Masked ICE Agents Detain Afghan Interpreter Amid Trade Talks and Political Maneuvering

In a concerning incident, an Afghan interpreter known only as Zia was apprehended by armed and masked immigration agents after attending a legal appointment in Connecticut, where he was seeking a green card. Zia had served the U.S. military during the Afghanistan war and had moved to America legally, but his detention was alarming to his attorney and several members of Congress who emphasized the risks to Zia and his family’s safety.

On the economic front, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed the potential impacts of U.S.-China trade discussions, indicating that countries without a deal by the August 1 deadline would revert to previous tariff levels. He noted that while a comprehensive trade agreement with China remains out of reach, negotiations continue with ongoing talks about rare earth minerals, essential for various technological products.

Additionally, Secretary Bessent assured that President Trump has no intentions to dismiss Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, despite Trump's ongoing criticisms of Powell’s performance. In political news, Rep. Mike Lawler from New York announced he will pursue re-election to retain his House seat, prompted by Trump’s endorsement, which will influence the competitive electoral landscape as he aims to help secure a Republican majority.

Trump is also set to make remarks at an artificial intelligence summit in Washington, D.C., where he plans to introduce executive orders related to technology and innovation. Trade discussions between the U.S. and China are expected to recommence in Sweden, with indications that the given August 12 deadline may be prolonged for further negotiations.