**Trump’s National Security Adviser Launches Purge of NSC Staff**
US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has launched a review of the National Security Council (NSC) staff, including those working with Ukraine. This move is in line with Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda.
The full vetting aims to ensure that NSC staff are committed to implementing President Trump’s policies and protecting national security. NSC employees were told to leave their offices immediately on January 22, and only return at the request of their supervisors, who were appointed by the Trump administration.
About 150 employees from the Biden administration remained in their positions, but many others, including those assigned from other government agencies, were sent home. Those interested in staying with the NSC under Trump were asked to contact the human resources department.
**Trump’s Comments on Ukraine**
President Trump has yet to present a detailed plan for peace in Ukraine, despite campaigning on promises to end the conflict quickly. When asked if he would impose additional sanctions on Russia if President Putin refuses to negotiate, Trump replied that it “sounds likely.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine is actively working to arrange a meeting between him and Trump. Zelensky emphasized that ending the war in 2024 should be fair and reliable for Ukraine.
**Global Developments**
The Yemeni rebel group has released the crew of a captured carrier, part of de-escalation efforts after the Gaza ceasefire. A 47-year-old man was killed in the attack.
Russia suffered 1,340 casualties just over the past day. Russia’s Deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy questioned Trump’s call for Moscow to make a deal or face sanctions, saying it’s unclear what “deal” means in President Trump’s understanding.
The European Union will provide 35 billion euros ($36 billion) in financial assistance to Ukraine in 2025 through the G7 ERA credit initiative and the Ukraine Facility program.
