
The federal government is preparing for a possible shutdown

Essential services would continue, but many agencies could halt operations, affecting hundreds of thousands of workers. The White House has instructed agencies to plan for mass layoffs in non-essential programs. Democrats are pushing for extensions on health care subsidies set to expire. Partisan negotiations are intensifying to avoid the impasse.
President Donald Trump addressed the United Nations

He reaffirmed U.S. support for the global body despite past criticisms of multilateral institutions. World leaders listened attentively, a contrast to the laughter Trump faced during his first term speech. Trump signed orders earlier this year withdrawing from certain UN agencies focused on Palestinian aid and human rights. The address comes amid tensions over U.S. positions on global trade and security.
Russian drones have struck civilian areas in Ukraine

The United Nations Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on Russian incursions into Estonian airspace. Both sides accused each other of targeting non-military sites in the latest exchanges. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced new sanctions on Russia, including phasing out natural gas purchases by 2027. Estonian officials highlighted the airspace violations as a threat to regional security.
France, UK, and Canada have formally recognized Palestinian statehood

The announcement came during coordinated statements from their foreign ministries, urging a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The decision follows months of discussions within the United Nations framework. Leaders emphasized support for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders. Reactions from regional governments vary, with some welcoming the step and others expressing concern over its timing.