Last week people of the world witnessed an incredible scene from the White House as U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance lumped on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.听
It was an embarrassment to the office, as the pair took turns berating and humiliating their guest on live television.听
Of course, in a world where facts have devolved into debatable talking points, Republicans and followers of Trump had a different take on that bullying session.听
Somehow, the aggressor, in this case Russia, was the aggrieved party. Zelenskyy, with his nation under attack, should somehow capitulate to the dictates of Trump and grovel at his feet.听
It was bizarre.
The turning point, where things got really nasty and heated, was when Zelenskyy noted the United States has a significant advantage over Europe. With oceans to its east (and west), the country is isolated from military conflicts such as what is happening in Ukraine.听
Sheltered, insular and ignorant, Trump and his henchman Vance would have none of that.
The topper was insisting on a thank you. Of course, Zelenskyy has numerous times expressed appreciation for aid given to fight Russia. As it stands, over 400,000 Ukrainians have died in the war, a war not of its own making.听
Perhaps some empathy and focus on diplomacy may have seen Trump or Vance offer words of thanks to Ukrainians for standing as the bulwark against Russia.听
But, as suggested above, facts are fast becoming casualties in this disinformation war against the free world.听
Tariffs
In the very wee hours of Tuesday morning, Trump鈥檚 threatened tariff regimen kicked in.
Clearly, a trade war is underway, stirring up animosity between immediate neighbours in the U.S. and other importers around the globe. Canada has retaliated with its list of goods subject to corresponding tariffs.听
Provinces have added to the mix, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford threatening to cut off electricity to American customers.
Reactions on the stock market were as predicted, with significant drops in values as the hours passed. As these new fees kick in and their effects become clearer, it will be important for Canadians to remain calm. That is easier said than done, but it is almost impossible to deal with unknowns.
This chaos enveloping the globe at the hands of Trump will eventually pass, but it is incumbent on each of us to be aware of those struggling in our midst.听
Tough times lie ahead.
