, programs related to drones and submarines, and any operations focused on China.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Spending related to China will reportedly be boosted, as the Trump administration views combating the threat from the Chinese Communist Party as a chief foreign policy priority. Senior officials at the Pentagon said they intend to streamline operations and better align the Department of Defense with President Trump's policy priorities.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
And in today's Back of the Brief, President Trump signs an executive order slamming the brakes on taxpayer-funded programs that support illegal immigration. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
On Wednesday, the acting deputy defense secretary said, quote, President Trump's charge to the department is clear to achieve peace through strength. We'll do this by putting forward budgets that revive the warrior ethos, rebuild our military and reestablish deterrence, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Now, while there are no firm details yet about the nature of the cuts, the Army has already proposed phasing out outdated drones and armored vehicles, while the Navy has suggested decommissioning old frigates and combat ships.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Hegseth has also called for calling what he has described as, quote, excessive bureaucracy, and said he'll work with Elon Musk's team at the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to root out any unnecessary spending.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
An obvious target for cuts to the Pentagon, which has the largest discretionary budget of any government department, are likely to be diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, which Trump has vowed to purge from all government departments and agencies.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The deputy defense secretary said Wednesday, quote, to achieve our mandate from President Trump, we are guided by his priorities, including securing our borders, building the Iron Dome for America, and ending radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing, end quote. Workforce reductions are also likely on the table.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Now, the Pentagon has already been asked to give the White House a list of probationary employees who could potentially be laid off. According to sources who spoke to the New York Times, officials at Doge have also suggested moving full-time Pentagon employees to contract positions in order to make it easier to fire them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
In addition to cuts, the effort will also involve shifting existing funds to programs that Trump favors. For example, the DOD has already boosted spending on beefing up security at the southern border, deploying thousands of active duty troops to help stem the flow of migrants and illegal drugs. They've also already accelerated military flights to deport migrants back to their country of origin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Today, we're kicking things off with a story that might not have grabbed headlines this week, but it's a big one when it comes to the growing trend of America's military involvement in the fight against Mexican drug cartels. Earlier this week, a group of U.S. Army Green Beret arrived in Mexico at the request of Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum. Their mission? To train Mexico's Marines.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
But regarding any proposed cuts, the White House will likely face significant opposition from Congress, setting up a showdown with lawmakers who have long-shielded defense programs that bring jobs to their districts. Well, yeah, I mean, that's a dangerous place to be between a politician and their pork.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump signs an executive order cutting off taxpayer-funded support for illegal immigration. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, President Trump signed an executive order Wednesday night barring the use of taxpayer dollars to support federal programs benefiting illegal immigrants.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Now, the order mandates that all federal agencies identify and dismantle programs that provide financial aid or benefits to illegal immigrants. In addition, agencies must submit plans for, quote, corrective action to prevent federal funds from supporting sanctuary policies or programs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
The White House emphasized that the Trump administration is committed to safeguarding federal resources for Americans and to protect benefits for veterans and individuals with disabilities. The timing of this order is significant.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
It comes amid a surge in illegal immigration in the past four years under the then Biden administration, a trend that the House Homeland Security Committee estimates cost taxpayers in the U.S. approximately $451 billion since January of 2021. $451 billion. The White House fact sheet cites data from the Federation for American Immigration Reform,
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
which calculates the taxpayers spent a minimum of $182 billion annually on 20 million illegal immigrants, stemming from $67 billion in federal expenses and another $115 billion shouldered by state and local governments.
The President's Daily Brief
February 21st, 2025: U.S. Green Berets Deploy To Mexico & Russia Pushes NATO Withdrawal
Further analysis from the Center for Immigration Studies suggests that an influx of 1 million illegal immigrants could cost taxpayers an additional $3 billion per year through welfare programs, despite legal restrictions under the 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act. However, the order emphasizes a key loophole in these restrictions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold today. Now, they've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. That is quite a few years in a row, frankly. So, go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Friday, 20 December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
has managed to take out the top leader of ISIS in a precision strike as U.S. diplomats traveled to Damascus for their first in-person meeting with Syria's rebel leaders. Then, Vladimir Putin apparently has a senior moment, or perhaps he's just simply off his meds. as he suggests that Russia and the West engage in an experimental missile duel over Ukraine. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
I want to begin with an update on US activity inside Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime, as the American military steps up assaults on ISIS strongholds, while top US diplomats meet in person with Syria's new leaders for the first time. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Central Command, or CENTCOM, announced Friday that their forces had carried out an airstrike in eastern Syria that has killed ISIS leader Abu Yusuf. Officials added that another unnamed ISIS operative was also taken out in the precision strike. That's according to a report from the Jerusalem Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
CENTCOM said the strike was carried out in an area formerly controlled by the Assad regime and the Russians, where ISIS fighters are now working to reconstitute their battered terror army, ambitions, of course, that the U.S. is intent on thwarting. Since Assad's ousting on December 8th, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
has unleashed a number of strikes across Syria targeting known ISIS camps and operatives in an effort to disrupt and degrade the terror group. In a statement on Friday, CENTCOM said, "...the United States, working with allies and partners in the region, will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria and reconstitute.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to Syria." Now, General Michael Eric Carrillo, the commander of CENTCOM, noted that the threat from ISIS is more pressing than ever since Assad's downfall.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
He warned that the group is attempting to free some 8,000 ISIS operatives from detention centers across Syria, where they're currently imprisoned. While the death of their leader is certainly a blow to the terror group, significant concerns do remain about what will become of their army of imprisoned fighters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, the prisons are overseen by the Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF, and that's a U.S.-backed coalition primarily led by Kurdish groups.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
But Turkey, which is, as you might recall, a NATO ally, views the Kurdish-led SDF as a threat and has launched repeated attacks on them through Turkish-backed militias, diverting the attention of SDF troops who are guarding the facilities. While there are hopes that Turkey and the SDF can reach a long-term ceasefire, if they continue attacking, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
officials have warned that a major jailbreak could occur. That is not what anyone needs, 8,000 ISIS prisoners back out on the streets. As the U.S. works to contain the threat of an ISIS resurgence, the Biden administration has also begun holding discussions with Syria's new leaders. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
diplomats traveled to Damascus for the first time since Assad's downfall on Friday to meet directly with Syria's de facto rulers, led by the militant group HTS and their chief Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, a former al-Qaeda operative.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
A State Department spokesman said they discussed, quote, transition principles endorsed by the United States, particularly how the rebels plan to unite Syria's many minority religious and ethnic factions to avoid a future breakdown of sectarian violence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Sources familiar with the discussions also said that the US delegation spoke with HTS officials about removing their longstanding terrorist designation. HTS, once an arm of Al-Qaeda, has rebranded itself as a moderate liberation force in recent years.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
They're eager to be removed from the terror list as the designation and the sanctions that come with it could significantly impede the rebels' plans to reform and rebuild Syria. While details of those discussions are not yet available, an unnamed US official called the meeting productive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Despite skepticism about HTS's ability to de-radicalize after their sweeping victory over Assad, Western leaders have sought to directly engage with Syria's transitional government. On Monday and Tuesday, officials from France, Germany, and the UK all traveled to Damascus for their own meetings with the country's new leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Okay, it's a little bit of a late afternoon bulletin. It's the travel schedule. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Just some breaking news. A sad story out of Germany where a vehicle drove into a crowd at a Christmas market located approximately two hours west of Berlin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
But reports suggest that Western powers are still reticent to lift sanctions, with most advocating a wait-and-see approach with regards to HTS and the leadership. Coming up, Vladimir Putin has proposed an experimental missile duel with the West in Ukraine, prompting Ukraine's President Zelensky to call the Russian leader a dumbass.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Now, we'll examine whether Putin is in fact a dumbass when we return. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is back to taunting Ukraine and its Western allies, and his latest provocation could be his most bizarre statement yet. During his end-of-year speech on Thursday, which lasted for four and a half hours, but to be fair, it only felt like a couple of days, Putin proposed that Russia and the US engage in an experimental missile duel in the skies above Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Mocking Western skepticism about the capabilities of Russia's new hypersonic missile, which they fired for the first time on Ukraine in November, Putin suggested staging an exercise pitting his missile against Western-made air defenses. That's according to a report from Reuters. It sounds like Putin is sensitive about the performance of his missile.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Putin's remarks came after a reporter asked him if their Oreshnik hypersonic missile was vulnerable to Western anti-missile defenses being supplied to Ukraine. Putin responded, "...if the experts in the West think so, well, we propose they conduct some kind of technological experiment, a high-tech duel of the 21st century."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Details are few at this stage, although there's at least one fatality and upwards of a reported 60 to 80 injuries. According to German authorities, The driver of the vehicle is in custody, and some reports indicate that there were explosives in the vehicle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Elaborating, he said both sides could select a designated target in Kyiv where Ukraine could concentrate all of their air defense and anti-missile defense to prove if they are up to the task of intercepting the Oreshnik missile. Now, it's worth remembering that that missile is capable of carrying a nuclear payload. Putin continued, quote, We will hit it with Oreshnik and see what happens.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
We are ready for such an experiment. Is the other side ready? End quote. He even suggested such a duel would be beneficial to both Russia and the U.S., allowing both sides to glean insights on their respective military capabilities. Now, as a reminder, the Ereshnik is Russia's new intermediate-range ballistic missile, or IRBM.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
It can reportedly travel at up to 10 times the speed of sound, which, of course, would make it very difficult to intercept and is capable of reaching any target in Europe. Putin fired it for the first time in November in response to Ukraine's use of U.S.-made long-range ballistic missiles and British Storm Shadow cruise missiles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reacted with shock, as you might imagine, to Putin's proposal, saying it would be crazy for two global superpowers to directly test their weapons against each other over another country. Well, he's not wrong. At a news conference on Thursday, Zelenskyy asked a group of reporters, "...do you think he is a sane person?"
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
He later registered his disapproval in a statement on X, saying, "...people are dying, and Putin thinks it's interesting." Dumbass. End quote. Okay. Ridiculous challenges to the West aside, Putin also reiterated threats against Ukraine and their leaders during his address on Thursday, suggesting Kyiv's decision-making centers were viable military targets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
Then, on Friday, his forces unleashed a barrage of ballistic missiles on Kyiv during rush hour, killing at least one person, injuring more than a dozen, and damaging six embassies and other buildings across the Ukrainian capital.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
In a statement, officials with the European Union condemned the assault, saying, quote, this is another barbaric attack by Russia on civilian targets that shows no willingness for peace, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 20 December. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
The German authorities have now described it as a terrorist attack, and this, unfortunately, is reminiscent of a similar terrorist attack on a Berlin Christmas market back in December of 2016 that killed 12. We'll keep an eye on the investigation and report further as details emerge. First, though, coming up in today's afternoon bulletin, an update from Syria, where the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
And now, as you may already be aware, well, it's Friday. And of course, every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on the First TV, we launch a brand spanking new episode of our much-loved weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
This week's guests include the most excellent Jonathan Shanzer, the executive director of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, and the always knowledgeable and entertaining Ryan McBeth. We're talking Gaza ceasefire, Syria, a look back at the past year of conflict in Ukraine, and all things drone related. It's frankly a barn burner of an episode.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 20th, 2024: US Eliminates ISIS Leader & Putin Taunts West With Proposed 'Missile Duel'
And as always, you can find this weekend's Situation Report, as well as our past episodes, on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief, and of course, on all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB's Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts today over at Patriot Gold. Now, you've probably heard me say this before, but the Patriot Gold Group has been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row, and that is quite a few years in a row.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
In today's back of the brief, the Security Service of Ukraine, or the SBU, announced the takedown of what it calls the biggest network of Russian spies operating within the country, within Ukraine, alleging the group sought to obtain sensitive intelligence about Kiev's newly acquired F-16 jets.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The SBU's military counterintelligence unit on Tuesday claimed it dismantled a 12-member spy ring of Russian agents and their informants. Notably, some of the members were former Ukrainian soldiers recruited by Russia's main intelligence directorate, the GRU, while they hid from punishment after deserting posts.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
In a statement, Ukraine's prosecutor's office revealed that a member of the network also deceived three Ukrainian soldiers into sharing sensitive details by pretending to work for domestic intelligence. Operating across five regions, the spy ring allegedly leveraged frontline Ukrainian contacts to pinpoint key military targets.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The spy ring's primary focus, according to the SBU, was identifying airfields housing F-16 jets, locations of air defense systems, and facilities manufacturing electronic warfare technology. As we reported on the PDB, Ukraine began receiving F-16s this summer after extensive negotiations with Western allies.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Now, despite being decades old, the jets were heralded as a potential game changer for Kyiv, enhancing its ability to intercept Russian drone and missile attacks. These capabilities make the aircraft not only a strategic military tool, but also a symbolic target for Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Russian strongman Vladimir Putin just gave a marathon end of year press briefing in Moscow where he claimed he's ready to strike a bargain to end his nearly three year old war on Ukraine. During the four and a half hour long question and answer session. Can you imagine if you were in the press and you had to sit through that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Business Insider reports that it remains uncertain how much actionable intelligence the spy network managed to deliver before its dismantlement. According to Radio Free Europe, the alleged ringleader was detained and prominent members of the spy ring faced charges of state treason and unauthorized disclosure of military information.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Convictions could result in sentences ranging from eight years to life imprisonment alongside the confiscation of property. Additional arrests are expected as the investigation deepens.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The dismantling of the spy ring marks a significant victory for Ukraine's counterintelligence efforts, but the broader challenge, of course, of neutralizing Russian espionage operations, well, that looms large as the conflict nears the three-year mark. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 20 December.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
If you have any questions for me, or if you'd like to make a comment, well, please do. Just reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. It's very simple. To listen to the show ad-free, well, that's also simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And if it's Friday, and I have it on good authority that it is, well, that means that the PDB production team is busy putting together a brand new episode for this weekend of our PDB Situation Report. As always, great guests, solid insight, news you can use. Tune in. You can find that, of course, on the first TV every Friday evening. New episodes launch at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And our YouTube channel, that's a juggernaut, at President's Daily Brief. and of course, all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Anyway, during that four and a half hour long question and answer session on Thursday, which was of course carefully choreographed by the Kremlin, Putin said his forces are winning the war, but would gladly participate in possible peace talks with U.S. President-elect Trump once he returns to office in order to find a compromise with Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
He also claimed that Russia had no preconditions to start talks with Ukrainian authorities, and that's according to a report from Reuters. But, as always with Putin, well, there's a significant catch. The dictator said Russia has been ready to negotiate for some time and placed the blame on leaders in Kyiv for resisting efforts to start a discussion.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Go to patriotgoldgroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Friday, 20 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And yes, it does look like I'm dressed to do a couple of shows at the Copacabana. It's the festive holiday season. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
He also said that while he's willing to negotiate with anyone, including Ukrainian President Zelensky, the Kremlin would only accept a deal that is approved by the Ukrainian parliament, which he called Ukraine's only legitimate authority.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Putin said Zelensky, whose term technically expired in the spring of this year, would need to stand for re-election for Moscow to consider him a legitimate signatory to any future agreement. Oh, because, of course, nobody loves protocol and pomp and circumstance and sticking to the rules like Putin does.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
As a reminder, Ukrainian elections were scrapped due to the war, and Zelensky has been leading under an extended period of martial law. Now, furthermore, despite his declaration that Russia has no conditions for starting negotiations, Putin later said that any diplomatic discussions should be based on the failed Istanbul talks from 2022. So, I guess Putin does have conditions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
For some background, the Istanbul negotiations occurred shortly after Moscow's full-scale invasion. The draft treaty allowed Ukraine to pursue EU membership but prohibited it from joining NATO.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The treaty also imposed stringent conditions, forbidding Ukraine from hosting foreign weapons, requiring reductions in its military forces, and demanding Kyiv officially cede Crimea and parts of the Donbass region to Russia. Kyiv rejected these terms, of course, as unacceptable and akin to a capitulation, leading to the collapse of the talks.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Putin also poured cold water on the possibility of a more limited ceasefire, saying any deal between Russia and Ukraine must be longstanding. Putin's aversion to a more limited truce could throw a wrench into the plans of President-elect Trump, who has regularly claimed that he can bring a swift end to the conflict once he returns to office.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
One plan that Trump has reportedly floated to European leaders would involve a ceasefire and the deployment of a European-led peacekeeping coalition of ground troops in Ukraine, though it sounds like that will be a non-starter with Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
While there are apparently multiple plans being floated by Trump's advisors at this time, he has proposed ceding large parts of Ukraine's eastern territories to Russia, areas that Moscow's forces currently occupy, as well as blocking Ukraine from joining the NATO alliance. Zelensky, for his part, has shown an openness to aspects of Trump's proposals.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
On Thursday, Zelensky said he had discussed the idea of a peacekeeping force with European leaders as a potential path forward. He also recently said he'd be willing to consider temporarily ceding Russian-occupied territories to Moscow, but only if Ukraine is offered NATO membership.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Once Ukraine is under the NATO umbrella, Zelensky has advocated using diplomatic means to restore their lost territory. But Putin has regularly stated his intent to keep the roughly 18% of Ukrainian territory that his military has seized.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And during his press conference on Thursday, he said Russia's bloody but sustained gains on the front lines in eastern Ukraine have put Moscow in a strong negotiating position. Putin clearly thinks he's winning the war despite heavy losses, leaving many to question whether his claim to interest in a peace deal is genuine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
In a rare admission, however, Putin did acknowledge that his military made missteps in the early days of the war and that they should have been better prepared prior to invading in February 2022. Or how about this? They could have just chosen not to invade at all. Asked if he would do anything different, Putin said he regretted not sending troops into Ukraine sooner. Oh. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Coming up next, Israel sets their sights on Yemen's Houthi rebels, and China comes under scrutiny over the mysterious drone phenomena haunting U.S. skies. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. All right, three down, one to go. That's the message Israeli leaders just sent to Yemen's Houthi militants, Iran's last remaining proxy group of any real capability in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
With Hamas and Hezbollah crippled and the Iranian-allied Assad regime toppled in Syria, Israel now appears ready to remove the Houthi rebels from the chessboard, particularly after the group launched another missile attack on Israel early Thursday morning that damaged a school in Tel Aviv.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
We'll start the show with an update on the war in Ukraine, as Russian President Putin claims he's ready to strike a compromise with Donald Trump to end the conflict. Later in the show, Israel is setting their sights on Iran's last remaining proxy group of note in the Middle East, warning Yemen's Houthi rebels that the long arm of Israeli justice will soon come for them.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Leaders in Jerusalem quickly responded, greenlighting a series of deadly strikes on Houthi strongholds in Yemen that killed nine, according to a report from CNN. The operation involved 14 Israeli fighter jets that dropped more than 60 munitions on Houthi military targets with the aim of paralyzing all of the ports in Yemen used by the Iranian-backed group.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Sources subsequently told the Times of Israel that the mission had been successful and that all militant operations at Houthi-controlled ports had come to a halt after the strikes. For the first time, Israel also struck the Houthi-held capital of Sana'a.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Israeli leaders said they want to make it clear to the Houthis that their belligerence will not go unanswered, and if they continue, they can expect to suffer a fate similar to their militant allies in Lebanon and Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Following Thursday's operations, Prime Minister Netanyahu said Israel's strikes on the Houthis were on behalf of the entire world, given the group's sustained drone and missile attacks on commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea for more than a year. The Houthis are now standing alone, according to Netanyahu, who said, quote, after Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Assad regime in Syria,
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The Houthis are nearly the last remaining arm of Iran's Axis of Evil. He added, "...they will learn the hard way that anyone who attacks Israel pays a very heavy price." Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz went even further in his public statement following the strikes, saying he was, "...warning the heads of the Houthi terror group, the long arm of Israel will reach you.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Whoever lifts a hand against the State of Israel will have it severed. Whoever harms us will be harmed many times over." As I'm sure our listeners are aware, the Houthis began attacking Israel in the wake of last year's 7 October attacks by Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
In addition to their relentless assaults on the Jewish state, they have targeted more than 80 merchant vessels with hundreds of missile attacks in the Red Sea, significantly disrupting international trade. Alongside Israel, the U.S. has also ratcheted up strikes on the Houthis over the past two months, including an operation in October that saw the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
unleash B-2 stealth bombers against the militant group, destroying five underground bunkers used by the Houthis to store weapons. But the Houthis still appear to be, well, undeterred. Following Israel's operations on Thursday, a spokesman for the group filed revenge over what he called Jerusalem's heinous aggression, adding that the Houthis would continue to launch attacks in solidarity with Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
All right. Shifting to the U.S., we return to our coverage of unexplained drone activity as reports of sightings at military bases across the U.S., particularly near Chinese-owned farmland, has raised national security concerns of potential espionage.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
According to the New York Post, at least 17 military bases in states including Hawaii, Utah, California, and Florida experienced drones buzzing the skies in recent weeks. This development follows earlier reports from the Post identifying 19 military bases in proximity to farmland purchased by Chinese-owned companies, which are linked or working on behalf of the communist government.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
sparking fears that these land acquisitions could be leveraged for intelligence gathering. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul voiced alarm on Tuesday, alleging some of these drones could be, quote, spy drones deployed by China.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
McCaul has called for an immediate probe into their origins, reflecting broader anxieties about the strategic placement of Chinese-owned properties near military sites. Yeah, that's something he could be concerned about. Recently, specific incidents have underscored this mounting concern.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Between 9 and 15 December, six drone intrusions were logged at Marine Corps Base Pendleton in California, according to a base spokesman. Meanwhile, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio temporarily shut down airspace last week due to what officials described as, quote, small unmanned aerial systems, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Plus, military bases near Chinese-owned farmland have been caught up in the mystery drone phenomena haunting U.S. skies, leading some to believe that the activity is related to espionage efforts by the Chinese Communist Party.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Similar sightings occurred earlier this week near Fort Lewis, the Army base in Washington state. As we've been tracking on the PDB, mysterious drone activity has been reported over sensitive skies like Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earl in New Jersey this month, with one incident leading to the closure of Stewart International Airport in New York.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
It's worth noting that fears of Chinese espionage are hardly new. A Wall Street Journal investigation in 2023 detailed over 100 attempts by Chinese operatives to infiltrate military facilities from missile ranges in New Mexico to rocket launch sites in Florida. However, critics caution that Chinese-owned farmland near bases could offer a low-profile yet effective means for surveillance.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
A former Blackwater contractor suggested in June to The Post that such properties could be used to monitor military operations, potentially aiding the communist country's ambition to develop a more expeditionary military force. While Chinese investors held less than 1% of foreign-owned U.S. farmland, proximity matters.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
According to the USDA's Farm Service Agency, as of late 2022, Chinese entities owned roughly 550 square miles of American farmland, small in scale but strategically significant near critical sites. Adding to the mystery in the sky, the FAA on Thursday implemented a temporary no-fly zone over parts of New Jersey, citing national security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
The restrictions are set to last until 17 January, which aims to curb unauthorized drone flights over key infrastructure. Despite these measures, the White House ironically maintains that these unidentified drones pose no immediate national security threat. Their lack of transparency is shocking.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
However, federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, continue to investigate while that's good, leaving key questions unanswered and fueling nationwide speculation of potential foreign adversary involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
All right, coming up in the back of the brief, officials in Kyiv say they've disrupted a massive Russian spy ring operating within Ukraine that sought to collect sensitive intelligence related to F-16 fighter jets donated by Kyiv's Western allies. We'll have more when we return. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
And in today's back of the brief, officials in Kyiv say they've disrupted a massive Russian spy ring operating within Ukraine that sought to collect sensitive intelligence related to F-16 fighter jets donated by Kyiv's Western allies. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 20th, 2024: Putin Talks Deal With Trump To End Ukraine War & China Under Scrutiny Over Mystery Drone Phenomena
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Laut einem exklusiven Bericht der Financial Times, eine chinesische Satellitenfirma mit starken Verbindungen mit der CCP und der People's Liberation Army, der PLA, hat direkt von den Houthi-Militanten von Jemen im Red Sea unterstützt. Speziell sagen amerikanische Offiziere, dass eine Firma namens Chenguang Satelliten-Technologie die Iran-gebackte Houthi-Militärin
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
das die Zielsetzung von amerikanischen Kriegsschiffen und kommerziellen Schiffen in der Region ermöglicht hat. Die Firma, die mindestens 100 Satelliten betreibt, hat beruflich tiefe Verbindungen mit Chinas militärischem Apparatus und wurde im Jahr 2023 für die Satellitenintelligenz an die russische Mörder-Wagner-Gruppe verpflichtet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Officials with the Trump administration said that they've repeatedly warned leaders in Beijing, well that should do it, that the company is providing intelligence to the Houthis only to be ignored. The revelations undermine China's claims that they've been working to ease tensions in the region ever since the Houthis began their attacks in one of the most critical maritime routes for global trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
A US official told the Financial Times, quote, the US has raised our concerns privately numerous times to the Chinese government in order to get Beijing to take action, end quote. While the CCP has reportedly played dumb over the actions of the satellite company, US officials said, quote, Beijing's tacit support is yet another example of China's empty claims to support peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
They added, quote, we urge our partners to judge the Communist Party and Chinese companies on their actions, not their empty words, end quote. Als Erinnerung, seit Hamas seine Terror-Attacken auf Israel am 7. Oktober 2023 gegründet hat, haben die Houthis mindestens 145 Angriffe auf kommerzielle Schiffe und 174 Angriffe auf US-Militärschiffen im Red Sea und im Suezkanal. Nun, spielen wir ein Spiel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Aus all diesen Angriffen, wie viele glaubst du, waren auf chinesisch gewählten oder geflaggten Schiffen? Well, the answer would be one. That was back in March of 2024 and that turned out to be an admitted mistake by the Houthis. The vessel was sailing under a Panamanian flag and had only recently been purchased by a Chinese entity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
The Houthis, in fact, have pledged in the past not to attack Chinese vessels. Seine Angriffen haben den globalen Handel aufgeräumt, die Schiffskosten aufgeräumt und die kritischen Suppleichäne weltweit aufgeräumt. Etwa 70 Prozent des globalen Handelsverkehrs sind nun in Südafrika umgekehrt, um die Houthi-Angriffen nahe dem Suezkanal zu vermeiden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Die Trump-Administration hat mit einer Luftwaffe-Kampagne gegen die Houthis reagiert, die am 15. März begann, mehr als 350 Schüsse auf die Houthi-Missile, Anlageplätze, Drohnenproduktionsanlagen und Anlageinfrastruktur zu beurteilen. Der allerletzte Angriff kam am Freitag gegen ein Öl-Port, das von der Terrorgruppe gehalten wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Es hat 74 Menschen getötet und 171 andere beschädigt, was seit dem Anfang des Trump-Administrationskampagns die höchstmütigste US-Aktion gegen die Gruppe bezeichnet hat. But the Houthis have proven to be resilient, supported with intelligence from America's adversaries. China's alleged involvement, however, had not previously been publicly reported.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed the report from the Financial Times on Thursday, saying, "...the fact that they continue to do this is unacceptable." China versucht ständig, sich als globaler Friedensmacher zu bezeichnen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
It's Friday, the 18th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. Wir fangen mit China an, als Berichte herausgefunden haben, dass eine Satellitenfirma mit Linken zur chinesischen Kommunistischen Partei, der CCP, die iranischen-gebackenen Houthi-Militanten in Jemen in den Red Sea zu targeten hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Jedoch ist es klar, dass Beijing und China-basierte Unternehmen wichtige ökonomische und technische Unterstützung an Regimes wie Russland, Nordkorea und Iran und ihre Proxys bieten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
The disclosure comes as Ukrainian President Zelensky accused China on Thursday of directly supplying the Putin regime with weapons and gunpowder, as well as manufacturing certain weapons for Moscow from inside Russian territory. China, as you might imagine, has denied the accusations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Regarding the US allegations concerning support for the Houthis, a spokesperson for China's Washington Embassy said that they were not familiar with the situation and had no comment. Nothing to see here. A move along. Alright, coming up next, it appears the Trump administration is losing patience over the ongoing war in Ukraine and may ditch their efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker ist hier. Well, unfortunately I'm the bearer of bad news. Tax season is here. Jan, I'm sorry about that, but you probably already knew it. And while it might not be the most exciting time of year, it's also a great opportunity to make smart money moves. Look, if your credit... ist unter 600.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Du könntest das Nummer bei 84 Punkten mit on-time Payments erhöhen. Egal, was deine Pläne sind, einer der klugsten Wege, sich für Erfolg zu setzen, ist, deinen Kredit zu bauen. Und wenn du dein Kredit schnell verbessern musst, dann, hör auf, Kick-Off kann helfen. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with Kickoff's special tax season promo.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
No, tax season is the perfect time to take control of your financial future. And for a limited time only, get your first month free at getkickoff.com. Don't wait. That's Kickoff without the C, so it's spelled K-I-K-O-F-F. Get your first month free at getkickoff.com. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Individual results may vary, subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff Credit Service starts at $5 a month for 12 months.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Average First-Year Credit Score Impact of plus 84 points, Vantage Score 3.0, between January 2023 and January 2024 for kick-off credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Mike Baker hier. Well, you know this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Tariffs, right? The trade war. It's thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. Well, it's weighing heavily on all of us. But there is a silver lining. And frankly, there's a silver and a gold lining. You see, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
And while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration has preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Burj Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Look, it's no wonder so many Americans trust Birch Gold Group to help protect their savings. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. Wir sind Theresa und Nemo und deshalb sind wir zu Shopify gewechselt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. As frustrations built within the Trump administration over efforts to secure a peaceful settlement to the war in Ukraine, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is signaling that the US may walk away from negotiations altogether. Secretary Rubio held discussions with European and Ukrainian officials in Paris on Thursday regarding the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
That's the first high-level in-person talks on Trump's peace push that have included European powers. He presented an updated outline on the White House's approach for a negotiated settlement to the war that the State Department said got a, quote, encouraging reception from European leaders. That's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Following the summit, Rubio spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and conveyed the same outline for peace. Details of the latest framework are unknown, but sources said the State Department is trying to determine whether the large differences that remain between Russia and Ukraine can be narrowed through continued negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Despite the apparent optimism on Thursday, Rubio said Friday that time to reach an agreement is running out. Before departing Paris, Rubio told reporters, "...we're not going to continue with this endeavor for weeks and months on end. So, we need to determine very quickly now, and I'm talking about a matter of days, whether or not this is doable in the next few weeks."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Nun haben wir Berichte, dass sie Artillerie und Munition an die Russen versorgt hat und den Houthis unterstützt hat. Wie sehr interventionistisch von ihnen. Später in der Sendung sagt Staatssekretär Marco Rubio, dass die Vereinigten Staaten vom Kriegsgespräch über die Krieg in der Ukraine weggehen können, wenn nicht in den kommenden Tagen signifizierter Prozess gemacht wird.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Rubio added, quote, End quote. It was not immediately clear whether Rubio meant that the US would ditch their current attempts to secure a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine or whether Trump intends to abandon his pursuit of peace altogether. Rubio did not blame either side in his remarks or indicate whether the US would impose additional costs if progress is not made.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
according to a report from Axios. But U.S. officials have previously described the end of April as an informal deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire, after which the U.S. may consider imposing fresh sanctions on the Putin regime. Ukrainian President Zelensky has already said he would honor a ceasefire if Russia reciprocates.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Drei europäische diplomatische Ressourcen sagten den Reuters, dass Rubios Kommentare den Regierungsfragen an Moskau's Verzweiflung, Konzessionen zu machen und einen Weg für Frieden zu machen, reflektierten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Wie wir hier auf der PDB gecheckt haben, zeigt der Kremlin weiterhin, dass sie in keinem Wunsch sind, den Krieg zu beenden, und die Gefühle sind, dass Putin einfach die Trump-Administration mit falschen Voraussetzungen zusammenbringt, sobald er sich vorbereitet, die Gefängnisse zu erweitern, um mehr ukrainische Territorien zu besiegen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Letztes Wochenende hat Russland eine sterbliche Bombardierung auf der ukrainischen Stadt Sumy eröffnet, als die Zivilisten morgens Kirchenveranstaltungen anwesend waren, um Palm-Sunday zu feiern. Der Angriff hat 35 Menschen getötet und mehr als 100 verletzt, schützend überwältigende Verletzungen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Nach diesem Angriff haben die Führer in Europa gefeuert, dass die Trump-Administration gegen Russland eine mehr hartgelegte Richtung nehmen würde. Still, others in the Trump administration remain hopeful that they can bridge the divide and move the needle on peace. Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Vance, speaking from Rome after a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Maloney, on Thursday said he felt, "...optimistic that we can bring this very brutal war to a close." Well, being optimistic is nice, but it's hardly likely to move Putin's needle. Die USA werden eine weitere Runde von Friedensverträgen mit europäischen und ukrainischen Offizieren nächste Woche in London halten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Aber die große Frage bleibt, ob ein Ausbruch mit den Kremlern erfolgen kann, bevor Präsident Trump weggeht. Und natürlich, wenn die USA weggehen von der Suche nach einem Friedensvertrag, bedeutet das, dass sie weiterhin Unterstützung für die Ukraine geben werden, oder bedeutet das, dass sie einfach weggehen von der Konflikt altogether?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 18th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, And of course, don't forget, this is very important, synchronize your watches for 10pm this evening, because it's Friday night. And as with every Friday evening, we're launching a brand new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Great guests, key news of the day and insight. This weekend we've got the super smart economist Preston Brasher from Heritage Foundation, giving us an overview of the trade war with China and what it all means.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittags-Spotlight. An einem Zeitpunkt, in dem die Vereinigten Staaten-China-Verhältnisse an einer großen Krossstraße stehen, haben wir gelernt, dass die chinesische Militär stetig Iran-gebackte Anstrengungen unterstützt, um den Mittleren Osten zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
along with Bill Rogiel, also super smart, from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, providing the latest on the Houthi-Conflict as well as the near-bombing of Iran's nuclear infrastructure. It's a barn burner of a show. A real 18-karat Clambake, as we used to say back in the 60s. Back when I used to pal around with Frank and Sammy and Dean. So tune into the First TV tonight at 10pm.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 18th, 2025: US Accuses China Of Aiding Houthi Attacks & Rubio Threatens To Abandon Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
And as always, you can find the Situation Report on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. And of course, all podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
President Trump says the long stalled Ukraine mineral deal is finally moving forward with the signing set for next week. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, tariffs, you've heard about them, well, they seem to have thrown the global economy into chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions is frankly weighing heavily on all of us.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
But there is a silver lining. And look at that, there's also a gold lining. See, President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from these sweeping tariffs. So, while these new policies are triggering significant financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Look, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist. And the first step is simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free, no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or a 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers. Just text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Hey, Mike Baker here. Did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the US? Did you know that? With thousands of different plants and over 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants you need. Fruit trees, privacy trees, you got your flowering trees, you got your shrubs. You name a plant, they've likely got it.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Was auch immer du dich interessierst, hat Fast Growing Trees dich geschlossen, um dein Lieblingsjahr direkt zu deiner Tür zu bringen. Es ist eine tolle Firma, die dir helfen, dein Outdoors oder dein Indoors mit einer großen Anzahl an Pflanzen und ohne die Zeit und Probleme von Besuchern zu besuchen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
And this spring they have the best deals up to half off on select plants, while listeners to the PDB get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
We'll begin with the latest developments from the war in Ukraine, where it appears that China may be taking on a far more involved role in the conflict than leaders in Beijing would have the world believe.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year... Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. In today's back of the brief, big news out of the White House as President Trump confirms the U.S. and Ukraine will sign a long-delayed deal on Washington's access to critical minerals next week.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Speaking from the Oval Office yesterday, Trump told reporters, quote, We have a minerals deal, which I guess is going to be signed on Thursday, and I assume Ukraine is going to live up to the deal, end quote. Die Annahme stellt den Vertrag, der im Februar vorhin in dem jetzt berühmten Oval-Office-Klatsch zwischen Trump und dem ukrainischen Präsidenten Zelensky, zurück auf den Weg.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said Thursday that intelligence shows the communist nation is supplying the Putin regime with weapons and munitions, marking the first time that Kyiv has openly accused China of providing Russia with direct military aid.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Was wir jetzt wissen, sind, dass beide Seiten einen Konsens auf die breiten Konturen des Post-Kriegs-Akkords erreicht haben, einen, der den USA-privilegierten Zugang zu Ukrainiens vasten Mineraldepositen bieten würde, und in der Folge ein Framework für die Reconstruktion bieten würde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Under the terms, revenues generated from the extraction of Ukraine's mineral resources, whether by state-owned enterprises or private firms, would be deposited into a jointly administered investment fund for reconstruction, overseen by Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The US would hold equity in the fund and claim a share of the profits, reflecting Trump's broader demand that American assistance be treated not as foreign aid, but as a financial investment.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
That premise had long been a sticking point for Kiev, which initially balked at efforts to retroactively frame nearly $90 billion in American assistance, most of it delivered under the then Biden administration, as a loan. But following back-channel talks in Washington, Trump's team dropped its earlier demand to peg total USA at over 300 billion, helping pave the way for a tentative agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The stakes of Thursday's deal are significant. Ukraine sits atop one of the richest deposits of critical minerals in Europe, including nearly a third of the continent's lithium and roughly 7% of its titanium. Es hält auch hohe Reserven von Kobalt, Kupfer, Uranium und rarer Erde-Elementen, die notwendig sind für die Produktion von Waffen, hohe Technologien und Energieentwicklung.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Laut der Ukraine-Ministerie für die Wirtschaft, liegt ein bestimmtes 5% der weltweit kritischen rauchen Materialien in den Grenzen der Ukraine. There is one catch, however, as a vast portion of those assets, worth upward of $350 billion by some estimates, remain under Russian occupation in eastern and southern Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Whether the deal serves as an on-ramp to a ceasefire remains to be seen, but it could mark a pivot point in how the U.S. wields its influence over Ukraine's post-war future and how it profits from it. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 18th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
And as always, well, Fridays mean new episodes of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. This week's guests include economist Preston Brasher from the Heritage Foundation and Bill Roggio from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
While it did not disclose the specifics, Zelenskyy said the weapons included artillery and that Ukraine would be providing a more detailed report on the military coordination next week. That's according to Reuters. But Beijing's assistance reportedly doesn't stop there.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
We look at the economics of tariffs and trade wars and take a spin around the Middle East with an emphasis on Yemen, the Houthis and the Iranian regime. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Zelenskyy also said they have evidence that the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, is actively manufacturing certain weapons from Moscow right from Russian soil. Such actions would of course constitute a major escalation of Beijing's involvement in Russia's war effort and directly contradict the CCP's longstanding claims of neutrality when it comes to the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
As we have previously discussed on the PDB, China has spent much of the war attempting to position themselves as unbiased mediators between Ukraine and Russia, sending envoys to both countries when the war first kicked off. But their actions have consistently undermined their public claims. For example, they've never condemned the invasion by Putin or even formally called the conflict a war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Last year, they even pushed a peace proposal for Ukraine that was universally rejected by the West for granting Russia major portions of Ukrainian territory, while asking for little in the way of concessions from the Kremlin. Und dann, natürlich, gibt es Chinas direkte ökonomische Unterstützung des Putin-Regimes.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Sie werden sich erinnern, dass es im Februar 2022, nur Tage bevor Putin seine Invasion eröffnete, China und Russland zu einer, Quote, No-Limits-Partnerschaft verabschiedeten, die viele sagen, Putins Aggression ermöglichte und Russlands Gefängnis-Industrie-Komplex erweitert hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The CCP has also provided computer chips, advanced software and dual-use technological components to Russia that have military applications, including for drones. Now, if the reports are accurate, it seems that China has been caught red-handed by Ukrainian intelligence covertly trying to tip the scales of the war in Russia's favor.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Zelenskyy told reporters Thursday, quote, we finally have information that China is supplying weapons to the Russian Federation. As of today, we have general information from the SBU intelligence service and reconnaissance about gunpowder and artillery.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The Ukrainian leader added, quote, we believe that Chinese representatives are engaged in the production of some weapons on the territory of Russia. China has so far been silent on the new accusations, though, as I noted, the regime has previously denied any involvement in the war.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
But adding weight to Zelenskys claim, it looks like Russia is openly recruiting Chinese mercenaries, something that the Kremlin would almost certainly not do without Beijing's direct blessing. As we reported last week, two Chinese nationals were recently captured on Ukrainian territory, fighting alongside Russian soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
It's Friday, the 18th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Ukrainian intelligence later said that as many as 150 Chinese nationals have been recruited to fight for the Putin regime. One of the Chinese POWs subsequently disclosed that he was directly approached by Russian officials who had traveled to China in search of recruits.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The Russian officials reportedly offered him an attractive salary of 250,000 rubles, significantly more than the average salary in China. He then traveled to Moscow in February of this year to sign a military contract.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The other captured Chinese national reportedly arrived in Russia in December of 2024 and signed a contract with the Russian military after responding to an advertisement promising a payout of 2 million rubles. Both men, however, said that they were duped into fighting against Ukrainian forces on the front lines.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
One said he was told he would be serving as a rehabilitation therapist for Moscow's troops, but was subsequently forced to undergo weapons training before being sent into Ukrainian territory. Both men said they were tightly monitored and there was no opportunity to flee.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Now we should note that both POWs made these claims at a press conference where they were appealing to China to negotiate their release. So their version of events is frankly impossible to verify.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
After the news of their capture broke, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry issued a vociferous denial, oh, good use of the word vociferous, of any direct Chinese involvement, calling such claims, quote, unfounded.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The spokesman said they have always told their citizens to stay away from the conflict, adding, quote, China is not the initiator of the Ukrainian crisis, nor is China a participating party. We are a firm supporter, he said, and active promoter of a peaceful settlement of the crisis. Alright, coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
As nuclear talks resume, the UN warns Iran is dangerously close to developing nuclear weapons. And Russia eyes a seized US company in order to feed its military. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, I'm sorry to bring you the bad news, but, well, it's tax season. Yeah, I told you I'm sorry about that.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
And while it might not be the most exciting time of the year, that's saying a lot, it's also a great opportunity to make smart money moves. That is very true. Look, if your credit is under 600, you could jump that number by 84 points with on-time payments. No matter what your plans are, one of the smartest ways to set yourself up for success is by building your credit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
And if you need to boost your credit fast, well, Kickoff can help. Start building credit immediately with your first month free with Kickoff's special tax season promo. Tax season is actually the perfect time to take control of your financial future. And for a limited time only, get your first month free at getkickoff.com. Don't wait, that's Kickoff without the C, so it's spelled K-I-K-O-F-F.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Get your first month free at getkickoff.com. Must sign up via getkickoff.com slash mike to activate offer. Offer applies to new customers first month only. Individual results may vary. Subject to approval, offer subject to change. Terms and conditions may apply. Kickoff Credit Service starts at $5 a month for 12 months. Average first year credit score impact of plus 84 points.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
We'll start things off with new accusations from Ukrainian President Zelensky, who claims his nation has gathered intelligence that shows China is now supplying Russia with artillery and munitions, which of course would be a major escalation of Beijing's involvement in Moscow's war effort. We'll have those details.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Vantage score 3.0 between January 2023 and January 2024. For kick-off credit account users who started with a score below 600, who paid on time and who had no delinquencies or collections added to their credit profile during the period. Late payments may negatively impact your credit score. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Let's talk about sleep.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Upgrade your nights with Cozy Earth's temperature regulating sleep essentials. I mean, you know how important sleep is, right? When you sleep well, you wake up refreshed, you're recharged and you're ready to take on the day. Now, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheet set is the softest, coolest, most breathable sheet you'll ever own. We have them at the Baker Compound and it is absolutely true.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Designed to restore, refresh and revitalize you every night. And their bamboo pajamas are the sleepwear upgrade that you deserve. You don't, come on, you deserve it. Lightweight yet cozy, these PJs will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So you wake up feeling your best. Are you still on the fence? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are, try Cozy Earth risk-free for 100 nights.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Get that, 100 nights. Plus, every bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty for long-lasting comfort. Welcome back to the PDB. In a stark assessment, the head of the UN's nuclear watchdog warned Wednesday that Iran has nearly all the components for a nuclear bomb. Further raising, of course, the stakes just before the second round of US-Iran talks this weekend in Rome.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Raphael Grossi, Direktor General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA, told French newspaper Le Monde that while the Iranian regime still has steps left to complete a nuclear weapon, quote, they're not far off and that has to be acknowledged. Grossi likt die Situation zu einem, Quote, Puzzle, mit Iran, der jetzt fast alle Teile braucht, um eine Bombe zu verbinden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Der neuesten Bericht der IAEA bestätigt, dass Iran rund 605 Pounden Uranium besitzt, die bis zu 60 Prozent erzeugt sind, weit über die 3,67 Prozent-Limit, die durch den jetzt fehlenden 2015-Nukleardeal geimpft wurde, und perillös nahe an den 90-Prozent-Threshold, der für waffengradierte Materialien benötigt wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
That 2015 deal, formerly known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, collapsed in 2018 after President Trump in his first term withdrew the U.S. and reinstated sweeping sanctions on Iran under his maximum pressure campaign. The IAEA chief touched down in Tehran on Wednesday in an effort to obtain transparency and revive international monitoring.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Considering that the international community has never had transparency on Iran's program, it does seem unlikely to happen now. The IAEA chief met with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Nuclear Chief Mohammed Islami, pressing for what he called, quote, indispensable cooperation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Grossi stated the IAEA needs, quote, credible assurances about the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program at a time when diplomacy is urgently needed. But the mullahs were quick to strike a defiant posture. Arakci emerged from the meeting blaming, quote, spoilers for trying to, quote, derail current negotiations and warned Grossi to, quote, keep the agency away from politics.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Later in the show, as the US and Iran once again head to the negotiating table this weekend, the UN's nuclear watchdog chief warns that Tehran is not far from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Plus, the Kremlin is reportedly planning to use a US-owned food producer that the Kremlin seized this past year to supply canned goods to the Russian military. Hmm.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Iran continues to insist its program is solely for civilian use. Yeah, nothing to see here, folks. Move along. Though the IAEA chief emphasized that declarations alone are insufficient. Yeah, that would be true. Bluntly stating, quote, we need to be able to verify. The tension follows a fiery back-and-forth exchange between Washington and Tehran in recent days.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
As we've been tracking this week on the PDB, Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff demanded in a post on X that Iran, quote, stop and eliminate uranium enrichment as part of any final deal. That marked a pivot from comments that he made on Fox News on Monday, suggesting that the U.S. would accept enrichment capped at 3.67%, and that was the threshold again under the 2015 deal.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Aragshi declared the demand, quote, non-negotiable, while Tehrans Foreign Ministry spokesman accused Witkow of committing a, quote, professional foul. In a post on X, the spokesman warned that diplomatic whiplash like this could cause talks to collapse altogether. Präsident Trump, für seinen Teil, hat diese Woche klargestellt, dass er keine Verlängerungen oder Verlängerungen tolerieren wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Er hat den Rednern gesagt, dass der iranische Regime kein nukleares Waffen haben kann. Stattdessen, wenn wir etwas sehr hart machen müssen, werden wir es tun. Verrückte potenzielle militärische Aktionen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
With the second round of US-Iran nuclear talks set for tomorrow, Iranian President Massoud Bazeshkin expressed cautious optimism, saying that he hopes a deal can be struck, though with both sides hardening their positions, expectations are low. Okay, turning to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Despite the Trump administration's ongoing efforts at rapprochement with the Putin regime, and yes, I did pronounce it with the French accent, rapprochement, Moscow continues to thumb their nose at the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
In the latest development that is sure to irritate President Trump, the Kremlin is planning to use an American-owned food company that it recently seized to supply canned goods to the Russian army. GLAV-Produkt, the company in question, was placed under state control last October and is the only American-owned firm to be seized by Russia since their war on Ukraine began more than three years ago.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
According to internal Russian military documents reviewed by Reuters, the seizure of GLAV product was deemed necessary to ensure stable food production as the war grinds on, particularly for future supplies to the Russian National Guard and Defense Ministry forces. We should note, the American-owned company had not previously provided food to the Russian military.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The seizure of GLAV-Product, which was founded by Los Angeles-based businessman Leonid Smirnov, followed a Kremlin decree signed in May of last year, allowing for the confiscation of U.S.-owned property and securities as, quote, compensation for Western sanctions against the Putin regime. While the canned food company was taken last October, its assets weren't frozen until mid-March.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
As justification, Russian prosecutors accused Smirnov of illegally transferring 17 million dollars out of Russia between 2022 and 2024. Smirnov denies any wrongdoing, calling the Kremlin's seizure of his company a, quote, Russian-style corporate raid.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
According to a report from the Kiev Independent, the company is now being overseen by Moscow's Federal Property Management Agency in coordination with a major Russian food supplier with ties to Kremlin security forces.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The Kremlin has been asserting greater control over strategic industries in recent months, particularly food production, to sustain their war effort as the conflict enters its fourth year and their economy flounders."
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
The news comes as back-channel negotiations between Washington and Moscow to end the war in Ukraine continue, though critics have said that the Putin regime is simply stringing along the Trump administration with false promises as they prepare for expanded offensives into Ukrainian territory.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, Movement on that much discussed US-Ukraine Mineral Steel. According to both President Trump and the Ukrainian government, that agreement is set to be signed next week. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
April 18th, 2025: China Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Russia's War On Ukraine & UN Warns Iran On Verge Of Building Nuclear Bomb
While US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has previously said that Russia's seizure of GLAV-Product would be part of broader diplomatic talks to, quote, reset relations with Moscow, its new use as a food supplier for the Russian military, well, is sure to complicate those efforts. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
As momentum builds behind finalizing the breakthrough ceasefire agreement in Gaza, advisors to President-elect Donald Trump have reportedly warned Israel not to let their fragile truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon collapse. The warning comes as senior Israeli officials have indicated in recent days that the Israeli military will remain in southern Lebanon beyond the current 60-day ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Leaders in Jerusalem have been highly critical of the Lebanese army, saying they're not moving fast enough to deploy their forces to a buffer zone along their border with Israel, according to an exclusive report from the Jerusalem Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
The remarks have raised concerns in Washington and within Trump's transition team, particularly given the fact negotiators just finalized a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, something that took some 15 months of bloody conflict to achieve.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Trump's senior national security advisors reportedly conveyed their warning earlier this week, simply telling Jerusalem, quote, we don't want the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon to collapse. Officials in Washington are nervous that failures in Lebanon could throw the entire region back into chaos.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
As a reminder, Israel reached a limited truce with Hezbollah on November 27th to stop hostilities for at least 60 days. The deal requires the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and for Hezbollah to retreat north beyond the Litani River in southern Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
In Theorie, by January 26, the only groups allowed to be present south of the Latani River are the Lebanese military and UN peacekeeping forces. But Israel and Hezbollah have repeatedly accused each other of violating the terms of the agreement and have engaged in a number of tit-for-tat strikes since the ceasefire was implemented.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
The Israeli Defense Minister recently said Hezbollah has yet to dismantle all of their weapons and terrorist infrastructure south of the river. And he says they haven't withdrawn their fighters. He has warned, quote, if Hezbollah does not withdraw beyond the Latani River, there will be no agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Turning to the other ceasefire, the Israeli Security Cabinet officially voted Friday to approve the truce agreement with Hamas in Gaza. And the full cabinet is expected to sign off on the ceasefire later today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
While the diplomatic breakthrough came on Wednesday, its ratification in Israel was briefly delayed after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas on Thursday of making last-minute demands that went back on some of their promises. But that hurdle has been now cleared, meaning the ceasefire should go into effect on Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, the initial six weeks of the three-phase agreement will halt fighting and see Hamas release 33 Israeli hostages, including American nationals, in exchange for Israel, freeing 1,000 Palestinian detainees who were not implicated in the 7 October 23 terror attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
The Hostages will be released incrementally, starting with three on Sunday, followed by weekly releases until all 33 are freed. Additionally, Israeli forces will begin gradually withdrawing from densely populated centers and facilitate the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
The second phase would include a permanent ceasefire and Israel's complete withdrawal from Gaza, though it's going to be a long road to reach that stage, particularly given ongoing infighting within Jerusalem's halls of power. The National Security Minister announced Thursday that his far-right party will withdraw from Netanyahu's ruling coalition if this ceasefire deal moves forward.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Hi, Mike Baker here. I'm still out in the desert. It's an amazing trek into great cause, raising awareness for the UK Special Forces Benevolent Fund. While I'm gone, Mike Slater is stepping in to deliver the President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
He staunchly opposed to any negotiations with Hamas, even if they free the remaining hostages in Gaza. Other hardliners within Netanyahu's governing coalition have also threatened to resign over the ceasefire, potentially threatening his party's majority in Israel's parliamentary body.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
But for now, Netanyahu is plowing ahead, and an official for his party hit back at hardliners on Thursday, stating, quote, anyone who dissolves the right-wing government will be remembered as an eternal disgrace. Coming up next, we'll discuss the US Supreme Court's ruling on TikTok and what it means for the future of the popular China-based app in America. More on that after the break.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business, and this spring they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessanter Faktum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Wissen Sie, dass 60 Prozent der Kleider, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall in einem Jahr hergestellt werden? Denken Sie daran. 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist Ihr Onkel, Landfall. Vergleichen Sie das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleider etwas, das wir für eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleider schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleider in Versorgung. Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. After much anticipation, the US Supreme Court handed down their ruling on TikTok today, upholding a bipartisan law requiring China-based ByteDance to divest its ownership of the app by Sunday or face a ban from US markets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
ByteDance, TikToks Parent Company, hat so far refused to sell the popular social media app. In a unanimous decision, the court sided with arguments made by the Biden administration that the app left the communications and data of Americans vulnerable to foreign adversaries, namely China, according to a report from CNBC.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
As a reminder, the law in question, dubbed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversaries Controlled Applications Act, passed with widespread bipartisan support in Congress last April, and it was then signed into law by President Biden. The act gave ByteDance until January 19th, 2025, to find an independent buyer for TikTok or be removed from American app stores. The 19th is Sunday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
It's a rather unprecedented situation. A US law has never previously targeted a social media company for shutdown, let alone one as large as TikTok, which is estimated to have some 170 million users in America. But the Justice has said that the US government was justified in signaling out TikTok, given its connections to China's CCP.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Thanks, Mike. It's Friday, 17 January 2025. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. Today, President-elect Donald Trump is urging Israel to keep their fragile ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon from falling apart, just as the Israeli Security Cabinet votes to approve the breakthrough ceasefire deal with Hamas in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Saying the app is, quote, scale and susceptibility to foreign adversary control, together with the vast swaths of sensitive data the platform collects, justifies differential treatment. As we've covered previously on the PDB, TikTok has long drawn scrutiny over its ties to the CCP, accused of being used by the regime to spread disinformation to United States users.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Under Chinese cybersecurity laws, the company is also required to share all user data with the CCP upon request, potentially allowing the communist regime to mine the data of Americans. ByteDance was challenging the constitutionality of the law on First Amendment grounds, but the court was not having it when they can balance national security concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
The Supreme Court's opinion stated, quote, there is no doubt that for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement and source of community.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
But Congress has determined that divestiture is necessary to address its well-supported national security concerns regarding TikTok's data collection practices and relationship with a foreign adversary. Now, despite the Biden administration's support for the law last year, President Biden has since had a slight change of heart.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
He had reportedly been exploring options in recent days to keep TikTok available in the United States, should the ban proceed. Biden apparently faced pressure from leaders in Silicon Valley, who have argued that the law is a threat to free speech, according to a report from The Washington Post.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Following the news from the Supreme Court, the White House Press Secretary said that President Biden believes, TikTok should remain available to Americans, but punted the issue of enforcement to the incoming Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Separately, an unnamed White House official said President Biden would not instruct his Justice Department to begin enforcing the law, given the fact that Biden will be exiting the White House on Monday, leaving TikTok's fate squarely in the hands of President Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
As we discussed on the morning's PDB, Trump, who tried to ban TikTok during his first term, is considering paths to keep it operating in the United States. Trump made saving TikTok a campaign promise and has praised the app for helping him connect to young voters during the 24-election cycle. He even invited TikTok's chief executive to attend his inauguration as an honored guest.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
According to some reports, he will likely issue an executive order when he takes office that would suspend enforcement of the law for 60 to 90 days, giving ByteDance and his administration more time to negotiate a sale. And that is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 17 January. It's going to be an exciting week next week with the start of President Trump's new administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Slater, host of the podcast Politics by Faith, also host of the Morning Show on Sirius XM Patriot. We'll be back on Monday. Until then, stay safe and spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 17th, 2025: Israel's Ceasefire With Hezbollah Risks Collapse & US Supreme Court Upholds TikTok Ban
Later in the show, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling Friday upholding the law requiring China-based ByteDance to divest its ownership of TikTok by Sunday or face a ban. President Joe Biden has already said he won't enforce the ban in his last day in office, leaving the fate of the popular app in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
While conversations remain ongoing in various ways to keep the app alive in the U.S., an exclusive report from the Washington Post says the most likely path forward is an executive order that would suspend enforcement of the law for 60 to 90 days, buying time for the Trump administration to negotiate a sale or pursue an alternative solution.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
But legal observers have cast doubt on the viability of such an approach. They note that while past presidents have used executive orders to challenge existing laws, they don't automatically nullify legal enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Und in heute's Back of the Brief, as the clock ticks down to the looming TikTok ban, President Trump is considering an executive order that could allow the platform to continue operating. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Given the widespread bipartisan support behind the TikTok ban and the Supreme Court's expected ruling backing the legislation, they argue that such an executive order would likely not survive legal challenges. Trump wird auch die App-Store und Cloud-Computer-Companien versuchten, die Tiktok in Amerika nutzen, um es aufzuhalten, potenziell sie zu großen legalen Penalitäten zu expositieren.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Um es klar zu machen, auch wenn die Bannung zu einem Faktum geht, wenn du Tiktok auf deinem Handy hast, kannst du es immer noch nutzen. They would just ban it from being able to be downloaded in app stores. And obviously no updates can be made from the app stores either. But the app could still be used on your phone legally until it gets too buggy that it just doesn't function anymore.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
We'll have to wait and see how this drama plays out. But adding to the intrigue, the New York Times reported Wednesday that TikTok's chief executive is expected to attend Trump's inauguration on Monday. That's the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 17 January. To listen to the show ad-free, you can become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by going to pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
I'm Mike Slater from the podcast Politics by Faith, also host of the morning show on SiriusXM Patreon. We'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay safe, spread the word.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Wir beginnen mit einer Vorstellung, wie Florida-Senator Marco Rubio plans to help shape President-elect Donald Trump's foreign policy agenda as Secretary of State, as he vies to be confirmed for the top diplomatic post by the U.S. Senate.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Rubio sat for a marathon five-hour Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday, where he laid out an ambitious vision for restoring American dominance on the world stage. Under a second Trump administration, Rubio said the U.S. would prioritize our commitments to key allies like Israel and Taiwan.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
pursue a more aggressive strategy to counter China and take what he described as a more realistic approach to foreign conflicts like the war in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
When it comes to global crises in general, Rubio said the incoming Trump administration would be more thoughtful about where they commit American manpower and resources, arguing that American foreign policy should always first and foremost, quote, advance U.S. interests. As the hearing got underway, Rubio quickly identified China as the incoming administration's greatest foreign policy challenge.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Rubio painted a dark vision of the consequences of what he called America's, quote, unbalanced relationship with China, saying we have let them manipulate the global order to serve their own interests at the expense of our own. Rubio called China, quote, the most potent and dangerous near peer adversary this nation has ever confronted.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Sie sind unser Hauptspieler in der Wissenschaft und Technologie, globalen Marken und in politischer und militärischer Einfluss. Rubio sagte, dass dies primär durch ökonomische Druck beantwortet werden würde, argumentiert, dass die USA unsere aktuellen Handelsverträge radikal verändern müssen und domänische Produktionen überwinden.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Er sagte, wir müssen unsere domänische Industriekapazität wiederentwickeln und wir müssen sicher machen, dass die Vereinigten Staaten nicht auf eine einzelne Nation, eine einzelne andere Nation, für eine unserer kritischen Versorgungszahlen verlangen. Dies wurde auch von Trumps Wahl für den Staatssekretär erhoben, dessen Bericht auch gestern war.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Nach dem Krieg in der Ukraine hat Rubio den Präsidenten-Elekt Trump geäußert, dass der Westen realistischer sein sollte, wenn es um den Krieg geht.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Während er in der Vergangenheit ein hartes Kritiker von Russland war und in den ersten Tagen des Krieges eine starke Unterstützung von der Ukraine war, sagte Rubio am Dienstag, dass der fast dreijährige Krieg sich in eine unvorstellbare, Quote, Krieg der Attraktion entwickelt hat und dass die zukünftige Regierung schnell damit arbeiten würde, einen Ausbruch zu erreichen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Speaking of that war of attrition, our afternoon bulletin yesterday spoke of Russia's use of Indians, tricking them to come into Russia and then putting them on the front lines to die.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Er hat auch gesagt, dass beide Seiten Konzessionen machen müssten, um eine langfristige Frieden zu erreichen, bemerkend, dass Russland nicht die Fähigkeit hat, die ganze Ukraine zu übernehmen, und dass die Ukraine die Fähigkeit hat, Russland aus der ca. 20% des Territoriums, das sie bereits besiegt, auszulassen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Wie wir hier auf dem PDB diskutiert haben, hat Trump gesagt, dass er hofft, dass sich die Krieg in den ersten sechs Monaten seiner zweiten Administration entspricht, wenn nicht kürzer.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Regarding NATO, Rubio also channeled Trump, pledging to continue US support for the alliance, but also warning European countries that they'll have to take a more active financial and military role in their collective defense. He said America should serve as Europe's backstop to aggression, not the bedrock of their security.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Hey there, it's Mike Baker. I'm with four others from the UK Special Forces Club, making our way through the deserts of Saudi Arabia and Jordan, traveling 700 miles by camel to eventually reach Aqaba. Now while I'm gone, Mike Slater is here to bring you the President's Daily Brief. Stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Er zeigte, dass Amerika die Hülle der ganzen weltweiten Dinge schliessen würde. Er argumentierte, dass zu viel Geld für die Anbieter im Ausland ausgeliefert wird, ohne richtige Begründung. Und letztendlich kam es zum Mittleren Osten. Rubio beurteilte die stetige Unterstützung für Israel und sagte, dass das Verbrechen des iranischen Regimes eine Top-Priorität wäre.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Er beurteilte, dass der Fall des Assad-Regimes in Syrien und Israels Sieg über Irans Achse der Resistenz ungewöhnliche Möglichkeiten bieten, die Rechte der Region zu verändern. Er hat auch gesagt, dass ein Normalisierungsabkommen zwischen Saudi-Arabien und Israel helfen würde, solche Anstrengungen zu akzeptieren.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Die letzte Administration, die erste Trump-Administration, war sehr nah dran, das mit den Abraham-Akkorden zu machen. Zum Ausdruck, hat Rubio beurteilt, dass Amerika nicht mehr auf dem freien Stadion eine naive Spielerin sein kann.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
He said that since the end of the Cold War, quote, while America far too often continued to prioritize the global order above our core national interests, other nations continue to act the way countries always have and always will, in what they perceive to be in their best interest.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
He said it was time to abandon the, quote, dangerous delusion pushed by proponents of the liberal global order that we could all become citizens of the world. Rubio declared, quote, the post-war global order is not just obsolete, it's now a weapon being used against us. Coming up next, stunning revelations about a clandestine Israeli sabotage operation targeting Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
And Cuba begins releasing prisoners following President Biden's plan to remove it from the U.S. terror list. We'll have those stories when we get back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Vielen Dank. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now it's an excellent business and this spring they have the best deals up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Welcome back to the President's Daily Brief. Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker. Turning to Iran, where for the first time a top regime official publicly acknowledged that Israel successfully sabotaged its nuclear program by embedding explosives within centrifuge platforms. A dramatic omission of Mossads infiltration into Tehrans nuclear infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
According to Iran's former foreign minister and current vice president, he revealed the depth of Israel's covert operations during an interview this week with a publicly funded organization in Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Zarif legte fest, wie die westlichen Sanktionen Iran versuchten, Intermediate für die Nuklearverkaufsverwaltung zu verlangen, um die Verletzungen, die die israelische Intelligenz verursacht hat, zu erschaffen. Zarif sagte, das sei Teil der Schädelung der Sanktionen, dass man durch mehrere Verkäufer verkauft wird, anstatt von einer Fabrik direkt zu kaufen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Er hat einen Quote geschrieben, wenn das Zionistische Regime einen Verkäufer infiltrieren kann, dann kann er alles tun und alles installieren, referierend die Explosionen, die in das Equipment verbunden sind, die für die Iranische Atomenergieorganisation bestanden. Die Folgen dieser Infiltration waren bewegend. and two high-profile sabotage operations in 2020 and 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Explosives concealed within marble foundations obliterated critical components of the nuclear facility in Iran, including its advanced centrifuge assembly and underground enrichment halls.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
The former Mossad chief hinted at the sophistication of the operation during an Israeli television interview months later, underscoring the intelligence agency's pivotal role in setbacks for Iran's nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Zarifs Bemerkungen haben sich über die Grenzen von Iran gesteigert, bemerkend eine jüngere Mossad-Operation, die Pages und Radios mit der Tehran-gelegten Proxy Hezbollah in Libanon im September beendet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Wie wir auf dem PDB berichtet haben, haben zwei Wälder von Angriffen 42 Menschen getötet, Tausende verletzt und Hezbollahs Kommunikationen zerstört, als Mossad die Geräte infiltrierte und kleine Explosiven plantierte, die sie remote detonierten. Unglaublich. Dieses Sabotage setzte die Lage für Israels folgende Invasion von Lebanon im Oktober.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Diese Aktionen zeigen, wie Israel Kovert-Operationen nutzt, um Gegner in der Region zu verringern, von Teheran zu Terroristen-Strongholden in Lebanon. Seit der Verabschiedung der USA von dem 2015-Nuklear-Gesetz unter dem damaligen Präsidenten Trump, haben die Tensoren über Irans Nuklearprogramm ausgelöst. Iran hat Uranium erzeugt, näher zum Waffen-Grad-Niveau.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Eine Bewegung, die versucht ist, für friedliche Gründe. Jedoch hat die internationale Gemeinschaft immer mehr skeptisch geworden, besonders so, dass Teheran Uranium erzeugt hat und nicht mehr die Suche nach nuklearen Waffen regiert. Outgoing President Biden and President-elect Trump have both reiterated their commitment to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Thanks, Mike. It's Friday, 17 January 2025. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Slater, filling in for Mike Baker. Let's get briefed. Today, we're starting in Washington, D.C., where Senate confirmation hearings are shedding light on what the next four years of foreign policy might look like under President Donald Trump.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
This alignment raises concerns in Tehran over the potential of a preemptive Israeli strike, tactics Jerusalem previously employed against nuclear facilities in Iraq and Syria. With Trump set to return to the White House next week, Iran's nuclear ambitions face renewed scrutiny.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
The possibility of additional Israeli sabotage or direct military action looms large, as tensions between Tehran and Jerusalem remain at a breaking point. Schiffen wir nach Kuba. Die Kommunistische Nation begann am Donnerstag, die Gefängnisse zu lösen, mit einem Gestur, der zu Vatikan-mediierten Gesprächen verbunden war.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Die Bewegung kommt nur einen Tag nachdem die Biden-Administration den Willen erhielt, Kuba als Staatssponsor für Terrorismus zu bezeichnen. According to ABC News, the initial wave of prisoner releases include over a dozen individuals detained during the historic 2021 protests.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Those protests, spurred by economic distress and widespread power outages, mobilized thousands in the streets in the most substantial anti-government demonstration the communist island witnessed in decades.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
And the Cuban Foreign Ministry framed the gradual release of 553 detainees as part of the Vatican's Jubilee Year, an event marked every quarter century by Catholic pilgrimages to Rome, signaling an attempt to decouple the move from Washington's surprise policy shift. By Wednesday afternoon, the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights, which monitors such cases, reported the release of 18 prisoners.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Despite the US gesture, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez issued a blistering critique of the Biden administration, labeling the delisting decision as a mere political and superficial gesture. Rodriguez stated, quote, It has been proven that this list is not a tool in the fight against terrorism, but rather a brutal instrument of political coercion against sovereign states.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
For the prisoners themselves, the news came with abruptness and conditional freedom. According to the Associated Press, one D-Dainty, arrested during the 2021 protest and sentenced to four years for public disorder, recounted the suddenness of her release, stating, quote, At three in the morning, officials knocked.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
I was sleeping in the cell and they told me to gather all my things, that I was free. However, officials warned the detainee that the release did not equate to forgiveness and that any future infractions would lead to reincarceration.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
The Biden administration's policy shift unfolds mere days before President-elect Trump takes office, setting the stage for what is likely an imminent hardline reversal. A spokesperson for Trump's team emphasized the intent to implement sanctions, quote, with broader effects than last time. Zudem wurde Biden in seiner 11. Uhr-Decision einen Tag vor dem 1.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Konfirmationsgericht des floridischen Präsidenten Marco Rubio veröffentlicht.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Rubio, ein kubanischer Amerikaner, der von der kommunistischen Regime gekündigt wurde, kritisierte die Aktionen der vorliegenden Regierung während seines Konfirmationsgerichts am Montag, argumentierte, dass Kubas Beziehungen mit Iran, Venezuela, Hamas und Hezbollah klare Indizien für ihre fortschrittliche Unterstützung für Terrorismus waren.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Later in the show, we'll bring you stunning revelations about a clandestine Israeli operation involving centrifuges embedded with explosives, part of a broader effort to sabotage Tehrans nuclear ambitions. Plus news from the Caribbean, as Cuba has started releasing prisoners after President Joe Biden announced plans to remove the communist country from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
As Trump prepares to enact a confrontational approach when he assumes office on Monday, the fragile detente initiated in the final days of the Biden administration leaves US-Cuba relations in renewed tension. Coming up, the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
With just days left before TikTok is banned in the United States, President Trump is weighing a last-minute executive order to let the platform continue operating. We'll be back with more on that.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Hey, Mike Baker hier. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held on to for a long time, right?
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me, because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code BAKER, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Mike Slater filling in for Mike Baker in today's Back of the Brief. With the popular social media app TikTok facing the threat of an imminent nationwide ban, reports have emerged that President-elect Donald Trump may step in to save it.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Trump is reportedly considering an executive order to allow TikTok to continue operating in the United States, though it's not clear how Trump intends to navigate the legalities of such an action. As a reminder, Congress passed a law last April to ban the use of TikTok in America unless the app's Chinese-based parent company, ByteDance, sells to an independent buyer.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
ByteDance hat die Gesetzgebung des Gesetzes in der US-Selbstverwaltungsgerichtung ermutigt. Aber das Argument vom 10. Januar der Gerichtshof sagt, dass es wahrscheinlich die Gesetzgebung über nationale Sicherheitskonserven übernehmen wird. Wir können eigentlich eine Entscheidung von der Strafverwaltungsgerichtung über diesen TikTok-Gesetz heute bekommen.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
Während sie noch nicht das letzte Gesetz verabschiedet haben, wenn die Gerichtshof nicht interveniert, hat ByteDance bis Sonntag, um einen neuen Anwohner zu finden oder zu verabschieden. Die Mitglieder beider Parteien haben langfristige Gefühle über die Firmen, die sich mit der CCP verbunden haben.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
RUN-TikTok wurde verwendet, um die US-Fahrer zu verurteilen, und wird regelmäßig von dem kommunistischen Regime verwendet, um die Daten von Millionen von Amerikanern zu minieren. But Trump, who tried to ban TikTok during his first term, has since developed a fondness for the app, pledging to save it while on the campaign trail.
The President's Daily Brief
January 17th, 2025: Rubio’s Foreign Policy Vision & Israel’s Nuclear Sabotage
He officially joined TikTok during the 2024 presidential race and credited the app with helping him connect with young Americans and ultimately win more of the youth vote. Just last month, the president-elect said, quote, I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
China's growing satellite network is of particular concern to Saltzman, who said it can precisely target the location of US forces, preemptively giving, of course, the communist regime valuable intelligence about American troop positions and operations before military objectives can be met. This network reportedly puts forces in the Indo-Pacific region at the greatest risk.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
It's Friday, the 16th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Up first on today's bulletin, America's Space Chief, which honestly might be the coolest job title,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Saltzman said, quote, the PRC has developed what we've kind of, you know, tongue in cheek called a kill web. Doesn't sound tongue in cheek. And it's nothing more than a series of hundreds of satellites that are a sensor network that provide real time updates targeting quality information of our force. He continued, quote, this is a huge problem.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
That's why we have to build our capabilities to try to disrupt that so that when we're trying to achieve military objectives, our soldiers, sailors, and airmen are safe and not under this umbrella of a very accurate, very long-range set of weapons. But it's not just China.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
America's space chief warned that Russia is demonstrating similar strength in this arena, pinpointing three major areas of concern in Moscow's space technology development. First, he points to what he described as their kinetic kill capability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Back in November 2021, Russia used a direct-descent anti-satellite missile to intentionally destroy a defunct Soviet intelligence satellite, creating a massive debris field in low-Earth orbit that posed risks to the International Space Station and other satellites.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Second, he noted that Russia launched a crippling cyberattack on American commercial satellite internet company Viasat just one hour before mounting their invasion of Ukraine, causing outages for several thousand Ukrainian customers and disrupting wind farms and internet services throughout Central Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Finally, and most ominously, Saltzman warned of the Kremlin's intention to put a nuclear weapon into orbit. As you may recall, reports started circulating back in February of 2024 that the Putin regime was pursuing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon that could shut down everything from military communications to civilian phone-based services and apps. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
intelligence officials said the weapon could trigger an electromagnetic pulse across low Earth orbit. that would disable dozens of critical satellites and have a catastrophic effect on any ground-based devices that rely on satellite connectivity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
While Moscow vociferously denied the reports as a Western fear tactic, intelligence suggests that the Kremlin is still serious about putting a nuke in space. Saltzman said, "...the Russians are demonstrating reckless behavior with regards to how they intend to contest the space domain that will have far-reaching impacts beyond any localized military effect."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
But the threat extends beyond Earth's orbit. Saltzman noted that Russia has partnered with China to launch a joint lunar exploration project called the International Lunar Research Station. China intends to put astronauts on the moon before 2030 and build a joint nuclear power plant on the moon with Russia to support the station.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
has issued a grave warning about Russian and Chinese advances in space-based warfare, including Beijing's KillWeb satellite network, Moscow's intention to put a nuclear weapon into orbit, and their joint project, between China and Russia, to build a permanent moon base by mid-2030. We'll have the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
According to Politico, the ambitious project aims to create a permanent moon base by mid-2030 to compete with America's Artemis moon mission. We'd also be remiss if we didn't mention China's breakthrough in advanced energy weapon technology just last November.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
The South China Morning Post reported that the Chinese Communist Party had developed an advanced energy beam weapon, dubbed a real-life Death Star, capable of targeting and disrupting satellite systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Now, the weapon can reportedly be used to impair communications, navigation, and even missile guidance systems, adding a potent new dimension to China's arsenal and underscoring their strategic emphasis on space-based warfare. Luckily, though, their Death Star can be destroyed by simply firing a proton torpedo into its unsecured thermal exhaust port.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
And that is easily the nerdiest thing that I've ever said out loud. With the battle over the final frontier heating up, Saltzman says the U.S. must rapidly work to secure its own strategic foothold in space or risk being overtaken by adversaries. All right, coming up next, Israel engages in secret talks with the new Islamist regime in Syria. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
I'd like to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about your security, specifically about your online security, and more specifically about a great company that can help you with online security called DeleteMe.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time, frankly, when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable. Look, you know this, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
And frankly, having your address, your phone numbers, your family members' names floating about on the internet, well, can have actual bad consequences in the real world. So, why take a chance? Look, have you ever been a victim of identity theft or harassment or doxing? I suspect if you haven't, then probably you know someone who has. Delete Me can help.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. Now at a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, you can get 20% off your Delete.me plan simply by texting PDB to the number 64000. The only way again to get that 20% off is just to text PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
This July, and I suspect you've probably heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of what's known as the BRICS nations, and they'll be held in Rio de Janeiro. Now, this block of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia and India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
dollar as the global currency, and they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. How about that for a catchy name? Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, of course, bringing down the value of the dollar.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
And while this transition won't happen overnight, the real reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how can you protect your hard-earned dollar savings? Well, one way is to check in with the professionals at Birch Gold Group. Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Later in the show, in a surprising development, we're learning that Israel is engaged in secret talks with the new Islamist regime in Syria on the possibility of joining the Abraham Accords in a potential bid to further erode Iran's strategic interests in the Middle East. Now, that would be in the top 10 geopolitical developments of 2025. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Claim your free information kit on gold by texting PDB to the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset. Just text PDB to 989-898 today. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin, turning our attention to the Middle East, where President Trump's push for regional diplomacy appears to be making an impact.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
According to sources that spoke exclusively with the Times of Israel, Israeli officials have been holding secret security-related talks with Syria's new Islamist-led government in recent days aimed at reducing tensions between the longtime adversaries and on the possibility also of having Damascus join the Abraham Accords.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
While these delicate discussions are still in the earliest of stages, such a move could see Syria normalize ties with Israel, which of course would deal a critical blow to Iran's strategic influence in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Both Israel and Syria are remaining tight-lipped about the developments, and reports conflict about who is mediating the talks, though sources indicate that both the UAE and Qatar are playing a role.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
One source said a recent meeting was held in Azerbaijan, attended by the chief of the Israeli military's operations directorate, who spoke with unnamed Syrian government representatives alongside Turkish officials.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
A diplomatic breakthrough between Israel and Syria would go a long way towards reducing regional tensions, with the Israeli sources saying the government thinks it could also enable a positive shift in ties between Israel and Turkey. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, since the fall of the Assad regime in December, both Ankara and Jerusalem have moved quickly to try to shape Syria's future.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Turkey is fully backing interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharah's Islamist government and hoping to establish permanent military installations inside Syria. Israel, on the other hand, remains skeptical of the new Sunni Islamist government, particularly given al-Sharah's past life as a former al-Qaeda operative.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Israel has been conducting airstrikes targeting the former Assad regime's military infrastructure and armaments to prevent them from falling into the hands of extremists. The competing interests have raised diplomatic tensions, of course, between Israel and Turkey, with Israeli leaders viewing Turkey's growing presence in Syria as a threat to their security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
We'll begin today with a look at the final frontier of warfare as the US, Russia, and China vie for military supremacy in space. America's space chief sounded the alarm on Thursday on the emerging threat posed by Russia and China in the vast beyond, warning that what's referred to as Beijing's satellite kill web poses the biggest risk to US forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Israel has also carved out a demilitarized zone in southern Syria near the Golan Heights to protect their border from extremist groups, and they've repeatedly warned Syria's new government about deploying forces south of Damascus. But the reports of direct talk suggest that the situation could, could, perhaps, de-escalate. The news comes after President Trump announced a major U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
policy shift regarding Syria just on Tuesday, saying he plans to remove all sanctions on the war-torn nation to, quote, give them a chance at greatness in the post-Assad era. On Wednesday, Trump did meet face-to-face with al-Sharah in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
In exchange for the promised sanctions relief, the president reportedly urged al-Sharaa to normalize ties with Israel, expel all foreign and Palestinian terrorists, and help the U.S. prevent the resurgence of ISIS. Trump later told the media, quote, I told Sharaa, I hope you're going to join the Abraham Accords once you're straightened out.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
And he said yes, though Trump did caution that Syria still has, quote, a lot of work to do. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 16th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbathefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Now, Intel sources have advised me that today is Friday, and Fridays, of course, mean new episodes of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. Our latest show features two always interesting and very insightful guests, George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War, he's just back from Ukraine, and Alireza Jaffarzadeh from the National Council of Resistance of Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
This episode launches this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV. And of course, you can always catch it and past episodes on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief, as well as all podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Let me take a little bit of your time to talk about something very important. Talking about eating smart, right? Eating healthy. Now, a big part of that effort, of course, is, well, knowing where your food comes from, right? How it was raised, how it was handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, someone else will, and it will likely be some big faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Now, something else. If you're a fan of beef like I am, well, I'm about to give you a pro tip on where you can source the highest quality beef. Of course, I'm talking about Tritail's Beef. Look, Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen, no mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 16th, 2025: China Develops Space-Based 'Kill Web' To Defeat The U.S. & Israel's Secret Talks With Syria's Islamist Regime
Speaking at Politico's Security Summit on Thursday, General B. Chance Saltzman, chief of space operations, said it's imperative for America to move swiftly to disrupt the efforts of America's top adversaries to weaponize space before they gain an edge over U.S. capabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Well, look, this July, you may have already heard about this, but this July, there's a global summit of BRICS nations happening in Rio de Janeiro. Now, this block of emerging superpowers, including China and Russia and India and Iran, well, they're meeting with a goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this effort the Rio Reset. That's a catchy name.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, as BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, obviously bringing down the value of the dollar. And while this transition won't happen overnight, the Rio reset does mark a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, how can you protect your hard-earned dollar savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Well, one way is to check in with the professionals at Birch Gold. Look, Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to the number 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, this would be, of course, the same regime that reportedly plotted to assassinate Trump, that has built a ring of terrorist proxies with the aim of destroying Israel, and that has a track record of breaking any agreements related to their nuclear weapons programs. So, yeah, expanding their foreign assassination and kidnapping operations is certainly right in their wheelhouse.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers, let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that real reset. Just text PDB to 989-898-TODAY. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me take a few seconds of your time to talk about something really important. I'm talking about eating smart, right? Eating healthy.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Come on, you know that's important. And a big part of that effort, well, is knowing where your food comes from, how it was raised, and how it was handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, someone else will, and that will probably be some large faceless corporation. Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, I've got a pro tip on where you can source the highest quality beef.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Of course, I'm talking about Tri-Tales beef. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch, and it's run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense or middlemen. Just pasture-raised, grain-finished black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. In today's Back of the Brief, we turn stateside where authorities recently unraveled an ISIS-inspired plot to conduct a terror attack on an American military facility.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Authorities arrested a former member of the Michigan Army National Guard on Tuesday after he attempted to carry out a mass shooting on behalf of the ISIS terrorist organization at the U.S. Army's Tank Automotive and Armaments Command Facility, also known as TACOM, part of the Detroit Arsenal Base.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The suspect, 19-year-old Ammar Saeed, allegedly engaged in detailed planning to facilitate the attack, which was set to unfold on Tuesday morning. That's according to a report from ABC News. But U.S. authorities had long been on to Saeed, first establishing contact with him in June of 2024. A criminal complaint from the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Justice Department said that during his initial encounter with undercover officers, Saeed described his, quote, longstanding desire to engage in violent jihad, either by traveling to ISIS held territory abroad or by carrying out an attack in the U.S. Saeed had previously pledged loyalty to the leader of ISIS in a video showing him wearing a mask in front of an ISIS flag.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
He began planning the details of his attack in November of 2024, obtaining armor-piercing ammunition and high-capacity magazines. Due to the progress he was making, Justice Department officials said that in April of this year, two undercover FBI agents contacted Said and offered to work with him to carry out the attack under the direction of ISIS.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Last month, Said reportedly provided the agents with weaponry, giving firearms instructions and training them in the use of Molotov cocktails. He also gave the agents specific instructions on which building at the base to target in order to inflict maximum casualties. During a subsequent meeting earlier this month, Said allegedly flew a drone over the facility for reconnaissance planning.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
On Tuesday, the day he scheduled for the attack, Saeed was arrested as he and one of the undercover agents traveled to an area near the TACOM base and launched his drone into the air. Justice Department officials said the incident is a disturbing reminder of the ever-present threat posed by Islamic radicals in our own backyard.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
And in today's Back of the Brief, authorities disrupt an alleged plot to carry out an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a military facility near Detroit by a former member of Michigan's Army National Guard. We'll have those details. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We begin today with an update on the nuclear talks between the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Saeed, who was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destruction device, faces up to 20 years in prison for each count.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Brigadier General Rhett Cox, the head of Army Counterintelligence Command, said, "...the arrest of this former soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation." And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 16th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And as always, you can check out our YouTube channel. That's at President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
and Iran as leaders of the Islamic regime push back on reports of a breakthrough in negotiations. President Trump surprised many on Thursday when he said the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
was getting very close to reaching a new nuclear deal with the mullahs, saying they had, quote, sort of agreed to the terms of a proposal delivered to the regime by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff during the fourth round of negotiations on Sunday. Trump said, quote, We're in very serious negotiations with Iran for long term peace. We're getting close to maybe doing a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by faith.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
His remarks came after he said Tuesday that his team had extended, quote, an olive branch to the Iranians, though he stressed that, quote, This is not an offer that will last forever. The time is right now for them to choose.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Sources with direct knowledge of the talks exclusively told Axios that Witkoff had handed a written proposal to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqshi in Oman on Sunday, who in turn brought it back to Tehran for review by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Massoud Bazeshkin. While the details of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
proposal remain unclear, the document reportedly covers the Trump administration's desired parameters for an Iranian civilian nuclear program, as well as requirements for monitoring and verification.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
But a senior Iranian official pushed back on the reports Thursday, claiming the regime had not received an updated proposal and that they would never compromise on their right to enrich uranium domestically. A separate Iranian source told Reuters that an agreement was not imminent as there were still large gaps to bridge in the ongoing negotiations. Still,
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
It does appear, if you kind of look at it sideways and squint, that incremental progress is being made. In an interview on Wednesday with NBC News, a senior political and military and nuclear advisor to the Ayatollah claimed Iran was ready to sign a deal with the U.S. in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. That is, if key Iranian conditions are met. Oh, they're making demands.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The advisor said Iran would commit to never developing a nuclear weapon, get rid of their stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, and agree to allow international inspectors to supervise the process in exchange for the U.S. lifting all sanctions on the regime.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Critically, however, he said any deal must allow Iran to continue their domestic enrichment of uranium for what he claimed are civilian purposes. If the terms from Iran sound familiar, well, they should. The 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, in theory, limited Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67%.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
That's obviously far below the 90% levels that are considered weapons grade. But Iran was quickly accused of covertly flouting the terms. Oh, they were flouting the terms of the deal and resisting the UN's efforts to conduct thorough inspections of all their nuclear sites. Well, they never actually had the ability to inspect all of their nuclear sites.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
President Trump subsequently pulled out of that deal in 2018 during his first term. Those skeptical of Iran's motivations say that any new deal must fully dismantle the regime's nuclear facilities and see Tehran only rely on imported fuel to support its civilian energy program. The Trump administration's position on Iranian enrichment, however, still remains a bit of a mystery.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
At various points, Witkoff and other senior officials have given contrasting answers on whether they will allow the regime to maintain their so-called civilian nuclear program. Thank you. While U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
officials described the fourth round of negotiations last Sunday as encouraging, details of what a new nuclear deal could look like remain scant, and a fifth round of talks have not yet been scheduled. But it goes without saying that the stakes remain very high.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Iran's nuclear program has been rapidly expanding in recent years, with the enrichment of uranium to 60% purity, far above civilian energy needs and dangerously close to weapons-grade levels.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
In April, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a report confirming that Iran now possesses roughly 605 pounds of uranium enriched up to 60%, which they could theoretically convert into bomb-grade material within one to two weeks. Now, that's enough material to produce six nuclear bombs. They also reportedly hold nearly all the components needed to assemble a bomb. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Coming up after the break, President Trump says that Gaza should be turned into a U.S. administered, quote, freedom zone. And Iran expands their foreign assassination and kidnapping operations, leveraging criminal gangs to carry out their dirty work. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Let me take just a few seconds of your time to talk about your security, specifically your online security, and more specifically about a great company called DeleteMe. Now, DeleteMe makes it easy, quick, and safe to remove your personal data online at a time, frankly, when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone vulnerable.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, you know this, it's easier than ever to find personal information about people online. And having your address, your phone number, family member names, and other information hanging out on the internet can have actual bad consequences in the real world. So why take the chance? Look, have you ever been a victim of identity theft or harassment or doxing?
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Well, if you haven't, I suspect you probably know someone who has. That's where Delete.me can help. Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. And now we have a special discount for our PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan by simply texting PDB to the number 64000.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The only way again to get that 20% off is by texting PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Welcome back to the PDB. President Trump on Thursday once again floated the idea that the US could assume control of Gaza and redevelop the war-torn enclave, this time into what he called a, quote, freedom zone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
It's Friday, the 16th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, President Trump claimed Thursday that the U.S. and Iran are close to reaching a new nuclear deal, saying that the mullahs have, quote, sort of agreed to terms. Sort of.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Speaking during a business roundtable in Doha, his second stop on a three-nation Gulf state tour, Trump told Qatari officials, Trump's remarks came as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said this week that Israel will expand its military campaign across Gaza, vowing to launch a full-scale military operation in the coming days to defeat Hamas and break the terror group's grip on the enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Gaza continues to endure heavy Israeli airstrikes, and the IDF expects roughly half of Gaza's civilian population, over one million of the enclave's 2.3 million residents, to flee in advance of the military's anticipated operations. While ceasefire negotiations in Doha continue between U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian officials, momentum has slowed.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, said Wednesday that progress was being made on, quote, all fronts, but gave no further details. In that vacuum, Trump used the roundtable to revive his vision of Gaza's post-war future. Describing the destruction in Gaza as, quote, tremendous death, he told officials, quote, there's practically no buildings standing, people are living under rubble.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, Trump stated that he had reviewed aerial images of the devastation and proposed a U.S.-led rebuilding initiative centered on job creation, infrastructure development, and long-term economic recovery. Talking about those concepts, the president said, quote, I have concepts for Gaza that I think are very good. Let the U.S. get involved.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
This was the first time that Trump had presented the idea to Arab leaders in a formal setting. But it's not a new concept. As our regular PDB listeners will remember, back in February, Trump raised the idea of an American-administered reconstruction zone while hosting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
At the time, Trump described transforming Gaza into the Riviera of the Middle East with U.S. oversight of security, redevelopment, and the removal of weapons and explosives. Trump said during those talks, quote, we'll do a job with it and we will own it.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Netanyahu, who sat alongside Trump during those remarks, voiced support for the initiative, saying that Israel's campaign to neutralize Hamas could be taken, quote, to a much higher level under Trump's leadership. The Israeli leader has not yet responded to the president's latest remarks in Qatar.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
As we've been tracking this week, Trump's stop at Doha is part of his broader Gulf state diplomacy push. His administration has already announced over $1 trillion in investment commitments from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, deals that Trump said would advance the interests of the U.S. and our regional partners, including Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
While he skipped a visit to Israel on this trip, unlike during his first-term Middle East tour, Trump dismissed any suggestion of strained ties with the Jewish state.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, he emphasized that his Gulf diplomacy would, quote, ultimately benefit Israel, noting that Washington now has productive alliances with, quote, Middle Eastern countries, essentially all of them.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
after White House officials presented Tehran with a new proposal on Sunday. But Iran, well, they're denying the reports of a new proposal and say that there are still large gaps to bridge in the talks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Okay, shifting back to the Iranian regime, new reports suggest Tehran is expanding its campaign of overseas assassinations and kidnappings by outsourcing operations to international criminal gangs to obscure its role and avoid direct attribution.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Iran has been steadily building a playbook of transnational repression that combines espionage tradecraft with leveraging organized crime networks These efforts are part of a broader campaign by the Islamic Republic to target dissidents, defectors, and former foreign officials far beyond its borders, all while maintaining plausible deniability
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
According to a recent BBC report, we're seeing an acceleration of that strategy, one increasingly reliant on proxies with no formal allegiance to the Iranian regime, but with deep reach inside Western cities. At the center of this evolving doctrine is Najshari Fizandashti.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
And for background, he's a convicted Iranian drug trafficker turned crime boss who was sentenced to death more than 30 years ago. He's said to have pulled off a dramatic escape from prison, allegedly after killing a guard, and his subsequent criminal activity has drawn suspicion for decades.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Now, mounting intelligence ties him directly to plots targeting Iranian dissidents in both Europe and North America. An anonymous source who once knew Zindashti told the BBC, quote, If someone sentenced to death in Iran escapes after killing a guard, they're unlikely to make it out alive unless there's more to the story.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
That more, the source said, was his suspected recruitment into Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, including its elite overseas unit, the Quds Force. His name returned to headlines in 2020 when Turkish prosecutors linked him to the kidnapping of Iranian dissident Habib Shab, who was lured to Istanbul, abducted, and eventually executed in Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Later in the show, President Trump said Thursday that Gaza should be turned into a U.S.-administered, quote, freedom zone as ceasefire talks in Qatar stall and Israel expands operations in the battered enclave.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
New details reveal that Sindasti's nephew was arrested in connection with that plot. Zendashti's alleged reach also extends to the U.S. As PDB listeners may recall, last year we discussed that federal prosecutors in Minnesota revealed a foiled plan to assassinate two Iranian defectors living in Maryland.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Zendashti was accused of offering $370,000 for the hit through a Canadian member of the Hells Angels biker gang. The FBI intercepted the communications and arrested two suspects before the plot could be carried out.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The Maryland case marked one of the clearest examples of how the Iranian regime is using global criminal syndicates to carry out lethal missions on foreign soil, leveraging their anonymity, mobility, and reach to pursue enemies of the state far from Iran. Notably, intelligence officials believe these plots are part of an evolving operational doctrine led by Unit 840.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
That's a specialized IRGC Quds Force wing coordinating with international criminal groups such as the Thieves-in-Law. That's a violent mafia network born in post-Soviet crime circles. One British counterterrorism official told the BBC that Iran's reliance on non-state actors is intentional.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The official stated, quote, the regime thinks hiring criminals shields them from attribution, adding that such networks, lacking ideological loyalty, are vulnerable to infiltration. Authorities now describe Iran's broader strategy as one of, quote, creeping penetration into Western cities and infiltration they are racing to disrupt.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
The United Kingdom has become a target of particular focus for Iran. MI5 Director Ken McCallum disclosed that British agencies had thwarted more than 20 Iran-linked plots in 2024 alone. Western officials believe the uptick in plots is tied to the mullahs' vow to avenge the 2020 U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
drone strike that killed Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani, a campaign that has reportedly included plots against former Trump administration officials like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo. The Islamic regime has long sought revenge for Soleimani's killing. Iranian operatives were also reportedly connected to a foiled attempt to assassinate President Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
Plus, we'll look at reports that the Iranian regime is aggressively expanding their foreign assassinations and kidnapping operations, leveraging criminal gangs to carry out their dirty work.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
That's an allegation that Tehran vehemently denies. Analysts say the new wave of outsourced hits represents a sophisticated evolution in Iran's approach to silencing dissidents and other perceived enemies. They warn it's a strategy that's more covert, more global, and increasingly difficult to track.
The President's Daily Brief
May 16th, 2025: Trump Claims US Close To Nuclear Deal With Iran & How Tehran Leverages Global Crime Syndicates For Targeted Assassinations
All right, coming up next in the back of the brief, we'll discuss an alleged plot to carry out an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a military facility near Detroit by a former member of Michigan's Army National Guard. More on that when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Your family, your friends and your grill will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Zwei Berichte, die mit dem US-Departement der Energie verbunden sind, erzählten Reuters exklusiv, dass die Trump-Administration die nationalen Sicherheitsrisiken der chinesischen Geräte, die in Amerikas erneuerbare Energieinfrastruktur verwendet werden, nach einigen bedrohlichen Erkenntnissen überprüfen wird.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
They say that over the past nine months, officials have found numerous rogue communication devices hidden inside equipment from multiple Chinese suppliers that power America's energy grid. The devices include cellular radios and other equipment that could allow firewalls to be circumvented remotely.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Nun, die Erfindungen zeigen, dass der kommunistische Regime einen koordinierten Versuch gefordert hat, die Kern-US-Infrastruktur zu infiltrieren und Fragen über Amerikas Beliebtheit auf energie-relevanten Technologien in China zu stellen, nicht zu erwähnen andere Technologien, vor allem Telekom-Geräte. Die neuesten Sorgen beruhen auf Power-Inverter, die v.a.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
in China produziert und weltweit genutzt werden, um Dinge wie Solar-Panel und Wind-Turbinen mit Elektrizitätsgrids zu verbinden. Sie sind auch wichtige Komponenten von Batterien, Heizpumpen und elektrischen Fahrzeugschalter.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Für ein bisschen Hintergrund, sind Power-Inverter typisch gebaut, um einen gewissen Niveau an Remote Access für Updates und Maintenance zu ermöglichen, aber Utilitätsfirmen installieren normalerweise Feuerwände, um direkte Kommunikation nach China zu verhindern.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
But according to the sources that spoke with Reuters, the recent discoveries of communication devices not listed in product documents has raised fears that the CCP could bypass these firewalls with potentially catastrophic consequences. The devices were reportedly found by US experts who regularly stripped down equipment hooked up to energy grids to check for security vulnerabilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
The US government, however, has not publicly acknowledged the findings, making it hard to know just how widespread the problem is. Here's a pro tip, it's probably fairly widespread. But one source warned that the rogue communication devices could in theory be used to remotely switch off inverters or alter their settings
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Das könnte domänische Kraft-Geräte zerstören und Energie-Infrastruktur schädigen, potenziell sogar breite Auslösungen auslösen. Die Anwesenden sagten Reuters, dass das effektiv bedeutet, dass es einen eingestellten Weg gibt, die Geräte physisch zu zerstören. Die Anwesenden sagten, dass sie nicht bezeichnet wurden, da sie nicht die Möglichkeit haben, über die Sache mit den Medien zu sprechen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Sie spezifizierten nicht, welche chinesischen Hersteller mit den versteckten Geräten verbunden waren oder wie viele die US-Geräte gefunden haben. Retired Admiral Mike Rogers, a former director of the U.S. National Security Agency, the NSA, told Reuters, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
It's Thursday, the 15th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Now, I apologize for the late upload today of the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Our youngest boy Muggsy had an all-day tennis tournament to get me away from the microphone until now. So it's actually the PDB Early Evening Bulletin for today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
The findings come at a time of heightened tensions between the US and China, whether over trade tariffs or China's escalating military harassment of Taiwan. It's prompted the government to rethink America's dependence on China for strategic infrastructure technologies. Well, one could argue that on that front, Elvis has left the building.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Here's hoping that the US and its allies aren't just now rethinking their dependence on China. As you may recall, last fall similar concerns were raised regarding the cybersecurity risk posed by Chinese-made cranes used in American ports, which are responsible for 80% of US container operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Viele der chinesisch hergestellten Schiffskräne wurden gefunden, die ungelistete, Quote, schreckliche Geräte enthalten, z.B. zelluläre Modelle, die aktiv mit funktionierenden Kränen-Komponenten verbunden waren. Im November warnte die US-Kreisgarde, dass die Kräne durch Remote-Access-Fähigkeiten von dem Kommunistischen Regime für Spionage oder funktionierende Interferenz verwendet werden könnten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
The Coast Guard subsequently issued a maritime security directive that outlined heightened security measures to address these risks, though American port operators have reportedly been slow to act on the guidance. In addition, there is the issue of Chinese-produced telecoms equipment being purchased and installed by regional US telecoms providers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Nun, das Gewehr wurde oft von den US-Firmen verkauft, bei oder unter Kosten, bei Preisen, die einfach keinen Sinn machten, bis man versteht, dass der Grund war, einfach, dass sie ihr Gewehr auf Tauern auf dem Land installiert haben, besonders in Plätzen, die näher an sensiblen US-Militäranlagen sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Mittlerweile, um breite Sicherheitsrisiken zu beantworten, die mit chinesischen Technologien verbunden sind, haben zwei US-Senate im Februar eine Legislaturperiode eröffnet, die die Departement der Heimat- und Sicherheitsberatung von sechs chinesischen Institutionen banieren würde, die sie sagen, dass sie mit den Führern der CCP sehr verbunden sind.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Während dieser Aussage immer noch debattiert wird, sind große domänische Utilitätsfirmen bereits bereit, sich von ihrer Bedeutung auf chinesische Inverter-Manufacturern zu wechseln. Die Florida Power & Light Company, zum Beispiel, der größte Poweranbieter des Staates, sucht bereits alternative Anbieter, um die Nutzung von chinesischen Inverter zu minimieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Offizielle der US-Departement der Energie haben die Fragen nicht speziell über chinesische Power-Inverter angesprochen, wenn sie über den Bericht von Reuters gefragt wurden, sondern sagten, dass sie ständig Risiken mit erneuerbaren Technologien betrachten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
In a statement, DOE officials said, quote, while this functionality may not have malicious intent, it is critical for those procuring to have a full understanding of the capabilities of the products received, end quote. Unglaublich, den Mitgliedern der chinesischen Embassie in Washington gab es keinen subversiven Intent.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Ich habe Ihnen gesagt, es war unvergesslich, dass Reuters sagte, dass wir die Generalisierung des Konzepts der nationalen Sicherheit verteidigen und China's Infrastruktur-Eigenschaften zerstören. Und dann winkten sie und lachen zu sich selbst. Alright, coming up next.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
In a major snub to Kiev and President Trump, Russian President Putin decided to skip planned direct talks hosted in Turkey to end the war in Ukraine. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me take just a few seconds of your time to talk about your security. Specifically, your online security. And more specifically, to talk about a great company called Delete.me.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Now, Delete.me makes it easy, quick and safe to remove your personal data online at a time when surveillance and data breaches are common enough to make everyone feel vulnerable. It's easier than ever, as you probably know, to find personal information about people online.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Look, having your address, your phone number, your family members' names all hanging out on the Internet can have actual consequences in the real world, right? And why take the chance? Look, have you ever been a victim of identity theft or harassment or doxing? If you haven't, I suspect you probably know someone who has. And that's where Delete.me can help.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
We'll get back to the normal time tomorrow. All right, let's get briefed. First up, US energy officials are re-evaluating the national security risks posed by Chinese-made equipment critical to America's renewable energy infrastructure after discovering what appears to be, and this is shocking, spy devices hidden inside Chinese solar power inverters. We'll have the details.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Take control of your data and keep your private life private by signing up for Delete.me. And now we have a special discount for PDB listeners. Today, get 20% off your Delete.me plan by texting PDB to 64000. The only way to get that 20% off? Well, it's simple. Just text PDB to the number 64000. Message and data rates may apply. Mike Baker hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
This July, right, you may have heard about this, but this July there's going to be a global summit of BRICS-Nations happening in Rio de Janeiro. Now this block of emerging superpowers, it includes China and Russia, India and Iran, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the US dollar as the global currency. And they're calling this the Rio Reset. Catchy name, huh?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Nun, als die BRICS-Nationen mit ihren Plänen vorangehen, könnte die Anforderungen auf US-Dollar reduziert werden, um den Wert des Dollars herunterzubringen. Und während diese Transition natürlich übernachts nicht stattfindet, markiert das Rio Reset einen pivoten Moment, als die BRICS-Nationen und ihre Objekte von der Möglichkeit nach der Realität wechseln.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
So, du fragst dich selbst, wie du deine hart erneuerten Dollarverschuldung schützen kannst. Nun, eine Möglichkeit ist es, mit den Profis über Birchgold zu checken. Birch Gold Group can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA and precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold simply by texting PDB to 989-898.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Look with that A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers. Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and the real reset. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
My name is Mike Slater. I have a podcast called Politics by Faith. I was just talking to a friend of mine who said he hasn't been able to follow the news lately. It's been too much. It's too crazy. It's driving him crazy. And he's just checked out. If you feel that way sometimes too, I think you'll really like our podcast, Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
We take the main story of the day and we run it through the Bible. What does the Bible say about this? It's amazing, but it's all there. And then God tells us what to do. We don't even have to figure it out. The answers are right there. He gives us the answers. Politics by Faith. Please join us over there. You can listen to it wherever you're listening to this podcast right now. Politics by Faith.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Ukrainian President Zelensky arrived in Ankara today for high-stakes ceasefire talks with one goal in mind, a direct meeting with Vladimir Putin. But the Russian President's decision to no-show cast doubt on Moscow's interest in peace, just in case you needed more reasons to cast doubt on their interest in peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Putin, der die Tür auf seine Aufmerksamkeit für Tage geöffnet hatte, schloss im Endeffekt eine Junior-Level-Delegation in seinen Platz, die von dem ehemaligen Kulturminister Wladimir Badinsky, bestehend für die verletzten 2022 verletzten Russisch-Ukrainische-Istanbul-Gespräche, führte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Die Bewegung brachte eine schmerzhafte Begrüßung von Zelenskyy, der die russische Delegation als nur, Quote, Theaterproben verurteilt hatte, die Kremlin verurteilt hatte, dass die Trump-Administration und Türkische Mediation-Effekte verurteilt wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Nach einer knapp drei Stunden geschlossenen Session mit türkischer Präsident Erdogan hat Zelenskyy erklärt, dass eine Ukraine-Team, die von seinem Verteidigungsminister geführt wurde, nach Istanbul gehen würde, um Gespräche mit niedrigen russischen Repräsentanten zu führen, möglicherweise mit amerikanischen und türkischen Offizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Die Mission, sagte er, hätte nur ein Ziel, die Implementierung und Monitorierung des 30-Tage-unabhängigen Ausbruchs des Trump-Gesetzes zu diskutieren. Zelenskyy machte klar, dass er sich nicht mit niemandem, außer Putin, engagieren würde. Noch immer, sagte er, sendete er die Negotiator, Quote, aus Respekt vor Trump und Erdogan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
später im Show, die hohen Steuern der direkten Kriegssprache zwischen Russland und der Ukraine, die am Dienstag in der Türkei geplant wurde, schlug eine große Spannung ein, als der russische Präsident Putin versuchte, die Negotiatur zu verlassen, um stattdessen eine jüngere Delegation in den Knopf des Kiews und von Präsident Trump zu senden. Aber zuerst, heutes Nachmittags-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Zelenskyy sagte, Quote, despite the relatively low level of the Russian delegation, we still want to try to take at least the first steps toward a ceasefire, end quote. Die Unabhängigkeit von Ukrainer Militär, Generalstaff und Intelligenzleiterin der Delegation widerspiegelt die unabhängige Bedeutung der Istanbul-Gespräche, wenn sie überhaupt vorgehen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Zelenskys Regierung hat flachlich keine Diskussionen über territoriale Verabschiedungen oder zukünftige Sicherheitsangebote vorgelegt, ohne dass russische Kräfte ihre Offensivität aufhalten. Und mit Putin nirgends vor Ort, hat die Ukraine wenig Grund, einen Ausbruch zu erwarten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Meanwhile, President Trump on Wednesday, speaking from Doha as part of his ongoing Gulf State Diplomacy Tour, reiterated his central role in the process. He told reporters he might travel to Turkey, quote, if something happened, but later, aboard Air Force One, clarified, quote, nothing's going to happen until Putin and I get together, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Trumps Hauptanwälte, Steve Witkoff, Keith Kellogg und Staatssekretär Marco Rubio, werden in Istanbul die US-Delegation repräsentieren. Wie unsere Zuhörer sich erinnern werden, haben alle drei sich in Backchannel-Effekte engagiert, um zu beurteilen, ob Moskau ernsthaft über eine Trump-Prokertruce spricht.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Was die Frage ist, wie viele hohe-Level-Affiziere es dauert, um zu erkennen, dass Putin nicht ernsthaft ist. Vor dem Zolenskij-Erdogan-Grundverband haben Rubio und Senator Lindsey Graham auch mit der ukrainischen Außenministerin Antalya Türkei getroffen, um Kiews Negotiationsstand zu diskutieren. Wenn die Gespräche beginnen, scheint Russlands Spielbuch unverändert zu sein.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Laut ukrainischen Offizieren ist der russische Seite wieder einmal flottierende Elemente der 2022-Istanbul-Grundverhandlungen, die es beantragten, ukrainische Konzessionen zu steigern, z.B. Demilitarisierung und Verbrennungen an advanced-weapons-Systemen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Kiew und seine westlichen Begleiter haben diese Begriffe als Nonstarter kategorisch negiert, sie als unabhängig von der ukrainischen Souveränität zu markieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Wie wir über das heutige PDB diskutiert haben, sind europäische Führer aus Frankreich, Deutschland, Polen und der USA gestorben, die letzte Woche nach Kiew gefahren sind, um Zolenskys zurückzukehren und zu beurteilen, dass die Verlängerung eines Sturzfeuers gegen Moskau stärkere Sanktionen ermöglichen würde. Trump weht auch sogenannte secondary sanctions, die Russlands Öl-Exporte aufzunehmen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Das wäre natürlich der Hauptrevenue-Stream des Putin-Regimes. Und das, meine Freunde, ist die PDB-Aftonung, naja, lasst es uns die frühere Abend-Bulletin nennen, für Dienstag, den 15. Mai. Wenn Sie Fragen oder Kommentare haben, können Sie mich an pdb-at-the-first-tv.com anmelden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
And of course, as you may know, to listen to the show ad-free, well, just become a Premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting bdbpremium.com. It's that simple. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let me take just a little bit of your time to talk about something important.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Eating smart, eating healthy, right? Now, a big part of that effort is knowing where your food comes from, how it was raised and handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, well, someone else will. And it'll probably be some large faceless corporation. Etwas anderes. Wenn du Beef-Fan bist, wie ich bin, habe ich einen Pro-Tipp.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
US-Energie-Offiziere warnen, dass die amerikanische kritische Infrastruktur gefährlich für chinesische Spionage-Effekte ist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Ein Ort, wo du für den höchsten Qualitäts-Beef zurückkehren kannst. Und natürlich spreche ich über ein großes Geschäft, das Tritails-Beef heißt. Tritails ist ein fünfter Generation Texas Ranch. Es wird von echten Rangern geführt. Es gibt keinen körperlichen Nonsens, keine Mittelmänner, keine Mysterien hier.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Evening Bulletin | May 15th, 2025: Chinese Spy Devices Discovered In Solar Panels & Putin Snubs Direct Peace Talks With Zelensky In Turkey
Nur gegründetes, gegründetes, schwarzes Angus-Beef, das Tendernis und reiches Marbling und großen Geschmack in jedem Ausdruck erhält. Now this grilling season, yeah, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, you get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
should abandon their financial pressure campaign and all, quote, threats of force against the Islamic regime. And that's according to a report from the New York Times. Instead, they called for, quote, political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on the principle of mutual respect, saying it was the only viable pathway to achieving a resolution to the nuclear issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
It's Friday, the 14th of March. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, China and Russia are attempting to position themselves as mediators in Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons, uniting on Friday to back the Islamic regime in the face of aggressive U.S. sanctions targeting Tehran's shadowy oil trade.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
I wonder if that would be the same level of respect that perhaps Russia is according to Ukraine. I don't know. Maybe I'm just being churlish. Their remarks were a not-so-thinly-veiled rebuke of President Trump's campaign to restart direct negotiations with Iran over their nuclear weapons program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Last week, Trump said he sent a personal letter directly to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei offering him a choice between engaging in good-faith negotiations for a new nuclear deal or facing the wrath of the American military.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
While Trump said he would prefer to strike a deal, he may be left with no other option than to handle the situation militarily, threatening, quote, terrible consequences for the regime should they refuse to back down. The comments did not go over particularly well with the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
The Ayatollah said the regime would not be bullied into negotiations, and that's a sentiment echoed by Iranian President Massoud Bezeshkin, who bluntly told Trump on Tuesday to, quote, do whatever the hell you want, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
As a reminder, the Iranian regime has vastly increased their stockpile of highly enriched uranium over the past month and now has enough material reportedly to produce at least six nuclear weapons. Trump responded by returning to his maximum pressure strategy against Iran earlier this month
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
reimposing aggressive sanctions on the regime's oil trade with the stated goal of reducing Iran's oil exports to zero, which, of course, would be an issue for China, the primary buyer of Iran's oil. Ooh, maybe these things are all connected. What do you think? Friday's meeting appeared to be an attempt by China and Russia to position themselves as an alternative to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
global leadership and, rather ironically, as responsible global actors who can mediate major international challenges like nuclear proliferation. In their joint statement, Russia and Iran even praised China's leadership on the issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
But neither China or Russia offered a plan to rein in Iran's enrichment of near-weapons-grade uranium or address the regime's recent installation of more advanced centrifuges at their nuclear sites, which, of course, are accelerating their ability to stockpile nuclear material.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Despite their attempts to paint themselves as an unbiased mediator, the Chinese in particular have a strong incentive to see U.S. sanctions shelved. Last year, Chinese companies purchased more than 90% of Iran's oil exports, almost always at a steep discount, of course, when compared to global prices.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
The arrangement also gives China considerable leverage over the Iranian regime, as their purchases have almost single-handedly propped up the regime's last meaningful source of international revenue. It's hard to overstate the importance of the relationship, as Iran's oil sales to China represent about 6% of Iran's entire economy, or roughly half of their annual government spending.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
For now, China, Iran, and Russia appear unified in their opposition to Trump's international agenda. The three powers also held joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman just a few days before the meeting in Beijing. But internally, well, Iran still has some lingering concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
A senior analyst at the Eurasia Group told the New York Times, quote, the Iranians, for their part, are very wary of Chinese, but especially of Russian involvement in negotiations, as they fear they'll be sold out by Moscow as part of a broader U.S.-Russia accord, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Coming up next, negotiations to extend the ceasefire in Gaza hit another snag on Friday, with Israel accusing Hamas of engaging in psychological warfare. I'll have those details when we come back. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
In what initially appeared to be a breakthrough on stalled ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, the terror group said Friday that they are willing to release New Jersey native Eden Alexander, a 21-year-old Israeli-American hostage who had served in the Israeli army, along with the remains of four other American-Israeli hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
But two Hamas sources later told Reuters that the offer is conditional on Israel agreeing to implement the second phase of a ceasefire deal, open up border crossings, lift a blockade on humanitarian aid, and engage in talks to permanently end the war in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Later in the show, negotiations to extend the ceasefire in Gaza hit another snag on Friday as Hamas said they would release an American-Israeli hostage, but only if Israel agreed to work towards a permanent end to the war. Israel responded by slamming Hamas for the conditional offer, calling it a, quote, manipulation and an act of psychological warfare. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Essentially, the terror group is attempting to avoid making concessions and bypass further negotiations by using the release of Alexander to force Israel into agreeing to their full slate of demands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
As we discussed earlier on the PDB, negotiations to extend the Israel-Hamas ceasefire have been deadlocked, but US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff made a last-ditch effort to try and revive the talks on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
He submitted a proposal to mediators in Qatar that calls for Hamas to release at least five live hostages and the remains of nine deceased captives in exchange for a ceasefire extension and the resumption of humanitarian aid. While Israeli officials quickly agreed to the Witkoff framework, Hamas has refused to agree.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
On Friday, Witkoff said the terror group was being, quote, impractical with their counteroffer to release just one living hostage and reiterated President Trump's warning that Hamas will, quote, pay a severe price if they don't imminently resume hostage releases.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu was even more forceful in his response, accusing the Iranian-backed terror group of engaging in, quote, manipulation and psychological warfare to try and get their way and force Israel into making steep concessions. Netanyahu said Friday, quote, while Israel has accepted the Witkoff proposal, Hamas stands by its refusal and has not budged a millimeter, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Earlier on Friday, Netanyahu said their negotiating team would be leaving Doha and returning to Israel due to the impasse. Still, Netanyahu said he would be convening his cabinet on Saturday night to discuss the hostage situation and determine potential next steps. Hamas, for their part, said they're sending another delegation to Cairo on Friday for further discussions with Egyptian mediators.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
Now, as we discussed earlier, the first phase of the fragile ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas technically expired in late March. While some limited fighting has occurred in the enclave, the situation has not yet descended back into a full-scale war, but concerns are mounting over just how much longer mediators can delay further bloodshed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 14th of March. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And remember, mark your calendars and set your watches. The latest episode of the PDB Situation Report, our extended weekend show, launches this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
This weekend's excellent guests include David Dowd from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, as well as former senior CIA analyst and national security official Fred Flights. Given the state of the world currently, well, as you can imagine, there's a lot to discuss.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
This weekend's episode, along with past episodes of The Situation Report, can also be found on our YouTube channel, and you can find our YouTube channel by going to at President's Daily Brief. as well as all the usual podcast platforms. I hope you'll tune in. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
China and Russia are coming to the aid of Iran, condemning the Trump administration's attempts to pressure the Islamic regime into engaging in nuclear negotiations and calling for an immediate lifting of what they called, quote, illegal unilateral sanctions. The trio of American adversaries convened on Friday in Beijing for high-level talks. Well, that's quite the cabal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 14th, 2025: China, Russia Back Iran In Nuclear Standoff With Trump & Israel Condemns Hamas For Using Hostages For "Psychological Warfare"
One wonders if they met in a secret evil lair located underneath a dormant volcano. But I digress. they met to address the issue of Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons and the escalating Western response. After the talks, which involved China's Executive Vice Foreign Minister and the Deputy Foreign Ministers of Russia and Iran, the group issued a joint statement, agreeing that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
But President Marcos defended the arrest, saying that he was legally obliged to arrest Duterte due to the warrants from the ICC and Interpol, adding that all necessary legal procedures were followed. Duterte is set to make his first appearance before the ICC on Friday. In a statement, the court's chief prosecutor called his arrest, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 14th of March. If you have any questions or comments, well, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Now, I don't need to remind you, even though I'm about to, that Fridays mean new episodes of the much-loved and admired PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Every weekend, we bring you an extended version of the PDB, with great guests digging into key stories and events happening around the world. The latest Situation Report, of course, airs this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV and, of course, is also always available on our YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief and as well as all podcast platforms everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
military to begin drawing up plans for boosting America's troop presence in Panama in order to, quote, "...reclaim the strategic waterway and diminish China's influence in the region."
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
It's Friday, the 14th of March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. Look at that. We've made it to the end of another week. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right. Let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
The options reportedly vary, from partnering with Panamanian security forces to secure the port operations, to essentially invading Panama and seizing the canal outright, though officials said the use of the military force is a far less likely outcome. Sources with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Southern Command told NBC News that whether or not some form of military action is taken will depend entirely on how willing Panamanian leaders are to cooperate with U.S. efforts. While details are sparse, officials said that the commander of U.S. Southern Command, Admiral Alvin Halsey, presented draft strategies to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth earlier this week.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
They come as Secretary Hegseth prepares for a scheduled visit to Panama next month. So, what do the Pentagon's possible strategies entail? As you might imagine, at this stage, the details remain unclear. But sources told NBC News that one avenue would simply involve increasing the number of U.S. troops stationed in the country to ensure U.S. ships have safe passage through the canal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Currently, the U.S. only has roughly 200 troops in-country, including special forces units who partner with Panamanian forces to protect the canal from internal threats. Another option under consideration is using the U.S. military to secure existing ports in Panama, deploying the Army Corps of Engineers to build new ports, and placing operation of the canal's locks under the control of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
military. The White House is also mulling strategies to restore complete U.S. ownership of the canal, as well as positioning troops near Panama so that they could quickly secure the strategic waterway and block Chinese access in the event of a conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
As we've been tracking on the PDB, President Trump has long said he intends to take back the waterway from the Panamanian government, citing the threat of China's influence at the canal's ports. Last week, during his address to a joint session of Congress, Trump formally declared the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
would be, quote, reclaiming the Panama Canal, saying, quote, we didn't give it to China, we gave it to Panama, and we're taking it back, end quote. For some background, the American-built canal has been solely controlled by Panama for 25 years after the U.S. returned the Panama Canal Zone to the country in 1979 and ended a joint partnership in controlling the strategic waterway back in 1999.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
First up, the White House has directed the Pentagon to draw up several options for increasing the American troop presence in Panama in order to achieve President Trump's goal of, quote, retaking the Panama Canal. These plans reportedly range from partnering with local security forces to seizing the strategic trade route by force.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
But the canal obviously remains vital to America's economic interests. Roughly 40% of U.S. container traffic relies on the waterway, with roughly 70% of all vessels traversing the canal either traveling to or from American ports. Trump feels that Panama has not been a good steward of the canal, arguing that they allowed China to move in and essentially capture the strategic trade route.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
While Panama has rejected these accusations, they recently agreed to abandon their agreements with Beijing under China's Belt and Road Initiative following a visit from Secretary of State Marco Rubio in early February. This has opened up the doors for U.S. investment in the canal.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
As we covered last week, the American asset titan BlackRock has since swooped in – that's what you do when you're an asset titan, you swoop – securing a $22.8 billion deal to buy two of the four major ports at the canal's entrances from a Hong Kong-based conglomerate, C.K. Hutchinson, effectively bringing those ports under American control.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Given the newly drafted military plans, however, it appears that President Trump wants to take things even further. But Trump's hopes could be dashed by Congress, where opposition is growing to his plans for territorial expansion.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Earlier this week, House Democrats introduced a bill called the, quote, No Invading Allies Act, which would bar funding to any military operations designed to take over Panama, Greenland or Canada.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
It comes as President Trump said Thursday that annexing Greenland remains high on his wish list, arguing it's vital to deterring potential threats from China and Russia in the Arctic's crucial global trade and military arteries. When asked about the odds of Greenland joining the U.S., Trump responded, quote, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
All right, coming up next, negotiations between Israel and Hamas on extending their fragile ceasefire in Gaza have reportedly stalled. And Taiwan's president warns that China has expanded its influence campaigns and infiltration efforts in an attempt to weaken the island's defenses. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Efforts to extend the Israel-Hamas ceasefire hit a deadlock on Thursday, with negotiations in Doha yielding little progress. This comes as the Trump administration pivots its focus to Moscow for Ukraine-related talks, leaving the future of the fragile ceasefire uncertain.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
As regular listeners of the PDB will recall, the six-week truce that was brokered in mid-January was designed to set the stage for a broader peace deal aimed at ending the war. The terms included Israel's full military withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all hostages. Yet, as the deadline passed, both sides remained entrenched in irreconcilable positions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Israel insists on Hamas's total disarmament and removal, while Hamas refuses to dissolve its remaining battalions. The ceasefire formally expired in early March without a second-phase agreement, though full-scale fighting has yet to resume. In Israel, Prime Minister Netanyahu is caught in a political vice.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Later in the show, negotiations between Israel and Hamas on extending their fragile ceasefire in Gaza have reportedly stalled, though the White House is scrambling to find a temporary fix to prevent a return to fighting.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Hardline members of his coalition demand that the war continue unabated, while hostage families grow increasingly desperate for the return of their loved ones. According to Israeli officials, 24 hostages remain in Gaza, along with the remains of more than 30 others.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Last week, Trump's special envoy on hostages, Adam Boehler, held direct talks with senior Hamas leaders in Qatar, seeking the release of Eden Alexander, he's the last known surviving Israeli-American hostage, along with the remains of four others. But those efforts ended in failure.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Before departing for Moscow on Thursday, Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, took another swing at moving the needle on the negotiations, presenting an updated U.S. ceasefire proposal to both Israel and Hamas, sources told Axios.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
The revised deal calls for Hamas to release at least five live hostages and the remains of nine deceased captives in exchange for a temporary extension of the ceasefire, along with a resumption of humanitarian aid, which was suspended in an effort to pressure Hamas into a deal. This marks a tactical shift. Just two weeks ago, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
proposal sought the release of around 10 live hostages and 18 deceased. The latest iteration appears to be an attempt by the White House to buy time, especially with Ramadan and Passover approaching in the hopes, of course, of staving off renewed bloodshed. Meanwhile, tensions in Gaza remain high.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
The Israeli military has accused Hamas of using a four-year-old boy as a human shield on Tuesday, alleging that the terrorists directed him to approach an IDF post after Israeli forces opened fire on Gazans moving toward their position. The IDF took the child in, later coordinating with international groups to reunite him with his family.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
In a statement, the Israeli military said Hamas, "...does not hesitate to use any means to cynically use and exploit civilians and children to advance its terrorism." The IDF did not specify what Hamas might have hoped to fully achieve by using the child. Just hours earlier, Israeli forces carried out an airstrike targeting a Hamas operative accused of surveilling Israeli troops in southern Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Plus, tensions are once again rising in the South China Sea, as Taiwan's president warns that Beijing has expanded its influence campaigns, infiltration efforts, and spying operations in an attempt to weaken the island's defenses.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
The strike killed four people, adding fuel to fears that the ceasefire, already on life support, may soon collapse. All right, turning to the South China Sea. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-de is sounding the alarm over China's infiltration efforts against the island.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
He warns Beijing has intensified its attempts to undermine Taiwan's defenses and vows to implement new security measures to counter the threat. Following a high-level security meeting on Thursday, Lai accused Beijing of exploiting Taiwan's democracy to, quote, absorb key sectors of society.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
He pointed to a surge in psychological warfare, espionage and political subversion, all of which are tactics designed to destabilize Taiwan from within. Lai noted a stark increase in Chinese espionage cases, revealing that the number of individuals charged with spying for Beijing has tripled since 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Just last year, authorities uncovered 64 cases, many of them tied to current or former military officers. Among the more alarming incidents, the Defense Ministry on Wednesday confirmed a case where a retired Air Force major recruited an active duty officer to smuggle classified data to Beijing regarding Taiwan's anti-ship missile systems. The retired major claimed he was working for a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
think tank and persuaded the officer with promises of cash to hand over the documents. The retired major received $45,000 from his Chinese handlers, sharing just $6,000 with the officer. Taiwanese defense officials have repeatedly warned about China's aggressive recruitment of retired military personnel, a tactic designed, of course, to erode the island's defensive capabilities from within.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
And now Lai is pushing back. He unveiled 17 new measures aimed at tightening legal safeguards against Chinese infiltration, chief among them reinstating military courts for national security violations. It's a move he argues is necessary given the failures of Taiwan's civil judiciary in handling espionage cases.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
He also called for stricter residency rules for Chinese, Hong Kong, and Macau nationals, citing growing evidence that Beijing is using intermarriage and migration as tools for influence operations.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
And in today's Back of the Brief, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was taken into custody by the International Criminal Court, the ICC, in the Netherlands on Wednesday on murder charges, following his arrest in Manila over a bloody years-long drug war that left thousands dead. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Beyond the legal crackdown, the Taiwanese government is stepping up financial scrutiny, monitoring cross-strait business operations, tech exchanges, and financial transactions to prevent Beijing from exploiting Taiwan's economy for intelligence gathering.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Lai even addressed China's efforts to pressure Taiwanese entertainers into towing the Communist Party line, vowing increased oversight of artists working on the mainland. Another key focus is Beijing's use of academic exchanges as vehicles for political influence.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Taipei is now tightening restrictions on organizations linked to China's United Front Department, widely seen as an instrument for spreading Communist Party propaganda under the guise of diplomacy. Lai framed these measures as essential to preserving Taiwan's democracy, warning that failure to act could lead to the slow erosion of sovereignty under Beijing's relentless pressure.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Now, unsurprisingly, China wasted no time in responding. The Taiwan Affairs Office in Beijing condemned Taipei's actions, threatening decisive measures against what it described as separatist provocations. A foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated Beijing's position that unification with Taiwan is inevitable. Quote, those who play with fire will surely be burned, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Well, not particularly original, but I suppose it gets the point across. China claims Taiwan is its own territory, of course, and has never ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. As we've tracked here on the PDB, Beijing continues to test Taiwan's defenses, regularly sending warships and military aircraft near the island in a campaign of intimidation.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, the former president of the Philippines was taken into custody by the International Criminal Court, the ICC, in the Netherlands on Wednesday on murder charges. We'll have those details next.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
In today's back of the brief, a plane carrying former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte landed in the Netherlands on Wednesday, where he was formally transferred into the custody of the International Criminal Court and taken to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
The once untouchable former leader of the Philippines was first arrested on Tuesday at an airport in Manila upon returning from a trip to Hong Kong. The ICC and Interpol had issued warrants earlier that day stemming from the court's years-long investigation into Duterte's bloody war on drugs.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Duterte is accused by the ICC of, quote, murder as a crime against humanity and would become the first Asian former head of state to go on trial at The Hague. That's according to a report from NPR. The news of his arrest was announced by Duterte's successor and longtime political rival, President Fernando Bongbong Marcos, much to the jubilation of the families of his victims.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
Duterte served as president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022 and oversaw a ruthless campaign to crack down on drug use that was marked by thousands of extrajudicial killings. The ICC's arrest warrant accuses Duterte of creating funding and arming death squads that would murder any drug dealer or user that crossed their path.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
According to Amnesty International, as many as 30,000 people were killed during his time as president and earlier as the mayor of Davao City. Civil rights groups and the families of his victims celebrated his arrest, saying it revived hopes that they will finally get justice for their loved ones. But his arrest is not without controversy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
President Trump is intensifying his push to carve out a new sphere of influence for America by potentially seizing overseas territories, with his sights trained squarely right now on the Panama Canal. According to an exclusive report from NBC News, the White House has directed the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
His daughter, Sarah Duterte, who currently serves as the Philippines vice president, despite her recent impeachment, yes, the politics in the Philippines can be complicated, well, she slammed her father's arrest as a form of state kidnapping. She accused President Marcos of engaging in political retribution.
The President's Daily Brief
March 14th, 2025: Pentagon Draws Up Plans For Retaking The Panama Canal & Taiwan Hits Back At China's Infiltration And Espionage Campaign
His supporters dispute the jurisdiction of the ICC, as Duterte had withdrawn the Philippines from the court back in 2019 in a move that was widely viewed as an attempt to shield himself from prosecution.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
While details are fairly sparse at this time, draft ideas will reportedly be discussed at an emergency summit hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh later this month, and will include input from all the key regional players, including Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Palestinian representatives.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
It's Friday, 14 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And I hope your Valentine's Day is going swimmingly. All right, let's get briefed. First, on the heels of President Trump's proposal last week for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its Palestinian population,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Early reports indicate that proposals will focus on creating a Gulf-led reconstruction fund and striking a deal with the U.S. and Israel to sideline Hamas from any role in the future governance of the Gaza Strip. As a reminder, Trump made headlines, to put it mildly, last week when he declared that the U.S. would, quote, own Gaza by leveling the war-torn Strip in order to spearhead reconstruction
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
and create economic opportunities that could take up to 10 to 15 years. While reconstruction is underway, he said that the more than 2 million inhabitants of Gaza would be relocated to neighboring countries. The sources who spoke with Reuters said that Trump's idea left Arab leaders aghast and angry. Well, that's never a good combination.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
I mean, you could be either aghast or you could be angry, but both at the same time, well, that's a recipe for chaos. As we previously discussed on the PDB, Egyptian, Saudi, and Jordanian leaders were quick to publicly condemn and reject the proposal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Saudi leaders were particularly dismayed by Trump's remarks as it would upend their plans to make the creation of a Palestinian state a precondition to normalizing ties with Israel. But the oil-rich kingdom is also seeking to secure an ambitious military pact with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
that would help shore up their defenses against Iran, and solving the Gaza problem in a way that's acceptable to the Trump administration will be likely critical to advancing those interests. Arab leaders are now hurriedly working to slap together a plan that they can sell to President Trump. They're even considering calling it the, quote, Trump plan in a bid to win his support. Seriously?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Sources say at least four proposals are currently on the table, but a plan recently put forth by Egyptian officials has reportedly emerged as the best potential path forward. So, you ask, what do we know about Cairo's vision for the reconstruction in Gaza? Well, the Egyptian plan involves creating a national Palestinian committee to govern the enclave, with Hamas barred from participating.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
The committee would oversee a reconstruction effort that would rely on money from both the international community and the Gulf states, a fund that may potentially be named the, quote, Trump Fund for Reconstruction.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
A buffer zone would also be established, and a physical barrier would be erected along Gaza's border with Egypt to prevent Hamas from building new tunnels, so possibly a big, beautiful wall. But I don't believe the Mexican government will pay for this one.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Additionally, 20 areas would be set up as temporary living zones for displaced Gazans while some 50 Egyptian and foreign companies would be brought in to carry out rebuilding efforts The proposal would allow Palestinians to stay in the Gaza Strip with the hopes of eventually reaching a point where a two-state solution can be pursued
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
But any plan involving a two-state solution will be a tough sell, given Israel's historical opposition to such efforts. Officials in Jordan said MBS's involvement will be critical in selling the plan to the U.S., given the crown prince's generally warm relationship with Trump. The Jordanian official told Reuters, "...we are telling the Americans that we have a plan that works.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Our meeting with MBS is going to be critical. He is taking the lead." As I noted, however, many analysts doubt the feasibility of a plan that envisions a Palestinian state, noting Israel is not likely to accept such an outcome.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Arab leaders led by Saudi Arabia are now scrambling to develop an alternative reconstruction plan. Later in the show, a suspected Russian drone struck the former Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine overnight, damaging its protective shell. Ukrainian President Zelensky called it a, quote, terrorist attack and proof that Vladimir Putin is not serious about pursuing peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Israeli leaders, in fact, have publicly backed Trump's proposal to temporarily relocate Gazans out of the enclave, saying it would address their long-term security concerns in the region. When asked to comment on the upcoming Arab summit in Riyadh on 27 February, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, quote, Right now, the only plan, and they don't like it, but the only plan is the Trump plan.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
So if they've got a better plan, now's the time to present it. End quote. Coming up next, a suspected Russian drone struck the former Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine overnight, damaging its protective shell. I'll have those details when we come back. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Look, as a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache, with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, well, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend some 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. Think about how ineffective that is.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Well, RAMP changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions. And making the switch is effortless. Look, over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp. It's easy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Once again, that's ramp.com slash pdb. Cards are issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and as they say, terms and conditions apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Despite the Trump administration's push for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine this week, escalations on the battlefield are sowing doubts about whether the Kremlin is serious about ending their three-year-old war against Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
According to the Ukrainian military, a Russian military drone armed with a high explosive warhead struck the former Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine overnight, causing extensive damage to the containment shell that protects the reactor and prevents radiation leaks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
The protective shelter, which was installed back in 2016 over a separate containment structure, reportedly sustained a large hole from the unmanned aircraft, which also ignited a fire. Now, I'm sure you don't need reminding that Chernobyl was the site of the world's largest nuclear meltdown disaster in history, and that was back in 1986.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
In a post on social media, Ukrainian President Zelensky called the damage, quote, significant, though stressed that the fire has since been extinguished and there were no signs of increased radiation at the plant following the incident. Officials with the U.N.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA, later confirmed that radiation levels remained normal and that the drone did not manage to breach the defunct nuclear plant's inner containment shell. Zelenskyy condemned Russia over the incident, calling it a, quote, terrorist attack for the entire world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Zelenskyy added, quote, the only country in the world that attacks such sites, occupies nuclear power plants, and wages war without any regard for the consequences is today's Russia, end quote. Representatives for the Kremlin, meanwhile, categorically denied any involvement in the strike. We know nothing about it. A Kremlin spokesman said, quote, the Russian military does not do this.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
But first, today's afternoon spotlight. President Trump's surprise proposal last week for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip may have left the Arab world stunned, but it also appears to have forced regional leaders to address the problem of post-war governance in the battered enclave sooner than they likely had planned.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Most likely, we are talking about provocation and fraud, end quote. The strike comes as world leaders gather in Germany for the annual Munich Security Conference this weekend, where senior U.S. officials, including Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Vance and Secretary of State Rubio, are set to meet with Zelensky and other European leaders to discuss President Trump's plans to broker peace negotiations between Kiev and Moscow. As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Trump held his first phone call with Putin since returning to office on Wednesday morning and said they had agreed to start negotiations immediately to end the war.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
The phone call caught much of Europe by surprise, putting it mildly, and has triggered an international debate over whether Putin can be trusted to negotiate in good faith. Really? There's a debate over whether Putin can be trusted. I mean, frankly, who are the gormless folks who are debating on the side that Putin can be trusted? Look, it's not a matter of trust.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
That doesn't play into this when you're talking about a character like Putin. It's a matter of striking a deal that can be enforced. Zelensky pointed to the latest incident at Chernobyl on Friday as proof that Russia is not serious about pursuing peace. Zelensky said, quote, This means that Putin is definitely not preparing for negotiations. He's preparing to continue deceiving the world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
That is why there must be unified pressure from all who value life, pressure on the aggressor. Russia must be held accountable for its actions. End quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 14 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
And for those of you celebrating Valentine's Day, well, I hope it's full of chocolates and flowers and cheesy sentimental cards and romance in whatever style or manner you prefer your romance.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
And, here's a thought, if your Valentine's evening does turn romantic, and your special someone whispers, hey, put something on the sound system to get me in the mood, well, remember that the President's Daily Brief is available on all podcast platforms, and the PDB would be honored to be the soundtrack to your Valentine's evening sexy time.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
Or, I suppose, you could go with Amy Winehouse or Adele or Guns N' Roses. It's your choice. And if things wrap up early, well, remember that the latest episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, well, that launches at 10 p.m. tonight on the First TV. And it's also available, of course, on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. Tune in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
We're digging into cartel activity on the U.S. southern border and the potential for unilateral U.S. military action against the cartels. We're also talking about tariffs being announced by the Trump administration and their potential impact on the U.S. and global economies. We're also looking at the troubling U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
dependency on China and India for critical drugs, which one could argue is a serious national security concern. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 14th, 2025: Arab States Seek Alternative To Trump's Gaza Plan & Moscow Accused Of Striking Chernobyl Nuclear Plant
According to 10 sources, that's a lot of sources, that spoke exclusively to Reuters, Saudi Arabia is now spearheading urgent Arab efforts to develop an alternative reconstruction plan for Gaza to counter Trump's proposal to relocate the Palestinian population and turn the enclave into a Middle East Riviera.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Smith is expected to meet with European diplomats in the Lithuanian capital in the coming days to discuss broader diplomatic efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, for his part, thanked Lithuania for its cooperation and renewed U.S. demands for the release of nearly 1,300 political prisoners still held by the Lukashenko regime.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The Trump administration has been pushing for additional diplomatic breakthroughs with Belarus following the so-called unilateral release last month of another American, Anastasia Neuffer, from Belarusian custody, who had been arrested in December of last year. For Lukashenko, the latest prisoner releases mark a calculated shift.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The Belarusian strongman, who has maintained an iron grip on power for 31 years, finds himself under increasing pressure to re-engage with Western governments after years of deteriorating relations. Lukashenko's brutal crackdown on the 2020 protests, combined with his support for Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, led to sweeping Western sanctions and near total diplomatic isolation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Yet in recent months, Belarus has slowly released a number of political prisoners, a move that analysts suggest is part of a broader strategy to ease Western pressure and regain some diplomatic maneuverability. Long wary of becoming entirely dependent on Moscow, Lukashenko has sought to revive his long-standing balancing act between East and West.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
But whether these latest gestures are enough to move the needle in Washington, well, of course, that remains to be seen. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief, Iran. Oh, look at that. They've been caught smuggling cash to Hezbollah militants in Lebanon via Beirut's international airport. What will they think of next? I'll be right back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
In today's back of the brief, despite the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah, it appears that the mullahs of Iran and their Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, have been attempting to quietly help their Lebanese terror army rebuild their battered operations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Officials with the Israeli military revealed Thursday that Iran's Quds Force has been smuggling suitcases full of cash to Hezbollah via Beirut's international airport in recent weeks, with the intention of rearming the militant group so they can once again carry out attacks against Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The IDF said they'd already passed the information to a U.S.-led committee supervising the ceasefire and that efforts were underway to foil these cash transfers, according to a report from the Times of Israel. The IDF said they also notified the Lebanese government, well, that will help, of the smuggling scheme.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Still, they said, much of the cash has likely already made its way into the hands of Hezbollah through civilian flights, and by that I mean into the pockets of Hezbollah leaders. While it's unclear just how much cash has been sent, reports indicate it's in the tens of millions.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
In response to Israel's concerns, Lebanese aviation authorities announced Thursday that they were barring flights to Beirut from two Iranian airliners indefinitely. They're also subjecting incoming flights from Iraq to Beirut to enhanced inspections to prevent any further transfer of cash.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
It's Friday, 14 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. And would you look at that? It's Valentine's Day in the U.S. And honestly, it's not too late to send me chocolates or flowers or maybe those candy hearts with the wacky sayings on them.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
In a statement, a spokesman for the IDF said, quote, the IDF will not allow the organization to get stronger and will use all the tools at its disposal to enforce the understandings in the ceasefire agreement for the security of the citizens of Israel, end quote. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire deal back on 27 November, though it's barely held together.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
We'll begin with the fallout from President Trump's call with Russia's favorite warmonger, Vladimir Putin, regarding the war in Ukraine as alarmed European leaders demand a seat at the negotiating table and denounce the White House for appearing to offer concessions to Moscow in advance of potential peace talks.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
That deal, which ended more than a year of hostilities, including two months of full-scale war, required Hezbollah to withdraw north of the Latani River that's roughly 18 miles from Israel's border. It also required Israel to withdraw completely from southern Lebanon within 60 days, though the IDF retains the right to conduct strikes against any immediate threats to their security.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
In theory, by January 26, the only groups allowed to be present south of the Latani River were the Lebanese military and UN peacekeeping forces. But the deadline for Israel's withdrawal was delayed to February 18 after Jerusalem requested an extension.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Israel says the Lebanese army has deployed too slowly to a buffer zone along their border with Israel and that Hezbollah is still operating in areas covered by the truce. Israel recently requested another 10-day extension, arguing that the Lebanese military and Hezbollah are still failing to live up to their end of the bargain.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Well, frankly, that could be because they're too busy counting all that Iranian cash. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 14 February. Don't forget, fellas, it's Valentine's Day in the U.S. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Now, according to multiple sources, with a proven track record of credible reporting, today is Friday. And Fridays, of course, are now synonymous with new episodes of our delightful weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. This week's guests include Chuck Marino, former U.S. Secret Service and former senior DHS advisor, not to mention author.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
along with Kenneth Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America. We're talking cartels, border security, possible U.S. military action against the cartels, tariffs and what the tariffs mean for the U.S. economy, and, very interestingly, U.S. dependency on China and India for critical pharmaceuticals. It's a humdinger of a show, and you'd be doing yourself a disservice not to tune in.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The new episode launches at 10 p.m. on the First TV and, as always, can be found on our amazing YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and, of course, all podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
As we discussed yesterday on the PDB, Trump held his first phone call with Putin since returning to office on Wednesday morning and announced that the pair had agreed to start negotiations, quote, immediately to bring Russia's war on Ukraine to a close.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Now, that same day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said it was unrealistic to think that Ukraine could reclaim their lost territory or join the NATO alliance. Both, of course, major priorities for leaders in Kyiv.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The news reportedly sent shockwaves through European capitals, prompting condemnations from Kyiv and its European allies, who expressed concerns that Trump might seek to make a deal without their input. Officials across the continent took a firm line on Trump's overtures for peace, saying it would be impossible to implement any future deal unless NATO allies play a central role in negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
And that's according to a report from Reuters. European foreign policy chief Kaja Kalas delivered the fiercest rebuke, saying, quote, any quick fix is a dirty deal. Why are we giving them everything that they want even before the negotiations have been started? It's appeasement. It has never worked, end quote. Well, to be fair, he's not wrong.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Ukrainian President Zelensky, who spoke with Trump following his call with Putin, also pushed back publicly on Thursday, saying that Ukraine would not accept any bilateral agreement reached by Moscow and Washington without Kiev's direct involvement. He warned that Putin was attempting to bypass Ukraine and said it was critical that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
and Ukraine draw up a peace plan together before any talks are initiated with the Kremlin. Officials in Germany were similarly blunt in their response, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz rejecting what he described as Russian efforts to implement a, quote, dictated peace.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Germany's defense minister echoed those concerns, saying it was, quote, regrettable that the Trump administration had made public concessions to Russia before peace talks had started.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
A European diplomatic source told Reuters that foreign ministers throughout the NATO alliance would present a unified front and broach the subject with American officials at the annual Munich Security Conference on Friday, saying they would be engaging in a, quote, frank and demanding dialogue. As we touched on yesterday, Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Vance and Secretary of State Rubio are set to meet with Zelensky and other European leaders at the conference on Friday. But Defense Secretary Hegseth attempted to calm tensions on Thursday, saying that Trump was in no way trying to cut Ukraine out of the negotiating process or preemptively force concessions. Hegseth told reporters, quote, There is no betrayal there.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
There is a recognition that the whole world and the U.S. is invested and interested in peace. And so that will require both sides recognizing things they don't want to, end quote. The only problem is, so far, the concessions seem to be one way, meaning Ukrainian concessions, which begs the question, what exactly is the U.S. expecting Putin to concede?
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
And while you're at it, yeah, make sure to get something for that special gal or fella or partner in your life. And honestly, I don't know if we're still allowed to say gal or fella, but I believe I just did. So anyway, happy Valentine's Day. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
He did, meaning Secretary of Defense Hegseth, however, reiterate that any durable peace deal would need to rely on robust security guarantees from European allies, not the U.S., reflecting Trump's intent to make Europe shoulder most of the financial and military burden of any settlement to the war. For now, it remains unclear how a hypothetical peace process could unfold.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Trump said he plans to meet with both Zelensky and Putin face-to-face in the near future, though a timeline for those meetings has not yet been outlined. In the meantime, Zelensky is keeping his focus on Russia's military activity.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
According to a report from Newsweek, Zelensky recently warned that Moscow is working to add 150,000 additional soldiers to their ranks in 2025 in preparation for continued conflict with Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Zelensky said the West should not trust Putin's claims that he's ready to end the war, stating, quote, if Putin wants peace and wants the war to end, why does a country that is having very big problems with its economy now increase its forces by 150,000? It's definitely not for dialogue, end quote. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Coming up next, President Trump announces his plans for reciprocal tariffs on American trading partners. And Bella versus autocratic president releases an American prisoner and two others from jail in an apparent attempt to thaw frozen relations with the West. I'll have those stories when we come back. Running a business isn't easy. I know that firsthand.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Look, as a business owner, I've seen how managing finances can turn into a time-consuming headache with endless receipts, approvals, and expense tracking slowing everything down. And that's where Ramp comes in. Ramp streamlines finance operations by automating the entire process. No more chasing receipts or manually logging expenses.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Ramp takes care of it all, instantly matching receipts, categorizing purchases, and approving transactions while integrating seamlessly with your ERP for real-time visibility. For finance teams buried in busy work, well, RAMP flips the equation. Look, most companies spend some 80% of their time on low-value tasks and only 20% on strategy. Think about how ineffective that is.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Well, RAMP changes that, freeing up your team to focus on forecasting, growth, and high-impact decisions. And making the switch is effortless. Look, over 25,000 businesses, including Shopify and the Boys and Girls Club of America, trust Ramp, earning it the number one ranking in spend management by G2. And now, for a limited time, listeners of this show can get $250 when you join Ramp. It's easy.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Just go to ramp.com slash pdb. That's ramp.com slash pdb. Once again, that's ramp.com slash pdb. Cards are issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, and as they say, terms and conditions apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
We'll start things off in Europe, where leaders are chastising the Trump administration following the president's recent call with Vladimir Putin seeking a negotiated settlement to the war in Ukraine. Now, I don't know that chastising someone with Trump's personality is going to get you the desired result. Later in the show, President Trump ups the pressure on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the BDB. President Trump has declared a sweeping overhaul of the United States trade policy, signing an executive order Thursday to impose what he calls, quote, fair and reciprocal tariffs on all major trading partners, including longtime allies.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Framing the move as a necessary correction to what he describes as long-standing trade imbalances, Trump directed his administration to assess whether retaliatory tariffs should be imposed against nations that charge higher duties on American products.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The order even extends beyond tariffs, also targeting foreign tax policies, government subsidies, currency practices, and other trade behaviors that the White House considers unfair." So you ask yourself, what exactly are reciprocal tariffs? Well, I'm very glad you asked. The principle is straightforward.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
If another country imposes higher taxes on American imports, the US will respond in kind, imposing import taxes to foreign governments at the same rate. The goal, Trump argues, is to level the playing field. From the Oval Office, Trump made his position clear, stating, quote, in almost all cases, they're charging us vastly more than we charge them, but those days are over, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The executive order tasks Howard Lutnick, Trump's pick for commerce secretary, and Jameson Greer, his global trade representative, with identifying tariff discrepancies country by country and recommending, quote, remedies within 180 days. Trump insists the policy will incentivize companies to manufacture in the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The president stated, quote, if you build your product in the U.S., there are no tariffs, end quote. Now, the reciprocal tariff plan will be rolled out alongside already announced duties on steel and aluminum imports, but the administration apparently isn't stopping there.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Beyond metals, officials are weighing additional levies on cars, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals, industries that Washington argues have suffered under unbalanced trade practices. While a precise implementation date remains uncertain, Lutnick suggested the measures could take effect as soon as April. Some of the hardest-hit nations will likely be those with high protective tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Now, the European Union, for example, currently imposes a 10% tariff on American cars, while the U.S. levies just 2.5% on European vehicles. India, another major target of the policy, maintains a 60% tariff on automobile imports and a 50% tariff on apples and motorcycles. Japan and other Asian markets also maintain strict trade barriers on U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
allies by announcing his plans for widespread reciprocal tariffs on American trading partners. Plus, Belarus's autocratic president and Kremlin ally, or as they say in diplomatic circles, Putin's toady, releases an American prisoner and two others from jail in an apparent effort to thaw relations with the West.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
goods, putting them in the administration's crosshairs. White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro defended the policy, pointing to last year's $1 trillion U.S. trade deficit as evidence of widespread foreign trade abuses. Navarro specifically called out the European Union and their value-added tax system, arguing that it provides European manufacturers with an unfair edge.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The VAT, as it's known, the value-added tax system, which averages 22% across EU countries, is applied at multiple production stages, costs that U.S. exporters must absorb when selling goods in Europe. Meanwhile, European companies face no comparable burden when shipping products to America, and it's a discrepancy that the Trump administration insists must be addressed.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Critics warn that reciprocal tariffs could drive up costs for American importers and trigger retaliatory trade wars. However, some of Trump's past tariffs have already forced key players to the negotiating table. European officials are debating whether to lower their tariffs to align with U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
levels, while some countries may opt to challenge the measures through the World Trade Organization or impose counter-tariffs of their own. It's important to note that for the 14 nations with which the U.S. has free trade agreements, and that includes Canada and Mexico and Australia, the impact is expected to be minimal, as existing deals have already reduced or eliminated most tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
While supporters argue that the policy will boost domestic manufacturing and help reduce the trade deficit, its success, of course, will ultimately hinge on how America's trading partners respond in the months ahead. Okay, shifting to Belarus.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Three prisoners, including an American, have been released in what appears to be President Alexander Lukashenko's latest attempt to thaw relations with the West after years of diplomatic isolation. The release follows a separate prisoner exchange in Russia that saw American teacher Mark Fogel freed just a day earlier.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
In neighboring Lithuania on Wednesday, a Belarusian opposition group identified one of the freed prisoners as Elena Movchuk, an activist detained for taking part in the 2020 protests against Kremlin-aligned Lukashenko's widely disputed re-election.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The U.S.-funded outlet Radio Free Europe, Radio Liberty, later confirmed that Andrei Kuznetschik, one of their journalists who spent more than three years behind bars simply for doing his job, was also among those released.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
Kuznetschik's freedom was marked by an emotional reunion with the president of Radio Free Europe describing how the journalist embraced his five-year-old son who was just an infant when his father was taken. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt praised the development, crediting it to President Trump's, quote, deal-making ability.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
She confirmed the safe release of one American, but declined to disclose that citizen's identity. The prisoner release coincided with a discreet visit to Minsk in Belarus by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Smith, a trip that Western diplomats described as a rare direct engagement between Washington and Belarus.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
And in today's back of the brief, Israel has uncovered a plot by Iran to smuggle cash to Hezbollah militants via Beirut's international airport in an attempt to help the terror group rebuild its military operations. Well, I, for one, am shocked that the Iranian regime and its Revolutionary Guard Corps would stoop that low. But first, today's BDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
February 14th, 2025: European Leaders Chastise Trump Over Putin Call & White House Unveils Plans For Reciprocal Tariffs On US Allies
The visit, first reported Wednesday, marks the highest level American outreach to Lukashenko's regime since then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo traveled to the country in 2020 during Trump's first term. Lithuanian officials confirmed that an American citizen had crossed the border from Belarus into their country, though they also withheld the individual's identity.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Kickstart your day with a terrific taste of Blackout Coffee. Family-owned, premium coffee, fresh roasted and shipped out within 48 hours of roasting. Think about that. Go to blackoutcoffee.com, promo code PDB, for 20% off your first-time purchase. It's Friday, 13 December. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
's longstanding policy of working to contain Iran through diplomacy and sanctions, though that strategy has, frankly, done little to curb the regime's belligerence on the international stage. Following Israel's ceasefire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon earlier this month and the fall of Assad's regime in Syria on Sunday,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
The military strike option reportedly came under more serious review by senior members of Trump's transition team. Iran's regional position has been significantly weakened, that's putting it mildly, by Israel's campaign to destroy their proxies over the past year, which officials say has left Iran feeling backed into a corner. Due to this isolation, fears are high among U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
and Israeli intelligence officials that Iran may pivot to accelerating their development of a nuclear weapon. As we have previously discussed on the PDB, Iran has increased their stores of uranium enriched to 60% purity tenfold, ten times since August, and is now in possession of enough material to produce roughly 12 nuclear weapons. So, what options are the Trump team considering?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
While the sources stress that conversations are still in the early stages, the first option centers on creating a show of force in the Middle East by sending more U.S. troops, warplanes, and ships to the region. At the same time, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
would sell advanced weapons to Israel, such as bunker busters capable of penetrating Iran's nuclear sites, most of which, of course, are fortified underground or inside mountain complexes. The idea is that the threat of military action by both the US and Israel, paired with new economic sanctions, well, may be enough to convince Iran to come to the negotiating table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Similarly, another option would focus on the Trump administration issuing unilateral threats of action against the Iranian regime's nuclear program, also paired with crippling sanctions, in order to scare Iran into resolving the issue diplomatically.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
If the planned threat of force fails to yield results, Trump confidants told the Journal that the main military option would be to either support Israeli strikes on Iran's main nuclear facilities, such as Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, or to directly participate in a joint operation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Now, Trump has reportedly discussed these options in recent calls with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who said he and Trump, quote, see eye to eye on the Iranian threat in all its components, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
As a reminder, Israel already got the ball rolling on this issue back in late October, when they mounted their counter-retaliation against the Iranian regime for the Iranian regime's ballistic missile attack on Israel. During the operation on October 25, Israel destroyed an active top-secret nuclear weapons research facility located just 20 miles south of Tehran.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
As for Trump, it's not clear what his preferred path forward is, though he's regularly said he wants to avoid further regional escalation in the Middle East. But on Thursday, in an interview with Time, he said there was a chance the U.S. could go to war against the mullahs, saying, quote, anything can happen, end quote. All right.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Coming up, we take you inside Assad's final days in power and his chaotic and hasty escape from Syria to Russia. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the U.S., ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. ExpressVPN works on all your devices and is easy to use, and that's important. Just fire up the app and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting expressvpn.com slash baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Coming to you this week from somewhere in the Middle East. Let's get briefed. First, President-elect Trump. is reportedly considering preemptive airstrikes on Iran's nuclear program when he returns to office in January.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
That's expressvpn.com slash baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. Expressvpn.com slash baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. We're beginning to learn more about the dictator Assad's escape from Syria amid the collapse of his regime last Sunday, which brought an end to one of the world's longest-running family dictatorships.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Like any good dictator, Assad reportedly opted to save his own skin and leave his loyalists to fend for themselves as the rebels took the capital city of Damascus. According to a dozen sources inside Syria who spoke exclusively to Reuters, Assad's final days in power were marked by paranoia and deception.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
He told almost no one from his inner circle about his plans for escape, even keeping close relatives in the dark. In fact, last Saturday, just hours before fleeing from Moscow, Assad told his military chiefs to hold their ground and that Russian military reinforcements would be arriving imminently to aid their defense. But that was a lie. Shocking.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Then we'll take you inside now-toppled despotic dictator Assad's final days in Syria as reports emerge that the former strongman abandoned his loyalists and deceived those closest to him in order to flee to Russia under the cover of darkness. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
If you can't trust the word of a brutal, murderous dictator like Assad, well, who can you trust? Assad had visited Moscow on November 28th, just days into the rebel offensive, to plead with his allies in the Kremlin for military intervention. But he was flatly denied. Upon his return to Syria, he reportedly hid the reality of the situation from his advisers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Sources told Reuters that just four days after his trip to Russia, Iran's foreign minister met with Assad in Damascus. The Islamist rebels, led by the militant group HTS, had already taken Aleppo and were rapidly advancing south.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Assad reportedly looked visibly distressed when meeting the Iranian foreign minister and admitted, at least to his backers in Tehran, that the Syrian military was too weak to mount a defense. Unlike with Russia, Assad didn't bother asking Iran to deploy forces, understanding that Israel would likely get involved if they did. With his options exhausted, Assad began making his getaway plans.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Three sources said he first sought asylum in the UAE but was denied. He then turned to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for help. Lavrov reportedly then spearheaded a diplomatic effort to ensure Assad's safety and bring the dictator to Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Through mediators in Qatar and Turkey, Lavrov obtained assurances from the HTS rebels that they would allow Assad to leave the country and spoke with neighboring states to ensure a Russian plane ferrying Assad to safety would not be targeted. But at home, Assad continued to lie to his inner circle.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
He reportedly told his presidential office manager on Saturday that he was headed home for the evening as he departed and told his media advisor to meet him at his residence. But when she arrived, no one was there. In reality, he went straight from his office to a local airport to begin his journey to Moscow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
First, Assad flew from Damascus in the early morning hours on Sunday to a Russian air base along Syria's Mediterranean coast. His plane had its transponder switched off and flew low to avoid radar detection. He then boarded a Russian plane bound for Moscow, where his wife and three children were waiting. But other members of Assad's family, well, they were not so lucky.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Two of his cousins left behind in Damascus attempted to flee to Lebanon by car, but were ambushed by rebels. One was reportedly shot dead, while the other was injured and taken captive. The incident is likely illustrative of what many of his loyalists faced after he tucked tail and ran. An analyst at the Arab Reform Initiative told Reuters, quote, Assad didn't even make a last stand.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
He let his supporters face their own fate, end quote. Hard to believe that there's no honor between a dictator and his henchmen. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 13 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And of course, it's Friday, which can only mean one thing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Though President-elect Trump won't assume office for another month, he already has his sights set on Iran, particularly what the U.S. can do to undermine the regime's nuclear ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
A brand new episode of the PDB Situation Report is set to launch this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV. And as always, you can also catch it on our YouTube channel. You can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief. and of course, all podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the latest edition of The Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
According to Trump Transition Sources, who spoke with The Wall Street Journal, the president-elect is currently fleshing out his planned Maximum Pressure 2.0 campaign against the mullahs in Tehran and is even considering preemptive strikes on Iran's nuclear program.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 13th, 2024: Trump Mulls Strikes On Iran's Nuclear Sites & Inside Assad's Covert Escape To Russia
The strikes could involve partnering with Israel, though the sources stressed they are working on a plan that would stop short of igniting a new war in the Middle East, particularly one that pulls in U.S. forces. Yeah, that would be good. Military strikes would break with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
As a reminder, earlier this week, President Trump hiked his tariff on China, our third-largest trading partner, to 125%, despite granting the rest of the world a 90-day tariff pause to negotiate new trade deals. The White House later clarified that the new tariff comes on top of a 20% duty imposed earlier this year over China's role in the manufacturing of illicit fentanyl.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
It's Friday, the 11th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First, an update on the ongoing trade war. As China hits back at Trump's massive 145% tariff, by hiking rates on US goods.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
raising the total baseline rate, are you following me so far, on Chinese imports to an eye-watering 145%. As we've been tracking this week on the PDB, China has responded with angry condemnations. I don't know if there's any other kind of condemnation other than angry, vowing to fight to the end.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
but their latest statement suggests that they may already be feeling the pressure and are perhaps eager to avoid further escalations that risk further damaging their fragile economy. After their latest tariff retaliation on Friday, officials with the Chinese finance ministry said, quote, even if the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
continues to impose higher tariffs, it will no longer make economic sense and will become a joke in the history of the world economy. The statement continued, quote, given that American goods are no longer marketable in China under the current tariff rates, if the U.S. further raises tariffs on Chinese exports, China will disregard such measures, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
The remarks appear to possibly leave a small opening for easing tensions with the Trump administration, though if the events of the past week are anything to go on, we can likely expect another retaliation by President Trump. So, why does China appear reluctant to continue in the tit-for-tat exchange with the U.S. ?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Well, possibly because China's economy has been powered by selling cheap goods for decades, but it's wholly dependent on maintaining a global trade surplus. Trump's tariffs have undermined that system and will force Chinese manufacturers to either slash their profit margins considerably or hike prices for consumers, which could prompt American and other foreign buyers to look to other markets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Given that China already faces considerable economic headwinds fueled by a debt bubble, high rates of unemployment, and persistently low consumption, it's in their best interests to avoid provoking the Trump administration any further.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
In his first public remarks regarding the trade war, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that China was, quote, not afraid, but called on the US to back off their confrontational trade policies. Xi said, quote, there are no winners in a trade war and going against the world will only lead to self-isolation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Xi also urged the European Union to join China to, quote, oppose unilateral acts of bullying. But the EU, along with, frankly, much of the world, is taking a cautious approach after Trump's tariff pause, seeking to negotiate a resolution with the White House, leaving China, well, somewhat isolated for the time being.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Meanwhile, in remarks at the White House on Friday afternoon, President Trump touted his tariff policy as a success for bringing trade partners to the negotiating table, saying America was, quote, doing really well. But economists say significant risks remain, particularly due to the situation with China. U.S. stocks, after posting a historic rally on Wednesday, plummeted on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
While they stabilized on Friday, investor confidence remains, well, shaky at best. The head of the global asset firm, Janice Henderson, told Reuters, quote, "...recession risk is much, much higher now than it was a couple weeks ago." And Larry Fink, the CEO of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
But officials with the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, also signaled that it's likely that will be their last escalation, saying they'll ignore any additional tariff increases by the US. Later in the show, a report reveals that Chinese officials acknowledged in a secret meeting that their government is behind widespread cyber attacks targeting critical U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
asset titan BlackRock, echoed those concerns on Friday, warning that there will be a widespread economic slowdown and that we're on the edge of it, if not already in the early stages of a recession. Coming up next, China exposes their role in a wave of cyber attacks targeting critical U.S. infrastructure. I'll have the details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, look at that.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
It's grilling season. And you know what? Here comes a pro tip. I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef for your grill. It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high-quality beef in the great state of Texas. Of course, I'm talking about Tritail's Beef. Now, Tritail's beef is not some corporate meat factory.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
It's not some mass-produced operation, a faceless corporation. Tritail's is a fifth-generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture-raised, grain-finished, and raised the right way. They handle the beef on-site and ship it straight to your door. There's no middlemen, no mystery here.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care that they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill. Whether it's a ribeye, a filet, or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
USDA prime and choice, hand-packed and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash PDB and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash PDB. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Mike Baker here. Well, have you heard about the Maha movement?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Of course, I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again movement. This is important. It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority. Look, when you work out regularly, you know, you feel better, you look better, you know that. Come on. It positively impacts your entire being. And that's why I'm very excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team at Jacked Up Fitness.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
You gotta check them out. They're commercial-grade Power Rack Pro. Well, it has everything you need for a full body workout at home. Seriously, take a look into this. It is an amazing setup. The cable crossover system with integrated 200-pound weight stacks and the Smith machine Well, they allow you to do hundreds of exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Basically, everything and anything that you can do at the gym, you can do at home. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program offers complete video workouts. Just press play and follow along. Now, my Power Rack Pro just arrived at the house this past week, and our three teenage boys and I are ready to hit it hard.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Getting into a consistent home fitness routine, well, it's easy with Jacked Up Fitness. And at the end of the day, you know this. There's nothing more important than your health. So get busy. Go to GetJackedUp.com and sign up for free access to the program. And when you're ready to order your Power Rack Pro, save 10% with my promo code BAKER. It's B-A-K-E-R. Simple. Come on. Look, no more excuses.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Go to GetJackedUp.com. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Sticking with China, I want to turn to the Chinese Communist Party's ongoing and aggressive cyber operations against the US.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
An exclusive report from the Wall Street Journal revealed on Thursday that Chinese officials acknowledged in a secret meeting late last year that their government was behind widespread cyber attacks on critical US infrastructure. The explosive findings attributed to unnamed sources familiar with the matter come at a time when tensions between the US and China are, well, arguably at a historic low.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
The sources told the journal that during the closed door meeting at a summit in Geneva in December, Chinese officials tacitly admitted to pursuing a years-long cyber campaign that has hacked into computer networks at US ports, water treatment plants, airports, and other strategic targets.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
infrastructure over America's support for Taiwan. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. China is once again striking back in the rapidly intensifying trade war with the US but signalled that it will be their last escalation, dismissing any further tariff hikes by the Trump administration as a quote, joke that they plan to ignore.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the State Department, the National Security Council, the Pentagon, and US intelligence agencies, but had not been previously disclosed. And this is where the reporting gets tricky.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
US officials present at the meeting said Chinese officials didn't directly state that their government was behind the campaign, but said they perceived the comments from the Chinese delegation as confirmation of their role in the operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Chinese officials reportedly implied that the campaign was a response to increasing US support for Taiwan and was meant to scare the US into backing off from involving itself in the situation. Now, you've likely heard of this operation before. It's been linked to a Chinese-based hacking collective dubbed Vault Typhoon.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
The CCP has always publicly denied any affiliation to that group, describing them as a rogue criminal outfit. Not that U.S. officials ever took their denials seriously. Vault Typhoon has been implicated in a series of attacks on U.S. critical infrastructure since at least mid-2021, at various times hitting port operations, internet service providers, and utilities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Officials have long warned that the hackers are working on behalf of the CCP to undermine U.S. readiness, especially in the context of a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Volt Typhoon employs sophisticated botnets for its attacks, which are essentially a network of infected computers that collectively execute an attacker's commands.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Globally, Volt Typhoon has commandeered a vast array of vulnerable digital devices such as routers and modems, even internet-connected security cameras. Notably, their cyber incursions have regularly targeted critical infrastructure in the U.S. territory of Guam, where the U.S. military has a strategically important outpost to counter threats in the South China Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
Those attacks underscore China's focus on undermining U.S. military capabilities in the region as they continue to step up their military harassment of Taiwan. Officials with the State Department declined to directly comment on the revelations from the Wall Street Journal, but said, quote, Chinese cyber threats are some of the gravest and most persistent threats to U.S. national security. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
will continue to use all the tools at its disposal to safeguard U.S. critical infrastructure from irresponsible and reckless cyber attacks from Beijing, end quote. Unsurprisingly, officials with the Chinese embassy firmly denied any involvement in cyber attacks, calling the reports, quote, smear attacks without any factual basis, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
As to why Chinese officials would tacitly imply their involvement to the U.S. behind closed doors, well, that remains unclear. But analysts said that they likely wanted to send a direct message to the incoming Trump administration regarding a potential conflict over Taiwan. A China expert with the cybersecurity firm Sentinel-1 told the Wall Street Journal, quote, China wants U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
officials to know that, yes, they do have this capability and they are willing to use it, end quote. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 11th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Now, I suspect that you already know this, but in case you weren't aware, it's Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
And if it's Friday, which it is, that means that tonight at 10 p.m., just like every Friday night, we'll be airing a brand new episode of our not-yet-award-winning-but-much-loved weekend show, The PDB Situation Report. You can catch the new episode on The First TV and over the weekend on our YouTube channel.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
On Friday morning, the Chinese finance ministry announced that they will increase tariffs on U.S. goods from 84% to 125%, matching President Trump's levy on Chinese imports imposed on Wednesday. The increased trade tax is set to take effect on Saturday and will impact some $144 billion worth of U.S. exports, namely agricultural products like soybeans, and that's according to a report from Axios.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 11th, 2025: China Signals No More Tariff Hikes After Latest Escalation & Bombshell Report Reveals The CCP's Role In Cyberattacks On US Infrastructure
You can find that at President's Daily Brief, as well as podcast platforms throughout podcast land. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Schau es dir an, es ist ein fantastisches Setup. Das Kabel-Crossover-System mit integrierten 200-Kilogramm-Waistäcken und der Smith-Maschine erlaubt dir, hunderten von Übungen zu machen. Guck, alles, was du im Gym tun kannst, kannst du jetzt zu Hause machen. Wenn du neu zu Strength Training bist, gibt es das Get-Jacked-Up-Programm, das komplette Video-Workouts bietet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Nur drücken, spielen und folgen. Mein Power Rack Pro ist gerade in der Wohnung gekommen. Und unsere drei jungen Jungs und ich sind bereit, es hart zu schießen. Ich habe es schon erwähnt, aber ich denke, meine Jungs sind wie alle Söhne, richtig? Sie wollen ihren Titelschuss mit ihrem Vater.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Aber ich sage dir, auch wenn ich nicht jünger werde, mit dem Power Rack Pro zu Hause, denke ich, ich kann sie für ein bisschen länger halten. Das war's für heute. Bis zum nächsten Mal. In today's Back of the Brief, French President Emmanuel Macron is wading into the highly contentious debate over Palestinian statehood in what he says is a bid to ease tensions in the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
In an interview on Wednesday, the French leader said that he is considering formally recognizing a Palestinian state at an upcoming UN conference in June. The conference will be co-hosted in New York City by France and Saudi Arabia, with a focus on finding solutions to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, according to a report from France 24.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Macron said, quote, We need to move towards recognition, and so, over the next few months, we will. He added, quote, I'm not doing it to please anyone. I'll do it because at some point it will be right, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Für ein bisschen Hintergrund, die Frankreich hat lange eine Zwei-Staaten-Gesellschaft als eine Art, den Konflikt zu lösen, ihre Unterstützung für einen palästinensischen Staat nach der brutalen 7 Oktober-Attack von Hamas, viel zu der Enttäuschung von Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll begin today with a look at the global reaction to President Trump's whiplash-inducing pause on tariffs as the European Union reverses course on economic retaliation and the White House says they're working on new trade agreements with more than a dozen countries.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Aber die Offiziere in Paris haben sich immer kurz vor formaler Rekognition gehalten, als solch eine hochkontroversielle Bewegung die Leiter in Jerusalem enttäuschen könnte. Zudem riskiert Frankreich, sich auf Themen der Mittleren Osten-Diplomatie zu verabschieden, da die meisten größeren westlichen Kräfte, z.B.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
die USA, Britannien, Deutschland und Japan, Palästina nicht als ein sovereignes Staat anerkennen. Aber es scheint, dass Frankreichs Kalkulus in nur ein paar kurzen Monaten verändert wird. Macron sagte, seine Strategie sei es, einen Mutual Recognition-Movement aufzunehmen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Er denkt, wenn er ein palästinensisches Staat erkennt, könnte es helfen, arabische Länder, wie Saudi-Arabien, Irak und Syrien, dem Staat Israel zu erlauben, zu erkennen. Macron hat erläutert, er wolle Teil einer kollektiven Dynamik teilnehmen, die alle, die Palästina verteidigen, auch Israel erkennt. Etwas, was viele davon nicht tun.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
While he argues the move would help stabilize security in the region, leaders in Israel were not impressed. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned Macron's remarks, saying his plan would be tantamount to rewarding Hamas for their terrorism against Israel.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
The foreign minister stated, quote, a unilateral recognition of a fictional Palestinian state by any country in the reality that we all know will be a prize for terror and a boost to Hamas. He added, quote, these kind of actions will not bring peace, security, stability in our region closer, but the opposite. They only push them further away, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Despite Macron's apparent optimism, his statements seem a bit naive. Major Arab powers like Saudi Arabia have historically conditioned any normalization of ties with Israel on their acceptance of a Palestinian state, something that's not likely to happen anytime soon, given Jerusalem's longstanding security concerns regarding Hamas.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 11th of April. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. Finally, according to Celebrity Gossip, you can listen to the PDB ad-free, simply by becoming a Premium Member of the President's Daily Brief. And you can do that by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
As I'm sure you might have heard, President Trump issued a 90-day pause on nearly all of his reciprocal tariffs Wednesday morning, with the notable exception of those imposed on China. He signaled out China as a bad actor that, quote, lacks respect for international trade.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Trump sagte, er wolle Zeit für US-Affiziere, um neue Handelsverhandlungen mit den targetten Ländern zu negotieren, obwohl seine Pause nicht an den 10% Baseline-Tarif auf alle US-Importe, der am Sonntag implementiert wurde, oder seine vorliegenden 25% Tarife auf foreign-made cars, Stahl und Aluminium.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Allies across the world welcomed the news, expressing optimism that they'll be able to find a resolution to Trump's global trade grievances. But they remained cautious, given Trump's mercurial nature, particularly when it comes to tariffs, according to a report from Time. Leaders in the European Union were among the first to react.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Just before Trump announced the tariff pause, the EU had voted Wednesday to approve a 25% retaliatory tariff on nearly $24 billion worth of US goods. But EU officials said Thursday they would pause their planned counter-tariffs for 90 days while negotiations get underway.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Trump's reversal as an important step towards stabilizing the global economy and said Europe was eager to, quote, give negotiations a chance. She left herself some wiggle room, however, saying the EU's counter-tariffs could be reinstated if negotiations, quote, are not satisfactory. Looking to the East.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
An unnamed government official in India indicated Thursday that the country wants to move rapidly on securing a new trade deal with the U.S., telling Reuters, quote, India is one of the first nations to start talks over a deal with the U.S. and have jointly agreed to a deadline to conclude it, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Officials in Vietnam were similarly eager to hammer out new trade terms, saying they had already begun negotiations with the Trump administration, as were officials in South Korea and Malaysia.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Taiwan, a major producer of course of semiconductors, said the pause would give them the necessary breathing room to quote, "...discuss Taiwan-US economic and trade cooperation in a more detailed and in-depth manner."
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Taiwan's president later wrote in an op-ed for Bloomberg that his goal is reducing all tariffs between Taiwan and the US, and that he was willing to lower the average nominal rate of 6% on US imports to zero. In Japan, the reaction was a bit mixed.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Japan's Minister for Economic Revitalization did not tip his hand on whether they're holding active talks with the Trump administration, but expressed their ongoing concerns over 25% tariffs on automobiles and steel, both key exports for the country, reiterating a request that the White House review the policy.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
The global reactions come as White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett said Thursday that the Trump administration was considering offers from 15 countries on tariff agreements and close to finalizing deals with some of them. That's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Hassett told reporters, "...there are maybe 15 countries now that have made explicit offers that we're studying and considering and deciding whether they're good enough to present to the president." Despite the positive overtures from foreign leaders, China is irate over the events of Wednesday. As I mentioned, China was the only country not granted a temporary reprieve from the tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Instead, President Trump raised his tariff on Chinese imports to 125%, which he said was due to the fact that China had already retaliated with steep tariffs of their own on U.S. goods, which now sit at 84%.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
While China has not yet countered in the ongoing tit-for-tat trade war, I don't know if there's a phrase in Chinese language for tit-for-tat, a spokeswoman for China's foreign ministry posted a video clip Thursday of Mao Zedong, remember him? Chairman Mao? The blood-soaked founder of China's communist regime, declaring, quote, we are Chinese, we're not afraid of provocations, we don't back down.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Hmm. The provocative post contained archival footage of Mao giving a speech during the Korean War, promising, quote, China's complete victory over the West. Separately, an official with China's Commerce Ministry said the Chinese Communist Party, quote, will not flinch in the trade war with the U.S. and was ready to, quote, fight to the end.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
US-Stocks after posting a historic rally on Wednesday plummeted once again on Thursday as investor concerns shifted to the escalating tariff war with China, America's third largest trading partner. Alright, coming up next. President Trump is warning that he has a deadline in mind for reaching a potential nuclear agreement with Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
It's Friday, the 11th of April. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with the fallout from President Trump's surprise tariff pause, as the EU, the European Union, reverses course on economic retaliation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
And that Israel will lead strikes against the Mullahs if they refuse to bend on the issue. Plus, Israel and Turkey hold what they're calling technical talks aimed at preventing conflict between their troops in Syria. Those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Ja, look at that. It's grilling season. And I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to throw on the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. Of course, I'm talking about TriTales Beef. Das ist keine Corporate Meat Factory, keine massproduzierte Operation von einer faceless Corporation. Tri-Tales ist eine fünfte Generation Texas Ranch, wo die Pferde gebäudet, gebraten und auf der richtigen Art gebäudet werden.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Sie handeln das Fleisch auf dem Ort und schicken es direkt zu deiner Tür. Kein Mittelmann, kein Mysterium. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Now, whether it's a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, this is the kind of beef that brings people together. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
As the clock ticks down to Saturday's high-stakes summit in Oman between the US and Iran, President Trump warned that military action led by Israel is likely if Iran does not abandon its nuclear ambitions, adding that he has a deadline in mind for reaching a potential agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Speaking from the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump said, "...we have a little time, but we don't have much time, because we're not going to let them have a nuclear weapon." Though he refused to elaborate on the exact deadline. The President was blunt about what's at stake.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
While expressing hope for diplomacy, he was concrete about the consequences for the mullahs, stating, "...if the talks aren't successful with Iran, I think Iran is going to be in great danger." When asked by reporters whether military action was truly an option, Trump did not hesitate, saying, quote, absolutely. If it requires military, we're going to have military, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
He added that Israel would likely take the lead in such a campaign. Die Vorschläge des Präsidenten haben mit dem israelischen Vizepräsidenten Netanyahu, der seit langer Zeit für eine totale Zerstörung der nuklearen Infrastruktur von Iran, einen Besuch geöffnet.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Während ihres Mittagssitzes in der White House hat Netanyahu ein Modell der Zerstörung, ähnlich zu Libyens 2003-Gesetz, geäußert, dass er den Reportern sagt, was auch immer passiert, müssen wir dafür sorgen, dass Iran keine nuklearen Waffen hat. Das schlägt die rote Linie von Trump ein.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Compounding the urgency for a deal is a new report from the Institute for Science and International Security, which warns that Iran is not only expanding its nuclear program, but that internal conversations about building a bomb are frequent. The report from the Washington-based institution emphasized that, quote, major negative factors include Iran's greater nuclear weapon capabilities,
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
The White House, inches closer to signing new trade agreements with more than a dozen countries, and an irate China vows to, quote, fight to the end.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Its shorter time frames to build nuclear weapons and the growing normalization of Iranian discussions favoring building nuclear weapons." Am Montag versuchte die iranische Staatsmedien, eine sogenannte Fatwa von Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei zu reinterpreten, die die Mullahs als eine Prohibition gegen nukleare Waffen bezeichnete. Diese Woche hat sich die Narrative plötzlich geändert.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Die Fatwa, die sie jetzt bezeichnet, bannt nur die Anwendung solcher Waffen, nicht ihre Entwicklung. Diese jetzt flexiblen Vorgehensweisen, sagen die Anwesenden, sind furchtbar und gefährlich. Es ist auch wert, zu bemerken, dass iranische Experten beurteilen, dass die Fatwa nicht existiert ist. In der Zwischenzeit bewegt sich Washington.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Wie unsere normalen PDB-Hörer sich erinnern werden, hat der Militär im März mindestens sechs B-2-Stealth-Bomber an Diego Garcia zurückgelegt. Das ist eine remote US-British-Base im Indischen Ozean, die als Launchpad für Operationen im Mittleren Osten verwendet wird.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
asked whether the deployment was intended to send a message to Iran, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, quote, we'll let them decide, while voicing hope that diplomacy could prevail. That hope, however, is clouded by confusion over the nature of Saturday's talks. Trump has described the summit as, quote, direct negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Iranian officials, by contrast, insist that any communication will be, quote, indirect and solely through Omani intermediaries. As both sides brace for Saturday. Well, the stakes, I guess, couldn't be higher. That's a good way to put it. For Trump and Netanyahu, Iran must be stopped before it crosses the nuclear threshold. Diplomatically, if possible.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Später im Show, vor den nuklearen Gesprächen zwischen den USA und Iran dieses Wochenende, bemerkt Präsident Trump, dass er eine Zeitung im Kopf hat, um einen potenziellen Vertrag zu erreichen, und dass Israel gegen die Mullahs Angriffe führen wird, wenn sie nicht auf das nukleare Thema wechseln.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
But failing that, they appear prepared to pursue other means. All right. Shifting now to the deepening power struggle in post-Assad Syria. Israel and Turkey have entered formal talks aimed at heading off a potential military confrontation as both countries rapidly expand their troop presence in the war-torn country.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
According to a Turkish Defense Ministry official speaking on condition of anonymity, due to the sensitivity of the negotiations, technical talks were held Wednesday in Azerbaijan to establish a de-escalation mechanism and prevent, quote, undesirable incidents as both militaries expand their footprint. The official stated, quote, work will continue to establish the conflict-free mechanism.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Seit dem Fall von Assad im letzten Jahr haben Ankara und Jerusalem schnell die Zukunft von Syrien geformt. Die Türkei unterstützt Präsident Al-Sharahs neuer islamistischer Regierung, die vielmehr von ehemaligen Rebellen ausgestattet wurde, die die Türkei während des 13-jährigen Krieges in Syrien unterstützt hat.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Die türkischen Kräfte haben seitdem bemerkenswert mehrere Städte für permanente militärische Installationen in Syrien. But those plans were upended by a series of Israeli airstrikes. According to a Reuters report, Turkish military teams inspected at least three Syrian air bases for potential deployments before Israeli warplanes targeted those facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Israeli officials view the Turkish advance, particularly near the historic city of Palmyra, as a strategic provocation. Ein israelischer Offizier beurteilte, dass eine Veränderung in der Ausführung von Außenkräften in Syrien, insbesondere die Errichtung türkischer Basen im Palmyra-Bereich, eine rote Linie ist.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
In der Antwort hat Israel angefangen, Buffer-Zonen auf ihrer Grenze innerhalb Syriens zu kreieren. Premierminister Netanyahu hat die türkische Präsenz als eine Gefahr für Israel bezeichnet, beurteilte Ankara, dass er versucht hat, Syrien in ein de facto Protektorat zu verändern.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Die Türkei hat die israelischen militärischen Aktionen verurteilt und sich auf ihre Unterstützung für die neue Führung von Syrien geduldet. Die türkischen Offiziere sagen, dass ihre Präsentation, insbesondere gemeinsame Trainingsmissionen mit syrischen Kräften, unter internationaler Gerechtigkeit legal ist und sich primär darauf konzentriert, die Ereignisse des islamistischen Staates zu zerstören.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Despite escalating rhetoric, both governments confirmed the talks and announced a mutual agreement to, quote, continue on the path of dialogue in hopes of preserving regional stability. Turkey's foreign minister reinforced that stance, stating Ankara has, quote, no intention of conflict in Syria, not only with Israel, but with any country in the region.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Außerdem, wegen der steigenden Tensionen über die Situation in Syrien, halten Israel und Türkei, Quote, technische Gespräche, um den Konflikt zwischen ihren Truppen zu vermeiden. Und in heute's Back of the Brief. In a move that risks antagonizing Israel, French President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday that France may officially move to recognize a Palestinian state as early as June.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Still, he issued a pointed warning that Turkey, quote, will not watch Syria be subjected to internal turmoil, which endangers Ankara's national security. Now, as we've discussed here on the PDB, Prime Minister Netanyahu traveled to Washington earlier this week for high-level consultations with his ally, President Trump, who also maintains close ties with Turkish President Erdogan.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Netanyahu, who sought exclusive support from Trump, instead saw the President praise Erdogan, describing him as, quote, very smart. Trump said his, quote, great relations with both leaders uniquely positions him to mediate if needed. Der Kommandeur-in-Chief hat erneut Erdogan für das Übernehmen von Syrien gegrüßt und Netanyahu in Diskussionen zu beurteilen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
Obwohl die Türkei und Israel früher klare militärische und diplomatische Begegnungen waren, sind die Begegnungen in den letzten Jahren halb erfroren, weiter durch Erdogans kräftige Kritik über Israel während des aufwändigen Krieges in Gaza. Das Hintergrund der Verwirrung schadet jetzt jeder Bewegung in post-Assad-Syrien.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
And in today's back of the brief, the French President Emmanuel Macron said Wednesday that France may officially move to recognize a Palestinian state as early as June. We'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Have you heard about the Maha-Movement? Of course I'm talking about the Make America Healthy Again Movement. It's all about inspiring people to make fitness a priority.
The President's Daily Brief
April 11th, 2025: World Rushes To Strike Trade Deals After US Tariff Pause & Trump Teases Israel-Led Strikes If Nuclear Talks With Iran Fail
When you work out regularly, you feel better, you look better, you know that. It positively impacts everything you do. It impacts your entire being. And that's why I'm very excited to be working with Don Mastrangelo and the team over at Jacked Up Fitness. You gotta find out about this company. Their commercial-grade Power Rack Pro hat alles, was man für ein Vollkampf-Workout zu Hause benötigt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Officials now see the weekend wind lull as their best opportunity to contain the fires, but it, well, frankly remains a race against time, particularly as forecasters warned that strong wind gusts could return on Monday, according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
So far, the fires have already burnt through vast sections of Los Angeles neighborhoods on the east and west sides of the city, consuming at least 10,000 structures and killing at least 10 people. Officials warned Friday that those figures are expected to rise significantly once they're able to begin sorting through the charred ruins.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna sagte, Quote, Es sieht aus, als ob eine Atombombe in diesen Bereichen eingefallen wäre. Ich erwarte keine guten Nachrichten, sagte er, und wir freuen uns nicht darauf, diese Zahlen, Ende Quote. Nun, die Windbedingungen fallen um 20 Meilen pro Stunde am Freitagmorgen, mit Wärme zwischen 35 und 50 Meilen pro Stunde.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Während die Bedingungen immer noch gefährlich sind, besonders wegen der niedrigen Humidität und der verdrohten Vegetation, It's a vast improvement from the 80 mph gusts seen over the past few days, which had prevented critical air support for firefighters on the ground.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Officials said Friday that the calmer winds would allow aircraft to drop water and fire retardant on the raging infernos, supplementing their ground-based efforts. Wie wir gestern besprochen haben, ist die Szene des Feuerbruchs überflüssig, kollektiv ein Gebiet von mindestens 42 Quadratkilometern und über 35.000 Hektar Land.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Die zwei größten Feuerbrüche, eine, die durch die berühmte Palästinensische Nachbarländer fließt, und eine andere, die den Eton-Feuer genannt wird, die durch die Pasadena fließt, sind nun der größte zerstörerische in der Geschichte von Los Angeles und einer der fünf zerstörerischsten Wildfires in der Geschichte von Kalifornien.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Am Freitag hat das Palästinensische Feuer etwa 20.400 Hektar Land verbrannt und nur 8% verbrannt. Das Eden-Feuer, das bis jetzt mindestens 13.900 Hektar verbrannt hat, war nur 3% verbrannt. Meanwhile, the Sunset Fire in the Hollywood Hills was brought fully under control by Thursday evening.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Smaller blazes are also still burning in the northern part of the county and have only been partially contained. Another blaze broke out on Thursday near Calabasas. That's a wealthy neighborhood full of celebrity homes and gated communities. This blaze, being referred to as the Kenneth Fire, quickly engulfed more than a thousand acres in just a few hours and is only 35% contained as of Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Notably, authorities arrested a man Thursday evening in relation to the Kenneth Fire on suspicion of arson, but said Friday that the claims he had started the fire were unfounded. As we discussed yesterday, the cause of the wildfires remains under investigation, though they follow a warm summer and prolonged drought that left vegetation dangerously dry.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
It's Friday, 10 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today we'll continue our coverage of the historic wildfires tearing through Los Angeles as a weekend of hopefully calmer winds give residents their first glimmer of hope.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Offizielle haben einen Abflug in mandatorischen Evakuierungszonen für die Palisades- und Eden-Fälle von 6 Uhr bis 6 Uhr, um Lötungen zu vermeiden. Mitglieder der Kalifornienischen Nationalen Guards begannen, am Freitag auf die Szene zu kommen, um mit Evakuierungen und Verkehrskontrolle zu helfen, um Feuerwehrleute zu befreien, um die vielen Blasen weiter zu kämpfen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Governor Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency earlier this week, has deployed more than 7,500 firefighters, air tankers, helicopters and water tenders to combat the blazes. We'll continue to keep you updated on this disaster.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Coming up next, President-elect Trump says a meeting between himself and Russian President Putin is currently being set up in order to start discussions on ending the war in Ukraine. That would be Putin's war in Ukraine. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Nun, hier ist ein interessanter Faktum. Wissen Sie, dass 60 Prozent der Kleidung, die wir kaufen, in einem Landfall innerhalb eines Jahres hergestellt werden?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Denken Sie daran, 60 Prozent, ein Jahr, Bob ist Ihr Onkel, Landfall. Vergleiche das mit dem Vergangenen. Ich meine, historisch gesagt, waren unsere Kleidung etwas, das wir schon eine lange Zeit gehalten haben, richtig? Aber große Apparatsfirmen, naja, sie finden ständig Möglichkeiten, Kleidung schneller und günstiger zu machen. Sie verändern Kleidung in Versorgung.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Und hier kommt der amerikanische Giant rein. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities and quality clothes. Megacorporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. Das ist 20% off, wenn you use code BAKER at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. With just 10 days to go until his second inauguration, President-elect Trump is preparing to make ending the war in Ukraine his top priority.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Later in the show, President-elect Trump announced that a meeting is being set up between himself, und russischer Präsident Putin zu Beginn der Gespräche über das Ende der Kriege in der Ukraine. Aber zuerst heutes Nachmittagspotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Trump is reportedly planning for a landmark summit with Russian President Putin to begin peace negotiations, telling reporters on Thursday that his team is actively in discussions to secure a meeting.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Trump will beruflich auf der Grundlage des Problems aufkommen, sobald er wieder ins Büro zurückgezogen wird, obwohl sein Team nicht auf einer bestimmten Zeitung für einen Face-to-Face mit dem russischen Präsidenten Putin aufmerksam machte. An einer Pressekonferenz von Mar-a-Lago am Dienstagabend sagte Trump, Putin möchte sich treffen, und wir setzen es auf.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Der Präsidenten-Elekt hat gesagt, wir müssen diese Krieg übernehmen, das ist eine blöde Messung, Ende Quote. Trump hat vorhin bestätigt, dass er den Krieg in 24 Stunden im offiziellen Raum beenden könnte, obwohl er das letzte Mal zurückgezogen hat, indem er den Berichtern sagte, dass er hofft, den Konflikt in sechs Monaten zu lösen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Zweitens hat der verheiratete General Keith Kellogg, Trumps Nominierer für einen besonderen Anwalt für die Ukraine und Russland, das Ziel gesetzt, den Krieg in den ersten 100 Tagen im Offiziel zu beenden, so ein Bericht von NBC News. As we've been tracking on the PDB, Putin claims he's long been open to dialogue and diplomacy regarding the nearly three-year-old conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
And he says those things with a straight face. While many in the West, of course, remain skeptical that his supposed interest in peace is genuine. Those concerns are compounded by the fact that so far, the Kremlin's rough proposals for peace amount to little more than a full Ukrainian surrender.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Stattdessen antwortete Kremlins Sprecher Dmitri Peskov positiv zu Trumps Aufmerksamkeit am Freitag, dass die Aufmerksamkeit der Präsidenten willkommen war und dass er versteht, dass es eine, Quote, gemeinsame Aufmerksamkeit für eine Beratung gibt.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Peskov hat jedoch gesagt, dass es noch keine Spezifikationen für einen potenziellen Summit gab und nicht beurteilt hätte, ob Putin persönlich eine Beratung beantragt hat oder dass eine aktiv aufgerufen wurde. Er bestätigte, dass solche Spezifiken bis nach Trumps Auszeichnung am 20.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Januar nicht ausgeschlossen werden könnten, indem er sagte, dass es so aussieht, dass Dinge beginnen zu bewegen, nachdem Trump ins Oval Office kommt. Es geht ohne zu sagen, dass solch ein Summit, natürlich, von der Ukraine und westlichen Alliierten in Europa beobachtet werden wird, die in den letzten drei Jahren durch Russlands Invasion in Februar 2022 direkt mit Putin eingegangen haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Wir beginnen in Los Angeles mit einem Update auf die bewegenden Feuer, die durch die Städte rippen, als Feuerwehrleute weiter versuchen, die Flaschen zu besitzen, während der Todespreis steigt. As of Friday morning, at least five wildfires were still burning across the area, putting some 166,000 residents under evacuation warnings.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
For the few European leaders who have spoken directly to Putin, such as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Kyiv has had harsh words of criticism. Following Scholz's call with Putin in November, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said that conversations with the Russian dictator, quote, do not add any value to the pursuit of a just peace.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Aber Analysts sagten, dass Kyiv es unwahrscheinlich wäre, die gleichen Kritiken gegen Trump zu leveln, da ihre Beziehung zur White House wichtig ist, um die Zukunft Ukraines zu sichern. Am Freitag sagte ein Offizier mit der ukrainischen Außenministerin, dass die wichtigste Sache für uns ist, mit Amerika auf der Suche nach Frieden zu kooperieren.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Sie sagten, dass Kyiv sich für eine Beratung zwischen Trump und ukrainischer Präsident Zelenskyy vorbereiten würde, sobald Trump in die Offiziere zurückkehrt. Bezüglich von Trumps Kommentaren über Putin, hat der Offizier beurteilt, dass sie unsicher waren, und dass sie glauben, dass Trump sich auf eine gerechte Frieden, die die Interessen der Ukraine betrifft, verabschiedet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Während es sich anscheinend um mehrere Pläne handelt, die von Trumps Vorsitzenden in dieser Zeit geflogen werden, hat Trump vorgelegt, große Teile von Ukrainas oberen Territorien in Russland zu besiedeln, in den Bereichen, in denen Moskau seine Kräfte aktuell besitzt, sowie die Blockierung von Ukraine von der Einführung der NATO-Allianz für einen längeren Zeitraum.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Despite Trumps ambitions, many national security analysts have said Trump may find that Putin is unwilling to meaningfully engage, as he currently has Ukrainian forces on the back foot and may try to pursue further land grabs to strengthen his negotiating hand. Meanwhile, Putin's war continues to claim Russian lives at a staggering rate.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
Es wird festgestellt, dass der russische Militär aktuell 2.000 Verletzungen pro Tag verursacht hat. Und das, meine Freunde, ist der PDB-Afternohn-Bulletin für Freitag, 10. Januar. Wenn Sie Fragen oder Kommentare haben, können Sie mich an pdb-at-the-first-tv.com anmelden. Und als öffentliche Service-Erkennung...
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
The amazing PDB team is currently putting the finishing touches on the latest episode of the PDB Situation Report. That's our extended weekend show. This week's guests include George Barros of the Institute for the Study of War and the always insightful retired Colonel John Mills. We'll be talking about the impact of the war
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
in Ukraine on the Russian population and the Russian economy, talk about chances for a peace settlement, South Korean political chaos, the sabotaging of undersea cables near Taiwan, and China's influence in the Panama Canal zone. Good Lord, is there anything that we're not talking about this weekend? The new episode drops, as the kids say, tonight at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
on the First TV, and of course is on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and throughout podcast land, including Spotify and Apple. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back on Sunday with a special PDB announcement about upcoming travels to faraway lands. That's what, of course, we call a tease. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 10th, 2025: Calmer Winds Offer Hope Amid LA Wildfires & Trump Reveals Meeting With Putin Is Being Arranged
That adds to the more than 150,000 residents who have already been forced from their homes due to the fires. The city saw its first glimmer of hope on Friday, as a pause in the fierce winds that have fueled the spread of the infernals helped crews make some progress on bringing the fires under control.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Her words were not just a satirical cab at the president-elect, but also a historical reference made earlier in the press conference by a former cultural secretary who explained that, quote, Scheinbaum added that the name also appeared in the Constitution drafted during Mexico's independence movement against Spain in 1814.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
While the reference predates Mexico's modern Constitution by more than a century, she used it to underscore the historical ties of the term to the region. Trump's Tuesday announcement of the Gulf of America drew both support and backlash, with the president-elect justifying the name change by citing the U.S. 's economic and industrial footprint along the Gulf.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
He claimed the U.S., quote, does most of the work there, referencing the region's role in petroleum refining and natural gas processing. But the announcement wasn't just about territorial rebranding.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
The president-elect used the moment to slam Mexico for its ongoing stream of illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the U.S., adding that Mexico is run by the cartels in his wide-ranging news conference.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Scheinbaum, while still standing in front of the map, dismissed Trump's assertion that Mexico was overrun by drug cartels, stating, quote, Trump must think Calderón is still president, end quote. Now, that's a reference to former Mexican President Felipe Calderon, whose administration ended over a decade ago.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Her response did little to divert attention from Mexico's ongoing struggles with cartel violence. It's a glaring challenge facing her during her presidency. As Trump raised himself for office, his remarks and Scheinbaum's unsolicited history lesson underscore the tensions currently in U.S.-Mexico relations. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 10 January.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. Now, it's been brought to my attention that today is Friday. And Fridays, of course, well, they mean new episodes of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
This week's excellent guests include George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War and retired Colonel and man about town, Colonel John Mills. Smart guests, insightful analysis, catchy theme music. Don't miss the latest episode of the Situation Report. New episodes hit the airwaves every Friday at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
on The First TV and are also available on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and, of course, all podcast platforms throughout podcast land. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
It's Friday, 10 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we start in the Middle East with a bold accusation from a top Iranian general. Now, he claims that Russia turned on its allies in Syria's final days, faking airstrikes by bombing empty deserts while bragging about targeting rebels.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Now, the Kremlin apparently told Iranian officials that Russian jets were conducting a bombing campaign to blunt the advances of the rebels, including strikes on HTS's headquarters. But it turned out the Russians were just putting on an elaborate show for their supposed allies in both Iran and Syria. I mean, seriously, if you can't trust Putin and his minions, well, what's the world coming to?
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
In reality, his body said that Russia was simply bombing the empty desert to make it look like they were standing in Assad's corner. But his body implied that Russia's treachery was, frankly, hardly a surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
He further accused Russia of turning off critical radars inside Syria throughout 2024 when Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iranian military officials and militant infrastructure stationed in the country. By standing down the radars, he said Russia had enabled Israel's forces to attack much more effectively.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
The remarks, come as a former senior aide to Assad, said Monday that the Kremlin had stalled critical military assistance during the rebel uprising. The official said Assad had personally asked Vladimir Putin to approve airlifting military aid to Syria, and that was a request Putin reportedly agreed to.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
But when Syrian officials asked the Iranian regime about the aid, which was supposed to be transported via Iranian aircraft, well, they said they never received any such request from Moscow. Assad then tried to follow up with the Kremlin, but received no answer. Sorry, nobody's home. The accounts from Isbadi and former members of Assad's inner circle
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
offer a rare peek behind the curtain of Russia's Middle East alliances and how damaged they've become as a result, frankly, of their war on Ukraine. Still, his body put the lion's share of blame for the situation in Syria on the Assad regime itself, which he said had become marred by internal corruption. Well,
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
I mean, it does sound like the Iranian regime is blaming everyone except, well, for the Iranian regime. The general added that relations between Damascus and Tehran became significantly strained over the past year after Assad refused multiple Iranian requests to facilitate attacks by Iranian-backed militias on Israel through Syria. But he also put some blame on his own country.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Oh, well, look at that. Breaking with Iran's diplomatic line regarding Assad's ouster. As Badi reportedly said, quote, I don't consider losing Syria something to be proud of. Well, here's an understatement. We were defeated and defeated very badly. We took a very big blow and it's been very difficult, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
The comments stand in stark contrast to the statements of Iran's president, foreign minister and other top leaders who have all attempted to downplay the magnitude of Iran's strategic loss. But as we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, the collapse of the Assad regime is really nothing short of a catastrophe for Iran's regional ambitions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
We learned this week that the mullahs have pulled out nearly all of their forces from Syria in the aftermath of the rebel victory, marking the collapse of a years-long effort to use Syria as a central hub for their activities of their once powerful axis of resistance.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
The Iranian regime and its IRGC had poured billions of dollars into this effort, sending some 10,000 military personnel and allied fighters to Syria after the civil war broke out in 2011. At the height of their activity, the IRGC's elite Quds Force reportedly controlled at least 55 military bases throughout the country, using them to coordinate the activities of their proxy groups.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Now, their forces have all but fled, their militia groups have disbanded, and most of their military equipment and weapons have either been seized or destroyed. Still, despite the losses, Isbani said the regime plans to re-establish its operations in Syria. He said, quote, The general ominously added, quote, End quote. All right, coming up next, the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
military kicks off the new year with airstrikes on Houthi weapons facilities in Yemen, while Venezuela braces for massed protests as opposition leaders challenge Maduro's third-term inauguration. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Later in the show, the U.S. military launches its first strikes against the Houthis of the new year, targeting an underground weapons storage facility in Yemen. Plus, the latest from Venezuela, where opposition leaders are calling for mass protests ahead of President Maduro's inauguration for a third term.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Sticking with the Middle East, Yemen's Houthi rebels, the last Iranian proxy group of any real capability left in the region, are back in America's sights.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
On Wednesday, US Central Command, or CENTCOM, announced they had carried out their first precision strikes of the year, hitting weapons depots used by the Houthi terrorists to target naval warships and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Notably, the targets included the militant group's underground advanced conventional weapons storage facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
That's according to a report from the Jerusalem Post. Officials at CENTCOM, who declined to specify where in Yemen the strikes took place, said they're part of their ongoing efforts to, quote, "...degrade Iranian-backed Houthi attempts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region," end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
It was the fourth US strike on Houthi targets over the past month by the outgoing Biden administration, which is responding to the group's increased targeting of US naval vessels since November. Last month alone, the US military managed to thwart two separate attempted strikes on naval and merchant ships by the Iranian-backed terrorists.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
It's worth noting that the latest strikes came less than 24 hours after CENTCOM's deputy commander met with the Israeli military's deputy chief of staff to discuss a unified approach to dealing with the ongoing Houthi threat. Sounds like they came up with a unified approach.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
And in today's back of the brief, the president of Mexico is pushing back against President Trump after he proposed changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Past meetings of this nature have almost exclusively focused on Gaza, Lebanon, or Iran, suggesting that Israel is now ready to make the Houthis one of their primary focuses as the new year gets underway.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Over the past few weeks, the Houthis have also escalated their attacks on Israel, firing ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv and the surrounding region on a number of occasions, including one this past Sunday. And some have managed to slip through Israel's missile defenses.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
While there have been no fatalities from Houthi attacks since last July, a ballistic missile struck a school in Tel Aviv on December 19th, causing some $3 million in damage. Several days later, a Houthi missile barrage injured 16 people at a park in Jaffa near Tel Aviv. Israeli leaders have warned that if the attacks continue, the Houthis will suffer the same fate as Hamas and Hezbollah.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also recently vowed to eradicate the last remnants of what he called the Iranians' axis of evil. As a reminder, the Houthis began relentlessly attacking Israel in the wake of last year's 7 October attacks by Hamas. To date, they have fired more than 200 missiles and 170 drones at the Jewish state.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
The militants have also targeted more than 80 merchant vessels with hundreds of missile attacks in the Red Sea, significantly disrupting international trade. Okay, shifting to Venezuela. Opposition forces called for protests Thursday as socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro prepares to solidify his grip on power with a third-term inauguration following last summer's heavily disputed election.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Despite the opposition's request for mass demonstrations from the public to disrupt the inauguration, the streets of Caracas were eerily subdued on Thursday morning, reflecting the climate of fear under Maduro's increasingly repressive regime. Since New Year's Day, the city has been blanketed with security forces and armed pro-government groups known as colectivos.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Their presence, a warning, of course, to deter any uprising ahead of today's swearing-in ceremony. In a rare show of defiance, a small group of protesters cautiously gathered in one Caracas neighborhood chanting, quote, freedom. Their numbers slowly swelled as others joined, emboldened by the unexpected appearance of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
We'll begin with an update on Syria, as a top Iranian general issues a rare rebuke of their Russian allies, putting partial blame on the Putin regime for the sudden downfall of their ally Assad last month at the hands of Islamist rebels.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Emerging from hiding for the first time since August of this past year, her presence is a show of defiance against Maduro's efforts to eliminate dissent, even as she faced the imminent threat of arrest. Maduro's regime deployed a familiar playbook of suppression, blocking streets and blaring loud music to drown out other potential protests.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Mass arrests and other repressive measures have become hallmarks of the government's response since the disputed 28 July election, which saw Maduro declared the winner by a national electoral council packed, not surprisingly, with loyalists.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
However, the council failed to provide detailed vote counts, that's surprising, and by that I mean it's not surprising, a stark departure from past elections, and a blow to Venezuela's fragile democracy. The opposition countered with evidence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Publishing tally sheets from some 85% of electronic voting machines, they claimed retired diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez had decisively won, securing twice as many votes as Maduro. Lending weight to their claims, the U.S.-backed Carter Center, invited by Maduro's regime to observe the election, verified the opposition's tally sheets as legitimate.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Undeterred, the National Assembly, firmly under Maduro's control, is set to oversee his inauguration on Friday, signaling a further entrenchment of authoritarian power despite credible evidence of election fraud.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Maduro's stranglehold on Venezuela was further on full display Tuesday during a televised address where he announced the capture of two Americans, labeling them as, quote, very high level and, quote, mercenaries in an alleged plot against his regime. The socialist dictator provided no evidence, shocking, to substantiate his allegations.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Maduro stated, quote, Just today, we've captured seven foreign mercenaries, including two important ones from the United States. naming Colombians and Ukrainians among the group. The U.S. State Department swiftly dismissed these accusations as baseless, citing Venezuela's history of detaining Americans without cause.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
A spokesperson from the State Department reiterated Washington's support for a democratic resolution to the country's crisis, calling Maduro's claims of U.S. involvement to overthrow Venezuela as, quote, categorically false. The identities of the detained Americans remain undisclosed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Opposition candidate González, recognized by the Biden administration as Venezuela's legitimate president-elect, was in Washington meeting with U.S. officials when Maduro announced the arrests. President Biden doubled down on Washington's stance, reiterating that González was the rightful winner of the July election and condemning Maduro's grip on power.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Brigadier General Behrouz Esbadi, Iran's senior ranking general in Syria before Assad's overthrow, made the remarks during a surprisingly candid speech last week at a mosque in Tehran. He accused the Kremlin of directly lying to leaders in Tehran as the HTS-led offensive got underway back in late November, according to an exclusive report from the New York Times.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
OK, coming up in today's back of the brief, a war of words as Mexico's president fires back at President Trump over his surprising proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. More on that when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
In today's Back of the Brief, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum delivered a theatrical rebuttal on Wednesday when she mockingly proposed renaming North America America Mexicana, a sarcastic response to President-elect Trump's suggestion to rebrand the Gulf of Mexico as, quote, the Gulf of America.
The President's Daily Brief
January 10th, 2025: Iranian General Accuses Russia of Betrayal & Maduro’s Protest Problem
Standing before a 1607 map during a press conference, looking like a smug history teacher, Scheinbaum gestured toward the swath of land encompassing present-day Mexico, the U.S., and parts of Canada. She asked, quote, Why don't we call it America Mexicana? It sounds pretty. Isn't that true? End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
It's Friday, the 9th of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, President Trump suggests that he's willing to drastically cut U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods just as his economic team heads to Switzerland for their first direct trade talks with officials from the communist regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Trade Representative Jameson Greer will meet in Geneva, Switzerland, with China's economic czar on Saturday to break the ice on the subject of mutual de-escalation. In what appears to be an attempt to soften up the Chinese delegation ahead of the negotiations, Trump said, quote, China should open up its market to USA, would be so good for them, and then he used three exclamation marks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
so it would be really good for them. Closed markets don't work anymore, end quote. He then added, 80% tariff on China seems right, up to Scott B., of course referring to his treasury secretary. Now, whether the CCP takes Trump's remarks and the exclamation marks as an olive branch or maintains their stance that all unilateral U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
tariffs must be dropped before substantive talks can move forward, well, that's anyone's guess. While an 80% rate would still be an extremely high import duty, it would bring some measure of welcome relief to Chinese manufacturers, which, of course, have so far borne the brunt of the economic standoff.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
The trade talks in Geneva are scheduled to run through May 12, though neither the US nor China has specified what the agenda will look like.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Beleaguered global investors are hoping to see signs of a diplomatic breakthrough, such as potential tariff exemptions for specific product categories critical to both the US and Chinese economies, even if the two sides are not yet able to hammer out broader trade terms. But some observers are more optimistic than others.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Many financial analysts have said the Chinese delegation will likely maintain a hardline posture in the early talks, which they predict could drag on for several months or longer. They point to a statement from Chinese officials earlier this week that said their participation in the talks is not a sign of them caving to U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
pressure, but based on a consideration of global expectations, China's interests and appeals from American businesses and consumers. At a daily press conference on Wednesday, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry stated that Beijing's, quote, position of firmly opposing U.S. abuse of tariffs has not changed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
They added, quote, if the United States wants to resolve the issue through negotiations, it must face up to the serious negative impact of unilateral tariff measures on itself and the world, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
But despite their face-saving rhetoric, the significant impact the tariffs have already had on China's export-dependent economy may make the CCP more willing to find a diplomatic off-ramp to the trade war. The CCP has already begun quietly exempting a host of U.S.-made products from their 125% retaliatory tariff.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
While China is not publicly acknowledging the exemptions, they are substantial, applying to roughly $40 billion in goods, or nearly a quarter of all Chinese imports from the US this year. The exemptions cover a range of products, from pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals to aviation components and critical inputs for electronics manufacturing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Since early April, Beijing has also been privately surveying businesses about other potential sectors where tariff waivers might be appropriate. Analysts say that this quiet approach by the CCP shows that China is eager to de-escalate, even as they publicly maintain their hardline messaging demand that the US back down.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Still, so far, the exemptions have not been enough to stop the financial bleeding. As we discussed earlier this week on the PDB, the mounting strain of the tariffs on China's economy has been difficult for the CCP to contain.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Factory activity in China has now slipped into its sharpest contraction since late 2023, and numerous Chinese manufacturers have paused production entirely and shut down operations as they scramble to find new buyers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Goldman Sachs recently estimated that some 16 million jobs across Chinese industries are now at risk as China's export orders hit their lowest levels since the worst days of the COVID lockdowns. Coming up next, tensions in Eastern Europe escalate as officials in Kiev accuse Hungary of engaging in espionage, such a charge that officials in Budapest are calling Ukrainian propaganda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Later in the show, Ukraine is accusing Hungary of espionage after allegedly dismantling a Hungarian military spy network gathering sensitive intelligence regarding Kyiv's defenses near their shared border. We'll have those details. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, this July, maybe you've heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of the BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro, the bloc of emerging superpowers that includes China and Russia and India and Iran. Well, they're meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency, and they're calling this the Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
That's a catchy name. As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. While this transition, of course, won't happen overnight, the Rio reset, well, it marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned savings?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Well, I'm going to tell you. One of the things you could do is check in with the Birch Gold Group. Look, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. Claim your free information kit on gold by simply texting PDB to the number 989-898. Look with an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before the July Rio reset. Text PDB to 989-898 today. Mike Baker here. Well, let's talk about eating smart, about eating healthy. And a big part of that effort, as you know, is knowing where your food comes from, right? How it was raised and how it was handled.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, well, someone else will, and that could well be a large faceless corporation, and you don't want that. Now, if you're a fan of beef, like I am, and frankly, I was raised on meat and potatoes, then I've got just the place for you. I'm talking about where to turn to for high-quality beef, and of course, I'm talking about Tritail's Beef.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Look, Tritail's is a fifth-generation ranch run in Texas by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen. It's just pasture-raised, grazed, finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, well, you get a free choice New York strip.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Ukrainian officials say that they have dismantled a Hungarian spy network operating along their western border with Hungary, arresting two alleged operatives who were gathering sensitive intelligence.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
The incident marks the first occasion in Ukraine's history that authorities have uncovered a Hungarian espionage network operating on their soil and threatens to drive an even larger wedge between Kiev and leaders in Budapest. Ukraine and their Western neighbor have long had a tense relationship, particularly given Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's affinity for Russian President Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
We'll begin with a major update on the U.S.-China trade war as President Trump signals that he's willing to make a big tariff concession to the Chinese Communist Party. Taking to Truth Social on Friday morning, the president said he'll consider slashing his current 145% tariff on Chinese imports by nearly half. And for those of you working on your math, that would be somewhere near 80%.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
The Hungarian leader has repeatedly attempted to use his position as an EU member to block military aid to Kyiv. But this new subversive discovery, well, could sink relations to new lows. That's according to our report from ABC News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Ukraine's intelligence service, also known as the SBU, announced the arrest of the two suspects on Friday, identifying both as former members of the Ukrainian military and claiming that their supervisor is a Hungarian military intelligence officer. The activity of the alleged spies was said to be focused on the Zakarpattia region that runs along Ukraine's border with Hungary.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
and is home to a substantial Hungarian ethnic minority. Budapest and Kyiv have often clashed over the rights of ethnic Hungarians in the region, which until the end of World War I belonged to Hungary.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Officials with Ukraine's SBU said the operatives were conducting activities, quote, to the detriment of our state, allegedly gathering intelligence on military defenses and identifying vulnerabilities in its ground and air defense systems.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Even more troubling, they were also reportedly assessing the political views of local residents, specifically how residents would react if Hungarian troops crossed the border into the region. Detailing the allegations, SBU officials said one of the suspects was allegedly recruited by Hungarian intelligence more than four years ago and placed on standby in 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
According to a report from the Kyiv Independent, he was, quote, activated in September of 2024 and subsequently carried out reconnaissance regarding the location of S-300 air defense systems and the deployment of Ukrainian troops.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
He then crossed the border in Hungary to deliver reports to his handler, who provided him with cash to fund the operation and ordered him to establish a network of informants. Ukrainian officials surveilled him as he reportedly tried to recruit at least two other individuals.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
The suspect had a second meeting with his handler in March of 2025, where he received a phone encoded with a special software for covert communications. He returned to Ukraine with orders to track Ukrainian military vehicles and report on developments from the front lines of the war. The second suspect is a former member of Ukraine's security forces who left her position earlier this year.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
She was allegedly tasked with tracking military aircraft operating in the Zakarpattia region and spilling secrets regarding air defense systems operated by her former military unit. Hungary's foreign minister was quick to hit back at the allegations of espionage, calling Kyiv's claims, quote, anti-Hungarian propaganda.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
We should note, however, that he did not expressly deny that Hungarian espionage cells are operating inside Ukraine. The foreign minister said, quote, I urge everyone to exercise caution against any news that appears in Ukrainian propaganda. If we get any details or official information, then we can deal with it, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
The suspects, meanwhile, face charges of treason, which is punishable in Ukraine by life imprisonment. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 9th of May. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, according to all available intelligence, today is Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
And as with every Friday, that means we'll be launching a brand new episode of the PDB Situation Report this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV. Our excellent guests this week include Jeff Smith from the Heritage Foundation and the always insightful China analyst and author Gordon Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
We'll be examining the growing conflict between India and Pakistan, got to keep your eye on that one, and digging into the current trade war between the U.S. and China. As always, you can catch the Situation Report on our YouTube channel. Check that out. You can find it at President's Daily Brief and, of course, all podcast platforms everywhere.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Well, okay, not exactly 80%, but in that region. It was the first time that Trump suggested a specific alternative to his massive tariff and comes just ahead of direct trade talks with Chinese officials this weekend, according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, well, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool. Hey, Mike Baker here. I want to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about fitness, right? That's a very important subject. You know that. Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that's terrific news.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
And studies prove that strength training does more to burn fat than just cardio alone. Plus, as we age, and we're all aging, strength training is critical to maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Plus, this is important, you want to be consistent and make it easy to find time to work out regularly, right? And the best way that I've found to do that is to be able to work out at home.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about. But Jacked Up Fitness, as an example, offers the commercial-grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro. It's the ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full-body workout right in your own spare room or garage.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
It's equipped with a cable crossover system, an integrated 200-pound weight stack, and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform literally hundreds of exercises. Everything that you used to do at the gym, well, you can now do at home. And if you're new to strength training, their Get Jacked Up program includes full-body video workouts led by celebrity trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Simply press play and follow along. Couldn't be easier. So no more excuses. Look, I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and I've got to tell you something. It's amazing, right? The quality, the construction is outstanding. It's solid and smooth. It's really just like the best commercial gym machines. No more worrying about finding time to get to the gym either, right?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
Or whether when you get there, it'll be crowded and you'll have to stand around waiting for benches and machines. Just visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program. And use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 9th, 2025: Trump Floats Major Chinese Tariff Cut & Ukraine Busts Hungarian Spy Network
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Beijing and Washington agreed earlier this week to take the first step towards finding a resolution to the crippling tariff war. which began of course last month when Trump hit the Chinese Communist Party with a 145% duty on their exports, prompting Beijing to retaliate with a 125% tax on U.S. goods. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant and Senior U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Hey, Mike Baker here. I'd like to take just a few seconds of your time to talk about fitness, right? That's an important subject. Look, more and more Americans are making their health and fitness a priority again, and that is great news. Look, studies show that strength training does actually more to burn fat than cardio alone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Plus, as we age and we're all aging, strength training is critical to maintain muscle mass and bone density. Plus, and this is important, you want to be consistent with your workouts and you got to make it easy to find time to work out regularly. And, you know, what I've found over the years is the best way to do that is to work out from home. And that's what Jacked Up Fitness is all about.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
This is a great company. Look, Jacked Up Fitness, as an example, they offer their commercial grade Jacked Up Power Rack Pro. It's an ultimate all-in-one home gym system that lets you get a full body workout right in your own spare room or garage. It's equipped with a cable crossover system, an integrated 200-pound weight stack, and a Smith machine, allowing you to perform hundreds of exercises.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Look, everything you used to do at the gym, now you can do at home. And if you're new to strength training, well, their Get Jacked Up program includes full-body video workouts led by celebrity fitness trainers Kim Lyons and Clark Bartram. Simply press play and follow along. Look, simple as that. No more excuses, right? I've got a Power Rack Pro at home, and I've got to tell you something.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
It's fantastic. The construction is terrific. It's solid. It's smooth. It's just like the best commercial gym systems. No more worrying about finding time to get to the gym or whether it'll be crowded when you get there and you have to stand around waiting for benches and machines. Visit GetJackedUp.com for more information and to sign up for their free program.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
And use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, to save 10% at checkout. That's GetJackedUp.com. In today's back of the brief, white smoke billowed from the chimney atop the Vatican Sistine Chapel on Thursday morning, signaling the end of conclave and selection of a new pope to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
For the first time in history, the body of cardinals elected an American to serve as the new bishop of Rome, giving the US unprecedented new prominence in the Holy See. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native, emerged as the 267th pontiff, selecting the papal name Leo XIV.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
His election came on just the second day of conclave in Vatican City during the fourth round of ballot casting. That's according to a report from the New York Post. A visibly emotional Leo later appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to address the cheering crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
His first words as the new leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics was a simple quote, Peace be with you all. Leo then paid tribute to the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, before giving his first blessing and briefly outlining his own vision for the future of the Catholic Church.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Pope Leo, speaking in Italian, told the gathered faithful, quote, we have to seek together to be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges and dialogue. He called on all Catholics to, quote, show our charity and be in dialogue with love.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
It's Friday, the 9th of May. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. First up, Vladimir Putin violates his own unilateral ceasefire with a wave of airstrikes on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
The newly minted Pope Leo attended Villanova University outside Philadelphia in his youth, where he received a degree in mathematics before earning his diplomacy in theology from the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. He later studied canon law at the pontifical St. Thomas Aquinas University in Rome and was formally ordained as a priest in June of 1982, according to CNN.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
But Ukrainian President Zelensky had rejected the ceasefire proposal as little more than a cynical public relations maneuver by Putin. And it appears, well, that he was right. Ukraine's foreign minister said Thursday that Russian forces had already violated the ceasefire hundreds of times in the hours after the Kremlin claimed all military actions in Ukraine had been suspended.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Leo spent more than half of his career abroad as a missionary in Peru, later becoming a bishop of the Peruvian city of Chiclayal, a role that he served in from 2014 to 2023. His selection came as a bit of a surprise to church observers, beating out perceived frontrunners from Italy, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
But Pope Leo had long been entrusted with various leadership positions across the world by Pope Francis, suggesting that his predecessor had favored him as a possible successor.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Since 2023, the same year that he was made a cardinal, Leo has served as the head of the Vatican's bishop vetting and appointment process, overseeing reforms instituted by Francis, including allowing women to vote on the selection of bishops.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
While the cardinals have historically shied away from choosing an American pope, his decades of missionary work in Peru was said to have mitigated fears among his peers that he would be too Western-focused. A Vatican analyst told CNN, quote, he's somebody that even though he's from the West, would be very attentive to the needs of a global church.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
He's able to accomplish things without necessarily being authoritarian about the way he did things. He's reportedly seen in Vatican circles as a highly capable and accomplished leader, known for his reserved and balanced demeanor. Faithful will now be keenly watching to see what style of leadership he brings to the role.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 9th of May. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. And as you may well know by now, if you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
While combat activity reportedly decreased, Russian forces launched a number of attacks, including in the embattled Sumy region in northeast Ukraine near the Russian border. That's according to a report from CNN. Ukraine's foreign minister said, quote, Predictably, Putin's parade ceasefire proves to be a farce. Russian forces continue to attack across the entire front line from midnight to midday.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Russia committed 734 ceasefire violations and 63 assault operations, 23 of which are still ongoing." Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to keep the pressure on the Kremlin through their drone warfare campaign, launching several towards Moscow on Wednesday for the third consecutive day.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
While the drones were intercepted, the attacks forced Russia to temporarily suspend flights at 13 airports, including four in Moscow. Now, it was the second time this week that the airports had to temporarily halt traffic, embarrassing the Kremlin, of course, and raising questions over their ability to protect their domestic airspace just as world leaders began arriving in the Russian capital.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, Putin's Victory Day celebrations will be attended by some three dozen foreign dignitaries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, he's the guest of honor, Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro, voted most likely to be a really despotic dictator, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who came in second in that voting, and Brazilian President Lula da Silva.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Military units from 13 countries, including China, will participate in a massive military parade in Moscow's Red Square alongside Russian troops and an array of military vehicles. Despite the threats to Russia's airspace, China's Xi arrived in Moscow on Wednesday and met with Putin at the Kremlin on Thursday.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Xi proclaimed Russia and China, quote, friends of steel – well, that sounds serious – and mutually pledged with Putin to expand their relations across all areas, including militarily. In a joint statement, the pair vowed to, quote, strengthen coordination in order to decisively counter Washington's course of dual containment of Russia and China.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Xi aligned himself with Putin regarding the war in Ukraine, saying a peaceful settlement can only be achieved with a deal that addresses the, quote, root causes of the conflict. Now, that's a phrase that's commonly used by the Kremlin to perversely place blame on Kiev for the war, which, as you may recall, started when Russian forces invaded Ukraine's territory.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Meanwhile, the Russian strongman met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro in Moscow ahead of the big Victory Day celebrations. Later in the show, military tensions escalate between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, as both sides accuse each other of launching drone and missile attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
But their remarks should frankly come as no surprise. The pair signed a no-limits partnership just days before Putin launched his invasion in February of 2022, one that analysts say enabled Putin's aggression and has helped rebuild Russia's defense industrial complex. Frankly, the truth is that without China's assistance, Putin could not keep his war machine humming along.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Throughout the war, China has provided computer chips, advanced software, and dual-use components to Russia that have military applications, including for drones.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Despite China's claim of neutrality, last month, Zelenskyy said Ukraine has intelligence showing that the communist nation is now directly supplying the Putin regime with weapons and munitions and actively manufacturing certain weapons from Moscow from facilities located on Russian soil.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
While Xi will be Putin's guest of honor for the Victory Day celebrations, Putin also made time for Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. On Wednesday, the pair signed a strategic partnership agreement in a ceremony broadcast on state TV. They agreed to pursue joint oil and gas initiatives within OPEC and expand trade. That's according to Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Venezuela joins the company of China, North Korea, and Iran, which have all signed joint pacts with Moscow over the past two years. As authoritarian leaders convene in Russia for Victory Day, Zelensky derided Putin's planned celebrations in Moscow as a, quote, parade of cynicism. The Ukrainian leader said, quote, you simply cannot call it anything else.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
It's a parade of bile and lies, as if not dozens of allied states, but Putin personally defeated Nazism. He added that Ukraine would not be, quote, playing games to create a pleasant atmosphere to allow for Putin's exit from isolation on the 9th of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
All right, coming up after the break, military tensions escalate between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, and Israeli leaders say that they are prepared to defend themselves without American support against the Iranian-backed Houthis. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Now, this July, maybe you've heard about this, but this July, there's going to be a global summit of BRICS nations in Rio de Janeiro. This is important. The bloc of emerging superpowers, and that includes China and Russia, Iran and India, are meeting with the goal of displacing the U.S. dollar as the global currency. And they're calling it the Rio Reset.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
As BRICS nations push forward with their plans, well, demand for U.S. dollars could decrease, bringing down the value of the dollar. While this transition, of course, won't happen overnight, the Rio reset marks a pivotal moment when BRICS objectives move from possibility toward reality. So, you ask yourself, what can you do to help protect your hard-earned savings?
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Well, I've got one answer for you, and that would be Birch Gold Group. Look, Birch Gold can help you move your hard-earned savings into a tax-sheltered IRA in precious metals. You can claim your free information kit on gold just by texting PDB at the number 989-898. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and tens of thousands of happy customers.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Let Birch Gold arm you with a free information kit on owning gold before July and that Rio reset. Text BDB to 989-898 today. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Plus, Israeli leaders say they are prepared to defend themselves without American support against the Iranian-backed Houthis in the wake of the Trump administration's surprise ceasefire with the terror group. And in the back of the brief, the Catholic Church has elected a new pope, for the first time in history, selecting an American to serve as the new Bishop of Rome.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
In a dangerous new escalation, India and Pakistan traded deadly drone and missile attacks Thursday, pushing both nuclear-armed rivals closer to the point of full-scale war, with each side blaming the other for launching unprovoked strikes on military targets.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Indian officials say their air force struck Pakistani air defense radar systems in Lahore late Thursday, a move they insist was in direct response to what they called, quote, coordinated drone and missile attacks launched by Islamabad on Indian military sites across the disputed Kashmir region.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
India's foreign secretary called the strikes, quote, defensive and measured and emphasized that they were prompted by Pakistani shelling earlier this week that killed 16 Indian civilians and wounded nearly 60 others.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Meanwhile, Pakistani military officials claimed that Indian drones targeted multiple major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, that's home to Pakistan's military headquarters, killing at least three people and injuring four more. Pakistan's inter-services public relations wing said their air defenses shot down 29 Indian drones across several regions,
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
and accused India of deploying Harop drones. Now, these drones are capable of loitering for hours above high-value targets to conduct intelligence before striking. One Harop drone reportedly struck a Pakistani military facility near Lahore, damaging key infrastructure.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
India, for its part, claims that the strike was deliberate and successful, part of what it described as a, quote, calibrated retaliation. India's foreign secretary made the government's position clear on Thursday, stating, quote, our intention has not been to escalate matters, but instead to respond proportionally to what he called original Pakistani aggression.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
That aggression, as we've been tracking here on the PDB, traces back to the late April massacre of 26 tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir. That terror attack is something that New Delhi blames on Islamabad-backed Islamic terrorists. Pakistan continues to deny any involvement.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
In Islamabad, Pakistan's top military spokesman, Major General Ahmed Sharif Chowdhury, lashed out at New Delhi's narrative, accusing India of manufacturing what he called, quote, war hysteria. Speaking to local media, Chowdhury said the Indian government had, quote, lost the plot and was acting out of, quote, hubris in an already volatile environment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
He added that New Delhi is escalating the crisis to satisfy its mindset rather than choosing rationality. Meanwhile, the city of Jammu in Indian-administered Kashmir was rocked by loud explosions late Thursday night as sirens blared and red flashes lit up the sky. Indian officials described it as a Pakistani drone and missile barrage on military installations.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Five districts in the region were blasted, they said, plunging Jammu into a blackout. Indian security forces confirmed eight incoming missiles were intercepted by air defense units. The U.S. is still scrambling to pull both nations back from the brink of full-scale war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
President Trump said Wednesday that New Delhi and Islamabad had gone, quote, tit-for-tat, so hopefully they can stop now, and added, quote, if I can do anything to help, I will be there. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke separately with India's foreign minister and Pakistan's prime minister on Thursday, urging calm. That should do it. The U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
consulate general in Lahore has since ordered staff to shelter in place. Now, while both sides insist their actions are defensive, well, the scale and tempo of the attacks suggest something far more dangerous is in motion, which may soon prove difficult to contain.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. We'll start things off with the latest from the war in Ukraine, as Russian President Putin violates his own unilateral ceasefire just hours after it took effect. That's quite the surprise. And by that, I mean, well, there's no surprise there at all. launching a barrage of guided bombs on several Ukrainian cities, killing and wounding a number of civilians.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Okay, shifting to Israel, the Israeli government is threatening to strike Iran directly if Yemen's Houthi terrorists don't stop launching missile and drone attacks, warning that the Islamic Republic will meet the same fate as its other regional proxies. The sharp escalation from Jerusalem follows frustration over a U.S.-brokered ceasefire with the Houthis this week that excluded Israeli input.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Defense Minister Israel Katz on Thursday was blunt, declaring the Houthis would, quote, absorb heavy blows if their assaults on Israeli territory did not stop before turning his attention to the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Katz reminded Iran of recent Israeli campaigns in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon and issued a stark threat, stating, quote, what we did to Hezbollah in Beirut, Hamas in Gaza, to Assad in Damascus, and the Houthis in Yemen will also be done to you in Tehran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
The warning came on the heels of Israeli airstrikes targeting Houthi infrastructure in Yemen this week in response to Sunday's Houthi missile strike that landed in the perimeter of the Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport. That was the Houthi's most direct strike on Israel since the start of the war.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
The Israeli retaliatory airstrikes have blasted Houthi strongholds, including Sana'a International Airport and industrial areas in Hodeidah and Bajil. But the more enduring concern, Israeli officials say, lies in Washington's diplomatic maneuvering.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
On Tuesday, President Trump announced a ceasefire agreement with the Houthis, under which the Iran-backed group pledged to stop targeting maritime assets in the Red Sea. Israeli leaders were not informed of the deal beforehand and were reportedly blindsided by its scope and implications.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Compounding Jerusalem's frustration, a senior Houthi official confirmed the ceasefire covers only attacks on American targets, not Israeli ones. Houthi leader Mohammad Ali al-Houthi went further, declaring the agreement a, quote, victory that separates U.S. support for the temporary entity of Israel and a failure for Netanyahu, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Israeli officials described the agreement as, quote, astonishing, according to the Times of Israel, and privately voiced concerns that the White House is sidelining Israel in broader regional talks, including ongoing U.S. engagement with Hamas and nuclear diplomacy with Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
The IDF, meanwhile, said it intercepted a drone likely launched from Yemen on Wednesday and confirmed another Houthi missile crashed outside Israeli territory. Both incidents came after the ceasefire, serving as immediate proof in Israel's eyes that the U.S. deal failed to deter threats to the Jewish state.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Later that day, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said simply, quote, Israel will defend itself by itself. Katz, similarly to Netanyahu, declared that Israel must rely on itself, quote, as was true in the past and will be in the future. For months, Jerusalem has relied on more than 1,000 U.S. airstrikes on Houthi positions as part of Operation Roughrider to suppress threats in the Red Sea.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
But now, with Washington pulling back, that security umbrella is vanishing, and Israeli leaders are signaling that any future escalation from Yemen could lead to a direct military confrontation with Iran. All right. Coming up next in the back of the brief, the Catholic Church has elected a new pope for the first time, selecting an American to serve as the new bishop of Rome.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
I'll have those details next. Hey, Mike Baker here. Well, let's talk about eating smart, eating healthy. Look, a big part of that effort is, well, frankly, knowing where your food comes from, how it was raised and handled. After all, if you don't take control of your food supply, well, somebody else will, and that could well be some large faceless corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
Now, if you're a fan of beef like I am, I mean, frankly, I was raised on meat and potatoes, then I've got just the place for you. And, of course, I'm talking about a place to turn to for high-quality beef, and that would be Tri-Tales Beef. Tri-Tales is a fifth-generation Texas ranch run by real ranchers. There's no corporate nonsense. There's no middlemen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
As we've been tracking here on the PDB, Putin is gearing up for his big Victory Day celebrations all day Friday, which will be attended by 29 foreign leaders commemorating the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Putin had recently announced a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the ceremonies, which in theory took effect at midnight on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
May 9th, 2025: Putin Embraces China's Xi, Violates His Own 'Victory Day' Ceasefire & India Trades Blows With Pakistan In Another Dangerous Escalation
It's just pasture-raised, grain-finished, black Angus beef that delivers tenderness, rich marbling, and great taste in every cut. This grilling season, stock up before it's too late. And right now, when you order over $349, get a free choice New York strip. Just go to trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. That's trybeef.com slash pdbgrill. Your family, your friends, and your grill will thank you.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The surprising revelation, given the regime's past attempts to assassinate President Trump, came during an interview that Trump gave to Fox Business on Friday, where he reiterated his intent to find a peaceful solution to Iran's pursuit of a bomb. That is, of course, if the Islamic regime is willing to play ball.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Trump said he sent a letter on Wednesday directly to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Offering him a choice between engaging in good faith negotiations or facing the wrath of the American military. It does make you wonder what the cost of mailing a letter from Washington to Tehran would be. Und ich hoffe, dass sie einen von diesen Ronald-Reagan-Postage-Stampfen benutzt haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Die Letzte kommt in den Wachstum eines vertrauten UN-Reports, das letzte Woche geleakt wurde, also nicht besonders vertraut, welches bewarnte, dass Teheran über den letzten Monat ihre hohe Erhöhung von Uraniumverbrauch erhöht hat und jetzt genug hat, um mindestens sechs nukleare Waffen zu produzieren. Trump sagte, Quote, There are two ways Iran can be handled, militarily or you make a deal.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
I would prefer to make a deal. He added, Quote, I'm not sure that everybody agrees with me, but we can make a deal that would be just as good as if you won militarily, end quote. While Trump stressed that his letter was not meant as an ultimatum to Iran, he also threatened what he described as, Quote, terrible consequences for the regime, should they refuse to back down on the nuclear issue.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The President added that time was of the essence, warning that he'll have to take action soon, one way or the other, because, quote, you can't let them have a nuclear weapon. The President did not tip his hand on what, if anything, was offered to entice Iran into accepting his invitation, and Iran's foreign ministry has yet to acknowledge the diplomatic outreach.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
But a state-run media outlet, closely affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, dismissed the letter as a, quote, repetitive show, whatever that means, by Washington, according to a report from Reuters. But if recent developments give us any clue, Trump does appear serious about bringing Iran to the table.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
As we discussed earlier this week, a report from Bloomberg said that during recent diplomatic talks between US and Russian delegations, Moscow had offered to use their friendly relationship with the Islamic regime to broker a new nuclear deal with the West. While the White House has not publicly commented on the situation, the report said that Trump did appear interested in the possibility.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Als Erinnerung. Im Jahr 2015 wurde der Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action zwischen Iran, den USA und fünf anderen Weltmächten erreicht. Der Deal restrierte Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief and extensive UN oversight, though Iran was quickly accused of flouting the terms of the deal and they did refuse access to key sites for monitoring purposes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Trump verabschiedete sich von dem Vertrag im Jahr 2018, indem er die Sanktionen als Teil einer maximalen Druckstrategie verabschiedete, die die iranische Wirtschaft in Schmerzen verursachte.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Trotz des finanziellen Schadens, antwortete Iran mit der Erhöhung ihrer Erhöhung von Uranium bis zu 60 Prozent Purity, das ist nahe an den Waffengraden, und mit der Verstärkung des Zugangs an zusätzliche nukleare Sätze. Given the threat that a nuclear Iran would pose to Israel and other regional players, Trump has made halting their progress a top priority in his second term.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
It's Friday, 7 March. Welcome to the BDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Zuerst hat Präsident Trump einen persönlichen Anruf an Iran's Supreme Leader gemacht, um an die Negotiationsstelle zu kommen, um einen neuen nuklearen Deal zu streiten, während er auch militärische Aktionen bedroht, wenn er sie verweigert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
As part of his effort to force meaningful concessions from the Iranian regime, Trump has returned to his maximum-pressure strategy, reimposing aggressive sanctions on Iran's shadowy oil trade just last week. But so far, Iran remains as defiant as ever.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Late last week, Iran's foreign minister issued a statement following that the regime will not negotiate on their nuclear program under pressure and sanctions from the Trump administration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Instead, the regime has reportedly placed the country's nuclear facilities on high alert and deployed additional air defense systems around key nuclear and missile sites to guard against potential joint military action by the US and Israel. Coming up next, Staff Cuts at the CIA. We'll look at the potential ramifications for US national security interests. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Willkommen zurück im Afternoon Bulletin. Zurück in die USA. Die Verbrechung des federalen Arbeitsmarktes der Trump-Administration wird weitergehen. Und jetzt ist es in die Intelligenzgemeinschaft eingegangen, mit einer Verbrechung bei der CIA.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
CIA-Direktor John Ratcliffe begann berühmt, ein paar der letzten Anrufe an die Spionage earlier this week, mit mehr erwartet in den nächsten Tagen und Wochen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Eine Begründung, die sich mit dem Thema bekannt macht, sagte Reuters, dass die jüngsten Anrufe, die sogenannte Probatien-Anbieter genannt wurden, für performance-relevanten Themen gefeuert wurden, obwohl die Nachrichten Anmerkungen auf Capitol Hill über die möglichen nationalen Sicherheitsvermögen beobachten, als die Anbieter über ein paar verschiedene CIA-Portfolios gearbeitet haben.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Es bleibt unklar, wie viele Intelligenz-Offiziere den Ausflug zeigen werden, aber die Suche hat Reuters gesagt, dass es eine zahlreiche Anzahl ist. Die Agentur, wie auch viele andere Regierungsorganisationen, evaluiert regelmäßig die Leistungen der Mitarbeiter und behält eine Liste der unteren 10 % der Leistungen. Das sind die Individuen, die beruflich verlassen wurden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Die Ausschüttungen kamen, nachdem ein föderaler Gericht letzte Woche beurteilt hat, dass die Administration mit Plänen vorwärts gehen könnte, um Tausende von Arbeitnehmern aus der CIA und des Offices des Direktors der Intelligenz, der DNI, auszuführen, die temporäre Positionen auf DEI-Initiativen arbeiteten.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Aber diese Beurteilung hatte auch Bedingungen für die breitere Arbeitnehmerbasis, die CIA die Möglichkeit gab, Arbeitnehmer auf Willen zu beurteilen. In a statement, a spokesman for the CIA said, "...we are reviewing personnel within their first two years of service at the agency. For some personnel, well, that process will result in termination."
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The statement added, "...our officers face unique pressures from working in situations that are fast-paced and high-stakes. It's not for everyone." But the way that the first round of firings was conducted has raised eyebrows.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The process got underway last month, when, on the direction of the White House, the CIA sent an unclassified email to the Office of Personnel Management, OPM, containing the first names and initials of last names of probationary employees.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The email startled members of Congress and the intelligence community, who said they feared the identities of the officers could be publicly leaked or fall into the hands of a foreign adversary.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
This week, those affected personnel were instructed to report to a location away from agencies' headquarters in Langley and were subsequently instructed to turn over their credentials, according to sources who spoke with NBC News. Additionally, members of the House and Senate Intelligence Committees were reportedly left in the dark about the personnel changes.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Anonymous official said members of the committees were blindsided by the dismissals and will be asking CIA leadership to share more information regarding the situation in the coming days.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
The move also provoked alarm among former members of the intelligence community, who said it could take the agency years to recover, given the time and effort put into vetting and recruiting and training new officers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Stephen Cash, a former CIA officer and staff member on the Senate Intelligence Committee, warned that the firings could severely damage the agency's operations and jeopardize key national security interests. Cash told NBC News, quote, End quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Now, what's not known, because it is the CIA and there are reasons to maintain some secrets, is how many of the fired probationary employees were within the operations directorate of the agency and how many were in other non-operational positions, such as HR or finance or security, administration roles, IT, etc.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Now, all those positions are important, of course, very important to the smooth running of the organization. But to be a bit mercenary, it's the operations officers who are at the pointy end of the spear. Their vetting and their training and their preparation for assignments can take much longer than for incoming employees who are slated to be working outside of the operations element.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
So to some degree, potential damage to the agency's effectiveness and national security interests will greatly depend on the types of personnel that are being let go. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 7 March. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And finally, well, look at that, it's Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
Später in der Show werden wir über Personalreduktionen diskutieren, die in einigen Kreisen als Terminationen bekannt sind. Sie begannen diese Woche auf der CIA. Intelligenz-Offiziere warnen, dass diese Staff-Cuts die US-National-Sicherheitsinteressen sehr schädigen könnten und die Agentur Jahre zurücksetzen könnten. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
We made it to the end of another week. And if it's Friday, well, you know what that means. Exactly. A brand new episode of our PDB Situation Report launches this evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV. Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | March 7th, 2025: Trump Reaches Out To Iran's Supreme Leader For Nuclear Talks & CIA Purge Sparks National Security Concerns
In another interesting, possibly unorthodox diplomatic move, President Trump has personally reached out to Iranian leaders in an effort to strike a new nuclear deal that would rein in that country's nuclear development and avert the need for military intervention.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
One of the pamphlets was titled, Our Narrative, Al-Aqsa Flood, evoking the name that the Hamas terrorists gave to their brutal attacks on Israeli women and children and babies and elderly and others. The co-chair of the Columbia Students Association for Israel condemned the protesters on social media, saying, quote, this is terrorist support in its rawest and most obvious form.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Another Israeli student group said, quote, still think they're pro-peace? Still think they don't support terror? They added, quote, Barnard College in Columbia, it's beyond time to take action. Now, officials at Barnett once again denounced the demonstrations, calling them a, quote, affront to all students that, quote, cannot be tolerated. And yet, they seem to be tolerating them.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
As the protesters' occupation continued into Wednesday evening, what was later determined to be a fake bomb threat was called in, prompting the university to call in the NYPD to clear the building. More than 50 NYPD officers in riot gear descended on the scene, ordering the students to exit the building, though the protesters refused.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The police then began forcibly removing the protesters, arresting at least nine people for refusing to comply. Once again, now that we've had some arrests, it would be interesting to know how many of those are actual students and how many are outside activists. As I mentioned, the latest ordeal came after anti-Israel protesters staged a similar demonstration on Columbia's campus last week.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Earlier this week, the Trump administration launched a review of more than $50 million in government contracts and grants with Columbia University over their, quote, "...ongoing inaction in the face of relentless harassment of Jewish students."
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
President Trump also vowed to strip federal funding from any college that allows, quote, illegal protests and threatened to revoke visas and deport foreign students involved in violent demonstrations. And that, my friends, is the president's daily brief for Friday, 7 March. And look at that. It is, in fact, Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
On Thursday, President Trump signed executive actions delaying his 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada for all products covered by the current North American Free Trade Treaty, known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. despite enacting the new taxes just days ago.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Now, dedicated listeners of the PDB know that Fridays mean new episodes of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report. This weekend's guests include Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the author and China analyst Gordon Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
We'll be looking at the stalled Israel-Hamas ceasefire, plans for Gaza reconstruction, the potential for renewed fighting there, China's declaration that they're ready for, quote, any type of war with the U.S., news that a U.S. firm will be buying two key Panama Canal ports from China, and more. Honestly, it's a smorgasbord of news and information.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
And when was the last time you heard anybody say smorgasbord? You have to say it that way, smorgasbord. The new episodes air every Friday evening on the First TV and are available on our YouTube channel, at President's Daily Brief, and all your favorite podcast platforms. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
It's Friday, 7 March. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. We'll kick things off with a major update on the Trump administration's trade war as the president pauses tariffs on a host of goods from Mexico and Canada for a period of one month, praising Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum's cooperation with the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
For now, the exemption will only last through April 2nd, the same day that Trump plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on all major U.S. trading partners, including longtime allies. And that's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The announcement came one day after Trump said he would delay tariffs on all automakers for one month in order to give that sector time to adjust to supply chains and move more production to the U.S., though realistically, well, such an undertaking would obviously take much longer.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Automakers are expected to be hit particularly hard by the tariffs as car parts often cross US borders six to eight times during assembly, meaning that they could be taxed multiple times. Now, we should stress that the White House's latest move does not constitute a total reprieve from the tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Economists estimate that only half of the products coming from Mexico and roughly 38% from Canada are covered by the new one-month exemption. All other goods will still face the 25% tariffs enacted on Tuesday, while Canadian energy products such as crude oil, petroleum gas, and coal will face a 10% tax.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The partial pause, reportedly, came after discussions that Trump held with Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum on Thursday and separate talks led by White House officials with Canadian leaders. In a surprisingly friendly post on Truth Social, Trump said, quote, I did this as an accommodation and out of respect for President Scheinbaum.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Our relationship has been a very good one and we are working hard together on the border, both in terms of stopping illegal aliens from entering the U.S. and likewise stopping fentanyl. The president added, quote, Thank you to President Scheinbaum for your hard work and cooperation, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Now, while Trump singled out Scheinbaum from Mexico for praise in his statement, well, don't expect the same warmth from the president for Canadian leaders.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
While Mexico delayed any announcement of economic retaliation following Tuesday's implementation of the tariffs, which theoretically was buying her some goodwill with Trump, Canada swiftly struck back by imposing an immediate 25% tariff on nearly $30 billion worth of American goods, while threatening more in the near future.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also criticized the tariff move on Tuesday as, quote, a very dumb thing to do. He dug in his heels further on Thursday, saying that he expects the trade war to continue with the U.S. for the foreseeable future, and that Canada would not lift its retaliatory actions unless the White House permanently rolls back all the tariffs.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Trump responded on Thursday by slamming Trudeau on Truth Social over the quote terrible job he's done for Canada and accusing him of using the trade argument to win back political support. We should note the comprehensive tariff exemptions issued Thursday. marked the second time that the Trump administration has delayed, at least in part, tariff actions against Mexico and Canada.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
He initially threatened to impose the tariffs back in early February, but paused their implementation after Canada and Mexico promised to take strong actions to secure their borders and reduce the flow of migrants and drugs into the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Given the starts and stops with these tariffs, it's, well, anyone's guess what will happen come the new deadline of April 2nd, when, as I mentioned, the Trump administration also plans to roll out a global regime of reciprocal tariffs on all trading partners.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC on Thursday, "...on April 2nd, we're going to move with the reciprocal tariffs, and hopefully Mexico and Canada will have done a good enough job on fentanyl that this part of the conversation will be off the table. But if they haven't, this will stay on."
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
on the southern border. Later in the show, European Union leaders gathered for emergency talks in Brussels on Thursday in the hopes of drastically boosting defense spending following President Trump's reversal of U.S. policies on Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
All right, coming up next, EU leaders gathered for emergency talks in Brussels on Thursday in the hopes of drastically increasing defense spending. And at least 15 people were injured in South Korea on Thursday after their military accidentally dropped eight bombs on civilian areas during a training exercise. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Welcome back to the PDB. European Union leaders committed Thursday to backing new defense spending plans aimed at funneling billions into protecting the continent. The decision follows the Trump administration's suspension of military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine earlier this week, a move that's forced Europe to reassess its security posture.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
This comes as Ukrainian President Zelensky in his nightly address on Thursday said that negotiations between Ukraine and the United States over ending the war will take place in Saudi Arabia next week. Zelensky is set to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday, and his delegation will remain in Saudi Arabia for follow-up talks with American officials.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
At an emergency summit in Brussels earlier in the day, leaders of the 27-member EU agreed to relax fiscal rules that could unlock as much as $700 billion for military investments over time. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called it a, quote,
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
also pushing a plan to jointly borrow up to $162 billion to lend to EU governments to spend on weapons procurement, something that member states must still agree on. Yet for all the talk of a more self-sufficient Europe, the summit fell short of delivering action. It was, frankly, plenty of rhetoric with very little apparent follow-through.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Leaders left Ukraine's most pressing needs, that would be weapons and ammunition, largely unaddressed. Most notably, this so-called rearmament plan remains theoretical, subject to approval from individual member states, and it already faces headwinds. One of the biggest sticking points, not every European country is equally eager, or financially capable, of ramping up defense spending.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Plus, at least 15 people were injured in South Korea on Thursday after their military accidentally dropped eight bombs, oops, on a civilian area during a joint training exercise near the North Korean border.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Six EU nations have debt levels exceeding 100% of their GDP, raising concerns about how they'll finance a military buildup. The leaders also failed to reach consensus on unfreezing an estimated $196 billion in Russian assets held in European financial institutions. It's a potential windfall that could go towards aiding Ukraine, but it remains politically fraught.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Additionally, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Moscow's closest ally in Europe, refused to endorse part of the summit's statement of support for Ukraine. Still, the other 26 leaders presented a unified front, declaring that Ukraine must remain at the center of any diplomatic negotiations and that Europe must have a seat at the table in any future U.S.-Russia security talks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Despite the financial uncertainties, for Zelensky, the EU's stated commitment to stepping up defense spending is a welcome shift. Speaking to reporters, Zelensky stated, quote, we are very thankful that we are not alone. But he added bluntly, quote, the real question for any negotiations is whether Russia is capable of giving up the war.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Zelensky pointed to Moscow's escalating military expenditures, its continued expansion of troop levels, and its relentless efforts to bypass sanctions, all signs he argued that the Kremlin has no interest in backing down from their war effort. Meanwhile, President Trump's evolving foreign policy stance loomed over the summit. U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg defended Washington's decision to freeze military aid and cease intelligence sharing, casting it as a tough love approach to force Kiev into negotiations. Kellogg stated, quote, The best way I can describe it is it's sort of like hitting a mule with a two-by-four across the nose. You get their attention. End quote. Hmm. Interesting analogy.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
With negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine set for next week, the summit made one thing clear. If Washington steps back, Europe will have to step up. All right, turning to South Korea.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
A military exercise turned disastrous on Thursday when two fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a civilian area near the North Korean border, injuring at least 15 people and causing significant structural damage. The incident unfolded around 10 a.m.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
And in today's back of the brief, anti-Israel protests took a radical turn this week at Columbia University as an anti-Semitic mob calling for, quote, death to America, hung an effigy of a school administrator and handed out flyers authored by the Hamas media office glorifying the brutal 7 October attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
local time in Pochon, a northeastern city of 140,000 people, during a live-fire joint exercise with the United States in preparation for the annual Freedom Shield military exercises, which are scheduled to begin on the 10th of March.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
According to the South Korean Air Force, the 500-pound MK-82 bombs were, quote, abnormally released, well, that's one way to put it, from two KF-16 fighter jets outside the designated firing range.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
A preliminary investigation revealed that one pilot had entered incorrect targeting coordinates, well, that would do it, sending four bombs off course, while the cause of the second jet's malfunction remains under review. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff admitted that multiple layers of verification should have prevented such an error, but failed at several critical points.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The fallout was immediate, as two civilians suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while 13 others sustained minor wounds, including two South Korean soldiers inside a military chapel and two foreign nationals caught in the blast radius. The damage was extensive. Eight buildings, including five homes, a warehouse, a greenhouse, and a chapel, bore the brunt of the explosions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Images from the scene depicted shattered windows, debris-littered streets, and emergency crews working to evacuate residents as authorities scrambled to locate any unexploded ordnance. In response, South Korea's Joint Chiefs announced the immediate suspension of live-fire drills. However, military officials confirmed that freedom shield exercises would proceed as planned in the coming days.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The U.S. military was quick to clarify that no American aircraft were involved in the mishap. Colonel Ryan Donald, a spokesman for U.S. Forces Korea, emphasized that the U.S. was fully cooperating with the South Korean military's investigation, adding, quote, The safety of the local community, U.S. and Republic of Korea personnel is our top priority.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The South Korean Air Force issued a formal apology, pledging to compensate affected civilians and assemble an investigative committee to determine the precise cause of the incident and ensure such errors don't happen again.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Meanwhile, South Korea's governing People Power Party wasted no time in demanding stricter safety protocols for military drills near civilian areas, warning that such failures raise serious concerns about the reliability of the country's defense infrastructure. With 28,000 U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
troops stationed in South Korea, joint military drills like Freedom Shield are designed to maintain combat readiness in the face of growing threats from nuclear-armed North Korea. Okay, coming up next in the back of the brief, anti-Israel protests escalate on the campus of Columbia University, leading to a clash with police. I'll be right back with those details.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Welcome back to the PDB. In today's back of the brief, anti-Israel protests took a dark turn this week at Columbia University in New York City as anti-Semitic mobs took over another campus building during a demonstration that ended with a fake bomb threat and a dramatic clash with NYPD police officers.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Meanwhile, the gormless university administrators, well, they continue to negotiate with the mob. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. In another whiplash-inducing reversal, the Trump administration is walking back their plans to impose crippling trade tariffs on America's northern and southern neighbors over the ongoing fentanyl crisis.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The latest chaos kicked off on Wednesday when more than 200 students, well, do we know they were all students, hiding their faces behind headscarves and masks, that's brave, stormed the Milstein Center for Interreligious Dialogue on the campus of Columbia's Barnard College.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
The students claim to be protesting the war in Gaza, as well as the expulsion of two students who stormed into classrooms in January and threw around flyers loaded with anti-Semitic rhetoric. That's according to a report from the New York Post. Apparently, those protesters object to having consequences for bad actions.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Note, there's not accurate reporting yet on just how many of these protesters are actual students and how many are outside activists and just non-student morons cosplaying as Hamas sympathizers. The group began plastering stickers around the building that read Burn Barnard Burn and Death to America. Oh, how revolutionary.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
Look, they spelled America with a K as well as a wanted poster with the face of the university's dean of students. They also hung an effigy of Barnard president Laura Rosenberry, who had condemned protesters last week for refusing to remove their masks when they occupied a campus building and assaulted a school employee.
The President's Daily Brief
March 7th, 2025: Trump Hits Pause On Trade War With Mexico And Canada & South Korea Accidentally Bombs Their Own Civilians
So they were reprimanded or she was condemning them for not removing their masks, but maybe not for the anti-Semitic actions or assaulting a school employee. Maybe I have that wrong. If that wasn't disturbing enough, the protesters began handing out flyers on Wednesday, authored by the Hamas media office, that glorified the 7 October attacks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
The Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, has now launched an official probe into the station. The key question, did KCBS violate the terms of its broadcasting license, which requires it to operate in the public interest? The controversy stems from the January 26th edition of KCBS Radio Weekend News.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
It's Friday, 7 February. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. Today, we'll begin with what looks like, I'm saying looks like, sabotage against immigration enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Now, during that broadcast, host Brett Burkhart reported on ICE activity in San Jose, but he didn't just cover the story. he pretty much gave away the gang. The report included the exact make, color, and model of unmarked ICE vehicles, as well as locations of agents operating in the area. Yeah, I'm not making this up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And to make matters worse, those agents were conducting enforcement in a part of town known for violent gang activity. Once again, I'll say it, how brave of the self-righteous KCBS AF. The FCC's Enforcement Bureau is now investigating whether this kind of reporting crosses a legal line. What do you think?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
But politically, this story is about more than just journalistic ethics, which may or may not in this day and age actually be a thing. KCBS is part of a network of more than 200 radio stations purchased last year, in part by left wing billionaire George Soros, who's been a major financial force, of course, behind progressive causes across the nation.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And this isn't the only time that someone has tipped off illegal immigrants about enforcement actions. On Thursday, Border Czar Tom Homan blasted an intelligence leak that he says derailed a major immigration raid targeting the Trenda Aragua, or TDA, gang in Colorado. Here's what happened. Early Wednesday morning, a multi-agency task force
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
launched a coordinated crackdown on TDA, the violent Venezuelan gang known for drug trafficking, extortion, and human smuggling. Hundreds of agents from ICE, DHS, the FBI, CBP, and the DEA raided multiple apartment complexes in the town of Aurora, Colorado. But something, frankly, was off. After hours of searching, only 30 arrests were made, far short of the 100-plus that officials had expected.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And of those arrests, well, just one was an actual member of TDA. Holman says they've already identified the source of the leak, and that person, in his words, quote, may find themselves in a pair of handcuffs very soon, end quote. Taken together, these two incidents raise major concerns about security breaches and political interference in the pursuit of immigration enforcement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Coming up next, authorities are scrambling to find out what happened to a passenger plane that went missing over the Bering Sea yesterday evening. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security. Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history. Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
A Soros-backed radio station broadcast ICE agents' locations live on air, and a major immigration rate was reportedly undermined by an intelligence leak. Later in the show, a commercial passenger plane goes missing in Alaska, potentially marking the third tragic aviation disaster in just two weeks. But first, today's afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app. and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.?
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at fastgrowingtrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. Fastgrowingtrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Authorities in Alaska are searching for a missing commercial passenger plane that disappeared over the Bering Sea Thursday evening. Now, the aircraft, a Cessna operated by regional carrier Bering Air, had nine passengers and a pilot on board when it lost contact about 12 miles offshore.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
The Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force, and National Guard are leading the search, but so far, there is no sign of the plane. It was traveling on a short flight across the Norton Sound to Nome, but never arrived. The last known position showed the aircraft flying at 5,300 feet before vanishing from radar. Weather conditions aren't helping.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Nome saw temperatures drop as low as 9 degrees overnight, and the coast is under gale warnings. Heavy winds, rough seas, and poor visibility are making the search effort even more difficult. Local police initially called for volunteers with boats to assist, but later said they had enough support.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Authorities are now warning residents against launching their own search missions due to the dangerous conditions. The National Transportation Safety Board, the NTSB, is monitoring the situation and Bering Air, which operates flights to remote communities along Alaska's northwest coast, Well, they haven't yet commented. The incident marks the third aviation disaster in just over a couple of weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
First, there was the deadly midair collision in Washington, D.C., where an American Airlines passenger jet and a Blackhawk helicopter collided, killing 67 people. Then, just days later, a medical transport jet exploded near a Philadelphia mall, killing all seven on board. We'll keep you updated as search efforts continue. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 7 February.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
Now, if you have any questions or comments, and I hope you do, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, as I'm sure you realized when you woke up this morning, It's Friday. And that, of course, means that a brand new episode of the stunningly popular PDB Situation Report, that's our extended weekend version of the PDB, well, that airs this evening.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
This week's guests include author Gerald Posner and former congressman from Ohio, Jim Renacci. It's a buffet line of interesting topics. We'll look at the upcoming release of the JFK, the RFK, and the MOK assassination files, the purge taking place over at USAID, and the waste and overspending within the U.S. government. And spoiler alert, there's a lot of waste and overspending within the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
A San Francisco radio station backed by billionaire George Soros – well, there's a surprise, a San Francisco radio station backed by Soros – is under federal scrutiny. After it broadcast the live locations of undercover immigration and customs enforcement agents, ICE, obviously, the report aired on KCBS AM.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
government. Tune in and amaze your friends with your command of news and current events. The Situation Report is available every Friday evening at 10 p.m. on The First TV and also on our YouTube channel. And you can find our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and, of course, podcast platforms throughout podcast land.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
And as they talk about all the time on the late night talk shows, to listen to the show ad-free, well, it is simple. Just become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with our PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | February 7th, 2025: Soros-Backed Station Exposes ICE Agents & Alaska Plane Vanishes
It revealed details of an ongoing ICE operation, including specific vehicle descriptions and agent locations, potentially, of course, putting officers' lives at risk. Oh my, how brave of KCBS. potentially endangering law enforcement officers and, at the same time, aiding and abetting illegal migrants with criminal convictions. Now, some might argue that they've got their priorities all mixed up.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
While they condemned the warrants for Israeli leaders, they opted not to apply diplomatic pressure directly on the court. Officials with the ICC, meanwhile, have been preparing for this eventuality. Last month, the court took measures to shield their staff from possible sanctions, paying salaries three months in advance. Still, the court's president has warned that U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
sanctions risk undermining the court's operations and, quote, jeopardize its very existence. And that, my friends, is the president's daily brief for Friday, 7 February. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, well, look at that. It's Friday, the end of the week.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
And that means that the PDB production team is busy putting the finishing touches on our newest episode, of our extended weekend show, and that's, of course, the PDB Situation Report. Now, this week, our guests include author Gerald Posner and former Ohio Congressman Jim Renacci. We'll take a look at the upcoming release of JFK, RFK, and MLK assassination files with Gerald Posner.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
He's written excellent books on both JFK and Martin Luther King's assassinations. And we'll dive into U.S. government waste and spending with former Congressman Rene Seed. And I know you might be shocked to learn that the U.S. government possibly isn't an efficient steward of taxpayer money. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
European allies will reportedly be briefed privately by Kellogg ahead of a public announcement by Trump at a later date, though it's not clear yet when the president will reveal his plans to the world. While details remain scarce at this time, sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that the plan will likely involve
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
It's Friday, 7 February. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, still on the road, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First up, we'll discuss reports that the Trump administration is preparing to unveil their long-anticipated peace plan to end Vladimir Putin and his Russian regime's war in Ukraine at a security conference in Germany next week.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
freezing the conflict along the current front lines, leaving the roughly 20% of territory currently occupied by Russia in limbo, while providing Kiev with robust security guarantees to ensure Moscow's forces can't attack again down the road. But what those security guarantees will look like, well, that's unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Ukraine's ultimate goal is to be granted membership in the NATO alliance, though Trump has previously said that he opposes the idea. And even leaders in Kyiv have acknowledged that such an outcome is unlikely, at least in the short term. As we discussed on yesterday's PDB, Ukrainian President Zelensky has floated alternatives to NATO membership, including having the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
provide Kiev with a nuclear deterrent or for European allies to deploy a multinational peacekeeping force consisting of at least 200,000 troops to enforce any potential peace deal. The Bloomberg report also notes that Kellogg has signaled in recent weeks that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
would like to see elections held in Ukraine once a hypothetical ceasefire is in place, and many expect that the Trump administration will push for guarantees from Kyiv on that score as part of any peace proposal. Now, as a reminder, Ukrainian elections were scrapped during the war, and Zelensky has been leading under an extended period of martial law since the invasion by Putin in 2022.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Zelensky, for his part, has repeatedly said that he's open to holding elections once the war is over and martial law is lifted. He's also said in recent weeks that he's ready to engage in direct peace talks with Putin alongside leaders from the U.S. and EU.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Putin has also signaled a willingness to engage in negotiations, though he's qualified his statements, warning that Russia's territorial gains in eastern Ukraine must be accepted by the West if they want talks to get off the ground. But many in the West, well, not surprisingly, remain skeptical that his supposed interest in a peace deal is genuine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
It's worth noting that Trump has threatened the Putin regime with massive tariffs and sanctions on Russian products if they fail to come to the table, and a growing band of Russian elites are reportedly pressuring Putin to seek a negotiated settlement to the war to alleviate their mounting economic problems.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
According to White House sources, discussions have progressed between the Trump administration and Ukrainian and Russian officials, and plans are currently underway for Trump to meet face to face with both Putin and Zelensky, though a timetable for these meetings remains unknown. In the meantime, Zelensky is attempting to keep the Putin regime on their back foot.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
According to unconfirmed reports from Russian military bloggers, the Ukrainian military launched a new offensive in Russia's partially occupied Kursk region just this week. Ukraine mounted a military operation, by way of background and a reminder, back in early August inside the Russian territory, catching the Putin regime by surprise.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
At the time, they managed to seize roughly 500 square miles of territory and capture hundreds of Russian prisoners of war. But since that point, Russia has mounted several counteroffensives, clawing back roughly half of the area captured by Kiev's military.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Officials in Kyiv have not yet commented on the reports of a major new operation in the region, though in remarks on Wednesday, Zelensky suggested their activity in Kursk could prove critical to strengthening their negotiating hand before potential peace talks with Russia get underway.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
All right, coming up after the break, Ukrainian officials are warning that North Korea is using the war with Russia to test and improve the accuracy of their ballistic missiles. And U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio snubs the G20 while accusing South Africa of pushing an anti-American agenda. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Later in the show, Ukrainian officials say they've observed a marked improvement in the accuracy of North Korean ballistic missiles fired on their cities. Now, that's suggesting that the Hermit Kingdom is using the conflict to successfully test and improve their missile technology. Plus, U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Sticking with Ukraine, North Korean ballistic missiles used by Russian forces against Kyiv have displayed a dramatic increase in accuracy in recent weeks, raising fears that Pyongyang is using the battlefield to refine its missile technology in real time. According to a Ukrainian military source, some of these weapons now land within 160 to 320 feet of their intended targets.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
That's an alarming leap in accuracy from past performance when they would veer wildly off course, sometimes missing intended targets by as much as two miles. The troubling advancements seen in the more than 20 North Korean ballistic missiles fired at Ukraine since late January suggests that Pyongyang is exploiting the war as a testing ground, gaining invaluable data to improve its arsenal.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
The military source reports that forensic analysis of missile debris has not revealed major design changes. But experts speculate that North Korea has likely enhanced its navigation systems, incorporated Russian guidance components or fine-tuned targeting protocols based on battlefield feedback.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Since late 2023, Russia has launched an estimated 100 North Korean K-23, K-23A and K-24 short-range ballistic missiles at Ukraine. a weapons expert at Seoul's Asian Institute for Policy Studies, warns that these developments have disturbing implications that extend far beyond Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
If North Korea has indeed mastered the process of iterative battlefield testing, its missile program could pose an even greater threat to South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Not to mention that Pyongyang could leverage this newly honed technology to ramp up arms sales to rogue states and militant groups.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Adding to these concerns, South Korean intelligence suggests that in exchange for North Korean munitions, Russia is supplying Pyongyang with missile components, financial assistance, and space technology, an arrangement that's allowing Pyongyang to boost weapons development at an unprecedented pace.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Despite official denials of formal arms agreements, Moscow and Pyongyang have visibly strengthened their military partnership since North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met with Putin back in September of 2023. Last year, the two powers signed a treaty on a comprehensive strategic partnership, further cementing their military and economic ties.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announces that he'll be skipping the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa later this month over their controversial land seizure bill while accusing their leaders in Johannesburg of pushing anti-Americanism.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
During a visit to Seoul in late 2023, then US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sounded the alarm, warning that Moscow Pyongyang alliance represents a major threat to global nonproliferation efforts. While North Korean ballistic missiles still make up only a fraction of Russia's total strikes, they are uniquely concerning.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Their warheads exceed one ton, far larger than many Russian equivalents, and can be fitted with nuclear warheads. Their range reaching up to 500 miles also surpasses Russia's Iskander-M missile, which carries a smaller payload and has a range of approximately 300 miles. The situation underscores a grim reality. Russia's war in Ukraine is in part rewriting the global security equation.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Pyongyang, long viewed as an isolated and somewhat ineffective weapons manufacturer, is gaining invaluable combat experience, developing battlefield tested capabilities that could reverberate worldwide. Okay, shifting to the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is taking a hardline stance against South Africa, accusing the country of, quote, anti-Americanism and announcing that he'll boycott the upcoming G20 summit hosted in Johannesburg later this month. The move follows mounting friction over land expropriation policies and South Africa's leadership of the Global Forum.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
For some context, South Africa took over the G20 presidency in December and will remain in that role through November. Rubio made the announcement Wednesday on X, where he amplified President Trump's claim from Sunday that South Africa is unjustly seizing private property.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Rubio posted, quote, South Africa is doing very bad things, expropriating private property, using G20 to promote solidarity, equality and sustainability. In other words, he said, DEI, diversity, equity and inclusion and climate change, end quote. America's top diplomat made it clear that he has no interest in engaging with a government that he believes is openly hostile to U.S. values.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Rubio added in his post on X that, quote, my job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism, end quote. South Africa's president appeared to respond in his annual State of the Nation address on Thursday, warning against, quote, the rise of nationalism, protectionism and the pursuit of narrow interests and the decline of common cause.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
And in the back of the brief, President Trump signs an executive order Thursday imposing sweeping sanctions on the controversial International Criminal Court for targeting the U.S. and Israel. But first, today's PDV Spotlight. Reports suggest that President Trump's administration is preparing to unveil their long-awaited peace plan to bring the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Rubio's snub of the G20 summit follows Trump's decision to potentially suspend future U.S. funding to South Africa pending an investigation into the country's controversial land policies.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Just last month, South Africa enacted a law permitting land expropriation without compensation in certain cases, part of a long-standing effort to address the deeply entrenched racial disparities in land ownership. South African officials insist the law is nothing out of the ordinary.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
They argue it aligns with land use policies in the U.S., where eminent domain allows the government to seize land for public use under the doctrine of, quote, just compensation. However, the issue remains politically charged. In South Africa, land ownership is still overwhelmingly concentrated in the hands of the white minority. That's, of course, a legacy of apartheid.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Since the end of the system in the early 1990s, the government redistributed around 19 million acres. Now, for reference, at least in the US, that's an area roughly the size of the state of South Carolina. And courts have ordered limited land returns to families displaced under previous regimes.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
South Africa's foreign minister wasted no time rejecting Rubio's accusations, stating on X, quote, There is no arbitrary dispossession of land or private property. She also took aim at Rubio's broader criticism of South Africa's G20 leadership, stressing that the country's agenda extends beyond climate change, with a focusing on ensuring fair treatment for nations in the global south.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
But U.S.-South Africa relations have been deteriorating for years, driven by a range of foreign policy disputes. Under the Biden administration, tensions flared over South Africa's refusal to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine – yeah, that's a tough one – and its deepening ties to BRICS, the economic bloc originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, and China.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
The friction intensified when South Africa brought a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza, an allegation that the Biden administration dismissed as, quote, meritless. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief, President Trump signs an executive order imposing sweeping sanctions on the controversial International Criminal Court.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
I'll be right back. In today's back of the brief, the U.S. administration is taking action against the International Criminal Court. That's a body that's faced mounting criticism over their targeting of Israeli leaders since the war in Gaza broke out.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
On Thursday, President Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the ICC, accusing the body of failing to remain impartial and harboring a severe bias against the United States and Israel. The order includes both financial sanctions and visa restrictions on ICC officials and their family members found to have assisted in investigations of U.S. citizens or allies.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
That's according to a report from Reuters. The action comes just one week after U.S. Senate Democrats blocked a Republican-led effort to pass a bill called the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, which would have imposed similar sanctions on the ICC. A fact sheet on the executive order provided by the White House states, quote, The ICC was designed to be a court of last resort. Both the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
and Israel maintain robust judiciary systems and should never be subject to the jurisdiction of the ICC. The timing of Trump's latest executive order is no coincidence, coming during Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's first visit to the U.S. since Trump's return to the Oval Office. As you may recall, the ICC sparked U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
bipartisan backlash in November after issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Golan for alleged war crimes related to the conflict in Gaza. Their arrest warrants were issued alongside warrants for several Hamas leaders, something that Trump's executive order decries as a, quote, shameful moral equivalency.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
In Europe, however, the court's ruling divided leaders, with several countries vowing to arrest Netanyahu if he set foot on their soil and others appearing torn about how to proceed. But the U.S. and Israel are not members of the ICC and therefore not subject to its rulings.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
According to White House sources, who spoke exclusively with Bloomberg, retired General Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, will lay out their blueprint for peace at the Munich Security Conference in Germany next week.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
Analysts have said, given the diplomatic pressure that Trump's new sanctions will put on the court, their influence will likely start to diminish among America's allies. The ICC has long faced criticism for acting with extreme bias towards Israel while saying next to nothing about countries with long records of human rights abuses, such as Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
February 7th, 2025: Trump Prepares Long-Awaited Peace Plan To End Ukraine War & North Korea's Major Leap In Ballistic Missile Technology
During his first term, Trump got sideways with the ICC after the court's prosecutor announced plans to launch an investigation of alleged U.S. war crimes in Afghanistan. The U.S. revoked the prosecutor's visa and said they'd use force against the court if they attempted to detain any American citizens. But the Biden administration, well, they took a softer approach with the ICC.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets before it's, well, too late. Call the experts over at Patriot Gold today. Now, you may have heard me say this before, but it's true. They've been the top-rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row, and that's quite a few years in a row, frankly.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And if it's Friday, and I'm pretty sure it is Friday, well, that means that the PDB team is busy producing the next extended weekend show that we call the PDB Situation Report. Always great guests, solid insight, excellent news, and brought to you every Friday evening at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
on The First TV and, of course, on our YouTube channel. Please check that out. That's at President's Daily Brief. And, of course, every podcast platform where you might get your podcast stuff. And to listen to the show ad-free, well, it's simple. Become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back later on with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
We'll start with Russia's war on Ukraine, as officials in Kyiv begin holding high-level talks with senior members of the incoming Trump administration on how to bring an end to the brutal conflict. Now, according to an exclusive report from The Wall Street Journal,
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Retired Army Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, Trump's choice for special envoy to Russia and Ukraine, and Mike Walz, his incoming national security advisor, met with a top aide to Ukrainian President Zelensky on Wednesday. They're seeking to narrow what remain wide differences, frankly, regarding Trump and Zelensky's respective visions for how to achieve a lasting settlement.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The trip by Zelensky's closest advisor is part of an effort to forge relationships with Trump aides who will likely play a pivotal role in determining what Ukraine's future looks like. He met with incoming White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles in Florida earlier Wednesday before heading to Washington to meet with Kellogg and Waltz to communicate Keefe's readiness for a just peace.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
According to the Journal report, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance also joined the discussions, though details of the conversations were not immediately available. The foundation of Trump's vision reportedly includes ceding large parts of Ukraine's eastern territories to Russia, areas that Moscow's forces currently occupy, as well as blocking Ukraine from joining the NATO alliance.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide. It's Friday, 6 December. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
But there are apparently multiple proposals being floated by his advisers at this time. Zelensky, meanwhile, recently broke from his past statements, vowing that Kyiv would not relinquish control of any territory to Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
As we discussed on Monday's PDB, Zelensky suggested last Friday that he would be willing to consider temporarily ceding Russian-occupied territories to Moscow, but only if Ukraine has offered NATO membership.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Under Zelensky's strategy, Kyiv would not permanently turn over the roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia, but would seek to restore it through a diplomatic path after the, quote, hot phase of the war has concluded and Ukraine is brought under the NATO umbrella. For now, Ukrainian officials are holding firm to this demand.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
On Tuesday, Ukraine's foreign minister said Kyiv would reject any security guarantees that do not include NATO membership, stating, quote, we won't accept any alternatives, surrogates or substitutes, end quote. Russia, meanwhile, has previously ruled out peace talks entirely unless Kyiv bends to a slew of, well, let's call them unrealistic demands that heavily favor the Kremlin's interests.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Many national security analysts have said that Trump may find that Vladimir Putin is unwilling to engage as he currently has Ukrainian forces on the back foot and may try to pursue further land grabs to strengthen his negotiating hand. So what are some of the potential strategies being considered by Trump's team to bring both parties to the negotiating table?
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Kellogg, who has taken the lead on these efforts, reportedly favors a, quote, Karen and stick approach, advocating boosting military aid to Kyiv if Russian President Putin refuses to engage and cutting off support to Ukraine if leaders in Kyiv balk at participating in discussions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
But as Ukrainian leaders appear eager to move forward with negotiations, the current focus is on upping the pressure on Russia. Kellogg is backing the outgoing Biden administration's efforts to rush weapons to Ukraine, arguing that it will give Trump leverage over Moscow and strengthen his position as a mediator.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
In a recent interview with Fox News, Kellogg said, quote, the more that the Biden administration does this, well, it creates a greater opportunity for the president-elect to do what he wants to do. It's all based on leverage. The president understands that and he's going to use that to his advantage, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Coming up next, Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants have declared their intention to fight against rebel insurgents in Syria on behalf of the Assad regime, and authorities in the UK take down a sprawling billion-dollar Russian money laundering network used by foreign spies and Russian elites. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about your online security.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Now, going online without the protection offered by ExpressVPN is like leaving your blinds open at night, right? That's a little creepy. Anyone can watch what you're doing, and you have no idea who might be out there lurking in the dark, or in this case, in the dark web. Express VPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure encrypted servers so your ISP can't see your browsing history.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Because all your traffic flows through their servers, internet service providers know every single website you visit. Did you know that? And they hold on to that information. And did you know that in the US, ISPs are legally allowed to sell that information to advertisers? It's true. Express VPN works on all your devices and is easy to use. And that's important. Just fire up the app.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
and click one button to get protected today. Protect your online privacy today by visiting ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. That's ExpressVPN.com slash Baker to find out how you can get up to four extra months of service free. ExpressVPN.com slash Baker. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true, with thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business, and this spring they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
First up, senior members of the incoming Trump administration have begun holding high-level talks with leaders from Kyiv, seeking to narrow large differences in their visions for how to bring the war in Ukraine to a close ahead of Trump's return to the White House in January.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Turning to the civil war in Syria, Hezbollah has signaled their intent to join the conflict on the side of the Assad regime, as reports from Israel suggest that the Syrian military's defenses are at risk of collapsing under the pressure of the militant Islamic rebel onslaught.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Hezbollah chief Naeem Qassem delivered a rare televised address on Thursday denouncing the Syrian rebels as, quote, terrorist groups intent on destroying Syria and sowing regional chaos While it's true that the groups opposing Assad are recognized internationally as terrorist organizations
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Well, it's, I suppose, a bit rich seeing Hezbollah get on their high horse to say they're fighting terrorism. The Iranian-backed Lebanese-based terror group just spent more than a year attacking Israel, helping fuel instability across the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
But it's hardly a surprise, given that the Assad regime is a key ally of Hezbollah's backers in Iran, with Syria serving as a critical smuggling route for getting weapons to Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
According to a report from the Times of Israel, Qassem said his Hezbollah militants will soon join with Assad's forces to help him quell the Islamist-led uprising, which has so far led to the rebels seizing large parts of northern Syria, including the critical cities of Aleppo and Hama.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Qassem said, quote, They will not be able to achieve their goals despite what they have done in past days, and we as Hezbollah will be by Syria's side in thwarting the goals of this aggression as much as we can, end quote. But the Hezbollah leader provided little detail on how they will support their allies in the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The once mighty militant army is a shell, frankly, of its former self, suffering heavy losses to their personnel and losing most of their senior leadership in targeted operations by the IDF over the past year.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The group agreed to a ceasefire with Israel on November 27th, and that's the very same day the Islamist rebels in Syria launched their offensive, reigniting the country's long-dormant civil war. Despite Qasem's pledge, whatever remaining fighters he sends to Syria will likely have little impact on the outcome of the conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Israeli intelligence said Thursday that the Assad regime's defensive lines were falling to the rebels far faster than expected and were at risk of collapsing entirely as the rebels continue to push south toward the capital, Damascus. And that, of course, is Assad's seat of power.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
An Israeli official told Axios, quote, The Syrian military forces are not really fighting We don't think the regime is in immediate danger But this is the biggest challenge for the Assad regime in the last decade While Israel, alongside the U.S., has long opposed the Assad regime And sought to undermine Iranian and Russian interests in the country
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Later in the show, Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants have declared their intention to fight against rebel insurgents in Syria on behalf of the Assad regime, as Israel warns that the regime's defenses are at risk of collapse.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
This particular conflict poses a dilemma for Western governments. While the insurgents have put Assad and his allies on the back foot, their victory would mean Syria falling into the hands of hardline Islamic radicals. And that is what could be called a conundrum.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
I want to shift to the United Kingdom, where in a sweeping crackdown on international crime, law enforcement agencies dismantled a billion-dollar Russian money laundering network that operated across the West, linking cybercriminals, drug cartels, and sanctioned elites.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Dubbed Operation Destabilize, the investigation was spearheaded by the UK's national crime agency, the NCA, in collaboration with the FBI, as well as French and Irish authorities The NCA has called it one of the most consequential anti-money laundering efforts in recent years So, what exactly was the aim of this network? I'm glad you asked.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The scheme laundered vast sums of cash and cryptocurrency for Russian hacking groups, drug cartels, and sanctioned individuals. Investigators revealed that the network's illicit funds were tied to ransomware attacks, drug trafficking, including drug money made on the streets of the UK, and also espionage activities. Additionally, it served as a workaround for Russian elites evading UK sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The NCA-led effort of Operation Destabilize resulted in a whopping 84 arrests, and yes, I did say whopping, and the seizure of over $25 million in cash and cryptocurrency. The NCA's Director General of Operations hailed the effort, stating, "...for the first time, we've been able to map out a link between Russian elites, crypto-rich cybercriminals, and drug gangs on the streets of the UK."
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
At the core of the network were two entities, SMART and TGR. Those were the names of the two entities, SMART and TGR. Notably, the head of SMART was previously sanctioned by the US for aiding ransomware groups, so that could have been a clue that they were engaged in criminal activity.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Both SMART and TGR exchanged millions in cryptocurrency for cash, enabling crime bosses in the West to fund narcotics purchases directly from South America, bypassing traditional banking systems. According to the NCA, between late 2022 and mid-2023, the Smart Network reportedly funneled money into unspecified Russian espionage operations while helping sanctioned individuals move funds into the UK.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Plus, authorities in the UK have taken down a sprawling billion-dollar Russian money laundering network used by foreign spies and Russian elites seeking to bypass international sanctions.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
But the web of corruption extended further. Investigators discovered connections to Russia Today, the state-funded media network whose sanctioned owner has propagated disinformation about Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The laundering process relied on complex layering, with couriers conducting cash handovers at 55 locations across England, Scotland, Wales, and the Channel Islands over just four months These couriers worked on behalf of a minimum of 22 organized crime groups, making the operation one of a staggering scale
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
While the dismantling of this network is a landmark achievement for the NCA, authorities acknowledge the challenges ahead. The NCA's director general stated, quote, of course, there's always somebody in the wings, adding, quote, we really understand the system now. As people fill this void, we'll get after them, end quote. Okay.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Coming up next in the back of the brief, a long-awaited probe by the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, has found that six hostages whose bodies were recovered from Gaza in August were likely killed by their Hamas guards back in February as Israeli forces closed in. I'll have those details when we come back.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
In today's Back of the Brief, an IDF probe has determined that six hostages whose bodies were recovered from Gaza in August were executed by Hamas captors, rejecting earlier suspicions that they were killed by IDF airstrike operations.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
For background, the six hostages, who were part of a larger group, of course, kidnapped by Hamas terrorists, were initially held in an underground command center in one of the Iran-backed terror group's most secure facilities.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
As the IDF advanced its ground operations into Khan Yunis in December of 2023, Hamas relocated the hostages to a residential neighborhood, distancing them from senior commanders. In mid-February, the IDF conducted airstrikes targeting Hamas commanders in the area, killing six militants and unaware of the hostages location.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Initial speculation suggested the hostages might have died in those strikes, but the IDF also suspected that Hamas executed them beforehand. On August 20th, the IDF's Elite 98th Division led a recovery operation for the bodies of the slain hostages.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
And in today's Back of the Brief, a tragic update out of Israel as a long-awaited probe by the Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, has found that six hostages whose bodies were recovered from Gaza back in August were likely killed by their Hamas guards back in February as Israeli forces closed in. But first, today's PDB Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
Now, more than three months later, the investigation revealed on Wednesday that all six hostages had gunshot wounds confirming their execution, while according to forensic analysis, the Hamas commander's wounds aligned with airstrike impacts.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The Hostage Families Forum, advocating for relatives of the roughly 100 hostages still held captive in Gaza, issued a statement in the wake of the findings, calling for immediate international action, stating, quote, Time is of the essence. Many of the hostages are still alive and enduring impossible conditions of abuse, starvation and isolation.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
As we've been tracking on the PDB, President-elect Donald Trump has echoed these concerns, urging for their release before his January inauguration. Efforts to negotiate the hostages return are reportedly ongoing, involving Trump's team, the outgoing Biden administration and international mediators.
The President's Daily Brief
December 6th, 2024: Ukraine Opens Talks With Trump To End War, Hezbollah Joins Syrian Civil War, & Moscow's Billion-Dollar Money-Laundering Network
The findings of the IDF investigation underscore the urgency, of course, of resolving the hostage crisis finally. As negotiations continue, families remain in anguish, of course, waiting for any news of their loved ones and hoping for a resolution. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, 6th December.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
This episode is brought to you by Patriot Gold Group. Protect your retirement assets and safeguard your future. Speak with the experts over at Patriot Gold today. Now you may have heard this before, but they've been the top rated gold IRA dealer for seven years in a row. And yes, that is a lot of years in a row. Go to PatriotGoldGroup.com or call 1-888-621-3856 for a free investor guide.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
The setback for the Assad regime came after three days of intense clashes between the rebels and government forces on the outskirts of the city, and just a week after the rebels seized the country's most populous city, Aleppo.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
The Syrian army accused the Islamic insurgents of relying on suicide attacks to break through the city's defenses Representatives for the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the rebels had seized the city's police headquarters, a large military airbase, and the central prison, releasing hundreds of detainees and enlisting them in their cause
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
The strategic importance of Hama, Syria's fourth largest city, makes it a critical victory for the rebels in their campaign to overthrow Assad. During the most intense days of the civil war, which began back in 2011, it was one of the few cities that remained under full government control.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Representatives for the Syrian Observatory said, quote, if Hama falls, it means that the beginning of the regime's fall has started. With large parts of northern Syria now firmly under their control, the rebels are setting their sights on Syria's third largest city, Homs, lying to the south where it serves as the gate to the capital Damascus. That's, of course, Assad's seat of power.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
As we've been tracking on the PDB, the rebel coalition, led by the Islamist militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, known as HTS, launched a surprise offensive last week against the Assad regime, reigniting the country's brutal civil war, which had largely been stalled since 2020. They are led by Abu Muhammad al-Gholani, a shadowy figure who was largely kept away from the public eye.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
He's a Syrian native, and he began as a fighter for the Islamic State of Iraq before being dispatched back to Syria after the civil war kicked off in 2011 to establish a branch of Al-Qaeda called the Nusra Front. But his ambitions soon grew. He turned on his ISIS backers in Iraq, fighting ISIS in Syria alongside Al-Qaeda as fissures between the terrorist groups deepened.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
He then moved to brutally eliminate competitors and former allies among the many extremist organizations opposing Assad, eventually renouncing his longtime ties to al-Qaeda. As the fighting died down following Assad's recapture of Aleppo in 2016, with the help, of course, of the Russian military, He worked to consolidate his power from the shadows and remake his public image. Oh, I see.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Okay, so he was with ISIS and Al-Qaeda. Now he's just going to try to burnish his image. He rebranded his organization as HTS and framed it as, quote, salvation government rooted in the values of pluralism and tolerance. Okay, well, anybody buying this? It appears a cynical rebranding worked, broadening the group's public support, particularly among the country's religious and ethnic minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Following the capture of Hama on Thursday, Al-Ghalani released a video message declaring that his insurgents are on a mission of, quote, conquering that is not vengeful, but one of mercy and compassion. Oh, this guy is a politician, end quote. So far, tens of thousands have been displaced by the renewed fighting since November 27th. and the progress of the rebels shows no signs of slowing.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Assad's allies in Russia and Iran have lent assistance in the form of air support and militant militias, but they are largely preoccupied, well, with their own conflicts. The rebels are hoping this will continue to play to their advantage and limit Russia and Iran's ability to fully commit to the defense of the Assad regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Coming up, Israel has submitted a new ceasefire proposal to Hamas that could bring about a 60-day truce and see the return of the remaining living hostages still being held in Gaza. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
It's Thursday, 5 December. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. First, rebel insurgents in Syria are on the move, capturing another key city from the Syrian army in their quest to overthrow the regime of President Assad.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Israel has presented the terror group Hamas with an updated proposal aimed at securing the release of some of the 100 hostages still held in Gaza and initiating a temporary ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
The proposal comes after three months of stalled talks, with recent developments including the killing of a Hamas leader, a ceasefire in Lebanon with the Iran-backed terror organization Hezbollah, and pressure from President-elect Donald Trump as he prepares to take office, offering what Israeli officials hope is a fresh opportunity for negotiations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
The proposal conveyed to Hamas through Egyptian intermediaries on Monday and Tuesday builds on an earlier deal from August that failed to materialize.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
According to a report from Axios on Wednesday, while the framework remains largely similar, it includes critical adjustments extending the ceasefire from 42 to 60 days and prioritizing the release of hostages in vulnerable categories such as women, men over 50 years old, and those in critical medical condition.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
It's important to note that Israel previously requested the release of 33 hostages from those listed categories, but officials now concede that some, well, may no longer be alive. The Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, estimate that of the 100 hostages still held in Gaza, only 40 to 50 are likely alive.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
In exchange, Israel has reaffirmed its willingness to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those convicted of deadly terror attacks. According to Israeli officials, Hamas has reportedly shown greater flexibility toward partial implementation, but the Iran-backed terror group's official response remains unclear.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Egyptian intelligence officials are expected to communicate Hamas's position in the coming days. Now, President-elect Trump's team has actively intervened to accelerate progress. Trump's selected Middle East advisor told French media that, quote, both sides have agreed on the broad outlines of an agreement.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
An advisor to Trump told Axios that the president-elect supports a deal provided that it is acceptable to Israel and emphasized the urgency of finalizing it before his inauguration in January, stating, quote, the lives of the hostages are in danger, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Now, in late November, Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited Qatar and Israel, meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and the prime minister of Qatar to push for a resolution. Should Hamas respond positively, Israeli officials plan to travel to Cairo to finalize critical details, such as the number of hostages and prisoners to be exchanged and the ceasefire's precise duration.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
Israeli sources emphasize that the next few days will reveal whether this updated framework can break the deadlock or if negotiations will falter yet again. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Thursday, 5 December. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
And of course, don't forget, I'm sure you won't, to listen to the show ad-free, well, become a premium member of the President's Daily Brief. by visiting pdbpremium.com. I'm Mike Baker. I'll be back tomorrow. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
We'll discuss the latest developments and spotlight the shadowy former al-Qaeda operative that's leading the bloody revolt. Then, an update on the war in Gaza, as Israel submits a new ceasefire proposal to Hamas that could bring about a 60-day truce and see the return of the remaining living hostages still being held in the enclave. But first, our afternoon spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | December 5th, 2024: Syrian Rebels Deal Another Blow To Assad & Israel Renews Ceasefire Push In Gaza
We'll begin with the latest on the violence engulfing Syria, where rebel insurgents have dealt another embarrassing blow to the regime of President Assad and his allies in Russia and Iran. Now, the Syrian rebels managed to capture the central city of Hama on Thursday as their bloody advance begins to move south from northern Syria, forcing the Syrian army to flee the city and retreat.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Hartman will now temporarily lead both the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command until a permanent appointment is made. Now, if you're not familiar with the NSA's role, it's the agency responsible for signals intelligence and cybersecurity. That means, well, intercepting foreign communications, emails, phone calls, satellite transmissions, and analyzing them for threats to national security.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
It's Friday, the 4th of April. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll start things off with the latest on President Trump's purge of the national security ranks.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
I am somewhat oversimplifying their tasks, but you get the point. Think hostile governments, terror networks, cyber criminals. And on the cyber front, the NSA is tasked with defending US systems and communications from foreign hacking efforts. They're also behind some of the most advanced encryption and code-breaking technologies in the world.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
But, as we reported this morning, the purge extends beyond the NSA. We've now learned that at least six senior officials were also fired from the National Security Council, or NSC, President Trump's top advisory body on foreign policy and defense matters.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
The NSC is where the president gets briefed during crises, where options are weighed during global conflicts, and where policies are coordinated across agencies, including the CIA, State Department, and Defense.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Notable dismissals from the NSC include Brian Walsh, the Director for Intelligence, Thomas Boudry, the Senior Director for Legislative Affairs, David Feith, who oversaw tech and national security issues, and Maggie Daugherty, the Senior Director for International Operations.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
No official reason was given for the removals, but multiple reports suggest that loyalty, or the perceived lack of it, was a factor. According to reports, the purge came after a meeting in the Oval Office with conservative activist Laura Loomer, who laid out a list of people she believed were disloyal to the president.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Speaking aboard Air Force One, President Trump confirmed the firings, saying, "...we're going to let go of people we don't like, or people we don't think can do the job, or people who may have loyalties to somebody else." However, the president did downplay the role that Loomer played in the decision.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
He added that his current NSC team has, quote, done very well, pointing to recent successes in confronting the Houthis in Yemen. Coming up next, the Kremlin warns President Trump of catastrophic consequences if the U.S. strikes Iran. I'll be right back.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
The heads of the NSA and Cyber Command are out, and speculation is running amok in Washington, D.C., over the reasons for the high-profile personnel changes. To be fair, Washington is a place where things regularly run amok. Later in the show, Russia issues a warning to President Trump. The Kremlin says any strike on Iran's nuclear facilities would bring, quote, catastrophic consequences.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin. Russia is issuing a stark warning to President Trump. If the U.S. strikes Iran's nuclear facilities, the consequences, they say, will be, quote, catastrophic. That message came in direct response to President Trump's comments earlier this week aboard Air Force One.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Speaking to reporters, Trump said that if Iran doesn't return to the negotiating table over its nuclear program, there will be, quote, bombing the likes of which they have never seen before, end quote. The Kremlin's response was swift.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters, "...the use of military force by Iran's adversaries in the context of political resolution is illegal and unacceptable. External threats to bomb Iran's nuclear energy infrastructure would inevitably lead to far-reaching and irreversible consequences." This coming from the nation that invaded Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Now, this warning isn't just about Putin standing up for Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei because they're both members of the Axis of Evil country club. It's about protecting Moscow's own interests. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine back in early 2022, the Kremlin has become increasingly reliant on the Iranian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Iranian drones, particularly the Shahed drones, have become a mainstay in Russia's long-range attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure. And the relationship flows both ways. In return for military support, Tehran has received diplomatic backing from Moscow at the UN and economic lifelines through sanctions workarounds.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
It's also gained access to advanced Russian military hardware, ranging from satellite components to improved air defense systems. That growing alliance means that any threat to Iran's stability or its nuclear infrastructure could negatively impact or disrupt Russia's war machine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
So when Trump talks about potential airstrikes, the Kremlin isn't just defending an ally, it's defending its own supply chain. It's all part of an escalating war of words between Washington and Tehran. As we've reported here on the PDB, earlier this month, President Trump confirmed that he sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader,
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
urging renewed talks on the nuclear issue and warning of consequences if Iran refuses. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arachi described the letter as, quote, more of a threat than an offer, but admitted that it presented what he called, quote, opportunities as well.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
But as Iran continues to advance its nuclear capabilities and Trump signals a willingness to use military force, the stakes are obviously rising fast. And with Moscow now drawing a red line around Tehran, any decision that the White House makes could have ripple effects far beyond the Middle East. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 4th of April.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And remember to mark your calendars and synchronize your watches. It's Friday, and as with every Friday, a new episode of our beloved PDB Situation Report lifts off at 10 p.m. on The First TV. It's also available on our equally beloved YouTube channel. You can find that at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
and all podcast platforms. We've got Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation talking all things China and Taiwan, as well as the always insightful Ken Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America discussing the ins and outs of Trump's tariffs. So make sure to warm up the Philco, mix up some tasty beverages, and tune in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
We'll explain what's behind the threat and why Moscow appears so invested in protecting Tehran. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Big changes are continuing in the upper ranks of America's national security apparatus.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Over the past 48 hours, President Trump has orchestrated a major shakeup, the latest move being the sudden removal of the country's top cyber and signals intelligence officials. General Timothy Hogg, who had served as head of both the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command since February of last year, was dismissed by the president.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | April 4th, 2025: Trump Purges National Security Ranks & Russia Rebukes U.S. Threats
Hogg's civilian deputy at the NSA, Wendy Noble, was also removed. Now, while General Hogg was fired outright, Noble has been reassigned to a lower-profile role within the Pentagon, specifically the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence. Replacing General Hogg in an acting capacity is Lieutenant General William Hartman, the deputy at Cyber Command.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
All right, well, let me end this suspense. Our most excellent guests this week include Steve Yates of the Heritage Foundation and also Ken Raposa from the Coalition for a Prosperous America. We cover a lot of ground in this episode, so please tune in. As always, the episode launches at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
on the first TV and is available on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and of course podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
But first, today's PDB Spotlight. Russian President Putin dispatched a top advisor to the U.S. to try to mend fences with the Trump administration after diplomatic talks between U.S. and Russia began to deteriorate earlier this week. The Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev reportedly met on Wednesday with Trump's senior advisor on Russia negotiations, Steve Witkow.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
While details of their discussion have not been disclosed, the conversation reportedly lasted for hours, extending deep into the evening, according to a report from the New York Times. Additional meetings with senior members of the Trump team reportedly took place on Thursday, but again, the White House is being tight-lipped about the visit.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
It marks the first time that a senior Russian official has traveled to the U.S. on state business since Putin's invasion of Ukraine back in February of 2022. And of course it comes at a time when fragile negotiations between the U.S. and Russia on ending the war are hanging by a thread.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Notably, Dmitriev is currently under US sanctions, imposed by the Biden administration for his close ties to Putin. The Treasury Department temporarily suspended the sanctions on Dmitriev for a period of seven days in order to facilitate his visit, with the State Department granting him a travel waiver and temporary visa.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Dmitriyev, der als Chef des russischen Sovereign Wealth Funds und Putin's Special Representative for Investment in Economic Cooperation, ist potenziell in einer einzigen Position, um den aktuellen Unterschied zwischen der White House und Kremlin zu brechen. Er ist einer der am meisten US-savvierenden Mitglieder Putins Inner Circle, hat in Stanford studiert,
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
and he worked as an investment banker for Goldman Sachs. He also played a key role in diplomatic efforts during Trump's first term, helping to broker talks with the US and Saudi Arabia on an oil price agreement. That's according to a report from Reuters.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Recently, Dmitriev worked directly with Witkow to broker the prisoner exchange that led to the February release of American teacher Mark Fogel, who'd been imprisoned in Russia since August of 2021. Demetriyev sagte, dass der Besuch um den US-Russischen Dialog zu erweitern war, der, wie er sagte, von der Biden-Administration zerstört wurde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Nun, dieser Kommentar wird gut auf dem Trump-Weithaus spielen. Er hat in einem Social-Media-Post gesagt, dass eine echte Verständnis der russischen Position neue Möglichkeiten für konstruktive Interaktion eröffnet, insbesondere in den Investitions- und Wirtschaftssphären. Sending Dmitriev appears to be a calculated play by Putin to appeal to Trump's broader economic goals.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
The message is a simple one. The US stands to profit in a big way from rapprochement with Russia. Boy, the way that I say rapprochement, I almost sound like I'm a native French speaker. In recent weeks, after the Trump administration began engaging diplomatically with the Putin regime, Dmitriev has proposed a range of potential economic initiatives that the US and Russia could cooperate on.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
including joint investment deals on rare earth minerals in the Arctic and space-related ventures with Elon Musk. Talks between the US and Russia currently stand at a crossroads.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
As we've been tracking on the PDB, Russia's deputy foreign minister pushed back on President Trump's peace proposals regarding the war in Ukraine on Tuesday, saying that Moscow can't accept the current terms as they fail to address Russia's long-term strategic concerns.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
The comments came just two days after Trump said he's getting increasingly, quote, pissed off by the Kremlin's attempts to stall negotiations and will consider imposing new sanctions on Russia's oil trade within the next month if he feels that Moscow is actively seeking to undermine his efforts.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
But Trump does not appear ready to up the pressure on Putin just yet, notably leaving Russia out of his major tariff announcement on Wednesday. On the Ukrainian side, President Zelensky is urging Trump to immediately move forward with new sanctions to pressure Putin into taking the negotiations on the war more seriously.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Zelensky said Thursday that he believes a ceasefire can be achieved within the coming weeks or months, but only if the Trump administration puts sufficient economic pressure on Russia. All right. Coming up next, President Trump purges several senior staffers from his National Security Council and Hungary withdraws from the International Criminal Court. I'll be right back. Welcome back to the PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
President Trump has initiated a sweeping purge of his National Security Council, the NSC, firing top officials after he met with hardline conservative activist Laura Loomer, who accused them of betraying the administration's quote, make America great again agenda. Whether Loomer had any say in the firings is still a matter of speculation.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
But according to individuals familiar with the matter, Loomer, a social media firebrand and frequent fixture on Trump's 2024 campaign trail, presented the president with what she characterized as a detailed vetting report urging the removal of top NSC personnel. She reportedly delivered her case during a Wednesday session attended by Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Vance, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Sergio Gore, the President's Director of Personnel. Loomer confirmed her presentation at the White House later in the day on X, posting, "...it was an honor to meet with President Trump and present him with my research findings. We must continue strong vetting to protect our President and our national security."
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Es ist Freitag, der 4. April. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily-Brief. Schau dir das an, wir sind bis zum Ende einer Woche alt. Ich bin Mike Baker, deine Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns berichten. Erstens, Wladimir Putin, erinnerst du dich an ihn?
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Within 24 hours, well, the axe had begun to fall. At least three senior NSC officials were dismissed Thursday, along with multiple lower-level aides. Among those removed, according to Reuters, David Feith, a senior director who oversaw tech and national security, Brian Walsh, a senior director of intelligence matters, and Thomas Boudry, who managed legislative affairs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
NSC-Vorsitzender Brian Hughes hat den Anruf verabschiedet, eine White-House-Polizei gegen die Kommentierung an Personalmöglichkeiten zu beurteilen. Während keine offizielle Rationale für die Entschlossenheit vorgelegt worden ist, sagen Beispiele, dass einige informiert wurden, dass sie eine falsche Hintergrund-Verteidigung verletzt haben, wahrscheinlich aufgrund von Luhmers Forschung.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Andere sagten, sie seien von der Verleumdung der Informationen in die Medien oder von der Verleumdung von offiziellen politischen Ansichten mit Trumps Plattformen ausgestattet. But the Thursday firings may only be the beginning. Loomer has since intensified her campaign online, now singling out Alex Wong, Deputy to Waltz.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
She questioned Wong's loyalty, as well as that of his wife, a Justice Department employee, suggesting they could not be trusted to implement Trump's, quote, America First agenda. Well, she sounds like a real peach. This week's dismissals follow an earlier move by Waltz in the administration's opening days, when roughly 160 non-political NSC detailees were sent back to their home agencies.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
The message at the time, according to administration insiders, was unambiguous. Only those committed to the president's worldview would be permitted to remain. Now, with the internal vetting process effectively, apparently, outsourced to Loomer, tensions inside the West Wing appear to be escalating.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
According to one source, Loomer privately complained to aides that she had been excluded from NSC's staffing processes, accusing Waltz of filling key roles with, quote, "...not MAGA-enough officials and neoconservatives." No word on who may be tapped to fill the various vacant positions, although apparently they now have to pass the Lumer purity test. All right, shifting to Hungary.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Prime Minister Viktor Orban declared Thursday that his country will withdraw from the International Criminal Court after welcoming Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces an active ICC arrest warrant. The move marks a historic first. No other EU nation has initiated an exit from the global court. It also sets Hungary squarely at odds with Brussels, further isolating Orban within the bloc.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Er sendet einen Envoy nach den USA, um einen seltenen Besuch zu machen, um ausgedrückt zu versuchen, Verbindungen mit der Trump-Administration zu patchen. Later in the show, there's a major shake-up occurring at the White House as President Trump purges several senior staffers from his National Security Council, with more firings expected imminently. Well, that didn't take long.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Under the Rome Statute, Hungary is legally required to detain Netanyahu. Instead, they greeted him in Budapest with a military honor band. The visit was Netanyahus' first to an ICC member state since the Hague-based court issued arrest warrants in November, accusing him and then-Defense Minister Jov Gallant of war crimes and crimes against humanity stemming from the conflict against Hamas in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
The global court is tasked with prosecuting cases of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity when national courts are unable or unwilling. Orbán's government, however, made it clear that he had no intention of enforcing that order.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Stunden nach dem ceremoniellen Willkommen, hat Orbán's Chief of Staff zu Facebook gesagt, dass Ungarn den Widerstandsprozess in Ordnung mit konstitutionellen und internationalen Gesetzesformen beginnen würde. Now, it's worth pointing out that the process will take a minimum of a year, meaning Hungary, as a founding signatory of the court, remains legally obligated to arrest Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
An ICC spokesman reiterated that point in no uncertain terms, stating that Hungary, quote, remains under a duty to cooperate with the ICC, end quote. Well, that's very officious. Israel, das nicht ein ICC-Mitglied ist, verweigert die Gerichtsverwaltung des Gerichts und hat die Anzeichen verurteilt.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Im Jahr 2021 hat die ICC die Gerichtsverwaltung über Gaza, den Westbanken und Ost-Jerusalem verurteilt. Sie haben das nur verurteilt, was die UN als palästinensische Territorien erkennt. Netanyahu hat die Fälle so politisch motiviert wie möglich geschlagen und ist aktuell die Entscheidung anzunehmen.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
An einer gemeinsamen Pressekonferenz hat Netanyahu die Entscheidung von Ungarn als eine, quote, bolde und prinzipielle Stellungnahme gegen etwas, was er als eine, quote, korrupte Organisation genannt hat, die präsentiert hat, dass andere Länder sich dazu folgen würden. Orban, die das Sentiment ächzt, beschreibt den Warrant als, quote, brazen und reiteriert, dass sein Land es nicht vertreten würde.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Behind the scenes, coordination was already underway with President Trump. According to a readout from Netanyahu's office, the Israeli leader and Orban held a phone call with Trump during the visit to discuss the, quote, next steps in combating what they described as ICC legal overreach.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Trump, who imposed sanctions on ICC investigators back in February through executive order, vowed to inflict, quote, tangible and significant consequences on those who target the US or Israel. Notably, the US, like Israel, is not a member of the ICC. While Orban breaks ranks with the EU, the rest of the bloc remains split on whether to enforce the ICC's warrant against Netanyahu.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
France has suggested that the Israeli Prime Minister could be immune. Meanwhile, Germany's next Chancellor has floated the idea of facilitating a visit without arrest. But Belgium, Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands have signaled that they would comply with the court's mandate.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Netanyahu, die sich immer mehr domestisch und außen beteiligt hat, hat die Gerichte gegen ihn als antisemitisch genannt und gesagt, dass es ein dunkler Tag in der Geschichte der Menschheit war. Nun, trotz legaler Risiken, beweisen israelische Offiziere, dass der Premierminister keine Intention hat, seine freien Reisen zu fördern. All right, coming up next in the back of the brief. Chaos in Haiti.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Well, that's unfortunately not new news, as thousands take to the streets in protest of surging gang violence. We'll have those details next. In today's Back of the Brief, Haiti descended back into chaos. Okay, to be fair, I don't think it was ever not in chaos recently.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Plus, Hungary withdraws from the International Criminal Court, the ICC, while hosting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces a controversial arrest warrant from the ICC over the war in Gaza. Und in heute's Back of the Brief. Chaos returns to Haiti. Actually, I don't think chaos has left Haiti. As thousands take to the streets in protest of surging gang violence.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
On Wednesday, as thousands of protesters took to the streets of the country's volatile capital, expressing anger at ongoing gang violence and the government's failure to restore order. For some background, the situation in Haiti has grown increasingly violent and chaotic since the assassination of its president back in 2021.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
An event that left a political vacuum and allowed gang violence to flourish unchecked.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
While the government stabilized briefly in the years that followed, a violent gang uprising in March of 2024 forced the Prime Minister into exile, and armed groups have since run wild across the country, launching brazen attacks on critical infrastructure, including prisons, police stations and even the capital's main international airport.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
A coalition of gangs control a staggering 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and have overseen a reign of terror that's forced more than a million people from their homes and put the population at the risk of famine.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
Over the past year, human rights observers and international journalists have reported mass rapes and killings throughout the country and the widespread extortion of civilians by gang leaders. Meanwhile, a toothless transitional government, a rotating body of presidential council members that assumed control of the broken nation about a year ago, has had little success in reining in the gangs.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
A UN-backed security mission that was deployed to Haiti last June has also struggled to contain the rampant violence. The civilian population has lost all patience with the transitional government, particularly after another barbaric gang attack on Monday in a town near Haiti's border with the Dominican Republic.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
During the attack, a police station was torched, 500 prisoners were sprung from a local jail, and two Catholic nuns were shot dead. According to our report from Reuters, on Wednesday, protesters began pouring into the streets of Port-au-Prince to demand action. Protesters could be seen carrying banners and palm branches. though some armed themselves with machetes and firearms.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
One protester told Reuters, quote, Haitian people today will fight to be free. Protesters burned tires and blocked roads as they marched on the offices of the transitional government. Along the way, they graffitied buildings, that's always helpful, with statements like, quote, down with the prime minister's office, according to a report from the Miami Herald.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
The protests started out peacefully, but later took a somewhat dark turn, as demonstrators clashed with riot police, who fired on them with tear gas. Some protesters ran, while others began hurling rocks. Gunfire later erupted, causing panic crowds to flee.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
On Thursday, the Transitional Presidential Council finally responded, acknowledging that the country has become, quote, hell for everyone and saying they would take new measures to quell the violence, though they did not provide any details. For now, well, it doesn't appear that there's any relief in sight for the people of Haiti.
The President's Daily Brief
April 4th, 2025: Kremlin Envoy Makes Rare Trip To US & Trump Purges White House National Security Council
And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 4th of April. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. Now, no doubt, you woke up this morning and thought to yourself, well, how about that? It's Friday. I'm guessing your next thought was, I wonder who the guests are on this weekend's PDB Situation Report.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Among his decorations were five bronze stars, one with a valor device for courage under fire, a combat infantry badge, and an army commendation medal with valor. He had deployed twice to Afghanistan and also served in Ukraine, Tajikistan, Georgia, and the Congo. That's according to the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
It's Friday, 3 January. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. Let's get briefed. Today, we'll start off with what we've learned about the man behind Wednesday's Cybertruck bombing outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Law enforcement is working to piece together a motive, but early indications suggest this was likely a suicide rather than an act of terrorism. Investigators are exploring Leibelsberger's personal life, which appears to have been in turmoil. Sources told the Post that his wife, with whom he shares a baby daughter, broke up with him just a week before the incident.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
She reportedly confronted him over alleged infidelity, leading him to leave their Colorado Springs home the day after Christmas. One relative said his wife had not heard from him in several days after he left. After leaving Colorado, Leibelsberger rented the Tesla Cybertruck via the Turo app and made his way to Las Vegas.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Now, that's the same app used by the man who carried out the terror attack in New Orleans just hours earlier. On New Year's Day, he parked the truck in front of the Trump International Hotel and detonated the explosives stashed inside. The blast caused significant damage to the hotel's facade and injured three people, but miraculously, the explosion resulted in no other fatalities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
While authorities continue to investigate the incident, they have not ruled out terrorism as a potential motive. However, the emerging evidence, including Leibholzberger's personal struggles and apparent suicide, points more strongly to essentially a tragic end for a soldier who served his country for almost two decades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Coming up next, the story of a Ukrainian brigade, trained and armed by the West, now facing accusations of mass desertion before serving in combat. More on that after the break. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs. Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more. Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Now, it's an excellent business, and this spring they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout. That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact. Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper. They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Later in the show, we'll dig into reports of a mass desertion by Western-trained Ukrainian soldiers, hundreds of whom reportedly went AWOL without firing a shot. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. I want to bring you the latest on the Cybertruck bombing outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas that took place on New Year's Day.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products. They make clothes built to last.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today. Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Turning now to Ukraine, where troubling reports have emerged about a mass desertion within one of the country's newest elite military brigades.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Ukrainian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into allegations of desertion and abuse of power after hundreds of soldiers reportedly fled an army unit that was partly trained by France. This infantry brigade, named Anne of Kiev after an 11th century Kiev princess who became a French queen, is made up of roughly 5,800 soldiers.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
It was intended to be a showcase of Western military support and training. The brigade spent nine months preparing in Western Ukraine, Poland, and France. During this time, it gained significant attention. French President Emmanuel Macron even met with members of the unit during a publicized visit to a French military base back in October.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Equipped with advanced Western weaponry, the brigade was well-armed and well-equipped, and the unit's mission was clear, bring Western-style battlefield tactics and hardware to the front lines. By November, the brigade was deemed ready for deployment, with French officials confident that these Ukrainian troops had been adequately trained to confront the Russian forces.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
However, reports indicate that the brigade has faced significant internal challenges, including incompetent and corrupt command. A Ukrainian journalist revealed last week that even before the unit had reached the battlefield, 1,700 servicemen had deserted, 1,700 out of approximately 5,800. That's nearly a third of the brigade leaving their posts without firing a shot.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
The reasons behind this alarming desertion rate, well, are multifaceted. According to the journalist, many soldiers in the brigade had been forcibly recruited off the streets. Others reportedly went AWOL during training in France, with approximately 50 soldiers disappearing at that time. By November, around 500 troops from the unit were still unaccounted for.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
The Anovkiv Brigade was eventually deployed to Pokrovsk, a critical logistics hub in Ukraine's defense against Russian advances in the eastern Donetsk region. But the brigade faced heavy losses in battle, including the destruction of tanks and armored vehicles.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Critics are now questioning President Zelensky's strategy of forming new brigades like this one instead of focusing on rotating and rearming existing units. As the war grinds on, these desertion reports highlight the challenges, of course, that Ukraine faces in maintaining morale and cohesion within its military, even as Western support does continue to flow.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
Now, authorities have identified the driver of the explosive-laden Tesla Cybertruck as 37-year-old Matthew Allen Leibelsberger. Now, he's an active-duty U.S. Army service member from Colorado. Officials say that Leibelsberger, a decorated green beret, was identified at the scene using his tattoos, credit cards, military ID, and passport.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, 3 January. Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And, of course, well, it being Friday and all, that can only mean one thing. A brand new episode of the PDB Situation Report is waiting in the wings. The latest Situation Report airs tonight at 10 p.m.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
on The First TV and, as always, is also available on our YouTube channel at President's Daily Brief and all podcast platforms everywhere in podcast land. Our guests this weekend include the China expert and author Gordon Chang and retired senior FBI agent Kurt Peipel. We'll be examining the New Orleans terror attack and the Vegas Cybertruck incident.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
And we'll break down Xi Jinping's New Year's address. Always exciting. Everything from the state of the Chinese economy to the regime's timeline for Taiwan. It's insightful, it's informative, and it's easy to digest. It won't leave you with that gassy, bloated feeling. I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back over the weekend. with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | January 3rd, 2024: Las Vegas Green Beret Bomber Revealed & Elite Ukrainian Troops Go AWOL
He was found dead inside the truck from what police believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A Desert Eagle .50 caliber pistol was recovered in the vehicle. Leibelsberger had recently returned from an overseas assignment in Germany and was on approved leave at the time of the incident. He had served in the army since 2006 and amassed an impressive service record.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The plea agreements involve Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the accused planner of the 9-11 attacks, as well as Waleed bin Atash and Mustafa al-Hausawi. according to a report from the New York Post. The deals allow the three terrorists to plead guilty to the attacks in exchange for prosecutors taking the death penalty off the table.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
They'd avoid full trials and instead be sentenced to life in prison over the attacks, which, of course, killed nearly 3,000 people and were the deadliest on U.S. soil since Pearl Harbor. It's been a whiplash-inducing ordeal for the families of 9-11 victims who heavily lobbied against the plea deals when they were first revealed on July 31st.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Defense Secretary Austin said at the time that the plea deals caught him by surprise and that he was not consulted because the legal proceedings were a, quote, independent process. He rescinded those deals on August 2nd following a significant public outcry. But in November, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The attacker, identified as 42-year-old Shamsud Din Jabbar, killed 14 and injured 35 others on Wednesday morning after plowing a rented pickup truck flying an ISIS flag through a crowd of New Year's revelers on New Orleans' crowded Bourbon Street. He subsequently engaged in a shootout with police, injuring two officers before being killed.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
military judge ruled that Austin had acted too late in revoking the plea agreements, as the pretrial process had already gotten underway. The order this week from the U.S. Military Appeals Court upheld that ruling, But the process is not over yet.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
As the Pentagon reviews their options, they filed a request on Tuesday asking the military commission to pause the matter until 27 January, including any submission of pleas under the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Still, the court's decision came as a blow, as you can imagine, to the victims' families, who have been patiently holding out hope for more than two decades now that the 9-11 plotters would eventually face justice. As a reminder, all three terrorists have been held at the Guantanamo Bay Military Prison since 2003.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Jim McCaffrey, a retired FDNY lieutenant whose brother-in-law died in the attacks, told the Post, quote, End quote. Well, he's not wrong. All right. And that, my friends, is the president's daily brief for Friday, 3 January. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at PDB at the first TV dot com. And of course, as you found out when waking up this morning, it's Friday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
And if it is Friday, which, of course, it is. Well, that means another episode of our acclaimed or maybe possibly soon to be acclaimed weekend show. The PDB situation report is about to hit the airwaves. every Friday night at 10 p.m. on The First TV.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
And, of course, episodes are also available on our YouTube channel, our much-loved YouTube channel, might I point out, at President's Daily Brief, as well as all podcast platforms. Now, this week's guests on The Situation Report include retired FBI senior agent Kurt Peipel and the always insightful China expert Gordon Chang.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
It's Friday, 3 January. Welcome to the President's Daily Brief. I'm Mike Baker, your eyes and ears on the world stage. All right, let's get briefed. We'll begin with an update on the ISIS-inspired terror attack in New Orleans as details emerge regarding the background and potential motivations of the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
I'm Mike Baker, and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Jabbar had also planted two improvised explosive devices in coolers in the Bourbon Street area that were later neutralized by authorities. The FBI said Thursday that Jabbar had been radicalized, though it's not clear when, and he'd posted five videos to social media in the hours before the attack in which he, quote, pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
In the videos, apparently addressed to his family and recorded while he was driving, he claimed to have officially joined the Islamic State sometime before last summer. That's according to a report from the New York Times. As of Thursday, FBI investigators were still working to determine the specific motivations behind his attack.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
In one video, he said he originally planned to gather his family for a, quote, celebration with the intention of killing them, but later changed his mind. He apparently wanted to orchestrate a larger attack that would provoke media coverage of the, quote, war between the believers and the disbelievers, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Jabbar served in the Army for eight years, between 2007 and 2015, in human resources and information technology roles. He was deployed to Afghanistan from February 2009 to January 2010, and he continued as an IT specialist in the Army Reserves from 2015 to 2020, before being honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
He is said to have had a difficult time adjusting to life outside the military. He became a realtor in the Houston area after leaving the service and later worked in business development and data engineering roles at the consulting firms Deloitte and Accenture. According to his family, there were apparently few signs that Jabbar was nurturing extremist beliefs or that he was capable of violence.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Relatives and friends described him to the New York Times as a caring brother and a helpful neighbor. His 24-year-old half-brother said that he was in a state of shock over his actions. But there were also apparently mounting red flags about growing instability in his personal life.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Jabbar had become increasingly isolated in recent years following multiple divorces that led to growing financial difficulties. According to a report from the New York Post, Jabbar's first wife sued him for child support payments in 2012. His second wife took out a restraining order against him in 2020.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
And after their divorce in 2022, he racked up more than $16,000 in credit card debt, paying court fees and expenses related to a second home. He reportedly lost more money, some $28,000, in real estate ventures the previous year.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The husband of his first wife, who said they're cooperating with investigators, told the New York Times that Jabbar recently began acting erratically, saying he was, quote, being all crazy, cutting his hair, following a conversion to Islam.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
He added that he and his wife stopped allowing the two teenage daughters she shared with Jabbar from spending time with him due to his increasingly bizarre behavior. Roughly a year ago, Jabbar began renting a home at a trailer park in a Muslim immigrant neighborhood north of Houston, where sheep could be seen roaming in his yard on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Army veteran-turned-terrorist who killed 14 and injured more than 30 in the New Year's Day rampage. Later in the show, Russia's last major gas pipeline to Europe has been officially shut down, marking an end to Moscow's decades-long energy dominance over the continent. Plus, Israel confirmed on Thursday that more than 100 members of their special forces
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Neighbors appeared to know very little about Jabbar, with one describing him to the New York Post as a, quote, simple man that mostly kept to himself. Investigators swarmed the property on Wednesday, where they reportedly found videos Jabbar made referencing the Quran, Islam's holy text. Jabbar was seen at the property on Dec. 30 loading up the rented Ford 150 Lightning electric truck
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
that he used in the attack. He departed Houston on the morning of December 31st, telling a neighbor that he was moving to New Orleans for a new job. While the FBI had originally said on Wednesday that they suspected Jabbar had accomplices, officials said Thursday that they were now confident he acted alone.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Christopher Rea, deputy assistant director in the FBI's counterterrorism division, said the investigation remains ongoing and that they're working to track down every possible lead. Officials told congressional lawmakers Thursday that Jabbar was not a not on a terror watch list prior to the rampage. Rea said, quote, Let me be very clear about this point. This was an act of terrorism.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
It was premeditated and an evil act, end quote. All right. Coming up next, Russia's last major gas pipeline to Europe has been officially shut down, dealing a major financial blow to the Putin regime.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Plus, Israel has revealed that more than 100 members of their special forces executed a daring covert raid in Syria back in September that destroyed an underground missile factory funded and operated in part by the Iranian regime. I'll have those stories when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker here. Let's talk about trees, shall we? And plants. Oh, and don't forget shrubs.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Now, did you know that Fast Growing Trees is the biggest online nursery in the U.S.? It's true. With thousands of different plants and over, get this, 2 million happy customers. They have all the plants your yard needs, like fruit trees, privacy trees, flowering trees, shrubs, and so much more.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Whatever plants you're interested in, Fast Growing Trees has you covered to get your dream yard delivered directly to your door. Now, it's an excellent business. And this spring, they have the best deals, up to half off on select plants. And now listeners to our show get 15% off their first purchase when using code PDB at checkout.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
That's an additional 15% off at FastGrowingTrees.com using the code PDB at checkout. FastGrowingTrees.com, code PDB. And don't forget, with springtime in full swing, now's the perfect time to plant. Use PDB to save today. Offer is valid for a limited time. Terms and conditions may apply. Hey, Mike Baker here. Now, here's an interesting fact.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Did you know that 60% of the clothes that we buy end up in a landfill within a year of being made? Think about that. 60%, one year, Bob's your uncle, landfill. Contrast that with the past. I mean, historically, our clothes were something that we held onto for a long time, right? But big apparel companies, well, they're constantly finding ways to make clothes faster and cheaper.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
They're turning clothes into disposables. And this is where American Giant comes in. Choosing American Giant means taking a stand for hardworking people, local communities, and quality clothes. Mega corporations obsessed with growth are essentially churning out cheap stuff that leaves everyone feeling empty. But American Giant is about durable, not disposable, products.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
They make clothes built to last. So buying from American Giant is an investment, not just in the clothes, but a community trying to do things the right way. They believe in a new kind of conscious buying, which makes sense to me because small changes can add up to something big. So check out American Giant today.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Get 20% off your first order when you use promo code Baker, that's B-A-K-E-R, at American-Giant.com. That's 20% off when you use code Baker at American-Giant.com. Welcome back to the PDB. Turning to Ukraine, Russia's last major gas pipeline to Europe was officially shut down on New Year's Day, marking an historic end to decades of Moscow's dominance over Europe's energy markets.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The closure was expected for months following Ukraine's refusal to renew a five year transit agreement by 31 December with Gazprom, the Russian state owned gas giant. The pipeline, a relic of Soviet-era engineering, once stood as a vital artery for Siberian gas making its way into Europe.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
executed a daring covert raid in Syria back in September that destroyed an underground missile factory funded by, can you guess by whom? Well, yes, you'd be right if you said the Iranian regime. And in today's back of the brief, three terrorists who helped orchestrate the 9-11 attacks may avoid the death penalty.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Over the years, the pipeline weathered multiple geopolitical storms, including Russia's annexation of Crimea and the grinding nearly three-year-long war, of course, in Ukraine. Its route passes through Sudja in Russia's Kursk region, which is now under Ukrainian military control.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy celebrated the moment on Telegram Wednesday, stating, quote, "...today the transit of Russian gas is zero. This is one of Moscow's biggest defeats," end quote, emphasizing the critical role of strengthening partnerships with Western allies to secure Europe's energy future."
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
For European consumers, the immediate fallout appears to be, well, minimal, thanks to an aggressive pivot by the EU toward diversifying its energy sources over the past two years. In 2021, Russian gas accounted for a staggering 40% of the EU's supply. By the end of 2023, that figure had dropped below 15% by sourcing gas from the United States, Qatar and Norway.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
A European Commission spokesperson stated, quote, The European gas infrastructure is flexible enough to provide gas of non-Russian origin, end quote, citing, of course, the bloc's new liquefied natural gas import capacities. Still, not all member states have fully disentangled themselves from Russian energy.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Hungary and Slovakia remain deeply tethered, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovakian leader Robert Fico emerging as vocal critics, oddly enough, of Ukraine's decision to halt transit. Fico, in a pointed New Year's address, warned of, quote, radical consequences for the EU,
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
aligning his rhetoric with previous threats to cut electricity supplies to Ukraine, which is, of course, reeling from widespread power outages caused by relentless Russian missile strikes on energy infrastructure. Despite Europe's progress, the shutdown has financial and strategic consequences.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
For Ukraine, well, it's the cessation of transit fees, which was once a billion-dollar annual revenue stream, and that will leave, of course, a significant fiscal void. To mitigate losses, Kyiv announced on Wednesday a fourfold hike in domestic gas transmission tariffs. That's a move projected to cost Ukrainian industries approximately $38 million a year.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
From Moscow, the pipeline's closure represents a much deeper wound. Analysts estimate the pipeline's closure could slash Russia's annual gas revenues by $6.5 billion, exasperating the financial strain from Western sanctions and its protracted conflict in Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The loss not only cripples a key economic lifeline that once generated billions, but diminishes Russia's leverage over Europe's energy security. That's a geopolitical tool that Moscow has wielded for decades. Okay, shifting to the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The Israeli Defense Forces, the IDF, in a rare admission, confirmed a daring September operation deep into Syria to dismantle an Iranian-funded underground missile factory. Situated in the Masyaf area near Syria's Mediterranean coast, the facility was a cornerstone of Iran's efforts to arm Hezbollah and other regional proxies with precision-guided munitions.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Yeah, after a military appeals court ruled that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin could not rescind controversial plea deals that were made over the summer. But first, today's PDB Spotlight. As the nation reels from the deadly ISIS-inspired terrorist attack on New Year's Day in New Orleans, we're beginning to learn more about the former army veteran turned Islamic terrorist.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
According to an IDF statement released on Thursday, the factory was embedded within a mountain and boasted advanced assembly lines capable of producing hundreds of missiles and long-range rockets annually. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, oversaw operations, relying heavily on components supplied directly from Tehran.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
The operation, involving over 120 elite special forces commandos, was supported by air and naval assets. The troops seized critical machinery and documents, which have since been transported to Israel for analysis. Military footage released on Thursday depicts soldiers dismantling the facility during a cacophony of gunfire.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
When was the last time you heard somebody use the word cacophony before safely returning to Israeli territory? While Israeli officials have not confirmed casualty figures, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported 27 fatalities from the operation.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
According to AFP, airstrikes preceding the ground operation targeted a scientific research center in the area, further underscoring Israel's resolve to prevent advanced weaponry from falling into hostile hands. Military Chief Herzi Halevi, who oversaw the operation, contextualized the raid within Israel's ongoing efforts to cripple Iran's missile production network across the Middle East.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Halevi stated, quote, For years, Iran formed a ring of rocket and missile fire around Israel's borders, and we have struck both the ring and its head, citing previous raids in Gaza and South Beirut. Prime Minister Netanyahu lauded the mission as a critical blow to the Iranian axis.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
In a statement posted on X, Netanyahu emphasized Israel's readiness to act decisively to safeguard its security, calling the raid a testament to the IDF's, quote, determination and audacity to act anywhere to protect ourselves, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Netanyahu's statement was echoed by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who emphasized Israel's commitment to preemptive defense, declaring, quote, We will not allow another October 7th on any front, end quote. All right. Coming up in the back of the brief.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
Three terrorists who helped orchestrate the 9-11 attacks may now avoid the death penalty after a military appeals court issued its latest ruling. I'll be right back. In today's Back of the Brief, a U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
January 3rd, 2025: What We Know About The New Orleans Terrorist & Inside Israel's Covert Raid On Iran's Underground Missile Factory
military appeals court has ruled that controversial plea deals that were struck earlier this year with the mastermind of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and two of his accomplices can proceed. The court rebuked U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in their ruling earlier this week, saying he acted improperly when he intervened in the cases and rescinded the agreements back in early August.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Der verheiratete Armee-Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, Präsident Trumps spezielles Envoy für die Ukraine, hat in einer Interview mit Fox News am Dienstag gesagt, dass Kiew bereit ist, die Territorien, die Russland aktuell besiegt, zu besiegen, obwohl nicht in einer offiziellen Qualität. to secure a comprehensive ceasefire.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Kellogg said a meeting held in London late last week attended by European and Ukrainian representatives resulted in 22 concrete terms that Ukraine has agreed to regarding a potential 30-day truce, one that Kellogg hopes could help pave the way for a permanent accord.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
While there is no official word from Ukraine, if Kellogs understanding is accurate, it would represent a major concession from the leaders in Kyiv, who have previously said, even temporarily ceding Crimea and the four eastern Ukrainian regions currently under Russian military occupation is not an option that they will consider.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Kellogg sagte, sie seien bereit, das Land zu geben, nicht de jure, fancy diplomatic term, not forever, but de facto, because the Russians actually occupy that land. They've agreed to that, he said, and they told me that last week, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Now he continued, quote, they know that if they have a ceasefire in place, which means you sit on the ground that you currently hold, that's what they're willing to go to, end quote. It's a somewhat, well, contradictory development, as last Wednesday Ukrainian President Zelensky publicly rejected a Trump administration proposal that would grant Russia control over Crimea.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
That same proposal would have also permanently shut the door on Ukraine's NATO aspirations. But as we've been tracking, a lot has changed in the past week.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Tensions between Trump and Zelensky began to thaw during an encounter between the pair at the Vatican last weekend, after which Trump said he thought Zelensky was willing to unofficially cede Crimea for the time being to secure an end to hostilities. Seitdem hat Trump die Verkaufszahlung von 50 Millionen Dollar oder mehr an Waffen und anderen defense-relevanten Produkten an die Ukraine eröffnet.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Die erste direkte Militärhilfe, die Trump zu Kyiv erhielt, seit seiner Rückkehr zum Oval Office. Auch am Montag hat Kyiv und Washington endlich einen lang erwarteten ökonomischen Partnerschaftsvertrag geöffnet, der den USA den Zugang zu Ukraines extensiven Mineralresourcen eröffnen wird, um einen Investitionsfonds zu erstellen, um die gewalttötete Landwirtschaft wiederherzustellen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Still, while Ukraine may be ready to compromise to secure peace, Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, well, he remains unmoved. Russia has rejected multiple offers from the Trump administration, including ones viewed as heavily favoring the Kremlin's interests, instead opting to stick to their maximalist demands. Putins Position led Vice President J.D.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Vance to conclude on Thursday that the war in Ukraine is, quote, not going anywhere. It's not going to end anytime soon, end quote. It appears President Trump feels the same way and has lost his patience with the peace process entirely. State Department Spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters that late Thursday that the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
will be stepping back from its role as mediator in peace talks, citing frustration over Putins stalling tactics. Bruce said, "...we will continue to help, but we will no longer fly around the world at the drop of a hat to mediate meetings. Now it is up to the two sides. The time has come, she said, when they must present and develop concrete ideas on how to end this conflict.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
It's going to be up to them." It's cute how some folks still seem to think that Putin is interested in ending his war against Ukraine. Alright, coming up next, Israel takes aim at Syria's new Islamist leaders over ongoing sectarian violence. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, I am very happy to report that springtime is well here. Temperatures are up.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Your cover is probably off the grill. And I'm about to give you a pro tip for where to get the best beef to throw on that grill. It's a classic American business. Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, you know, I'm talking about Tritails Beef. Now, Tritails is a fifth generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture raised and grain finished.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Untertitelung des ZDF, 2020 And right now they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb. Plus, for a limited time, enjoy a 5% off promotion on almost everything site-wide, excluding subscriptions and B-Stock. Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Mike Baker hier. Well, by now you've heard all about the tariffs and you've seen the trade war and you know that the global economy is in a bit of chaos. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions, well, it's kind of got everyone on edge. But there is a silver lining and also a gold lining, frankly, that I think most people have missed.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
It's Friday, the 2nd of May. Welcome to the PDB Afternoon Bulletin. I'm Mike Baker. Your eyes and ears on the world stage. Alright, let's get briefed. First up, President Trump's special envoy for Ukraine claims that Kyiv is prepared to cede territories occupied by Russia.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
And what I'm talking about is that President Trump specifically exempted gold and silver bullion from the sweeping tariffs. Now, while the new policies are triggering some financial chaos, the administration preserved your ability to diversify into precious metals. So, if you're concerned about your savings, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold precious metals specialist.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
And the first step is very simple. Just text PDB to the number 989-898 and receive your free no-obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account. Birch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Birch Gold to protect their savings with gold.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
With an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now. Welcome back to the Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
As brutal sectarian violence continues to plague post-Assad Syria, leaders in Israel are stepping up their efforts to ward off further bloodshed against the war-torn country's religious minorities.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Early Friday, Israel's Air Force bombed an area adjacent to Syria's presidential palace in Damascus, in what leaders in Jerusalem called a clear warning to Syria's new Islamist-led government to do more to protect the Druze community from Islamic extremist violence. There were no immediate reports of casualties.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
The strike was the second warning shot by Israel in Syria this week, following days of clashes between Sunni Muslim pro-government gunmen and members of the Druze community that left more than two dozen people dead. That's according to a report from the Associated Press.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
The Druze are an Arab minority sect that branched out from Islam with followers in Syria, Lebanon and Israel, including some 24,000 that live in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights near the Syrian border. In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz said Friday's strike was a, quote, clear message to the Syrian regime.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
We will not allow Syrian forces to deploy south of Damascus or pose any threat to the Druze community, end quote. Israel hat vorhin gesagt, dass sie eine demilitarisierte Zone in Südsyrien, nahe der Golan-Heiz, um ihre Grenze von islamistischen Extremisten-Gruppen zu schützen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Israeli leaders remain deeply mistrustful of the Sunni-Islamist government that replaced the regime of Assad after his overthrow in December of this past year. The interim government is led by former Al-Qaeda member Ahmed al-Sharah, who, despite renouncing his past ties to terrorism and pledges to unify the war-fractured country's religious minorities, has struggled to maintain stability.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Der letzte Episode von Sectarian Bloodshed wurde am Dienstag in der Damaskus-Bürobe von Jarrahmanah getriggert, nachdem ein Rekord, das den Propheten Mohammed beurteilt hatte, auf sozialen Medien aufgeführt wurde, falsche Bezeichnungen zu einem prominenten Drus-Führer.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
in order to secure a comprehensive ceasefire, though the reported breakthrough comes as the Trump administration signals that they'll step back from their involvement in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Der Clip provokierte Angst in nahebyen Sunni-Majoritätsstädten, wo armte Männer schnell mobilisierten und Jarrahmanah zerstörten, um mindestens sechs Drus-Führer zu töten. Drei syrische Drus-Betroffene wurden später in Israel für medizinische Betreuung evakuiert.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Mehr als zwei Tausend Menschen in Städten rund um Damaskus wurden in folgenden Kriegen getötet, die am Donnerstag weiter nach Süden versammelt wurden, in eine v.a. griechische Provinz. Griechische Gemeinschaftsleute und syrische Regierungsmitglieder treffen sich am letzten Donnerstag, um zu versuchen, Täuschungen zu lösen, und sie haben einen Tätigkeitsvertrag getroffen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Eine Regierungserklärung sagte, dass Syriens interne Sicherheitswaffen sich mit den lokalen Druhs-Gunmännern beitragen würden, um ihre Provinzen zu schützen, indem sie, Quote, Dividende, Versammlung oder Verabschiedung verweigern. Das interim syrische Regierung hat auch den Israel-Airstrikes beurteilt, es als, Quote, gefährliche Eskalation zu nennen.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Als Erinnerung, folgt die jüngste Gewalt durch brutalen Krieg zwischen Assad-Loyalisten aus der Alawiten-Community, und die neuen Sicherheitskräfte der Regierung im März, die in Mass-Vigilanz-Tötungen spielten, die Hunderten getötet haben. And that, my friends, is the PDB Afternoon Bulletin for Friday, the 2nd of May.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdb at thefirsttv.com. Now, as a public service announcement, remember that at 10 p.m. this evening, as with every Friday evening, a new episode of our PDB Situation Report hits the airwaves on the First TV. You can also find it on our YouTube channel. Just check out at President's Daily Brief on YouTube.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
and all podcast platforms. We cover a lot of ground in this weekend's show with excellent guests Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation and former senior defense official Frank Gaffney. Check it out. It's informative and insightful with just a touch of whimsy. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back over the weekend with the PDB Situation Report. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Later in the show, Israel fires a shot across the bow at Syria's new Islamist leaders, striking near the presidential palace in Damascus on Friday after issuing a stern warning regarding sectarian attacks. But first, today's afternoon spotlight. Beginnen wir mit einer Flur von Updates in Bezug auf die Beratungen, um den Krieg in der Ukraine zu beenden.
The President's Daily Brief
PDB Afternoon Bulletin | May 2nd, 2025: Ukraine Willing to Cede Territory? Trump Envoy Drops Bombshell & Israel Strikes Near Syria's Presidential Palace In Latest Warning
Ereignisse, die, naja, scheinbar krummelig aussehen, trotz eines Breakthroughs und einer Verabschiedung von Leitern in Kiew.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
And in today's back of the brief, North Korea and Russia have broken ground on the first road bridge linking the Hermit Kingdom with their northern neighbor, further cementing ties between dictators Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. Ah, wie romantisch. Eine Straße. Ernsthaft, Kim und Putin, einfach ein Zimmer. Aber zuerst, heutes PDB-Spotlight.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Alright, coming up next in the back of the brief. North Korea and Russia break ground on the first road bridge linking the Hermit Kingdom with their northern neighbor. I'll have those details when we come back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, I know that you know all about by this time the tariffs and the trade wars, right?
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
And you know that all of that has got the global economy into a bit of a frenzy. Potential widespread inflation tied to massive supply chain disruptions. It's all weighing heavily on us. Aber ich bin hier, um euch zu sagen, dass es eine silberne Linie gibt, die wir vielleicht verpasst haben. Und nicht nur eine silberne Linie, sondern auch eine goldene Linie.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Und was ich meine, ist, dass Präsident Trump spezifisch Gold und Silber-Bullion von den steigenden Tarifen verabschiedet hat. Also, während diese neuen Policien signifikante finanzielle Chaos triggern, hat die Regierung die Möglichkeit versichert, sich in teure Metalle zu diversifizieren.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
So if you're concerned about your savings, look, I encourage you to have a free consultation with a Birch Gold Precious Metals Specialist. The first step is simple. Just text PDB to 989-898 and receive your free, no obligation information kit on gold. Learn how to hold gold and silver in a tax-sheltered account.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Berch Gold will help you convert an existing IRA or 401k into a gold IRA for no money out of pocket. Find out why so many Americans trust Berch Gold to help protect their savings with gold. With an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau and thousands of thankful customers, text PDB to the number 989-898. Again, text PDB to 989-898 to claim your free information kit right now.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
In today's Back of the Brief, American adversaries Russia and North Korea are taking steps to further cement their deepening diplomatic ties, breaking ground Wednesday on the first road bridge directly linking the two countries.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
The Hermit Kingdom and their northern neighbor held simultaneous groundbreaking ceremonies that must have been festive on their respective sides of the border for the two-lane bridge on Wednesday, with North Korea and Russian officials calling the moment a significant milestone.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Die Brücke wird den Tumen-River überlaufen und sich nahe der Existenz der Freundschaftsbrücke befinden, der Cross-Border-Railway, die 1959 verabschiedet wurde, nach dem Kriegskrieg. Das ist ein Bericht der New York Times. Das Projekt war seit einigen Jahren in Diskussion, aber wurde nur im Jahr 2024 formuliert, nach einem Summit in Nordkorea zwischen Putin und Kim Jong-Un.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
North Korea's state news agency said, quote, It provides a substantial guarantee for laying down and reinforcing important infrastructure for economic cooperation and for vitalizing bilateral cooperation. Well, this is quite the mouthful, isn't it? Including travel of persons, tourism and circulation of commodities, end quote. How about that?
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
The bridge, which will take roughly 18 months to complete, will be a little over a half a mile long and expand passenger and commercial traffic between the two countries. Russia's Transport Ministry said it will be able to handle roughly 300 vehicles and 2,850 people per day. Wow, 300 vehicles a day, well, that's quite the bridge. How about that for traffic?
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Wir beginnen heute mit ein bisschen Palastintrig von der White House, wo die Knochen gegen den besonderen Anwalt Steve Witkoff ausgesprochen werden. Einige Administrationen-Insider sprachen exklusiv mit dem New York Post am Dienstag, um gegen Trumps bestehendste Repräsentant auf dem offenen Stadion zu kämpfen. Und ihre kandidativen Gedanken waren, naja, weniger als überraschend.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
But the project is just the latest evidence of the increasingly cozy relationship between the Putin and Kim regimes. As a reminder, the two belligerent powers signed a landmark mutual defense pact back in June of 2024, which formalized the role of North Korea as a crucial supply base for Russian military needs.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
North Korea has since deployed some 15,000 troops to Russia and billions of dollars worth of missiles and artillery to resupply Moscow's dwindling stockpiles. In return, it's believed that Russia has sent North Korea air defense systems, electronic warfare tools, drones and satellite launch technology.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
As we discussed on yesterday's show, Moscow and Pyongyang officially confirmed the presence of North Korean troops in Russia for the first time earlier this week, with Putin formally thanking the Hermit Kingdom for their support and vowing to never forget the sacrifices of their forces. He's probably already forgotten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
That sacrifice has been large, frankly, with South Korean intelligence estimating that some 4,700 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded on the front lines since joining the fight. Kims Beziehungen zu Moskau wurden im März wieder geändert, als er den russischen Sicherheitskanzler Sergej Shoygu in Pyongyang gegründet hat.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Die beiden haben ihren gemeinsamen Verteidigungspakt eröffnet, und Russlands Verteidigungsminister hat bemerkt, dass Diskussionen für einen zukünftigen Besuch von Kim im russischen Kapitol vorhanden sind, obwohl kein Datum spezifiziert wurde. And that, my friends, is the President's Daily Brief for Friday, the 2nd of May.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Now, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at pdbatthefirsttv.com. And finally, well, it's Friday, which means a brand new episode of our extended weekend show, the PDB Situation Report, is being moved to the launchpad. This week's guests include Steve Yates and Frank Gaffney. We're talking all things China, the shake-up at the White House with the National Security Team,
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Negotiations with Iran, what could cause the overthrow of the Iranian regime and more. This latest episode airs at 10pm tonight on the First TV and of course is always available on our YouTube channel, which you can find at President's Daily Brief and podcast platforms everywhere. I'm Mike Baker and I'll be back later today with the PDB Afternoon Bulletin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Until then, stay informed, stay safe, stay cool.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
The White House insiders, who chose to speak anonymously, ah, the bravery of speaking anonymously, are calling into question Witkow's overall competency as a diplomat and whether he's qualified to handle the rather significant portfolio that he's been handed by the president.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Als Erinnerung, das Portfolio betrifft das Negoziatieren eines Ende der Kriege in der Ukraine direkt mit Wladimir Putin, das Closing eines neuen Nuklear-Deals mit dem iranischen Regime und das Verhandeln eines langweiligen Ausbruchs zwischen Israel und Hamas. Ihr wisst, nur die meisten komplexen und konsequenten Probleme, die die Welt heute befinden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Their remarks paint a damning portrait of Witkoff's abilities as a negotiator and whether the former real estate attorney and investor is the right man to be at the helm in such turbulent times. Well, frankly, nothing says I'm ready to deal with the globe's biggest crises like a background in real estate and investment.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
The most pressing concern from insiders is Witkow's handling of direct talks with Putin. The Post report, citing multiple anonymous sources, said Witkow has been breaking with long-standing diplomatic protocols by relying on Kremlin-provided translators in his private meetings with Putin.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
In Video of last Friday's meeting between Witkow and Putin, for example, a seemingly confused Witkow can be heard asking if the person sitting next to him was, quote, from the embassy. A Ukrainian-Estonian translator and government advisor in Kyiv expressed alarm, telling the Post, quote, It's impossible to have negotiations when you don't trust the translator.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Witkow does not speak Russian and he cannot verify what is being translated. Sie haben dazu gesagt, dass kein Politiker mit seiner eigenen Translatorin in eine hostile Umgebung geht, ohne dass man nicht kompetent ist.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Wittkopf hat auch die Beratungen mit Putin als Solo besucht, statt mit einem Kreis von vertrauten Vorsitzenden, nationalen Sicherheitsexperten und militärischen Offizieren mit Erfahrung in Russland, die sich normalerweise mit jüngeren US-Negotiatorinnen beschäftigen würden. Putin, auf der anderen Seite, hat die Beratungen mit einem Quadrat von nahen Vorsitzenden besucht.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
One source from Trump's first administration bluntly told the Post that Witkoff was a, quote, nice guy, but a bumbling effing idiot. He should not be doing this alone, end quote. Diese unabhängige Diplomatie hat Kritik von innen in der Ukraine erzeugt, mit Kritikern, die von russischen Staatsmedienhändlern berichten, Wittkow für das Aussehen von Moskau-Messengeschichten zu erheben.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Die Administrationsinsider sagen, dass er eine klare Verständnis für die ukrainische Position nicht hat, statt Kremlin-Narrative zu Trump zurückzuwerfen. Sie fürchten, dass Wittkopf von Putin ausgerüstet wird, der seine Begriffe, obwohl er bereit ist, einen Deal zu erheben, ausgestattet hat. Ja, das wäre Putin, der Humanitärer.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Es gibt auch eine Verwirrung darüber, wer im Endeffekt die Friedensbewegungen zur Kriege in der Ukraine führt. Trump nannte in erster Linie den verheerenden Armee-Lieutenanten-General Keith Kellogg als speziellen Anwalt für die Ukraine und Russland, aber spielte später seine Dienste mit Wittkopf, wechselte Kelloggs Titel Mitte März nur zum speziellen Anwalt für die Ukraine.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Wittkopf mittlerweile, der zu Beginn als Special Envoy für den Mittleren Osten genannt wurde, wurde später zum Ambassador-at-Large promotiert. Zudem befindet er sich beruflich in internaler Heizung für seine Behandlung von Zerstörungsgesprächen in Gaza.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Während er in erster Linie einen zwei Monate langen Zerstörungsgespräch gegründet hat, bevor Trump auf die Arbeit ging, endeten seine Versuche, die Krieg zwischen Israel und Hamas im März, schlecht. Witkow verabschiedete eine Beratung im März, als ob er einen Deal hatte, aber Hamas schiffte später ihre Position und die Gespräche zerstörten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Wittkopf hat an der Zeit ermittelt, dass er von Hamas verurteilt worden sei, was die israelischen Anwesenden für seine Unerwartung als Diplomat betrifft. Diese Anmerkung geht nun an den Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Als die Negotiierungen mit dem islamistischen Regime im April begonnen wurden, sagte Wittkopf, dass der Iran ihre Erweiterungsstätten behalten könnte, wenn sie die Erweiterungsstätten niedrig halten und die richtige Ververfügung akzeptieren. Er ging später diese Bemerkungen zurück, sagte, dass irgendein Deal Iran völlig auslösen müsse, ihr Nuklearprogramm.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Some insiders say the biggest problem is simply that Witkoff has too much on his plate. President Trump, however, appears to still have full faith in his abilities. The White House was quick to come to Witkoff's defense regarding the largely anonymously sourced report from the Post, responding with a full-throated endorsement of his record.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Es ist Freitag, der 2. Mai. Willkommen bei der Präsidenten-Daily Brief. Ich bin Mike Baker. Eure Augen und Ohren auf der Welt-Stage. Okay, lasst uns beginnen. Wir fangen mit einem Blick in die Trump-Administration an. Die Berichte beweisen, dass Präsident Trumps Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, in der White House Schmerzen verursacht hat, über seine Begegnung mit den größten Gegnern Amerikas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
A White House spokesperson told the Post, Steve Witkoff has done incredible work securing the release of Americans detained abroad like Mark Fogel. Wie Präsident Trump ist er konzentriert darauf, die Tötung zu stoppen und Frieden durch Kraft zu überwachen. Alright. Now, before we go to break, a quick reminder to subscribe to our YouTube channel, which you can find at President's Daily Brief.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
We're rapidly approaching 100,000 subscribers and at which point, once we do, there'll be festivities and parades and concerts and much rejoicing. You can check out the video presentations of this show every day as well as our weekend interview program, the PDB Situation Report. Alright, coming up next. Kiev and Washington finally ink a critical minerals deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
And nuclear talks between the US and Iran stall as diplomatic tensions mount. I'll be right back. Hey, Mike Baker hier. Well, Springtime is definitely here, right? Temperatures are warming up. You've probably already pulled the cover off the grill and I'm about to tell you where to get the finest beef to put on that grill. I'm talking about a classic American business.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Generations of family raising high quality beef in the great state of Texas. And of course, I am talking about TriTales Beef. Now, Tri-Tales isn't some corporate meat factory or some faceless corporation. Tri-Tales is a fifth generation Texas ranch where cattle are pasture raised, grain finished and raised the right way. They handle the beef on site and ship it straight to your door.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
There's no middleman and no mystery. All their beef is sourced to match the genetics and care they've built their herd on, ensuring consistent marbling, tenderness and rich flavor in every cut. As we say, small batch, big flavor. You can taste the difference the moment it hits the grill.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
So whether we're talking about a ribeye, a filet or a New York strip, it's the kind of beef that brings people together. USDA Prime and Choice, handpacked and ready for your table. And right now, they've got a special offer just for PDB listeners. Go to trybeef.com slash pdb and get two free flat iron steaks with your first box over $250. That's trybeef.com slash pdb.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Support real ranchers and eat like you mean it. Welcome back to the PDB. Nach Monaten politischer Verlust und diplomatischer Verlust hat die Ukraine einen Mineralentwurf mit den Vereinigten Staaten gegründet, den Washington als Steck in seine zukünftigen Ressourcenrevenuen in Umgebung zu bringen, um eine finanzielle Leitlinie aufzubauen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Finalisiert in Washington am Montag, hat die Vereinigung den Vereinigten Staaten-Ukraine-Reconstruction-Investment-Fund gegründet. ermittelt den Amerikanern Zugang zu riesigen, unabhängigen Reserven rarer Erde und anderer Mineralien. Die Trump-Administration bezeichnet diese Materialien als essentiell für die langfristige Industrie- und Verteidigungs- und Sicherheitssicherheit Amerikas.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Am Anfang seines zweiten Terms hat Trump eines klar gemacht. Der Zukunfts-US-Support würde mit Stringen verbunden sein. Die Botschaft zu Kiew war blutig. Die Beleuchtung für die damalige Militärhilfe unter der Biden-Administration würde von Ukrainer Mineralwerte ausgedrückt werden.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Nun, die Gespräche fielen fast im Februar ab, nach einer feierlichen Oberbürgermeisterschaft, die ich mir sicher erinnere, zwischen den Trump-Affizienten und dem ukrainischen Präsidenten Zelenskyj.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Aber so wie wir hier auf der PDB gecheckt haben, begannen die Tensionen während einer Begegnung zwischen Trump und Zelenskyj im Vatikan über den Wochenende, auf der Seite des Feierabends für den Papst Franziskus. Das Meeting legte die Grundlage für einen Deal. By Wednesday, the Ukrainian economy minister had flown to Washington to seal the deal.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
In a statement posted on X, she called the agreement a breakthrough for Ukraine's post-war recovery, writing, quote, Together with the U.S., we are creating a fund to attract global investment into our country.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Treasury Secretary Scott Besson put it more bluntly, stating, quote, This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine. Die Mechaniken des Deales sind relativ einfach. Ein 10-jähriges, gemeinsames finanzielles Fund, gebackt von der US-International Development Finance Corporation.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Keeve wird die volle Autorität über das, was gegründet wird und wo, mit fast 100 Sites, die bereits für Verleihung bemerkt werden. Krüchlich werden finanzielle Beiträge an den Fund in Geld gemacht, nicht in Form von retroaktiven Steuern. Nur zukünftige militärische Hilfe wird an die Anzahl der Amerikaner in dem Fund zählen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Diese Konzession hat einen großen Wettbewerb für Kiew erzielt, der vorher Vorschläge für Wartezeit-Hilfe durch Mineral-Konzessionen verweigert hatte.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Later in the show, Kiev and Washington finally ink a long-anticipated, quote, economic partnership agreement that will grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's extensive mineral resources. The deal calls for establishing an investment fund that could help rebuild the war-torn country.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
According to the US Geological Survey, Ukraine is sitting on some of the world's largest undeveloped deposits of manganese and lithium, key to electric vehicle batteries and electronics, as well as significant reserves of uranium and titanium, indispensable to nuclear energy, aerospace and medical technology.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Still, Kyiv did not secure all of its objectives, notably absent from the final agreement or any form of U.S. security guarantees, a demand that Ukrainian officials say they'll continue to press for in future negotiations. But even without it, the Fund bolsters Ukraine's leverage at the negotiating table with Russia via U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
backing, preserves its EU-membership ambitions, and provides the financial scaffolding for rebuilding a country still reeling from the ongoing war. However, a large slice, and this is important, of Ukraine's resource wealth, well, lies out of reach.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Ukrainian think tanks estimate that some 40% of its strategic metals lie under Russian occupation, including two of its richest lithium deposits in Donetsk and Zaporizhia. And the Kremlin, well, they're not hiding their disdain.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
In a sarcastic post on Telegram Thursday, the deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council wrote, "...Trump has finally pressured the Kiev regime to pay for US aid with mineral resources. Now the country that is about to disappear will have to use its national wealth to pay for military supplies." Die Bedrohung dort war unmissverständlich ernsthaft.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Es bemerkte Moskaus erste offizielle Antwort und signalisierte eine wachsende Unabhängigkeit über das Verkündigen der US-Ukraine-Tiefe. Ukraines Parlament wird in den nächsten zwei Wochen den Deal ratifizieren. Okay, wir wechseln zu den US-Iran-Nuklear-Negotiaten.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Die nächste Runde Gespräche, die anfangs am Donnerstag in Rom vorgelegt wurde, wurde verabschiedet, als die Tensionen amid den Angelegenheiten des iranischen Regimes steigen, dass Washington Diplomatie mit frischen Sanktionen torpediert. A senior Iranian official speaking to Reuters on Thursday said a new date would be announced, quote, depending on the U.S.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
approach, adding that Washington's decision to escalate sanctions while talks remain active sends a clear signal that diplomacy is on life support. The Islamic Regime official said, quote, U.S. sanctions on Iran during the nuclear talks are not helping the sides to resolve the nuclear dispute, end quote.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
That rhetoric amounts to Tehran's bluntest warning yet that President Trump's revived maximum pressure campaign could derail further dialogue. Oman, which previously hosted the talks, attempted to put a neutral spin on the development, saying the 3 May session was being rescheduled for, quote, logistical reasons.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
But a source familiar with the matter told Reuters that the US never formally confirmed its participation in the planned Rome session. And while discussions remain ongoing, neither the date nor the location for the fourth round has been locked in, underscoring just how tenuous the diplomatic track has become.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Plus, a fourth round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran have been postponed, as Iranian leaders protest new sanctions placed on the Islamic regime by the US State Department on Wednesday.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Der Hintergrund für den Verlust ist eine Barrage von Sanktionen, die am Donnerstag von der Trump-Administration veröffentlicht wurde, die sieben Firmen und zwei Schiffen aus Iran, der UAE und der Türkei beherrscht haben. Die Entitäten sind verurteilt, den elizenten Petrochemiehandel zu unterstützen.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Es ist ein kritisches Lebensblut für die sanktionierende, umfassende Wirtschaft des iranischen Regimes und ihr regionales Proxy-Netzwerk. Secretary of State Marco Rubio didn't mince words, saying the action covers hundreds of millions of dollars in sales and warning that more measures are likely. Iran, unsurprisingly, fired back.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
The foreign ministry blasted what it called America's, quote, contradictory behavior and provocative statements, citing not only the sanctions, but recent U.S. warnings over Tehrans support for Yemen's Houthis.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Still, in a sign that Iran hasn't slammed the door completely shut, a ministry spokesman insisted Thursday that Tehran remains committed to, quote, serious and resolute diplomacy, though he emphasized that the talks must yield real results.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
As we've reported here on the PDB, Trump wasted no time upon returning to office in reactivating his maximum pressure blueprint of cutting Iran's oil exports to zero and cornering the Islamic regime into accepting a tougher nuclear deal. The president has publicly maintained that his goal is straightforward. No nuclear weapons for Iran.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
And if talks fail, all options remain on the table, including military force. The original 2015 Pact, which Trump scrapped in his first term, had imposed strict uranium enrichment limits in exchange for sanctions relief.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Since Washingtons withdrawal, Tehran has blown past those restrictions, enriching at higher levels and stockpiling material that Western officials warn could shorten the breakout window to a matter of weeks.
The President's Daily Brief
May 2nd, 2025: Knives Out For Steve Witkoff & US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall
Währenddessen ist ein separates Meeting in Rom zwischen iranischen Offizieren und Repräsentanten aus Britannien, Frankreich und Deutschland, um alle französischen und regionalen Tensionen zu entdecken, auch jetzt auch, quote, nicht sicher, die iranischen Offiziere sagten. Als Sanktionen in Diplomaten steigen, Hoffnungen für einen frischen Nukleardeal mit Iran, äh, sie scheinen zu weinen.