The Trump administration's efforts to tighten the economic noose on Cuba appear to be working, as more international firms announced they would leave the island. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans narrowly scuttled an attempt by Democrats to stop Donald Trump from creating a $1.8bn fund to pay his allies. In the UK, business secretary Peter Kyle attacked the "entitlement" of Labour leadership rivals, saying British politics fails to reward political accomplishment.
What Happened
In a move that has been criticized by environmentalists, Trump is using wartime presidential authority to hand $700m to coal-fired power plants in the US. The president invoked the Defense Production Act to prop up coal output, despite it being the dirtiest of fossil fuels. The decision has been accused of "putting polluters first".
In the Senate, Republicans narrowly blocked an attempt by Democrats to stop Trump's proposed fund for payouts to allies. The dispute over the proposal has exposed party divisions, with three GOP senators joining Democrats in opposing the fund.
Why It Matters
The Trump administration's actions have significant implications for the economy and the environment. The use of wartime powers to aid the coal industry has been criticized as a desperate attempt to prop up a dying industry. The proposed fund for payouts to allies has also raised concerns about the use of taxpayer money to reward Trump's allies.
What Experts Say
Peter Kyle, the business secretary, has warned that British politics "rewards the wrong behaviour" and that there is little credit for the work of his own department. He criticized Labour leadership rivals, saying "entitlement is not a qualification".
Key Numbers
- $1.8bn: The proposed fund for payouts to Trump's allies
- $700m: The amount of money Trump is using to aid the coal industry
- 3: The number of GOP senators who joined Democrats in opposing the proposed fund
Key Facts
- Who: Donald Trump, US President
- What: Proposed fund for payouts to allies, use of wartime powers to aid coal industry
- Impact: Significant implications for the economy and the environment
What Comes Next
The Trump administration's actions are likely to face continued opposition from Democrats and environmentalists. The use of wartime powers to aid the coal industry has set a precedent for future actions, and the proposed fund for payouts to allies is likely to be a contentious issue in the coming weeks.
In the UK, the Labour party is facing internal divisions over the leadership, with Peter Kyle criticizing the "entitlement" of rivals. The party is likely to face challenges in the coming months as it navigates these internal divisions.
Meanwhile, a former University of Surrey student has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a man was shot with a crossbow in Guildford. The incident is a shocking reminder of the need for vigilance and security on university campuses.