Hello! This is August 15, 2025.

Trump And Putin Conclude ‘Extremely Productive’ Meeting: ‘There’s No Deal Until There’s A Deal’

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin wrapped up a nearly three-hour private meeting in Anchorage, calling the talks “extremely productive” though no formal deal was reached. Putin pushed for Ukraine to abandon NATO ambitions and undergo “denazification,” while Trump said substantial progress was made and pledged to brief NATO and President Zelenskyy. Both sides agreed to continue discussions, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow for a follow-up meeting. Russia’s ambassador cautioned that no major breakthroughs occurred, though progress was underway.

Trump: No Need For Oil Sanctions, For Now

President Donald Trump said Friday he does not currently plan to impose retaliatory tariffs on China for buying Russian oil, though he may reconsider “in two or three weeks.” Trump has already slapped a 25% tariff on Indian goods for continuing Russian imports but stopped short of similar action against Beijing. The comments came after his Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin ended without a breakthrough on Ukraine. Trump noted that China’s slowing economy could take a hit if harsher sanctions are enacted, even as he and Xi Jinping work on a broader trade deal.

Air Force Tightens Rules On Transgender Airmen

The U.S. Air Force has issued new guidance requiring separation boards to recommend removal for service members who do not meet readiness standards, including those impacted by transgender policy changes. Hearings will be closed with only abbreviated transcripts, streamlining decisions under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s push to “restore the warrior ethos.” Supporters argue the policy strengthens discipline and avoids drawn-out cases, while critics warn it limits due process. The rules apply across both the Air Force and Space Force under a unified authority.

Goldman Sachs Loves 3 Great White North High-Yield Energy Stocks

Goldman Sachs analysts highlighted three Canadian energy companies—Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, and Suncor Energy—as top picks for income investors. With oil prices at four-year lows and potential sanctions on Russia boosting market uncertainty, these dividend-heavy stocks offer both yield and growth potential. Canadian Natural Resources boasts a 9.3% yield and a $37 target, Cenovus has a $17 target with key upstream projects coming online, and Suncor, seen as the strongest of the three, has a $44 target and benefits from refining, retail networks, and strong operational momentum.

Wall St Trains Sights On Jackson Hole Fed Gathering

Investors are focused on next week’s Jackson Hole symposium, where Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give key signals on future rate cuts. Recent mixed inflation data has markets betting on at least two more quarter-point cuts this year, with homebuilders and cyclical stocks rallying sharply in anticipation. However, analysts warn that if Powell sounds less dovish than expected, markets could see a sharp pullback. With stocks at record highs and volatility low, Powell will need to balance confidence without spooking investors.

Mosquito-Borne Dengue Fever Cases Surge In Hawaii

Hawaii has reported 12 dengue fever cases so far in 2025, with one on Maui and 11 on Oahu. Officials say infections are linked to travelers from dengue-endemic regions, as the virus is not native to the islands. Symptoms range from fever and joint pain to, in severe cases, death. While no treatment exists, rest, hydration, and acetaminophen are recommended. Health experts urge residents and visitors to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

Pretzel-Shaped Device Cures Bladder Cancer

A new pretzel-shaped implant delivering chemotherapy directly into the bladder eliminated tumors in 82% of patients within three months, with nearly half remaining cancer-free a year later. The TAR-200 device slowly releases gemcitabine, offering a less invasive alternative to bladder removal for patients resistant to standard therapies. Trial results showed minimal side effects among 85 participants. The FDA has granted Priority Review to accelerate potential approval.