Friday, March 21st, 2025 - EU sanctions Russia; Trump’s Ukraine offer; Israel-Gaza conflict; Columbia ultimatum; Cybertruck recall

Today’s Headlines: EU leaders (minus Hungary’s Orban) plan to expand sanctions on Russia but remain divided on a $40 billion defense fund. Meanwhile, details from Trump’s call with Zelensky reveal he proposed U.S. control of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant—a suggestion Zelensky rejected. In Gaza, war has fully resumed, with Hamas launching rockets at Israel and Israeli forces expanding ground operations while blocking humanitarian aid. Israeli officials estimate Hamas still has over 25,000 fighters. The Trump administration has given Columbia University a deadline to place its Middle Eastern studies department under academic receivership. A French scientist was reportedly denied U.S. entry over private criticisms of Trump’s research policies. Meanwhile, a leaked memo shows the Social Security Administration may limit its toll-free customer service line, despite previous denials and Tesla is recalling nearly all 46,000 Cybertrucks due to exterior hardware issues. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: EU ready to impose more sanctions on Russia after summit talks | European Union NY Times: Trump Wants to Take Over Ukraine’s Nuclear Plants. What Would That Mean? NY Times: Israel Expands Gaza Ground Offensive as Hamas Fires Rockets at Tel Aviv NY Times: Why Trump’s Ultimatum to Columbia Could Upend Higher Education The Guardian: French scientist denied US entry after phone messages critical of Trump found | US news Axios: Leaked memo: DOGE plots to cut Social Security phone support Reuters: Tesla recalls most Cybertrucks due to trim detaching from vehicle Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices