Monday's Brief Report, January 12, 2025

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

Jared Kushner and White House special envoy Steve Witkoff are scheduled to travel to Moscow on Monday to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This follows a comprehensive discussion with Ukrainian officials on Sunday, led by Kushner, Witkoff, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Florida, focusing on a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia.

Ukraine Faces Renewed Attacks

On Saturday, Russia launched an extended air assault across Ukraine lasting nearly ten hours, resulting in at least two fatalities in Kyiv and dozens more injured, according to Ukrainian authorities.

Political Shifts in Kyiv

President Volodymyr Zelenskys recent dismissal of his long-serving aide opens the door for political changes that had been postponed due to the ongoing war. However, this move also creates uncertainty within the Ukrainian government, leaving Zelensky without a key political strategist as the country faces intense pressure both militarily and diplomatically.

Middle East Tensions

Israeli security forces shot and killed two Palestinian men in the occupied West Bank on Thursday. Video footage captured by Palestine TV and Reuters suggests the men were unarmed and appeared to be surrendering at the time.

Tragedy in California

A shooting at a childrens birthday party in Californias Central Valley on Saturday night claimed four lives and injured 11 others. The incident occurred near a shopping plaza in Stockton, with victims including three children aged 8, 9, and 14, and a 21-year-old, according to local authorities.

Northwestern University Settlement

Northwestern University has agreed to a $75 million settlement with the federal government, resolving multiple investigations into antisemitism on campus. The deal, finalized on Friday with the Trump administration, also restores significant research funding.

Changes to Haitian Immigration Status

The Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of temporary immigration protections for Haitians, effective February 3, 2026. This affects over half a million Haitians living in the U.S. under Temporary Protected Status.

Wall Street Spotlight

Cantor Fitzgerald, the former firm of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, is experiencing an unexpectedly strong year, emerging as a rare highlight in its history on Wall Street.

New Federal Student Loan Limits

A provision in the recently enacted "One Big Beautiful" legislation imposes strict caps on federal student loans for professional degree programs, including medical, nursing, and public health fields, limiting borrowing options for students in these areas.

Originally published on MS NOW, Mondays Mini-Report, 12.1.25.

Author: Sophia Brooks