President Donald Trump defended a $40 billion aid package to Argentina, stating the country is "fighting for its life" in response to criticism from Missouri farmers who feel overlooked. Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed ongoing efforts with U.S. defense companies to secure necessary Patriot missile systems, emphasizing the critical need for sustained political support in Washington. During a press briefing, President Trump responded to a question about the deal benefiting Argentina more than American farmers by stating, "Argentina is fighting for its life, young lady. You don't know anything about it." This occurred as thousands of Missouri farmers are reportedly "fighting for their livelihoods," according to one source. Meanwhile, President Zelensky met with defense companies in Washington and expressed confidence that support for Ukraine would continue, provided there is sufficient political backing. In other developments, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted the Trump administration's motion for a stay in "Oregon v. Trump," concerning National Guard deployment in Portland. The court's decision distinguishes events in Portland from those in Chicago. Separately, a meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky indicated that U.S. officials warned of continued Russian aggression and Putin's aim to take all of Donbas. Zelensky reportedly refused to cede any occupied territory. Politically, a spokesperson for Congressman Don Davis (D-North Carolina) stated that if the North Carolina General Assembly votes in favor of a new congressional map, Davis will not withdraw from the race and will instead run in either the 1st or 3rd congressional district. In Georgia, House Speaker David Ralston and bipartisan leaders introduced a resolution condemning Russia's aggression in Ukraine and praising the state's divestment efforts from Russian businesses. Elsewhere, Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado is scheduled to participate in the America Business Forum in Miami, an event that will also feature President Trump and President Javier Milei of Argentina. The San Jose Sharks issued an apology for displaying a message praising ICE during Hispanic Heritage Night. In entertainment news, Netflix is developing a TV series about the Kennedy family, with Michael Fassbender cast as Joseph Kennedy Sr.
