**Trump Announces Plan to Allow Russian Oligarchs into US**
US President Donald Trump has announced a new plan to allow wealthy individuals from around the world, including Russia, to enter the US for $5 million. The “gold card” program would grant these individuals green card privileges and eventually citizenship.
Speaking in the Oval Office on February 25, Trump said that applicants would be thoroughly vetted but did not rule out Russian oligarchs being eligible. He even mentioned knowing some Russian oligarchs who are “very nice people”.
Trump also noted that some Russian oligarchs may not have as much money as they used to due to Western sanctions, but still thought they could afford the $5 million fee.
This move comes after the Trump administration had previously eased restrictions on Russian elites. A government task force that sanctioned Kremlin-linked oligarchs was shut down last year.
**US Shifts Away from Ukraine**
The announcement has raised questions about the US’s stance towards Ukraine, which has been a key issue in recent months. The Trump administration had previously taken measures to soften Washington’s stance against Russian elites.
In other news, the White House has suspended several immigration programs, including one for Ukrainians established by former President Joe Biden.
**Ukraine Seeks New Deal with US**
The Financial Times reported that Ukraine secured a new deal with the US on rare earth deposits. The agreement is seen as a way to strengthen ties between the two countries.
However, there are concerns about security assurances for peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. A French official said there was “no definitive agreement” on this issue.
**UK and Poland Increase Support for Ukraine**
In related news, the UK has announced a significant increase in defense spending, with plans to spend 3% of GDP on military expenditures. This is the largest sustained increase since the end of the Cold War.
Poland’s Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz also spoke out in support of Ukraine, saying that his country will continue to help.
**EU Offers New Deal to Ukraine**
The EU has offered Ukraine a new deal on natural resources, which is seen as mutually beneficial. This comes after the UK and Poland increased their support for Ukraine.
