The Pentagon is actively considering military action against Cuba, according to senior defense officials cited by CBS News. The development represents a major shift in policy and comes as the Trump administration pursues an increasingly aggressive foreign policy stance across multiple fronts.

Meanwhile, the administration's Iran strategy is drawing scrutiny. Trump's notification to restart war powers authorization aims to reset a 60-day clock for potential military action, but NPR Politics reports growing questions about public support as midterm elections approach.

Domestic Fallout

Back home, Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing for attorney general entered its second day with mounting criticism. A fired DOJ lawyer accused Blanche of enforcing Trump's "pointless vendettas," while an Epstein survivor told the Senate Judiciary Committee that Blanche has never responded to victims' concerns [PBS]. Key GOP senators remain undecided on his appointment [CBS News].

A Senate report revealed Trump's Consumer Financial Protection Bureau overhaul cost consumers $26.5 billion [UPI], adding to concerns about the administration's regulatory approach.

Trade and Elections

The administration imposed 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports—the first move in its new tariff strategy following a Supreme Court ruling [DW English]. Meanwhile, Democrats hold a significant cash advantage in key Senate races, though primaries in Maine and Michigan have become messy [Politico].

The Senate unanimously passed a resolution stating Sam Bankman-Fried should not receive a pardon [The Hill], signaling bipartisan concern about potential clemency.

Abroad, Ukraine's government reshuffle continues reverberating. Thousands of Ukrainians are protesting President Zelenskyy's firing of the popular, innovation-focused defense minister [UPI], complicating the country's military leadership during ongoing conflict.