President Trump has requested $1.5 trillion in defense spending for the upcoming financial year. This marks a significant increase from last year and is the largest request in decades. The budget proposal also includes funding for Trump’s immigration crackdown, air traffic controllers, and beautification projects in Washington, D.C. However, it would cut funding for renewable energy, housing, and health programs. The budget now goes to Congress for consideration.
The March jobs report showed strong growth with 178,000 new jobs added. This was above economists’ expectations and comes after a loss of 133,000 jobs in February. The unemployment rate also decreased slightly to 4.3 percent, despite concerns about the impact of the war in Iran on energy prices.
In Ukraine, Russian airstrikes have killed at least eight people, leading President Zelenskyy to denounce it as an “Easter escalation.” The attacks have caused damage and casualties in different parts of the country, with Ukrainian officials accusing Russia of targeting civilians.
In Cuba, over 2,000 prisoners were released as part of a government amnesty. This comes amidst ongoing tensions with the Trump administration and economic challenges worsened by an oil blockade. The arrival of Russian oil shipments has provided some relief.
The Artemis II mission astronauts are nearing the moon, capturing stunning images of Earth along the way. NASA released pictures showing the Earth, the Northern Lights, and the sun being eclipsed. The crew is set to fly by the moon on Monday, a milestone for future moon missions.
NASA’s budget may face cuts despite the success of the Artemis II mission. The White House is considering a $5.6 billion reduction, which would be 23 percent lower than current spending levels. Meanwhile, Wall Street was closed for Good Friday, with trading set to resume on Monday.
On Good Friday, Pope Leo led a procession in Rome, marking the crucifixion of Jesus. Similar events were held worldwide, including in Germany, Kenya, and New York, where Christians commemorated the day by carrying crosses and reenacting the Stations of the Cross.
