Reuters World News Trump’s Russia ultimatum, China's diplomacy and strawberry pasta
Jul 15, 2025
U.S. President Trump issues a bold 50-day ultimatum to Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict, stirring international reactions. Meanwhile, China is enhancing its global standing through soft power by increasing aid to developing nations amid U.S. foreign aid cuts. The episode also lightens the mood with tennis star Iga Swiatek's unique culinary preference for strawberry pasta, highlighting the delightful contrasts between serious geopolitics and fun personal anecdotes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump's Major Policy Shift on Ukraine
- President Donald Trump has shifted U.S. policy by arming Ukraine with Patriot missile systems and issuing Russia a 50-day ultimatum to make peace or face penalties.
- This marks Trump responding to advice from NATO and lawmakers, aiming for a diplomatic off-ramp after months of stalemate.
China Expands Soft Power Globally
- As the U.S. scales back foreign aid, China is expanding influence by funding vaccines, food, and infrastructure globally.
- China targets the Global South to position itself as a defender of multilateral order, challenging U.S. dominance.
Iga Swiatek's Strawberry Pasta
- Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek's favorite childhood dish is strawberry pasta, combining pasta, sugar, fresh strawberries, and yogurt or sour cream.
- This quirky Polish comfort food is a nostalgic summertime favorite among many in Poland.