Capital News

By Charles Hawes | Capital News March 23, 2025 The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ramped up military operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting terrorist infrastructure in an effort to neutralize security threats. Under the command of the IDF Southern Command, the operation is being carried out with intelligence support from the Israel Security Agency (ISA) and the IDF Intelligence Directorate. According to military sources, IDF forces have eliminated dozens of terrorists and destroyed multiple rocket launch sites that were being used to launch attacks against Israel. The 252nd Division and the 143rd Division are actively engaged in combat operations in key locations, expanding security perimeters and reinforcing strategic positions. The Israel Air Force (IAF) and Israeli Navy are playing a critical role in supporting ground forces, deploying fighter jets, drones, and naval assets to strike high-value enemy targets. These coordinated efforts are aimed at weakening the operational ca...

By Charles Hawes | Capital News Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump’s administration has continued to deliver economic relief for Americans, reversing the economic struggles attributed to years of "Bidenflation." Since taking office, President Trump has overseen significant improvements in key economic indicators, bolstered national security, and implemented sweeping policy changes across multiple sectors. Economic Revival Wholesale egg prices have dropped for the third consecutive week, marking a decline of over 50% since the beginning of President Trump’s term. Gasoline prices have followed suit, with the nationwide average falling below $3 per gallon in most states. Meanwhile, U.S. industrial production has soared to record levels, driven by robust manufacturing and auto sector growth. The housing market has also shown remarkable resilience, with home sales surging by 4.2% in February—well above expectations. These positive economic trends signal renewed confidence a...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News STRASBOURG, March 21 – The Core Group has completed its fourteenth and final meeting, marking a significant milestone in the effort to establish a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. The group’s legal experts have finalized three crucial draft documents, now set for political review.     The completed drafts include a bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Council of Europe on the establishment of the tribunal, the Special Tribunal’s statute , and an enlarged partial agreement outlining its management. These documents will serve as the legal foundation for holding Russian leadership accountable for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.     According to Iryna Mudra , Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, this step is not only critical for Ukraine but also for upholding the principles of international law. “Over the past two years, this Group has been working to build a foundation for justi...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News KYIV – President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the command post of the 59th Separate Assault Brigade of Unmanned Systems, named after Yakiv Handziuk, where he received a briefing on the current battlefield situation and the brigade’s technological advancements. Brigade Commander Bohdan Shevchuk updated operations within their area of responsibility, detailing collaboration with neighboring units. President Zelenskyy was also briefed on the brigade’s use of unmanned systems, electronic warfare equipment, and robotic complexes—critical assets in Ukraine’s ongoing defense efforts. The brigade has developed its own production capabilities for these systems and continues to implement cutting-edge military technology. During the visit, the President personally awarded soldiers with the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, II and III classes, recognizing their bravery and commitment to the nation’s defense. He also ensured that additional awards were passed on...

  By Charles Hawes Capital News Munich - In a significant diplomatic meeting in Munich, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg. The discussions marked a critical step forward in strengthening ties between Ukraine and the United States, with a focus on economic cooperation and the ongoing conflict with Russia. The two nations' teams reached a consensus to continue drafting a comprehensive document on economic partnership, signaling their commitment to deepening bilateral relations. Zelenskyy expressed optimism regarding Kellogg’s upcoming visit, which is expected to provide further clarity and insight into the situation on the ground in Ukraine. A core element of the discussions revolved around Ukraine’s path toward peace, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the country's readiness to move swiftly toward a "real and guaranteed peace....

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kyiv, Ukraine – President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, expressing his gratitude for Italy’s unwavering support of Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression. During their conversation, Zelenskyy provided Meloni with an update on his recent diplomatic engagements, including a meeting earlier today with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and a prior discussion with President Donald Trump. These contacts mark some of the first high-level dialogues between Kyiv and the new U.S. administration, as Ukraine works to ensure continued Western backing in its defense efforts. A key focus of the call was the coordination of international efforts to secure a just and lasting resolution to the war. Zelenskyy and Meloni emphasized that before entering negotiations, Ukraine, the United States, and European allies must first develop a unified strategy and action plan. This collective approach, according ...

  By Charles Hawes Capital News Washington DC - President Donald J. Trump and his administration have embarked on a series of assertive actions aimed at enforcing federal laws and challenging policies they deem non-compliant. This initiative spans multiple sectors, including education, immigration, environmental oversight, and communications. Education Sector Interventions The Department of Education has initiated investigations into the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) and the Minnesota State High School League. These probes focus on policies that allow transgender athletes to participate in female sports teams, which the administration contends violate President Trump's executive order titled "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports." This order seeks to prohibit transgender females from competing in girls' and women's sports nationwide, a stance that has ignited legal debates due to conflicts with state laws protecting transgender students' rig...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, D.C. – In a historic diplomatic engagement, President Donald J. Trump hosted Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for an Official Working Visit at the White House today. The meeting underscored the enduring partnership between the world’s two largest democracies, built upon shared values of freedom, rule of law, human rights, and pluralism. During their discussions, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the strength of the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Their talks emphasized mutual trust, shared interests, and the dynamic engagement of citizens from both nations, reflecting a steadfast commitment to furthering diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation. In a landmark announcement, the two leaders launched the U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century initiative. Designed to drive transformative c...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump’s latest move to implement reciprocal tariffs in response to foreign trade imbalances was met with immediate praise from industry leaders, lawmakers, and administration officials. The "Fair and Reciprocal Plan" aims to correct longstanding disparities in U.S. trade relations by ensuring that any country imposing tariffs on American goods will face equal tariffs on their exports to the U.S. Industry Leaders Applaud the Plan The Renewable Fuels Association commended the decision, citing the ongoing battle against Brazil’s tariff regime on U.S. ethanol imports. “For almost a decade now, we have spent precious time and resources fighting back against an unfair and unjustified tariff regime imposed by Brazil’s government on U.S. ethanol imports,” the association stated. “We thank President Trump for taking this action and hope this reciprocal tariff will help encourage a return to free and fair ethanol tra...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News KYIV – In a decisive step to reinforce sanctions against Russia, Ukraine’s Presidential Commissioner for Sanctions Policy, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, met with the Ambassador of Ireland to Ukraine, Jonathan Conlon, to discuss further pressure measures on the Kremlin. The meeting focused on Ireland’s proposals for the European Union’s forthcoming 16th sanctions package, with particular emphasis on targeting the Russian energy sector and dismantling the so-called 'shadow fleet'—a network of vessels facilitating Moscow’s oil exports despite Western restrictions. Both parties also stressed the urgency of the EU’s complete cessation of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. Beyond energy-related measures, the officials addressed a crucial security concern: the presence of Irish-manufactured components in Russian weaponry. Ambassador Conlon affirmed that Ireland had rigorously reviewed intelligence provided by Ukraine and had taken steps to enhance ov...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump has announced key appointments to the newly established White House Faith Office, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to faith-based initiatives and religious outreach. Pastor Paula White-Cain will return to the White House as a Special Government Employee and Senior Advisor to the White House Faith Office. White-Cain, a globally recognized evangelical leader, has spent four decades ministering in nearly 200 countries, advocating for religious freedom, humanitarian rights, and the voiceless. She is the founder of Paula White Ministries and the National Faith Advisory Board and serves as president of City of Destiny and a teaching pastor at StoryLife Church in Florida. White-Cain, who previously advised President Trump in the White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative , also chaired the Evangelical Advisory Board in 2016. A New York Times best-selling author and well-known television perso...

By Charles Hawes, Capital News WASHINGTON, D.C.— President Trump today signed an Executive Order aimed at addressing what he described as an "invasion" of illegal aliens entering the United States through the southern border. The order invokes Article IV, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees federal protection for states against invasion, as well as presidential authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act. A Constitutional Promise to Protect States In joining the Union, the states agreed to surrender elements of their sovereignty in exchange for federal protection against foreign threats. This promise is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. States such as Texas, faced with millions of illegal crossings and associated economic burdens, have repeatedly requested federal intervention during prior administrations. Critics argue these requests were unmet, resulting in significant strain on local governments and communities. President Trump’s Executive ...

  Ukraine Brings 189 More Heroes Home from Russian Captivity By Charles Hawes, Capital News     In a monumental step toward reclaiming the lives of those held captive during the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has successfully brought home 189 individuals from Russian captivity. These heroes include members of the Armed Forces, the National Guard, defenders of Mariupol and Azovstal, as well as border guards, and two civilians.    President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed profound gratitude to the team that facilitated the exchange. "This is the most important task – to bring all our people home from captivity – all warriors and civilians, every single person waiting to return. We will keep working on it," Zelenskyy affirmed. He also thanked the United Arab Emirates for its vital mediation role in the exchange.     Recognizing the need for systematic support for those who serve, the president has appointed Olha Reshetylova, a prominent human rights advocate, as...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Washington, D.C., November 22, 2024 – President Joe Biden has announced the continuation of the national emergency declared on November 27, 2018, regarding the situation in Nicaragua. The extension, made official under Executive Order 13851, underscores the United States' ongoing concerns about the Ortega-Murillo regime's actions, which have been deemed a significant threat to U.S. national security and foreign policy. The national emergency was originally declared by then-President Donald Trump in response to escalating violence following widespread protests in Nicaragua beginning April 18, 2018. The Ortega-Murillo administration’s crackdown on civilians, marked by the dismantling of democratic institutions and systematic suppression of dissent, has drawn global condemnation. In October 2022, President Biden issued Executive Order 14088 to expand the scope of measures addressing the crisis. This followed reports of continued corrupt...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News     In a dramatic early-morning address to his supporters, former President Donald Trump declared victory in the 2024 presidential election, despite the continued counting of votes and outstanding results from several key battleground states. The premature declaration came overnight, as election officials in multiple states continued tallying ballots in one of the most closely contested presidential races in recent history.     With the Associated Press (AP) and other major news organizations yet to officially call the race, Trump’s announcement adds tension to an election already marked by high stakes and heated rhetoric. However, reports suggest that Trump may indeed be only hours away from an official victory declaration by independent media outlets, given the current vote trends and projections.     The AP has already called Pennsylvania in favor of Trump, a pivotal win that places him just four electoral votes away...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News   Trump's bid for a non-consecutive second term has gained momentum with his signature rallies drawing fervent supporters and his policy points reinvigorating core voters  In a campaign season marked by political upheaval and a shifting electorate, former President Donald Trump holds a commanding lead as the 2024 election moves into its decisive phase. With his signature rallies drawing fervent supporters and his policy points reinvigorating core voters, Trump's bid for a non-consecutive second term has gained momentum.     Capital News' latest analysis of key battleground states reveals that Trump’s strategy of emphasizing economic revitalization, foreign policy assertiveness, and "America First" principles resonates with many voters. According to political analysts, the former president’s straightforward messaging and media presence are instrumental in maintaining his robust support base.     Trump's appeal lies in...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News     As dawn broke on November 5, 2024, an anxious nation prepared itself for one of the most pivotal elections in modern American history. Across cities, small towns, and the sprawling countryside, Americans from all walks of life lined up at polling stations, determined to make their voices heard in a contest that has tested not only political loyalties but the resilience of democracy itself.     This election, widely regarded as a crucial juncture for the U.S., pits President Emily Thompson, the incumbent and leader of the Progress for All Party, against Governor Richard Coleman, the firebrand standard-bearer of the Liberty First movement. Both candidates have carried distinct messages that have stirred up intense debates across the political spectrum, drawing record-breaking campaign contributions and sparking impassioned rallies nationwide.                         ...

  By Charles Hawes Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert in West Texas, Sierra Blanca is a town often overlooked by travelers making their way across Interstate 10. Yet, those who take a moment to stop in this quaint community are treated to the simple charm of small-town life, historical significance, and scenic beauty that make Sierra Blanca a hidden gem worth discovering. A Brief History of Sierra Blanca Founded in the late 1800s as a railroad town, Sierra Blanca was named after the nearby Sierra Blanca mountain range, whose white limestone peaks stand as a beacon against the vast blue sky. The town has maintained much of its historical flavor, with remnants of its railroad past still visible. It served as a strategic point along the Southern Pacific Railroad, and today, its quiet streets and local landmarks offer a glimpse into a time when railroads were the lifeblood of the American West. The Beauty of West Texas...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Kivi - In a stirring address, Ukrainian leaders have reinforced the need for international allies to maintain a steadfast commitment to principles in supporting Ukraine, as it defends against Russian aggression. "The first thing dictators attack is that – principles," emphasized Ukraine’s spokesperson in a recent speech, drawing a parallel between the erosion of principles by dictators and the growing influence of “Putin's” around the globe, who suppress domestic values through propaganda and repression. As Russia persists in its attempts to justify breaches of international law, Ukraine calls on global powers to stand firm in defense of international norms.     The spokesperson warned that Russian leadership is attempting to persuade the world that compromise on core values is viable in exchange for stability. Still, history has shown that such concessions rarely yield lasting peace. “Whenever such deals were made, the threat returned ...

  By Charles Hawes, Capital News Lewiston, ME — One year ago, in the quiet community of Lewiston, Maine, an act of tragic violence shattered the lives of many, leaving 18 people dead and injuring 13 others on a chilling autumn night. Doug and I, along with all of Maine, remember those lives lost and stand in solidarity with their families and survivors who continue to bear the weight of that harrowing evening at a beloved local restaurant and a popular bowling alley.     The last twelve months have been a testament to Lewiston's strength, resilience, and unity. While the pain and trauma caused by gun violence remain a profound challenge, the people of Lewiston have shown their commitment to preventing such devastation from recurring. Their courage and resolve serve as a stark reminder to the nation of the ongoing epidemic of gun violence and the toll it takes on communities across America.     Responding to this national crisis has taken on new urgency, and ...