Daily brief
Trump-backed candidates ousted Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana in his primary election after he voted to convict Donald Trump in his second impeachment trial. Two Trump-endorsed opponents advanced to a runoff, effectively ending Cassidy's Senate career. Cassidy delivered a message in defeat, while Trump sent a signal by targeting him.
Trump threatened to destroy Iran if it refuses a peace deal, saying the clock is ticking as nuclear talks stall. The US reportedly presented new demands including handing over enriched uranium and accepting nuclear limits without compensation. Israel and the US are preparing for a possible new phase in the conflict.
A Senate ruling jeopardized federal funding for a $400 million ballroom associated with Donald Trump, blocking the allocation of hundreds of millions of dollars for the project.
The US under Trump is applying its Venezuela strategy to Cuba, drawing mixed reactions. Cuban opposition leader Jorge Mas argues the approach works in Venezuela but not for Cuba, while others warn against relying on outside saviors.
Trump said 'nothing’s changed' on Taiwan, but his words belie a big shift. Trump and South Korea's Lee discussed the outcome of the US-China summit, and a former official said the summit eased chronic issues.