A coalition of 25 U.S. states and the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its decision to halt funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The program, which supports over 40 million low-income Americans, faces a potential funding crisis as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) refuses to tap into a $6 billion emergency contingency fund. The USDA argues the reserve may be needed for emergencies like natural disasters, but the lawsuit contends this move is unlawful and would leave millions unable to afford groceries. This marks the first time in SNAP’s history that funds would not be distributed. The lawsuit, led by Democratic attorneys general, warns that cutting SNAP benefits would lead to food insecurity, hunger, and malnutrition, particularly harming children. States involved include California, New York, and Illinois, among others. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision, calling it ‘cruel’ and accusing President Trump of lacking humanity. The USDA, in response, blamed Democrats for the funding shortfall, urging them to prioritize reopening the government. Even if the contingency fund is used, it would only cover 60% of one month’s benefits, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Some states, like Massachusetts, lack the resources to cover the shortfall, while others, including California, are deploying the National Guard to assist with food distribution. The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 28th day, has exacerbated the crisis, making it the second-longest in U.S. history.
分类： politics
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Trump appeals against conviction in hush-money case
Former US President Donald Trump has launched an appeal to overturn his May 2024 criminal conviction in the high-profile hush-money case, asserting that presidential immunity shields him from prosecution. Trump was unanimously found guilty by a New York jury on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Despite the conviction, a New York judge granted him an unconditional discharge in December, citing his imminent return to the White House, meaning he faced no jail time or fines. Trump’s legal team has labeled the case as “the most politically charged prosecution in our nation’s history” and argued that it should never have reached the courtroom. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which prosecuted Trump, has yet to comment on the appeal. The case stems from allegations that Trump directed his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to pay $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels to silence her claims of a past sexual encounter before the 2016 election. While the payment itself was not illegal, prosecutors claimed Trump fraudulently recorded reimbursements to Cohen as legal expenses to conceal the transaction’s true purpose. The trial coincided with Trump’s re-election campaign, with prosecutors arguing that the cover-up constituted election interference by withholding critical information from voters. Trump has consistently denied all charges. Following the conviction, the US Supreme Court ruled in June 2024 that presidents enjoy broad immunity from criminal prosecution for “official acts” during their tenure. Trump’s lawyers have since argued that this immunity should apply to the hush-money case and that certain evidence should have been excluded as it pertained to his first presidency. Justice Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, rejected this argument, but Trump’s team has long signaled their intent to appeal. The case will now proceed to the New York Appellate Division, First Department, which previously dismissed a $500 million civil fraud penalty against Trump in a separate case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James. While the appellate judges upheld the fraud finding, they deemed the financial penalties unjustified.
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Tanzanians head to polls amid human rights concerns and weakened opposition
Tanzanians are set to cast their votes on Wednesday in a pivotal election that sees incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan facing off against candidates from smaller opposition parties. The absence of her primary rivals, barred from participating, has cast a shadow over the electoral process. A victory for Hassan would prolong the dominance of her party, Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM), which has governed Tanzania since 1961. However, the election is marred by allegations of repression, with Amnesty International highlighting enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings as key concerns. These actions, allegedly perpetrated by security forces, have raised questions about the election’s legitimacy. Hassan’s main opponent, Tundu Lissu of the Chadema party, is currently detained on treason charges, while the ACT-Wazalendo party’s presidential candidate was also disqualified. Hassan, seeking her first full term after completing her predecessor’s tenure, has campaigned on a platform of economic expansion in agriculture and livestock, encapsulated in her ‘Four Rs’ vision: reconciliation, reforms, rebuilding, and resilience. Despite a record 37 million registered voters, analysts predict low turnout due to widespread apathy and the perception of a foregone conclusion. The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee has criticized the pre-election environment, warning that it undermines Tanzania’s democratic principles. Amnesty International analyst Roland Ebole noted that while Hassan initially showed promise with progressive measures, her administration has since reverted to repressive tactics. Simon Mkina, a Tanzanian newspaper founder, warned that the election could threaten the nation’s democratic foundations, potentially leading to international condemnation and domestic unrest. Chadema has called for protests on election day, signaling potential upheaval in the aftermath of the vote.
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Xi-Trump summit: What’s changed since their last meeting
As Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump prepare for their anticipated meeting on October 30, 2025, the agenda remains strikingly similar to their last encounter in 2019. Trade, Taiwan, and China-Russia relations continue to dominate discussions, with Trump seeking China’s assistance in brokering peace with Russia. However, the geopolitical landscape has evolved significantly since their previous meeting, prompting a closer examination of these critical issues.
**Taiwan: A Shifting US Stance**
One of the most notable changes since 2019 is the softening of the US position on Taiwan. During Trump’s first term, figures like Secretary of State Mike Pompeo advocated a hawkish approach, emphasizing support for Taiwan’s autonomy without endorsing outright independence. However, under the Biden administration, events such as the spy balloon incident and Nancy Pelosi’s controversial visit to Taiwan strained US-China relations, escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
In Trump’s second term, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, traditionally a hardliner on Taiwan, appears to be moderating his stance. This shift is partly attributed to Trump’s potential desire for a compromise with China regarding Taiwan. Earlier this year, the Trump administration denied Taiwan President William Lai Ching-te a stopover in New York and canceled a $400 million arms deal with Taiwan, signaling a possible concession to Beijing.
**Trade: A Complex Tariff Landscape**
The trade dynamics between the US and China have also undergone significant changes. In 2019, the two nations were negotiating a ‘phase one’ trade agreement, which ultimately failed to materialize into a broader deal. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted global trade and supply chains, complicating negotiations.
Today, tariffs are universally applied, and Trump’s insistence on their enforcement has weakened his leverage in pressuring China. For instance, the UK, once a key ally in restricting Chinese tech giant Huawei, now faces a 10% tariff from the US, reducing its willingness to align with Trump’s anti-China strategies. Additionally, China’s increasing integration into global supply chains, particularly in sectors like rare earth materials, has made it harder for the US to exert economic pressure.
**China-Russia Relations: A Delicate Balance**
China’s approach to Russia has remained consistent since Trump’s first term, with Beijing prioritizing its economic and strategic interests over US concerns. Despite Russia’s invasions of Crimea in 2014 and Ukraine in 2022, China has maintained a cautious stance, abstaining from UN condemnations and refraining from recognizing Russia’s territorial claims. Beijing views Russia as a vital market for Chinese goods and a source of dual-use technology, benefiting from Russia’s isolation and dependence on Chinese exports.
As the Xi-Trump meeting approaches, these three issues—Taiwan, trade, and China-Russia relations—will undoubtedly shape the discussions. While the core topics remain unchanged, the evolving geopolitical context adds new layers of complexity to the negotiations.
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Tunisian court suspends prominent human rights groups as crackdown progresses
In a significant development, a Tunisian court has mandated the suspension of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), one of the country’s most prominent human rights organizations, for a period of one month. This decision follows a similar suspension imposed on the Tunisian Association for Democratic Women (ATFD), a leading feminist group, just days prior. The move underscores the escalating pressures faced by civil society organizations under President Kais Saied’s administration, which has been accused of systematically undermining post–Arab Spring democratic freedoms. FTDES spokesperson Romdhan Ben Amor criticized the suspension, describing it as a diversionary tactic to shift focus from pressing national issues, including ongoing environmental protests in Gabes. He further asserted that the organization was targeted for its advocacy on migration and its involvement in high-profile cases related to state security. Ben Amor emphasized FTDES’s commitment to financial transparency and announced plans to appeal the suspension. Critics argue that these measures are part of a broader strategy to stifle the independence of civil society, particularly since Saied’s 2021 consolidation of power. The president has frequently framed foreign funding as a national threat, accusing NGOs of serving foreign interests and destabilizing the country. FTDES is among numerous organizations subjected to rigorous financial and tax audits in recent months, as authorities intensify scrutiny over their operations and funding sources.
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Taiwan compatriots voice unity on the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration
In a significant commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China, Taiwanese compatriots gathered to express their profound patriotic fervor and unwavering commitment to national reunification. The event, held with grandeur, underscored the enduring connections and shared aspirations between the people across the Taiwan Strait. Participants emphasized the importance of unity and the collective vision for a harmonious future, highlighting the historical significance of the restoration and its implications for the region’s stability and prosperity. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted ties that bind the two sides, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual understanding amidst the complexities of cross-strait relations.
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Xi, Finnish president exchange congratulations on 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties
On October 28, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Finnish President Alexander Stubb exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between their nations. This milestone highlights the enduring partnership and mutual respect between China and Finland, which has flourished since the establishment of formal ties in 1950. The leaders emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in areas such as trade, technology, and environmental sustainability. Both presidents expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations, underscoring their commitment to fostering peace and prosperity. This exchange reflects the broader significance of China-Finland relations as a model of international cooperation and diplomacy.
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Michael D Higgins returns to Áras after hospital stay
Irish President Michael D. Higgins has returned to Áras an Uachtaráin, his official residence, following a brief hospitalization to address a localized infection. On Sunday, President Higgins was admitted to St James’s Hospital in Dublin as part of a prearranged medical evaluation. A spokesperson confirmed on Tuesday that the president underwent a successful course of antibiotics to treat the condition. In a statement, President Higgins expressed his gratitude to the medical team for their care and thanked the public for their well-wishes during his hospital stay. President Higgins will continue his duties until November 11, when Catherine Connolly, his successor, is inaugurated at Dublin Castle. Connolly, an independent member of the Irish parliament, secured a historic 63% of first-preference votes in the recent presidential election, marking a record in Irish electoral history. However, the unprecedented number of spoiled votes, totaling 213,738, has sparked discussions among politicians about the need for electoral reform. Connolly was officially declared the 10th President of the Republic of Ireland on Saturday evening after defeating Fine Gael candidate Heather Humphreys.
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Observers worldwide applaud designation of Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration
In a significant move, China’s national legislature has officially designated October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration. This decision, announced on Friday, has garnered widespread acclaim from international observers, who view it as a reaffirmation of Taiwan’s status as an inalienable part of China. The establishment of this day underscores the historical significance of Taiwan’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule, achieved through the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Prominent figures from around the globe have lauded the decision, emphasizing its alignment with the one-China principle and its role in honoring historical truths. Professor Emeritus Atsushi Koketsu of Japan’s Yamaguchi University highlighted the importance of drawing strength from history to propel progress in the new era. Ambassador Bilal Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations, commended the decision as a demonstration of China’s unity and resolve in safeguarding national sovereignty. South African MP Andisiwe Khumbaca stressed that national liberation is a hard-won achievement, while Kyrgyzstan’s Sheradil Baktygulov noted the widespread support for the commemoration day across the Taiwan Strait. The move also serves as a reminder to external forces that the Taiwan issue is purely China’s internal affair, as emphasized by Serik Korzhumbayev of Kazakhstan. Faruk Boric of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Tahir Mumtaz Awan of Pakistan both highlighted the day’s role in upholding the post-World War II international order and historical justice. Egyptian professor Nadia Helmy and South African academic Lloyd Kuveya reiterated the historical and legal foundations of Taiwan’s status as part of China. Wang Jiaqing of France and Lian Jiehao of Indonesia emphasized the importance of national unity and the shared aspirations of Chinese people worldwide for peaceful reunification.
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US launches strikes on alleged drug-running boats off Colombia, killing 14
In a significant escalation of its anti-narcotics operations, the U.S. military conducted three strikes in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Monday, targeting four boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals, with one survivor reported. This marks the deadliest single day since the Trump administration intensified its controversial campaign against drug cartels in South American waters. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the strikes, emphasizing their alignment with the broader war on terrorism. The operation has drawn sharp criticism from regional allies, including Mexico and Colombia, further straining diplomatic relations. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum publicly condemned the strikes, calling for adherence to international treaties and initiating discussions with U.S. officials. Colombia, a key partner in U.S. anti-drug efforts, also expressed discontent, particularly after the Trump administration imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his associates over alleged ties to the global drug trade. The U.S. military has yet to provide concrete evidence linking the targeted boats to drug cartels or identifying the individuals killed. The campaign, which began in early September, has now resulted in at least 57 fatalities across 13 disclosed strikes. Speculation persists that the operations may be aimed at destabilizing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. accuses of narcoterrorism. Amid rising tensions, the Pentagon has deployed additional military assets to the region, including an aircraft carrier and supersonic bombers. President Trump has defended the strikes, asserting legal authority and comparing the fight against drug cartels to the war on terrorism. Hegseth echoed this sentiment, claiming that cartels have caused more American deaths than Al-Qaeda and vowing to treat them with equal severity.